The Riverside

Riverside Charm: Stellar Service by Thames

Nestled idyllically along the Thames, The Riverside embraces its setting with the kind of casual elegance that invites both frequent visits and first-time discoveries. Sunlight dapples through glass panes onto hearty shakes of smiling guests toasting with crisp cocktails, while others soak in the view from spacious terraces outside, optimally situated for those perfect river-rise sunsets. The interior evokes an inviting ambience, seamlessly blending the industrial with the cozy, especially for book clubs or spontaneous dinners seeking camaraderie instead of mere sustenance. Rakib, Bharti, Sherry, and their cohorts orchestrate a dance of service—each step mindful, respectful, effortlessly attuned to patrons’ whims, elevating simple interactions to memorable moments.

While the menu alternates between pub classics and contemporary diners’ demands, like Yorkshire puddings capturing the longing sigh of homesickness for expats or plant-based dishes catering to discerning palates, it shines proudly for its well-considered pub fare. Although instances arise of over-salted Sunday roasts or poorly app-affected experiences meant to streamline orders yet stall the agreeable flow, the concerted effort remains apparent across every dish that finds its way fresh-to-table. The Riverside river-whispers forgiveness, pulling admirers back repeatedly, drawn surely by headliner performances from hosts trifling with gravity as they carry coffee on shaken trays with aplomb—their inclination toward genuine care remarkably underwritten in every bend of conversation over the clatter of dropped trays. A Hansard of hospitality ranked up alongside the mighty river view. — Audrey Al Dente