River Roast

Reviews

• CC

  Cici

  1 day ago
  2.0
  I am writing to formally report an unacceptable experience at the restaurant and to request follow-up regarding how this will be addressed. My party and I were at table "63" I believe, as an intended party of 5, but unfortunately one of our members was unable to attend. While the food and atmosphere were excellent, the service we received was inconsistent and, ultimately, inappropriate. Our group included international guests, to which our server knew, are not familiar with U.S. tipping customs. They were treating myself and the remaining party, paid the bill and left a tip at their discretion. Throughout the meal, our server was often inattentive.. We had to repeatedly flag him down for assistance and bus staff continually removed plates and silverware before we had finished eating, which was disruptive. Our server would also leave while trying to talk to him. The most serious issue occurred at the end of our meal. The server pulled me away from my table and into the back of the restaurant to confront me about the tip, stating that he “did not appreciate it” and that he was expecting more. This behavior was highly unprofessional and inappropriate. No guest should ever be singled out, removed from their party, and pressured in this manner over gratuity. Due to this interaction we felt uncomfortable and pressured into leaving additional money. Following this, the server remained near our table in a way that felt intrusive. Our frustration was clearly visible which prompted our server to ask if we wanted 'cake on the house' in a joking manner when we had not been able to finish the 2 slices we had already. We attempted to locate a manager during and after the incidents but were unable to do so. This situation reflects a serious lapse in professionalism and respect. I am requesting a follow-up outlining how this matter will be addressed, including steps taken to ensure this does not happen to guests in the future.
• NH

  Nicole Hinterberger

  3 days ago
  3.0
  Pros: Clean urban farmer aesthetic. Friendly service. Good variety on the menu without being overwhelming. Waterfront (but their patio is currently closed for construction). However, our overall experience was mediocre. These are always the hard reviews for me to write because it wasn’t horrible. It just wasn’t 5 stars, nor was it worth the $200 our party of 3 paid. My steak was good, as were the pork, sweet potato, and Mac n cheese. The fries were not (lukewarm, stale, stuck together). The other steak we ordered came out too rare, was sent back, and came back just as rare. Overall, it was a very average dining experience with a hefty price tag.
• MG

  M Gendron

  Apr 12, 2026
  2.0
  Arrived with guests for 3pm reservation for a "scenic" riverfront view and light-bite fare. We were informed kitchen did not open until 3:30pm although, website posts open at 11 AM. Patiently waited until 3:30pm in bar, ordering soft drinks while waiting until we could be seated for dining. We informed our server about selecting this restaurant for our guests since they offer gluten-free options. We reviewed the menu together with server noting only a "few" GF options nor bread, bun or cracker substitutions. Server suggested cucumber slices as option with a burrata appetizer. Placed 'light bite" order for 5 people at 3:45pm; order arrived to our table at 4:20 pm. We were told only then "no cucumbers" in the kitchen. Due to the ongoing operational delays my husband requested the check for prompt payment, we rushed to finish our food to attend a 5pm event avoiding any further delays. After closing out our bill with a processed transaction and our requested receipt we were informed of a restaurant billing error delaying our departure. This entire dining experience was totally unacceptable. Based on their website, I expected this establishment to provide a scenic, hospitable, and pleasant dining experience with gluten free options as promised. Diners Beware! This was a stage for chaos and apparent mismanagement, not a favorable dining impression for Chicagoans nor our out-of-town guests, REGRETFULLY disappointing!
• JJ

  Jerry

  Apr 11, 2026
  5.0
  A New American style restaurant in one of Chicago’s best locations. The roast chicken is crispy on the outside, and the potato wedges inside are hands down the crispiest, most tender, and most flavorful I’ve ever had. Plus!! the service from restaurant manager Morgan and the bar staff was absolutely fantastic . I can’t wait to come back once their riverside location is renovated!
• JP

  Jason Pettrey

  Apr 11, 2026
  5.0
  This was a really great hotel right on the Chicago riverwall. My son and I needed to get a nice sit-down dinner that wasn't overly fancy after a full day of travel. This really exceeded our expectations. Saw a beer list, the food was to die for, excellent service and staff, and a very full very restaurant but no lines. Definitely put on your list if you're in the Chicago area and need something on the Riverwalk!

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