I’m not sure how useful tourists will find this review as Rivertown Bistro is located off the beaten path, so to speak, in Conway, SC. They’re at 1111 3rd Avenue and can be reached by phone at 843.248.3733. But let me assure you – whether you’ve traveled from Michigan or Murrell’s Inlet, it’s worth the trip.
Our time was limited for last weekend’s lunch, but I was dying for real culinary works. Hubby and I were supposed to have a weekend to ourselves and planned to go there for dinner. That was, of course, until we got the call from Grandma that one of our munchkins was sick. When the phone rang and we realized our alone time was being cut short, we decided to make the best of it for the next hour. Off to the Rivertown Bistro we went.
The atmosphere is kind of cool and modern. The decor is exposed brick, grays and muted earth tones. There are two levels. At the far end of the dining room is an open kitchen, where you can see the chefs working. If you’re seated upstairs on the second level, you get a bird’s-eye view of the kitchen.
warm pimento bacon cheese dip
We started with the warm pimento bacon cheese dip, that was accompanied by grilled pita bread. One word – amazing. If it had been socially acceptable for me to lick the bowl, I would have done it. It was savory, but light. It wasn’t too salty. It had a nice tang. Delish!
For our entrée, hubby got the Quesadilla of the Day, which was gyro-inspired. It had lamb, tziki sauce, and cheese. I got the Shrimp and Sausage, tasso gravy and jalapeno grit cake. Before I could grab a picture of his, hubby was digging into his and his reaction was the deal where you close your eyes and just nod while you savor the flavor. Had he not been holding his quesadilla, I believe he would have given me a thumbs up.
shrimp and sausage with tasso gravy
My lunch entrée is also found on the dinner menu, but the portion was very generous. As much as I desperately wanted too, I couldn’t possibly finish it. Both the tasso gravy and jalapeno grit cake had a nice spicy bite to them, but weren’t overwhelming. I could still taste the flavors of the ham and shrimp.
Odd mention – the sweet tea was really good. It wasn’t watered down, nor overly sweet.
Last, our service was great. Prompt, attentive without being overbearing, and pleasant. Truly, it was just about perfect.
Our total for lunch was approximately $35. Obviously that’s pricey for lunch and not something I’d do all the time, but the food and service were well worth the price. I’ve been once before and can’t wait to return.
While we were dining, there were two families there with small children and that was great. The spacing of tables is such that each feels intimate and there is little opportunity for eavesdropping on your neighbor’s conversation unless you get closer than comfortable or they are particularly loud talkers. With that all said, I’m not sure I’d return with young children for dinner.
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