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River Café, Calgary, AB

River Café

4.6
4.6
4175 Reviews
CAN$31 to CAN$50
Canadian
An extraordinary dining experience is to embark on a journey. We have created a beautiful place in an extraordinary setting and have tended to the details that make you feel at home: staff who care, chefs who are passionate about quality and the regional seasonal ingredients that bring to your palate a taste of place.

Getting to River Cafe is just a walk in the park.

Access River Café on Prince's Island Park from:
1. North side crossing the Bow River and Memorial Drive at the Calgary Curling Club.
2. South East end of the island at the 2nd street SW bridge, directly East of Eau Claire Market.
3. South West end of the island at 6th Street SW and Eau Claire Way near the Peace Bridge.

Eau Claire Plaza is currently closed for construction.
Parking is available on the street in the Eau Claire area, underground at Eau Claire Market or North of Memorial Drive.

Thank you for choosing to dine with us.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 p.m.


Booked 57 times today
Experiences are available.

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style

    Casual Elegant

  • Cuisines

    Canadian, Farm-to-table, Contemporary Canadian

  • Hours of Operation

    Brunch & Dinner Sat, Sun 10:00 am–10:00 pm Lunch & Dinner Wed–Fri 11:00 am–10:00 pm

  • Phone number

    (403) 261-7670

  • Payment Options

    AMEX, MasterCard, Visa

  • Dress Code

    Casual Dress

  • Executive Chef

    Scott MacKenzie

  • Catering

    Enjoy an exclusive cocktail party or dinner in your home presented and prepared by River Café. Our accomplished culinary team will prepare an exquisite menu tailored specifically to your event, executed by our professional service team. Experience a culinary journey presented with the elegance, beauty, and professional service. You and your guests can relax while we look after all of the details.

  • Private party facilities

    For an intimate gathering of 8 guests or a stylish cocktail party reception of 250, we are pleased to cater to your every need. Private and semi-private events are available. Please contact our Event Manager for more information, events@river-cafe.com

  • Private party contact

    June Doan: (403) 261-7670

  • Neighbourhood

    Calgary

  • Parking Details

    Paid parking is available on the street during the day and no charge after 6pm. Free street parking on Sundays. Heated underground parking at Eau Claire Market for a $5 flat rate evenings and weekends. Calgary Parking Authority lot near the Calgary Curling Club across memorial drive.

  • Additional

    Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Experiences

  • Chef's Tasting Menu

    $120.00 per person

    Multiple dates available
    Let the Chef take you on a 5 course journey. An ever changing showcase of Canada's best ingredients.

Popular dishes

What 4,175 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.6
4.6 based on recent ratings
  • 4.6Food
  • 4.6Service
  • 4.8Ambience
  • 4.3Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Calgary / Southern Alberta

    Most Booked

  • Calgary

    Great for outdoor dining

  • Calgary

    Great for scenic views

  • Calgary

    Canadian

  • Calgary

    Most Booked

Sort by

  1. Jaysil

    Calgary

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    Lovely restaurant in a gorgeous setting. Sat on the patio (shade available!) a fabulous, leisurely lunch on a beautiful afternoon.

    Is this helpful?

  2. Myrna

    Calgary

    4 reviews

    3.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall3food3service4ambience4
    Food was nicely presented but lacked flavour. Disappointing. Served a Rhubarb desert that was tastless and “poached , more like raw.”

    Is this helpful?

  3. RobN

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall3food2service5ambience5
    Great location and service but extremely small portions, especially for the price.

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  4. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Lovely experience. They really made our anniversary dinner special.

    Is this helpful?

  5. Alexandra

    Exclusive

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    The arctic char was incredible! You should get it.

    Is this helpful?

  6. PjTBay

    Toronto

    11 reviews

    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Hands down, one of the best burgers that I’ve ever had. This was my first time at River Cafe, and I can honestly say that I’ll be back. When you go, have the burger….you’re welcome.

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  7. JudyM

    Calgary

    3 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall4food3service5ambience5
    Found the lunch menu difficult to choose something if you didn’t want a full main dish. My lunch partner had the fish and game board which looked good and I ordered the flatbread, just okay for $27. Liked the idea that they use local ingredients!

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  8. LoriH

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Loved our visit. Sat on the patio. Lots of cottonwood fluff so if you have allergies sitting inside is probably best at this time of the year. The food is always incredible and the service was spot on. We always love this place!

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  9. KathrynP

    Tampa

    36 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    36 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Beautiful and unique atmosphere. We shared a few appetizers and they were all very good.

    Is this helpful?

  10. OpenTable Diner

    Calgary

    5 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    River Cafe is phenomenal. The food, service and setting are second to none in Calgary. I need to stop waiting for a special occasion to go!

