The River

A dark, lovely spot with whiskey-hued walls, highly considered aesthetics, and a hip downtown crowd. Classic cocktails for $16 and limited, lovely bar snacks. Brought to you by fashion designer Emily Bode, interior design group Green River Projects and Dr. Clark - next door.

This place has potential with different servers/bartenders. Great vibe and tasty drinks in a location without many cocktail options…. But the service is weird and slow.

It is a small cozy bar with very interesting wood artwork inside. The vibes are chill and fun. Loved the Baklava cocktail.

This place was a vibe! Drinks were good. Service was pretty slow and it wasn't crazy busy - the bartender didn't seem bothered, I'd perhaps say more experienced and friendlier bartenders would do this place wonders as it has potential - it was giving I am just a student I don't get paid enough to care about my job😂

a hidden gem for those who love a cozy + intimate bar vibe the atmosphere is effortlessly chic, with a warm + welcoming energy that makes it perfect for date nights or catching up with friends🍸💫

Threw an event here. The team was incredibly accommodating and flexible with how we wanted to approach the event. Everything from the sound system, the food, and the service was excellent. Would recommend to anyone that’s looking to host a fun time!

Great hidden gem in Chinatown- stopped by for pre-dinner drinks and it was easy to get seated at the bar + cocktails were spectacular

I’ll say it. I love the river. with my whole chest lol. the drinks are strong. it’s always full of hot people (are they hot or are you drunk and it’s dark?). there are no windows. from inside the river you can’t see the outside world and they can’t see you. the river is a world unto itself. a world that i look forward to exploring each time I visit. take me back! 🥺🥺 also they serve a terrific hot dog!

I'm a little hesitant to write a review because I want to gatekeep this cool little spot for myself (and, I guess, all the people who found and patronized it well before me). I wandered into this bar with a friend on a weeknight, and it was pleasantly crowded. Apparently this was a "slow night," which speaks volumes to what a popular spot this is! The design is unique and delightful, as you enter a wood-paneled windowless space that leans into dim and cozy vibes. Whoever was in charge of design had a great vision. The cocktail menu is tasty and reasonable for Manhattan ($16), and I'll be back to try the food. Easy to miss if you aren't looking for it, but this gem is worth seeking out!

This was pretty chill/cozy bar. I actually walked by it by accident but quickly realized this was where I was supposed to go. It's kind of in the outskirts of Chinatown. I liked the low lighting and ambiance. It's not too big but it's also open. There's a bathroom in the back and one room with a urinal. I got the pornstar martini which was good! I love passionfruit so this was up my alley. It also came with a small shot glass sized cup of Prosecco.

The Violeta was an interesting drink. It was sour but with a hint is sweet. This place is pretty cool, I never thought I'd find a place where there would be no music blasting. It has a speak easy vibe to it and to be frank it wasn't as packed. I would recommend this bar if you're planning to take someone out on a date. It's quiet and has a speak easy vibe.

I love bars where you can go and just chill and you can hear yourself talk without talking over music so this is one of those. My drink tasted interesting - it reminded me of India I'm not sure if it's the chili. The drink had a spicy aftertaste to it and had a carrot juice base. I also tried the cherry Garcia cocktail which was on the board . I forgot to get a picture of it but it was really sweet, fruity, and yummy.

DARK and lovely. I got the Carrot Top, Pickled Pineapple Martini, a Stella, the Schaller & Webber hot dog and the bowl of nuts. Please try the Pickled Pineapple Martini and the dog Such a moody cocktail bar. I didn't expect this place here and I'm glad they're here! Service is wonderful! Very dark and tight/narrow/cozy. Also big selection of wine, bubbly and whisky. Some bar snacks, charcuterie and sandwiches, too!

Wow. What can I say. Best bar in downtown New York, hands down. I'm captivated by the chic, pastoral decor and the inviting ambiance. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure every need was met promptly and with a smile. Shout out Anton and Euan! The cocktail menu is a masterpiece, featuring innovative drinks crafted with precision and flair. I tried the signature "Bullshot" and it was absolutely delightful--hearty, perfectly balanced, and beautifully presented. The bartenders are true artists! The River also boasts a fantastic selection of liqours and wines, catering to all tastes. The food menu complements the drinks perfectly, with delicious, thoughtfully prepared sandwiches that are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. The spicy olives and grilled cheese are a must-try! The River is the perfect spot for a date night, catching up with friends, or just unwinding after a long day. I've been here more than any other bar in the city, and I plan to keep coming back as long as I'm here!

Nice spot. Came for an old fashioned (and a hot dog). Really like the quaint, chill and quiet ambience. Perfect spot for a date. Looking forward to coming back. The old fashioned was delicious

The River is a highly stylized cocktail bar located across the street from Columbus Park in Chinatown. The wood-paneled walls and handmade stick furniture make The River a unique place to enjoy great cocktails.

Immaculate ambiance and smells great. Bob Dylan & Bob Marley playing while I sip my Mezcal Negroni.