River House Inn & Restaurant

Reviews

Reviews are sorted by relevance, with the most helpful and insightful feedback listed first for easy reference.

  Cori Venable
a week ago
I'm giving your establishment 3 stars for 2 reasons.1) We had dinner in your restaurant. My husband's lamb chops were over cooked and dry as was my duck. There was a complete lack of seasoning on all items on both plates and the food was lukewarm. All of this confounded me as there were only 3 tables for that seating. But I understand that sometimes, such "fine dining" places are exaggerated in their reviews and would only deduct 1 star for that. I used to work in the food industry and at times, the kitchen just has an off night. We would still have returned to the inn for another stay despite this (but would not dine in the restaurant again except for the free and delicious breakfast) if it wasn't for our final following reason.2) Our last day there, my husband and I were having breakfast and the lady who checked us in, and eventually out, was there as well. Upon leaving the dining room she was speaking to the party she had been eating/sitting with and remarked that she "hopes everyone checks out early". I mentioned this to her when we checked out at the designated time of 11am. She was defensive in saying she was sorry BUT that's not what she meant. Her excuse was that she meant she hopes everyone leaves by 2pm. This confused me because your check out policy specifically says check out is 11am. When I confronted her about this fact she says that people stay until 2pm and it disrupts the cleaning and turnover of the rooms. I'm sure this is the case at times but doubt this is a constant issue. Also, when you apologize and follow it with a "but" statement, it is no longer an apology. That is customer service 101. Either way, saying this within ear shot of guests is bad form and not professional. My husband and I felt like we were not welcome any longer and this experience/interaction put a very negative perception on the way you treat and think about your guests.The grounds/location were lovely. The linens and towels, clean and crisp. The room was charming and clean. For these reasons, and the free and yummy breakfast which I aforementioned, we would give the River House Inn and Restaurant 3 stars.

  Kate Hamilton
2 months ago
Oh, what a night, and where should I begin? My husband and I heard so much about the River House we booked weeks in advance for the Sunday Salon. The cozy history of the building is apparent, warm, and inviting, a fantastic introduction to a special night. We began with a unique, refreshing blood orange cocktail made exceptionally well by the two lovely workers who were top-notch professionals and couldn t have been more gracious. Doug Davis's music was excellent, and his wife an added treat. At the break, who doesn t love getting a refill of your drink and a tail-wagging greeting from a beautiful pup named Jo Jo sitting with his owner at the bar? The food was delicious, and not only did I want the recipe for the scallop appetizer, it also had me at the perfectly cooked risotto in accompaniment. The dinner and the appetizers were exceptional, the music a delight, and the conservation with neighboring tables a bonus. What could be better? Talking with Gayle Winston, the owner, was a highlight. Her conversation and hospitality were undeniably one of our favorite hits of the evening. Thank you, and what a night!

  David Allgood
a month ago
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  Justin Boone
2 months ago
My wife and I went here for a getaway dinner. Yes, the road to this location is gravel, but right on the river. We did not stay on property, but I can say that the dinner was excellent. Be aware that the food is made to order, so you will get the pleasure of listening to live music till you are served dinner. Limited menu, but everything exceeded our expectations. Just this place out, you will not be disappointed!!!

  Wanda Flood
5 months ago
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  Philip Wakeling
8 months ago
Had dinner here last night (August 11th 2023). It was a really great fine dining experience. White linen and live grand piano.Nice selection of reasonably priced good wines and a limited menu with 4 appetizers, 4 mains and 4 deserts. Dinner has 2 sittings, we were there for the early one. My wife and cousin had the cesar salad, fillet steak and chocolate mousse. I had salmon ceviche, sea bass and bread pudding. All were excellent. My sea bass may have been the best prepared fish I ve ever eaten.The service was attentive without being overbearing. All in all, a wonderful experience in an old house on the bank of the North Fork of the New River, pretty much in the middle of nowhere. It s well worth a visit. You won t regret it.

  Dawn Webster
5 months ago
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  Dale Saville
10 months ago
Fine Dining on the New River Hidden away is a fine dining restaurant that is worth the visit. Our party of six enjoyed a semi- prix fixe menu: appetizer, main, and dessert. I had roasted red pepper and mozzarella nice variation on caprese salad. The lamb was excellent, The chocolate tart dessert was just the right size satisfying without being too rich. Good service.

  Martha Bryan Liles
8 months ago
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  Joy C.H.
a year ago
Rustic but elegant B&B near the heart of the New River in Ashe County.Just enjoyed a five day visit with my mother and sister. The service is excellent, breakfast amazing. The Sunday Afternoon Salons with live music and a three course set menu is a foodies delight. Nice wine selection. I look forward to my next visit.One note for the staff: before guests arrive if a unit has not been occupied recently, take a look around for cobwebs and spiders and take a quick vacuum around the floors with a quick look for dust.