    Is this helpful?

  11. Anne

    Calgary

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on June 1, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Consistently excellent food and excellent service. And the Arctic Char is a favourite for sure. Such a special place to come. Bravo everyone.

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  12. TealGrey

    Calgary

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on June 1, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Fantastic! Halibut was incredible and the wild boar belly delicious. Always great to eat at River Cafe.

    Is this helpful?

  13. Marie

    Vancouver

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on May 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Delicious meal made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients; rustic, quaint ambiance; excellent service.

    Is this helpful?

  14. OpenTable Diner

    Calgary

    4 reviews

    4.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    Restaurant wasn’t full. Server was very attentive even though she was dealing with a few tables. Food is awesome. I had the burger and was warned it was cooked medium rare. It was more well done but was still juicy. Came with some arugula and cucumbers and tomatoes. Not sure why it was $29 though. Pretty expensive considering the prices of the other dishes. Either way it’s a great place for brunch.

    Is this helpful?

  15. JulieL

    Ottawa

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall4food5service3ambience4
    We were there for brunch, my husband and I, for the first time. Food and ambiance were excellent but the service was lacking. We saw staff consistently attempt to sit people in the spots directly exposed to the sun and saw that several clients asked to be moved or made due but eventually had to move. We asked to be moved and ended up in another server’s section and despite our food order having been done with the previous server, we were left waiting and eventually had to reiterate our order to the new server. I asked for sugar with my coffee and ended up drinking it without, asked for pepper and had to go inside to get a small dish with salt and pepper ( do they not have even ordinary salt and pepper shakers…). Dishes and utensils were taken away despite the fact that we ordered more items and once they came, we were not provided new plates or utensils. Given the reputation of the establishment, we were expecting more.

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  16. RichardC

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    It was a beautiful day; I was with a marvellous woman; the food was great; what more could I ask for?

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  17. Bennylover

    Calgary

    22 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    22 reviews

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Always perfect. Beat patio in Calgary. The food is always delicious and the staff is the best.

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  18. NeridaG

    Calgary

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    The halibut was succulent, but I found the potatoes a bit dry. Fortunately, the bouillabaisse added much needed moisture. For dessert we had the dark chocolate (outstanding), but the buttermilk pannacotta's texture was not as smooth as I was expecting. Don't get me wrong, we ate everything and enjoyed ourselves, but I have had better meals from the River Cafe before.

    Is this helpful?

  19. Donna

    Calgary

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on May 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My husband is in wheelchair , love the table space between one another that my husband has no problem maneuvering. Food is good, great wine list.

    Is this helpful?

  20. DougO

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    River cafe was outstanding, during the dinner evening the weather was great the windows were open and the patio was lit up very nice and with a romantic feeling. The waitress we had was phenomenal, she was there when we needed something but she respectfully gave us our privacy. The food, OMG!! it was prepared perfectly, it taste amazing and how we wanted our meat was to the T. Great job River Cafe, totally recommending this place.

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  21. JustinH

    Toronto

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 27, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    Great atmosphere, wine selections and staff. Thank you

    Is this helpful?

  22. Nomnom

    London

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent setting and really nice food. Good to find somewhere with veggie options. On the pricey side, although the location and service was great.

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  23. Gord

    Calgary

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 26, 2023

    overall3food2service3ambience5
    Beautiful place on an nice day on their patio. Criticisms: - No alcohol free beer (it's 2023 right?) - You can't get a lemon or lime wedge for a soda. This is due to their strict local sourcing policy. I didn't ask for a coffee, but wonder if that's a no also... - Ordered a flank steak. I think It was 4oz at best, so plan to eat before or after lunch if you have a healthy appetite. To sum it up, the ambience is definitely pleasant. Food is very good, but portions are small.

    Is this helpful?

  24. Dave

    Calgary

    4 reviews

    3.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 25, 2023

    overall3food3service2ambience4
    We found the menu selection limited, surprised there was not at least one chicken option and most were very meat focused. We were a party of 7 and everyone other than the vegetarian felt their meals included too few vegetables. Everyone felt the portion sizes were too small, particularly for the vegetarian dish, and that service was very slow. Finally, our group included 2 individuals with gluten allergies and they were not provided anything when the rest of us were served bread, which was awkward and surprising for such a high end establishment. Would not return as I didn't receive the value I from for such a high end restaurant.

    Is this helpful?

  25. RichardS

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Thoroughly enjoyed the experience! Guests from Australia were blown away. Thank you for an amazing lunch experience!!!!!

    Is this helpful?

  26. JonM

    Calgary

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Most beautiful patio in the city! The food and cocktails were excellent. Perfect place for a lunch date (or any other meal).

