Jeremy K.
Yelp
The River Cafe is located fairly close to my hometown, close enough for a long walk or a short drive. I've been there a few times, mostly for special occasions, and my parents even took me there on my 18th birthday (A big deal in France) upon my request. I've always perceived this restaurant as both unique and special and have many fond memories of meals there.
The restaurant is absolutely gorgeous and is attached to one of the banks of the Seine river. Parking isn't very easy to find there but their valets are efficient and worth it. It's not really near anything but you can get there using public transportation if you really want to. The closest stop is the Issy-Val-de-Seine stop on either the RER's C line or the T2 Tram line. Either way, this establishment is worth the trip.
In a nutshell this restaurant is a peniche, or barge, which has been gutted and remodeled into a restaurant. It is fairly spacious and also quiet because it is located under the street level, along the river. Opposite the river is the edge of the Ile Saint-Germain, a public parc. Although there are some insects in the summer, it was never a big issue in that restaurant. I do recommend going on a nice summer evening, the windows are open and it makes for a more pleasant experience.
As I stated, this tastefully decorated restaurant offers some pretty classic French fare. The menu is seasonal and changes often and is also fairly affordable considering the quality. They have all kinds of dishes, from steak to chicken, seafood and more high end dishes like foie gras and lamb. I've had all kinds of meals there and never had a bad dish. Their appetizers, entrees and desserts are all very good as the service and the cocktails. I've had my fair share of caiparinhas there and paired wine as well. Everything is very tasty, very fresh and well executed.
Overall, River Cafe offers more than just a good meal, it offers a unique experience as it is not often that one can dine on a barge. Although the barge never leaves the dock, it is stil a very enjoyable experience. I look forward to going back on my next trip, once I sweet talk my parents into paying for the meal.