Riverview Kitchen

Featured reviews

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  Curt Stephens

  ·1 month ago

  “I had the Breakfast Stottie and it was one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had. my wife had the avocado toast with poached eggs and caramelized, onions and pumpkin seeds, which was also delicious.”

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  Andy Wyatt

  ·2 months ago

  “Excellent service and the food is fantastic. Hot, tasty and awesome chips. Prices about average - £17 for a burger, chips and salad, bottle of lager £6. Lovely riverside view. Highly recommend. Visited 16th July 2026.”

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  Nomad Bites

  ·3 months ago

  “I found the River View Kitchen super cosy for brunch! There were loads of cute dogs around, and I loved enjoying my food with the riverside view.”

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  Wawrzyniec Niewodniczański

  ·3 months ago

  “The food was very good. My son grabbed fully English breakfast with orange juice and I grabbed a toast with poach eggs, avocado, bacon and goat cheese (as you can see on attached picture and black tea. Unfortunately, I found a hair in a piece of cheese. When I complain Jabal Al, our waiter, was very apologetic and pass our complaint . We end up with extra free coffee (good espresso) which fit perfect the small stack of pancakes (Nutella+strawberries is a solid choice), we were about to order as a dessert (We had a long day in front of us).”

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  Weronika Oleszczuk

  ·4 months ago

  “This cafe is in gorgeous setting just next to the river surrounded by trees. The staff are always lovely, and it has a nice feel to it. The food unfortunately doesn’t deliver. Been here twice and its always lacked flavour. The vegan salad I got was just veg thrown together. And my partners chicken burger was a little soggy. All eatable but not great. The coffees also very average. Such a shame as this beautiful spot deserves good food.”

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  Mariam Ghibradze

  ·4 months ago

  “Friendly, easy and quick service. Delicious lunch. A bit loud inside, however, it was during peak lunch hour so expected. This place is located at the riverside so the view from there is amazing. Also, it’s right next to the Durham Cathedral foot path and easily accessible 😊 There was no need for reservation as I walked in and they had enough available places.”

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  Evie Robertson

  ·5 months ago

  “Oh my god ! Staff are so so friendly, beautiful location, very clean and tidy. The views of the river were brilliant and the full English breakfast was 10/10, massive portions. We also seen other diners having the pancakes and they looked fantastic, massive big fluffy stacks with loads of toppings. Service was super quick especially on a bank holiday weekend but get there early if you'd like to pick your seat because it's a popular place and filled up fast.”

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  David Marsland

  ·7 months ago

  “After arriving in Durham yesterday (25.2.2026), my first thought was for a breakfast to start my day the right way. I asked a passer-by for any recommendations and he suggested Riverview Kitchen. I’d looked at this place on my last visit but at the time it was busy with customers. Good indication. Anyhow, I found my way in (at the time of this review they were having work done to extend their patio area outside ready for spring). The first person I met didn’t inspire me with happiness. I wanted to sit by the window with the lovely views of the river whilst I had breakfast. The lady had already beckoned me to sit elsewhere because I was on my own. Not happy with her seating arrangement I insisted on a window seat. Got the instant impression that we weren’t going to be friends. Not long after arriving and sat down, the place was starting to fill up quicker than I expected. Feeling bad for sitting on a table meant for four, I moved reluctantly. Next came Katie, a bright, happy bundle of energy with a smile and great attitude. Put my order in and I decided on a Special Breakfast wrap and a latte. So glad with my choice. The wrap was toasted and delicious. Bacon, egg, hash brown, avocado and mature cheese. The photos won’t do it any justice I’m afraid. You’ll just to go here and order it for yourself. Thanks to Mel (the manager) and Katie for great service and helping to change from a 4 star to 5 star rating. I was hoping to take more photos to show you all but as I mentioned, it’s a popular place and gets busy quick.”

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• J

  Jack Jack

  ·9 months ago

  “Riverview Kitchen in Durham is an absolute gem. The setting alone is worth the visit — sitting by the river with those views makes it such a relaxed and scenic spot, perfect for brunch or a long catch-up over coffee. The food was excellent. The pancakes were light, fluffy and perfectly cooked, generously topped with blueberries and syrup, and paired brilliantly with the sides — everything felt fresh, well balanced and beautifully presented. Even the little details, like the cream and sauces, were spot on. Coffee was equally impressive, rich and smooth, and went down far too easily.”

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  Giles Polglase

  ·10 months ago

  “☕ A Taste of Durham's Heart: Reviewing The Riverview Cafe Stepping into The Riverview Cafe in Durham isn't just about grabbing a bite; it feels like you're stepping into the city's welcoming, slightly quirky heart. The first thing you notice is the vibrant, friendly atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where the low, comfortable buzz of chatter is punctuated by the happy sounds of families enjoying a meal together. If you're looking for a sterile, chain-style experience, look elsewhere. This place is fiercely independent, and honestly, that spirit is the secret ingredient in everything they do. I arrived a little past noon and, as expected, there was a small queue snaking out the door. Don't let this put you off. I’d read the reviews, and let me tell you, every minute I stood waiting was a minute building anticipation that was ultimately rewarded. It’s a testament to the café's quality that locals are happy to wait—it's a sign you're about to eat somewhere special. The turnover is brisk, and I was seated much quicker than I thought I would be. The moment I sat down, the service was impeccable. This leads me to a special shout-out to our waitress, Debbie. She was an absolute star. Attentive without being intrusive, she navigated the busy floor with a permanent, genuine smile. I asked for a recommendation—torn between the all-day breakfast and their famous homemade quiche—and she talked me through both options with helpful detail and clear enthusiasm. She really elevated the whole experience, making me feel like a valued regular, not just a first-time visitor. I eventually settled on the Christmas special: a seasonal brisket sandwich with stuffing and cranberry. And oh, the food quality. It’s clear that the independence of The Riverview translates directly into a dedication to high-quality ingredients and proper, honest cooking. The filling was superb and the bun toasted to perfection and the combination of filling and bread was deeply flavourful. The portions? Generous is an understatement. This is proper comfort food, served with love. My accompanying latte was strong, perfectly textured, and leagues ahead of the generic offerings you find elsewhere—another clear indicator of their commitment to excellent food and beverages. And here’s the kicker: for the quality and the quantity, the meal was competitively priced. They manage to deliver a premium, artisan experience without the premium price tag, which in a city centre location is quite remarkable. It all contributes to those friendly vibes—you can feel the collective satisfaction of diners who know they’ve found a gem. On a final note, the toilets are clean (which is always a plus as clean facilities reflects care and attention across the entire establishment) with a quirky feature in the gents. The Riverview Cafe isn't just a place to eat; it’s a Durham institution that lives up to its reputation. It’s got soul, it’s got smiles, and it’s got fantastic food. Yes, you may need to queue, but trust me, it is absolutely worth it. I left with a full stomach, a warm heart, and a strong desire to come back soon.”

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