    Is this helpful?

  27. OpenTable Diner

    Calgary

    3 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 22, 2023

    overall2food2service4ambience5
    Drinks were terrible. This was a first at River Cafe. Food was so / so. Again, a first at River Cafe. Have been many times personally, and with my firm. Usually it is top notch. This visit was disappointing for our 1st anniversary.

    Is this helpful?

  28. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Exceptional and unique. A lovely location for a special occasion.

    Is this helpful?

  29. OpenTable Diner

    Hawaii

    4 reviews

    4.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 21, 2023

    overall4food3service3ambience5
    Such a great location! Our meals were good however our tenderloin was under done (we ordered medium and came out rare) so we sent back for a quick cook. Wasn’t as tender as you’d expect a tenderloin to be as well. Other items order were good!

    Is this helpful?

  30. ScottR

    Calgary

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience4
    very nice restaurant for a special occasion dinner

    Is this helpful?

  31. PaulK

    Calgary

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great place and great staff. Love the location near the river.

    Is this helpful?

  32. KellyG

    Calgary

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    First time there and thoroughly enjoyed it!! Great service, great food and lovely atmosphere!! Even got to watch baby geese scurrying around from our table at the window!! Will be back soon!

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  33. Williamson

    Calgary

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall3food2service2ambience5
    Kitchen could not get poached eggs right. I asked for poached eggs with firm whites and runny yolk. First time came out with runny whites, second time came out with firm yolk.

    Is this helpful?

  34. TcyF

    Calgary

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Beautiful and delicious! The bacon is amazing. Highly recommended!

    Is this helpful?

  35. Eliza

    Calgary

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Beautiful outside setting. Brunch was exquisite!

    Is this helpful?

  36. Anne

    Calgary

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    River Cafe is consistently a wonderful gem in our city much like a best kept secret. The ambience is calming and picturesque in its river setting. The Chefs skillfully create beautiful food presented in a beautiful way, this not a cookie cutter menu. The staff, from the moment you enter, to the staff on service, is always excellent. Attention to detail always. I love coming to this special place for a casual lunch with friends, and for special occasions and suppers with family. Such a classy and unique part of our city's restaurant culture. Bravo everyone!

    Is this helpful?

  37. DarK

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Favorite place to eat in Calgary! The setting and the unique quality and flavours of the food make the trip worthwhile every time!

    Is this helpful?

  38. LadouceurM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great place to experience different great tasting food presentation

    Is this helpful?

  39. JulieC

    Calgary

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We went to the River Cafe to celebrate our anniversary. The food was fabulous and the service amazing. They were able to accomodate my food sensitivities and we had a beautiful evening on the patio to celebrate. Highly recommend River Cafe!

    Is this helpful?

  40. MrsShandy

    Calgary

    20 reviews

    4.0

    20 reviews

    Dined on May 18, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    The food always looks scrumptious and tastes very good indeed.

    Is this helpful?

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitising

    • Surfaces sanitised between seatings
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitiser or wipes provided for customers
    • Contactless payment available
  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

River Café is rated 4.6 stars by 4175 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 p.m.


Booked 57 times today
Experiences are available.
Google Map for River Café

Prince's Island Park, 25 Prince's Island Park SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0R1

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Neighbourhood

    Calgary

  • Hours of Operation

    Brunch & Dinner Sat, Sun 10:00 am–10:00 pm Lunch & Dinner Wed–Fri 11:00 am–10:00 pm

  • Cuisines

    Canadian, Farm-to-table, Contemporary Canadian

  • Dining style

    Casual Elegant

  • Dress Code

    Casual Dress

  • Parking Details

    Paid parking is available on the street during the day and no charge after 6pm. Free street parking on Sundays. Heated underground parking at Eau Claire Market for a $5 flat rate evenings and weekends. Calgary Parking Authority lot near the Calgary Curling Club across memorial drive.

  • Payment Options

    AMEX, MasterCard, Visa

  • Executive Chef

    Scott MacKenzie

  • Additional

    Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

  • Phone number

    (403) 261-7670

  • Catering

    Enjoy an exclusive cocktail party or dinner in your home presented and prepared by River Café. Our accomplished culinary team will prepare an exquisite menu tailored specifically to your event, executed by our professional service team. Experience a culinary journey presented with the elegance, beauty, and professional service. You and your guests can relax while we look after all of the details.

  • Private party facilities

    For an intimate gathering of 8 guests or a stylish cocktail party reception of 250, we are pleased to cater to your every need. Private and semi-private events are available. Please contact our Event Manager for more information, events@river-cafe.com

  • Private party contact

    June Doan: (403) 261-7670

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
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  • Cookie Preferences
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