River City Bistro — Restaurant in Fort Smith

I've been a fan of River City since moving to Fort Smith over a decade ago. I did a solo visit to their new location today for lunch - such a good decision. It was Friday lunch hour, but I was quickly seated by a front window.

Chrysta was wonderful with her recommendations, attention, and presence. I had the "Two for $12" option with a bowl of corn chowder and half of a River City club sandwich on toasted sourdough. It was the perfect "warm and fill me up" lunch for the cold January weather, came out hot and well seasoned.

Though I usually don't order dessert, Chrysta recommended the "big chocolate cake" slice - which she compared to the infamous chocolate cake from the movie Matilda. (She did not mislead me - this was the type of chocolate cake that your soul didn't know it needed!)

The new location is a great refresh - featuring local art, great cuisine, and a modern bistro feel. Highly recommend if you're looking for a fresh but fast-but-not-fast-food lunch. Service was great, price was right, and...

Great service and atmosphere! I went on a busy Sunday at noon, but was seated immediately. My server was Cara, and she was very personable and attentive, although very busy. She took the time for a bit of personal conversation at each table, but still managed to do everything in a timely manner. The gyro sandwich (beef) was a little chewy, but probably because I'm accustomed to lamb. The tzatziki was good, though, with goat cheese and cucumbers. Homemade chips were mostly a little less than crisp, but the dill sauce with them was excellent, so I ate them all! The wine was palatable, though no selection. Atmosphere was busy but nice, like a quieter country Cafe. Outdoor seating looked nice, and indoors there is art for sale! (Including some excellent pieces by Cara Delozier!) The brunch offerings looked great, but I won't often choose anything else when Mediterranean food is available....

Ate there for the first time ever today.. I tried the latkes which were pretty good... I found it weird they pronounced it "lot ke" but eh- their mac and cheese was sad!!! Bland and boring and tasted more like the floor roux than actual cheese... and the potato salad was awful and tasted more like mashed potatoes without seasoning and an occasional onion and celery. BUT the Ruben was good and so was the cranberry chicken salad.. the wait staff was fabulous friendly and fast... and the tomatoes and pickles that were brought to the table remind me of my grandmother's canning days... I'll try again to sample some more... I am curious to see what the Lox and bagels taste like. Check your BANK STATEMENTS AFTER GOING HERE THEY CHARGED OUR ACCOUNT...