The River View Café, nestled in the heart of Shrewsbury, is a quaint and welcoming spot located within The Parade Shops at 30 The Parade. It offers stunning views of the River Severn, creating a serene environment that makes it a popular choice for both locals and visitors alike.
With a rating of 4.6 from over 300 reviews, it has become a beloved destination for those looking to enjoy a warm meal, a delicious drink, or simply to relax in a dog-friendly atmosphere.
The café’s hours of operation are consistent throughout the week, opening at 9 am and closing at 4 pm, except on Sundays, when it operates from 10 am to 3 pm.
The phone number for reservations or inquiries is +44 1743 537144, and the menu can be explored in more detail on their website.
A Diverse Menu to Delight Every Palate
The River View Café offers an extensive menu, ranging from hot and cold beverages to a selection of sweet treats, light bites, and hearty lunches. Each item is carefully curated to suit a variety of tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Hot Drinks
The hot drink selection is designed to cater to traditional tastes and those looking for a bit of indulgence. Patrons can enjoy a Double Espresso, which offers a robust and rich flavor, or a comforting cup of Hot Chocolate, perfect for a chilly day.
The Mocha is a delightful combination of espresso and chocolate, while the Dirty Chai Latte brings a unique twist with its blend of chai spices and a shot of espresso.
For those who prefer their drinks sweetened, the café offers a range of syrups to add a personalized touch. There’s also a special Tea for One, featuring a variety of teas that can be enjoyed with a scenic view of the river.
Wine and Beer Selection
For those in the mood for something stronger, The River View Café provides a well-rounded wine and beer menu. Options like Morlot and Malbec are priced at £6.40, while a glass of refreshing Prosecco Frizzante is available for £7.50.
Patrons can also opt for a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc at £6.30, or a delightful Zinfandel Rosé. For beer lovers, there is a selection that includes Asahi Beer and local favorites like Shropshire Gold.
The Cider House Special, priced at £5.20, offers a refreshing option for those who prefer something fruity.
Cold Drinks
The cold drink offerings are perfect for quenching thirst on a warm day or accompanying a light lunch. Customers can choose from Milk, Milkshakes, and a variety of sodas, including Coke and Fentimans Soda.
For those who prefer their beverages on the lighter side, there’s the option of Sparkling Water. These choices complement the café’s food menu perfectly, providing a well-rounded selection for every taste.
Sweet Treats and Light Bites
Sweet treats are a highlight at The River View Café, with a rotating selection of cakes that includes popular options like the Hummingbird Cake, known for its rich flavors and moist texture.
For those in the mood for something savory, the café offers oven-baked jacket potatoes with a range of fillings, from simple Buttered or Cheddar to more gourmet options like Creamy Wholegrain Mushrooms or Prawn in Marie Rose sauce, priced between £7.15 and £9.35.
The Smoked Salmon and Creamy Horseradish jacket potato offers a luxurious take on a classic comfort food.
Hearty Lunch Options
The River View Café is also known for its hearty lunch offerings. The Welsh Rarebit and Yorkshire (Bacon) Rarebit are traditional favorites that have been given a contemporary twist, while the Mac and Cheese, priced at £9.65, is a rich and satisfying option that is popular among both adults and children.
The café’s Homemade Soup of the Day is another standout, perfect for warming up after a walk along the river. The Red Lentil Daal offers a vegetarian-friendly option packed with flavor and nutrition.
Patrons can also enjoy light snacks like an “Owl of Olives” for £2.75, which makes a great accompaniment to any of the café’s beverages. There are also options for those following a vegan or meat-free diet, such as the Gourmet Vegan Sausage Roll priced at £3.85.
Classic Café Offerings
The café stays true to its classic roots with a range of breakfast baps, featuring Corbett’s Bacon, Sausages, and Hollowdene’s Free-Range Eggs. Choices include Two Fried Eggs, Sausage or Bacon, or a combination of both.
Toast and Toasted Tea Cakes are available for those who prefer a lighter start to the day, with options for Butter, Jam, Marmite, Marmalade, or Honey. For a more substantial meal, the Riverview Ploughman’s and Hearty Ploughman’s are great choices.
These traditional British platters come with a variety of cheeses, cold meats, pickles, and breads. Additionally, the “Eggs Your Way” section allows customers to enjoy their eggs however they like, from scrambled to poached, served with either cheese or beans.
Specialty Options
The café also caters to those with a taste for unique combinations. The Sourdough or Bagel options include Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese, or Avocado, Hummus & Mango Chutney, providing a delightful balance of flavors that appeals to both traditional and adventurous eaters.
Atmosphere and Dog-Friendly Environment
The River View Café is renowned not just for its food but also for its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located by the riverside, the café offers both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy the tranquil river views.
On warmer days, the outdoor seating area becomes a popular spot for patrons and their furry friends. Dogs are more than welcome here, and the café staff often provide water bowls and treats, ensuring that canine visitors are just as comfortable as their human counterparts.