  Alanna Howard
2 years ago
Owned by storied local Gayle, she runs an elegant, but mountain-friendly, establishment for lodging and food. The restaurant is top-notch, with local food, especially the trout, worth the visit and dessert is normally exquisite. I especially love her rhubarb pie, made from rhubarb on her family's farm (when in season). The decor of the rooms is slightly dated, but they're comfortable, and her friendliness and hospitality is unmatched. She manages directly and cares about her property. Sit on the front porch and watch the New River, and the world, go by.

  Debbie Gordon
a year ago
We celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary at this quaint, very quiet and technological free, history filled esta lishment by the New River. It allowed us to take in each other without distractionThe food was phenomenal and the proprietor was a joy and she was so effervescent and humble at 93 years young. We are grateful for our experience.

  Erica Nelson
2 years ago
We were so fortunate to stumble upon this jem! A truly beautiful and peaceful setting with the most unique and coziest rooms but, the best part is the service! We awoke to fresh coffee on our porch every morning and the most incredible omelets we've ever had. The owner and staff couldn't have been any friendlier or more accommodating. We will be recommending this place to everyone we know and plan to visit often! Thank you Gayle and rest of your team, we look forward to seeing you again soon!

  Jeffrey Scott
3 years ago
It was the perfect place for our romantic Valentines getaway. We had a nice lil cozy cabin in the perfect spot for a peaceful and relaxing weekend. It had the best breakfast. Definitely a complimentary breakfast you make sure you set your alarm clock so you don't over sleep. It had a big front porch with rocking chairs on it over looking a river. That was nice spot to sit and relax after a delicious breakfast. All the staff was very polite and friendly. With the location, the cabin,the food, the staff it was a very nice and memorable weekend. Definitely a spot we will stay at again.

  Dianne Ford
4 days ago
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  Emily Adams
4 years ago
A wonderful NYE experience here! I was excited to find a place that is pet friendly and nicely remote in the mountains. We loved the six course dinner, but let's not neglect to mention the appetizers like prosciutto wrapped shrimp, quail egg toast and stuffed dates. Delicious! The dinner included porcini mushroom soup, crab stuffed pepper, and amazingly cooked duck. Dessert was a rhubarb pastry/pie that had the perfect flavor profile. I'm going to need to get more of their chef's food!We stayed in the milk parlor which is part of a converted barn and a nice, cozy space with a lot of character. Loved the king size bed and how good the shower was! We enjoyed a tasty breakfast of omelettes and french toast and walked around by the river and beautiful birch tree. This is the perfect place to relax in nature without outside distractions. We will be back in the warm weather to enjoy the huge front porch and kayaking on the river. Thank you for a lovely stay!

  Gretchen Arnoczy
a year ago
What a find! We were driving on our way to Grayson Highlands and our previous breakfast place was closed (Shatley Springs). I did a quick restaurants near me search and found this place. Apparently you usually need reservations but we lucked out and they had room for us to eat. Breakfast was incredible! Such friendly people, delicious food, reasonable prices, and gorgeous setting!We will be back for sure and next time will make reservations!

  Joe Hightower
2 years ago
I had not been to the restaurant in quite a few years but it was just as wonderful as I remembered. This is a place to celebrate an anniversary or birthday. We enjoyed the view of the river with a drink before dinner. Our food (filet, trout) was outstanding. There are many options for an adult beverage although not much emphasis on local craft beers. The music (piano) was a perfect accompaniment to our meal. We look forward to bringing friends and family to celebrate future big milestones.

  Nan Chase
a year ago
Extremely disappointing Sunday dinner experience, strange even. The food was excellent but the ambience was uncomfortable. The musician was sub-par; guests, many elderly and drinking wine or cocktails, seated in a narrow row at the edge of porch with no railing and steep drop-off of 6 six feet or more; hors d'oeuvres were tiny and took about 30 seconds to eat in total (in a single bite) with an hour time frame -- no seconds!; Shirley Temple mocktail was made with no regard to standard recipe; noise level in dining room was insanely loud, so that one had to shout to one's table mate and yet the neighboring tables' conversations were a nuisance (I don't need to hear about a stranger's medical issues from two tables away); no coffee offered with dessert and had to request it!

  Britton Purdee
2 years ago
What an amazing experience! I just can't find the words to describe how great the staff is. The rooms/cabins/houses/barns are all cozy and comfortable. The main house front porch is idyllic. The field by the river, and the river itself are tranquil. Meals were wonderful.

  Carol Hassell
7 months ago
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  Jane North
2 years ago
This is a rare and wonderful place. It sits on a knoll above the ancient New River, perched above a meadow that rolls down to the river's edge. The main house has a timeless feel to it, with wooden floors throughout, a well stocked bar, interesting art on the walls, and a dining room that could well be in France. The food is superb, with fine attention to detail in every respect. The spirit that permeates River House is that of welcome, radical hospitality, and grace. It is truly a place apart.

