We visited the gorgeous River Café for Sep's Birthday in the middle of January. The restaurant is just steps away from the Brooklyn bridge, so we decided to cross the bridge at 5 PM to catch the sunset. Aside from being super windy, the bridge does not disappoint! With its beautiful geometry of cables and being showcased by countless movies, it sure feels iconic.
Stepping off the bridge and turning a right, there stands The River Café!
"Nestled riverside under the Brooklyn Bridge, The River Café exudes romance with its breathtaking NYC skyline views, gorgeous atmosphere and above all our classic American cuisine. As a Michelin-starred restaurant, The River Café similarly boasts one of the most outstanding wine lists in the world." Now getting to the good part: As we were early to our reservations (a rare event for us) we sat on the bar for a cocktail. Small 7 seater corner adjacent to the piano and with a view of the skyline is the cherry on the top for the delicious cocktails we got to try!
We did notice that their cocktail menu is seasonal, but if you happened to catch their Lavender French 75, you absolutely need to try it!
The ambiance of the place is one of a kind! All tables have a sense of privacy, using a divided by a wooden divider. We found this very tasteful, given the interior is quite petite. We were suggested by the sommelier to try the château larrivet haut-brion 2010 given that we have a knack for acidic and bold wines. The amuse bouche of pumpkin and bacon vibes really put us in the mood for the American cuisine experience.
We chose Hot Foie Gras and Roasted Rabbit for our first course. The Foie Gras was a bit more crispy than what we have tried before. This definitely serves a great American twist. Rabbit stuffed with porcini and the side of ricotta gnudi dumplings... Shall be on the "must try" list when you visit.
Main course, Lamb and Duck.
The Lamb was served with merguez sausage, stuffed baby eggplant,
English pea purée and natural lamb reduction. The duck was served with wild huckleberry reduction,
confit risotto cake, foie gras emulsion, brussel sprout leaves and finished with duck jus.
If we had to choose one, it would definitely be the duck.
Last but not least the birthday cake! The famous Chocolate Brooklyn Bridge made my first birthday in New York as iconic as it could get! I even time travelled back home for a few seconds with the delicious pomegranate sorbet.
