The River Cafe

The River Cafe, set along the serene banks of the Thames in Hammersmith, is one of London’s most iconic Italian restaurants — a place where the seasons are celebrated and the ingredients lead the menu. Founded in 1987 by Ruth Rogers and the late Rose Gray, the restaurant has become a byword for elegant simplicity, serving expertly executed Italian dishes using the finest British seasonal produce. Its riverside dining room, filled with natural light and accented by vibrant art, opens onto a leafy garden terrace that feels worlds away from the city bustle. A Michelin star reflects its enduring commitment to excellence, while the open-plan kitchen and wood-fired oven create an immersive, warm energy that complements the refined yet relaxed atmosphere. The experience at The River Cafe is defined not only by the integrity of its food but also by its influence — it’s where some of the UK’s most celebrated chefs began their careers. From its antipasti to handmade pasta and charcoal-grilled meats or fish, each dish feels rooted in Italian tradition and crafted with quiet precision. Service is gracious and knowledgeable, reinforcing the restaurant’s status as a destination for special occasions, long lunches, or intimate riverside dinners. Open for lunch every day for lunch and for dinner from Monday to Saturday, The River Cafe is also vegetarian-friendly, sometimes offering seasonal specials that reflect the changing rhythm of the kitchen garden.