Since The River Oyster Bar's opening in 2003, Chef David Bracha has followed his passion and vision, pioneering a source of innovative, pleasing cuisine in an urbane, upscale-casual locale. As a result, The River is a well orchestrated, unpretentious dining experience that never misses being "just right."
Pull up a stool to the sleek mahogany and slate bar. You'll immediately be impressed by the oversized, ice-filled trough that is home to the freshest oysters in Miami. Attentive and knowledgeable bartenders are as talented at describing the nuances between Blue Points and Kumamoto oysters as they are at differentiating the high-end specialty brews on tap. If wine is your passion, The River, as it's known to regulars, boasts an award-winning selection of varietals. Winner of Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence, wine by the glass or bottle along with trendy libations have earned The River a reputation for one of the best happy hours in the city.
Arriving daily from around the country, oysters are served raw, with an assortment of exciting, and pleasantly unpredictable sauces. They can also be enjoyed in an array of prepared dishes that impart a creative take on traditional favorites, such Fire Roasted Pacific Oysters with sofrito butter, chorizo and manchego. Other raw bar favorites include Diver Scallop Tiradito, Snapper Tartare with yuzu, tamari and wasabi tobiko, Shrimp, Clams, King Crab and Stone Crabs when in season.
A glass-enclosed kitchen reveals a bustling team that infuses the establishment with its kinetic energy. Led by Chef Bracha and his team, the culinary crew is skilled at artfully combining the highest-quality ingredients with the perfect pitch of spiced flavors to create what Bracha calls "American Progressive Cuisine."
Other gifts from the sea that often adorn The River's menu include Pepita Crusted Mahi Mahi with honey butter, black bean polenta cake and red oaxaca mole and Orange Glazed Escolar with wok seared Chinese long beans, shitake mushrooms, roasted cashews and radish salad. Equal to its seafood, The River's grilled meats, such as Churrasco Grilled Skirt Steak with chimichurri, sour orange mojo yuca frites and grilled vegetables or Grilled Mediterranean Spiced Lamb Chops with roasted pepper salad and hand-cut truffle and herb fries are reason alone for a visit.
While The River's clientele is drawn to its inspired menu creations, expert service and welcoming, comfortable ambience keep them loyal. Many describe an evening at The River like attending a dinner party, with David Bracha and team serving as the attentive hosts. Whether it's a table for one, an intimate dinner for two or a large party, all who visit The River feel right at home.
Hours
Monday-Friday Lunch 11:30 am - 5:00 pm
Monday-Thursday Dinner: 6:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Friday Dinner 6:00 pm - 12:00 midnight
Saturday Dinner 5:30 pm to 12:00 midnight
Closed Sundays