  Jon Spies
3 years ago
This is a hidden gem! If you're looking for some down time, look no further! The staff makes you feel right at home. They're so friendly and accommodating. The food is AMAZING - 5 star but understandably it also comes at a 5 star price. The atmosphere promotes friendly conversation with other guests.Coming into this you have to realize you're coming for the things I mentioned above. This is not a luxury resort. Some rooms have a cabin like feel to them (at least ours did). The food and people outpaced the room we had by far. The room wasn't bad, it just didn't approach luxurious. It was never advertised as such either!Pro Tips:Never miss a breakfast there! The fresh squeezed orange juice was a hit too.If possible you really need to have one or more meals in the evening.Research or call about your room.I'm going for a room in the Chicken Coop or the Barn next time. The cabin on the hill looked amazing too (very private).

  Brett Callahan
2 years ago
Wonderful food and accommodations! The owner, Gale, is a wonderful host and even cooks complementary breakfast for her guests! They will provide special accomodations for food if given notice ahead of time, vegan in my case. They also let us switch to one of the main rooms when our pipes froze in the cabin.

  Joseph Pierce
4 years ago
My wife and I stayed here on Sunday July 14 2019. I can not share what the average week day is like but Sunday afternoons are what one could only describe as perfect. We checked in to the Chicken Coop and discovered a whimsically decorated comfortable and clean room with more space than anticipated. Our first impression was just how quiet it was. Absolutely perfect after being surrounded by bagpipes for the previous two days at Grandfather mountain. No TV, no phone, and to be honest there may have been internet access but we never even attempted it. The view from our personal little balcony was secluded yet provided a perfect place to sit and enjoy the mountain views and reflect on the beauty of this wonderful piece of property. After cleaning up and changing for dinner, we joined a wonderfully eclectic group of folks that come for the live music, cocktails, and dinner on Sunday evenings. The service, attention to detail, and friendliness was beyond special and I can write for both my wife and I, poached trout and duck would not have been any choice we would have made on our own for dinner. It was absolutely fantastic. Not that we have any culinary expertise, but our review is that dinner was well beyond our expectations, was perfectly prepared, delicious, served timely and with care by a small staff of very attentive, friendly, and professional folks completely committed to making the experience perfect. If this were all there was to write and was a complete review it is enough to make the River House a place to return to again and again. What appears to make this such a special and unique place is the owner, her staff's commitment to fine service, and the wonderful group of friends and guests this quiet, beautifully maintained inn draws for a Sunday of music and fellowship. I would compare it to going to a cocktail party at ones closest friends house that you may not have seen in some time ... If that friend just happened to be a professional hostess, had a staff of like minded attendants, and all the friends you are about to meet were simply just wonderfully good people with amusing and interesting stories to share. My wife and I travel frequently and prefer to stay in inns such as this. In the years of our travels we have stayed at some very fine and wonderful establishments. Not one compares to what the River House offers in an incredibly unique experience. This is truly a special place and merits the comments made and, of course, being placed on at least the top five places in the world I have stayed that I would go out of my to return.

  mimi jakoi
4 years ago
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  NC Travels, Food, Reviews
3 years ago
River House is definitely a hidden gem and an excellent NC/VA mountain getaway. We stayed to visit Grayson Highlands (highly recommended!) and really enjoyed our stay. The room is a great value for the money. The dinner in the restaurant is also delicious. We also really enjoyed the live music on the porch. I have to give 4/5 during COVID just because the employees and guests didn t wear masks at all (over 3 days) even when we were under statewide mask mandate. Also, the (included) breakfast quality was lacking compared to the dinner (which was an extra cost). Word of warning: there is almost no cell service and the WiFi may or may not reach your room (and can be spotty even if it is in your room). I can agree with other reviewers that some TLC would make the rooms even better, although I felt our room quality was an excellent value and would still recommend the hotel for a mountain getaway where you re looking to totally disconnect and enjoy nature.

  Greg Ziggy
2 years ago
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  Heather Spring
6 years ago
Located on a rise just across the road from the New River, this is truly a magical place. There are a number of unique rooms in the main house's outbuildings, several with oversized Jacuzzi tubs surrounded with oil candles. Instead of a check- in, we were greeted with a glass of wine. Although it wasn't one of the regular nights this establishment turns into a high end restaurant, the proprietor offered to "throw something together" for us. The result? The most delicious salmon we had ever had and desserts that were delectable. Dinner the second night was equally delicious. Coffee was left outside our door each morning, and breakfast was delightful. We so enjoyed our conversations with other guests and with our host - and the overall atmosphere fostered by the host - that we decided to stay a second night.

  Brent Pridgen
2 years ago
River House Inn was suggested by a friend of ours and it did not disappoint. We stayed in the Wee Cabin which was very private. The cabin was very nice, clean and almost .4 miles from the main house. Peace and quiet at its best to help you relax and rejuvenate along the New River. Every staff member that we came in contact were smiling and friendly. We will definitely be back for a future visit.