New Hamburg Gains New Cafe Hangout
New Hamburg has a gap that is soon to be filled with the opening of a new restaurant-cafe hybrid, River House. Nestled between the Hudson River and the New Hamburg train station, River House offers the best of both worlds — scenic surroundings and modern convenience.
Owner David Russo wasn’t always a restaurateur. In fact, his previous career in real estate investment sparked his jump into the restaurant business.
“There were two factors that led to River House opening,” said Russo. “I found this property with restaurant space and wanted to put it to use. I also grew up with my best friend’s dad, Lars [the head chef] cooking me Swedish pancakes since I was a kid. This space would enable Lars to showcase his cooking to this community that’s in need of a good hangout.” Lars Wilhelm, head chef of River House, has a diverse portfolio of experience and has been cooking for over forty years, including at a chain restaurant and his family-owned one. He also has experience cooking for the masses, having been a pastor at a church where he cooked Swedish pancakes for huge congregations.
Built in 1850 and recently renovated, River House maintains authentic architecture with modern flair. The dark wood, light walls and nautical-inspired decor creates the perfect mix of cozy and luxury while the food strikes the perfect balance of home cooked and gourmet. