I haven't been in New York in 17 years, but at that time I had dinner at the River Cafe and it was fabulous!! My husband and I are planning a week-long trip to the city in June for our anniversary and I'd like to take him there, but I need feedback. I'd like to know what experiences people have had there recently regarding food, prices, need for reservations, etc. I'm thinking this may be out of our price range, but I'd like to make an informed decision before I just rule it out. Thanks for all your help.

I would also like to know. My husband and I are celebrating our 5th anniversary and I want something special in Ny, and the River Cafe is what I was thinking about. Any suggestions, comments would be appreciated.

Andrea,
IMHO, it was better 17 years ago but based in my last visit (Dec. 98) it's still a favorite, albeit a pricey one.
Prix fixe dinner is mid $60/person.

Another place you might want to consider is Water's Edge. It's up river a bit near the 59th St. Bridge and they have a free water taxi to Manhattan. Email me if you want any further info.

The River Cafe is still spectacular. That view of the skyline and Brooklyn Bridge are unmatched in my opinion. Food and service fit the bill too. I think you're making an excellent choice. Go to Brooklyn Heights beforehand and take in the atmosphere there as well.

I'm a Brooklynite who was raised in Queens and once lived in Manhattan (so, hopefully I'm unbiased) and I suggest the River Cafe. The food is not as highly rated as it was when the restaurant first opened, though it's still well-regarded, and yes, its still pricey, but the views are magical and unparalleled. I agree with the previous post, go to Brooklyn Heights and walk around this landmark brownstown neighborhood before dining. The River Cafe is just outside Brooklyn Heights -- a five minute walk from the brownstones. I would not suggest the Water's Edge, because the view from the River Cafe is a little better in my opinion, and the surrounding area (Brooklyn Heights vs. Long Island City) is better. FYI, Long Island City is an industrial part of Queens that is not very picaresque.

In this week's Time Out (or was it New York?) magazine, the readers voted River Cafe as the "Best Place to Take Out-of-Towners" and gave it a glowing write-up. I have yet to go myself but have wanted to ever since my sister went and raved for days about the chocolate soufflé (note that if you want one, you'll need to order when you order your entrée).