With new vegetarian options, Sunday roasts and a summer-ready veranda planned, Riverside Bistro is evolving.

 

 

Riverside Bistro, which opened its doors in the former Riverside Diner premises at the start of March, has been steadily building its offer and its customers.

Owner Austin Thompson said the team has been busy settling into the refurbished space, talking to neighbouring businesses, and developing partnerships with local suppliers.

"We're starting to bring in lots of independent excellence and local suppliers," he said.

"So for instance our hens, they're free-range hens, corn fed from a local farm [and] our milk comes from Hiltonbury Farm up in Compton.”

Evening platter at the Riverside. Photo: supplied

The venue is set for a further boost over the coming weeks, with a new front terrace and bi-folding doors planned to create an alfresco dining feel with more seating outside, to add to the overall experience.

Since opening at the start of March, Riverside Bistro has gradually developed its food and drink offering based on customer feedback. A third version of its menu is about to be launched, with more vegetarian options added.

New choices include plant-based and jackfruit burgers alongside traditional favourites.

The café operates as a relaxed breakfast and brunch venue during the day – you can even keep an eye on bus times while you grab coffee or brunch using the new screen above the door.

Dual purpose by design, it all shifts to a wine bar atmosphere on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. Cue the lights changing colour, candles on tables, and softer music - creating a low-lit, laid-back vibe.

Evening vibe at the Riverside. Photo: supplied

Importantly, Riverside Bistro operates a table-service model in the evenings — and customers are welcome in just for drinks if they wish, without any obligation to order food.

"Everybody is welcome … Come with your kids. Come with the dog … we welcome everyone! " said Austin.

You might also want to try charcuterie or cheese boards, smash burgers, and – coming soon – three tapas dishes for £16, all available just around the corner in Bitterne Park.

Sunday roasts at the Riverside Bistro. Photo: supplied

Sundays have quickly become a key part of Riverside’s week, with roast dinners introduced recently. Breakfast is served from 9am to 11am, followed by roast dinners for £14.60 (£8.50 for kids) offering a choice of two meats between midday and 2.30pm, and a vegetarian roast option available. It’s becoming busier, so booking for Sunday lunch is advised.

The Riverside Bistro continues to grow, and refreshingly, says Austin, it’s doing so in response to customer feedback rather than being dictated from above.

Photo: supplied