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As a good little foodie, one of the first things I did when I started my summer job was scope the area for local restaurants. My company’s website actually introduced me to Riverside Cafe. There wasn’t much info on the place, and google didn’t reveal too much either. All I knew is the food had to be at least good, considering the restaurant won a “Best Chef in Burbank” award.

I had my doubts when I first found Riverside Cafe. From the outside, it looked hardly more than a shack. Since I was meeting someone there, I decided it was too late to turn back. I was a little surprised when I walked in and found a cozy little restaurant. It seats about 18 people inside, but there is a little patio outside which can seat another dozen or so guests. As I sat and waited for my very tardy friend, I noticed the awards they have received. In addition to “Best Chef,” they also won “Best Service.” It’s easy to see why, as the friendly, warm waitress (who I think is the owner’s wife, but I could be wrong) brought me over a couple of magazines to read so I’d have something to look at while I waited for my friend.

The food was quite an interesting array. The regulars swear by the seafood stew ($16) and the steak casserole ($13.50). I’m taking their word for it on the stew, as I don’t plan to have it as long as the weather remains above 80 degrees. Other specials include Shepard’s Pie (which I highly recommend), various sausages/andouilles, stuffed potatoes, and various burgers. My first time there, I did go for the Shepard’s Pie ($13.50), which was served with perfectly steamed vegetables. The flavor was wonderful, and it was really hard to go back to work after such a delightful meal.

I did make repeat visits after that. Other winners include the fish and chips, served with their own homemade tartar sauce. I have to confess, I wasn’t really that impressed with the tartar sauce, but I loved how crispy the batter was without being heavy. I also liked how tender the fish was inside. My only constructive criticism is that it is a little bland without adding lemon juice and salt on your own. The fries were good, too, but I’ve noticed that their regular french fries are much crispier than the steak fries that I got with this order.

My most recent visit was another new adventure. Riverside Cafe often offers interesting takes on burgers. I had one friend who tried the venison burger and loved it. I decided to try Jacob’s Burger ($8.50), which is a unique chicken burger. They take ground chicken and mix it with tomatoes and basil to form the pattie for the burger. A very generous portion of grilled onions were included. I could actually see the basil pieces as I bit into the burger. It was absolutely wonderful, but very filling for me. My lunch companion on this day opted for the calamari burger, which he enjoyed and devoured pretty fast. That is saying something considering we had potato skins for appetizers.

Miscellaneous Notes:

After 3pm, Riverside Cafe transforms a bit into a bistro. Additional fancy menu items, such as rack of lamb with mint sauce are offered as well.

Also, try the fudge brownies. It is doesn’t look like much, but it is so decadent.

1221 W. Riverside Dr.
Burbank, CA 91506
818-563-3567

Hours:
Tue-Fri: 11am-8:30pm
Sat: 8:30am-9pm
Sun: 8:30am-8:30pm

By Pauline (see more of her posts).