Experience the exquisite spring menu at The River Café London
Nestled on the scenic Thames Wharf in London, The River Café offers an inventive seasonal Italian menu that captures authentic flavors in every bite. The bright riverside setting complements the fresh, high-quality ingredients, inviting you to indulge in a culinary journey through Italy’s finest dishes.
Starters to awaken your palate
Begin your meal with refined starters like the Prosciutto di San Daniele paired perfectly with sweet Charentais melon, or dive into the delicate Insalata di Granchio featuring fresh Devon crab, baby artichokes, and parsley. Seafood lovers will relish the Mazzancolle, showcasing Scottish langoustines with a subtle kick of chilli and oregano.
- Mozzarella di Bufala – Buffalo mozzarella with refreshing lemon, mint, broad beans, black olives, and Tarasco cicoria.
- Calamari ai ferri – Chargrilled squid brightened with fresh red chilli and peppery rocket greens.
- Asparagi – English asparagus with anchovy butter and shaved parmesan, an elegant seasonal treat.
- Vitello Tonnato – Roast veal with a creamy tuna mayonnaise, salted anchovy, capers, basil, and lemon zest.
Mains that celebrate Italian tradition and innovation
The River Café’s mains showcase both classic Italian flair and seasonal creativity. Delight in delicate Venetian Risi e Bisi rice with peas, mint, and vermouth, or savor the Taglierini al Bosco, a fresh fine pasta tossed with wild asparagus, hops, and pecorino. For seafood enthusiasts, the Branzino al forno offers succulent wild sea bass roasted in Terlano Pinot Bianco alongside Risina beans and Violetta artichokes.
- Spaghetti alle Vongole – Spaghetti with clams, garlic, parsley, chilli, and Fracassi Favorita wine essence.
- Ravioli – Zucchini and zucchini flower ravioli filled with buffalo ricotta and fragrant mint.
- Rombo al forno – Wood-roasted turbot tranche served over potatoes with Amalfi lemon and zucchini.
- Coda di Rospo ai ferri – Chargrilled Cornish monkfish with anchovy rosemary sauce, agretti, and broad beans sott’olio.
Decadent desserts to end your feast
No Italian meal is complete without a sublime dessert. The River Café delights with its Gelati selection, including caramel, roasted almond, stracciatella, hazelnut, and strawberry sorbet flavors. For a coffee-infused treat, the Affogato with Grappa Bassano offers a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness.
- Dolci – A tempting assortment including Chocolate Nemesis, Lemon Tart, Nespole & Almond Tart, Pannacotta with Grappa & Raspberries, Pressed Chocolate Cake with Zabaglione Ice Cream, Ricciarelli, Baci di Dama, and Mezzalune.
- Formaggi – A selection of Italian cheeses including Caprini Freschi, Scimudin, Pecorino Marzolio Rosso, Castelrosso, and Blucora to round off your meal.
Drinks and specials to complement your dining experience
The River Café pairs its culinary creations with an excellent selection of fine wines, cocktails, and beers, enhancing every dish with thoughtfully curated beverages. Whether enjoying the outdoor riverside seating or the cozy interior, the attentive staff ensure a memorable dining journey. Seasonal specials spotlight fresh ingredients, reflecting the very best of Italian cuisine in London’s vibrant dining scene.