Inside, the café exudes a cozy and inviting charm with rustic decor that adds to the relaxed atmosphere. The café space is filled with natural light, enhancing the serene ambiance and making it a perfect spot to unwind with a good book or catch up with friends.
Review Summary
The River View Café enjoys a largely positive reputation among its patrons, with many highlighting its welcoming atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious food.
A common theme in the reviews is the warmth of the staff and the quality of the dishes. One customer praised the café as an “independent riverside café” that offered a warm welcome and delicious food, despite the weather being too cold and wet to sit outside.
The Hummingbird Cake, in particular, received special mention for its delightful taste. Another customer shared their experience of having afternoon tea on a rainy day, describing it as “delicious, calm, warm, and lovely.”
They appreciated the prompt and friendly service, highlighting the quality of the scones, clotted cream, and jam. However, not all experiences were positive.
A few reviews mentioned slow service, with one customer noting that their order took too long to arrive, and parts of it were missing. Despite this, the atmosphere still received high marks, and many expressed a willingness to return, citing the unique charm and scenic views of the café.
Final Thoughts
The River View Café in Shrewsbury stands out as a delightful spot for a relaxing meal or drink by the river. With its varied menu, warm atmosphere, and dog-friendly policy, it caters to a diverse range of customers, from solo diners to families and groups.
While occasional service hiccups have been noted, the overall experience remains highly positive, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area looking for good food, great views, and a welcoming environment.
The River View Café – Features
- Address: 30, The Parade, Shrewsbury SY1 1DL, United Kingdom
- Located in: The Parade Shops
- Contact: +44 1743 537144
- Website: theriverviewcafe.co.uk
- Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9 am – 4 pm
- Sunday: 10 am – 3 pm
- Dog-Friendly: Welcomes dogs, with outdoor seating, water bowls, and treats for canine visitors
- Scenic Views: Riverside location with views of the River Severn
- Atmosphere: Cozy and rustic indoor seating; natural light and comfortable ambiance
- Outdoor Seating: Available, perfect for enjoying views on warmer days
- Menu:
- Hot Drinks Menu: Double Espresso, Hot Chocolate, Mocha, Dirty Chai Latte, Special Tea for One, and a variety of syrups
- Wine & Beer Selection: Includes Morlot, Malbec, Prosecco Frizzante, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel Rosé, Asahi Beer, Shropshire Gold, and Cider House Special
- Cold Drinks Menu: Milk, Milkshakes, Coke, Fentimans Soda, and Sparkling Water
- Sweet Treats: A variety of cakes, including popular options like Hummingbird Cake
- Light Bites: Oven-baked jacket potatoes with various fillings such as Cheddar, Beans, Creamy Wholegrain Mushrooms, Prawn in Marie Rose, Smoked Salmon & Creamy Horseradish
- Hearty Lunch Options: Welsh Rarebit, Yorkshire (Bacon) Rarebit, Mac and Cheese, Homemade Soup of the Day, Red Lentil Daal, Gourmet Pork Sausage Roll, and Gourmet Vegan Sausage Roll
- Breakfast Baps and Toasts: Corbett’s Bacon, Sausages, Hollowdene’s Free-Range Eggs, Toast with Butter, Jam, Marmite, Marmalade, or Honey
- Ploughman’s Platters: Riverview Ploughman’s and Hearty Ploughman’s with a selection of cheeses, meats, and pickles
- Specialty Dishes: Sourdough or Bagel with Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese, or Avocado, Hummus & Mango Chutney
- Customer Service: Friendly and welcoming staff, committed to creating a positive dining experience
- Local and Independent: An independent café with a unique riverside charm, loved by locals and visitors alike
- Events: Afternoon teas and seasonal specials
- Access: Easy access within The Parade Shops, central location in Shrewsbury
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About The River View Café
- Is The River View Café dog-friendly?
Yes, The River View Café is dog-friendly and welcomes canine companions. There is an outdoor seating area where dogs are welcome, and the café staff provides water bowls and treats to ensure that your pets are comfortable. - What are the opening hours of The River View Café?
The café is open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm, and on Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm. It is a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or a mid-day treat. - Does The River View Café offer gluten-free or vegan options?
Yes, The River View Café offers gluten-free and vegan options. They provide a variety of dishes that cater to different dietary preferences, including the Gourmet Vegan Sausage Roll and Red Lentil Daal. Please check with the staff for specific dietary requirements. - Can I make a reservation at The River View Café?
Reservations can be made by contacting the café directly at +44 1743 537144. However, walk-ins are also welcome, especially during quieter periods. - Where is The River View Café located, and how do I get there?
The River View Café is located at 30, The Parade, Shrewsbury SY1 1DL, United Kingdom, within The Parade Shops. It is centrally located and easily accessible by foot, car, or public transport. - Does The River View Café have a website for more information?
Yes, for more information about the café, including the full menu, upcoming events, and special offers, you can visit their website.
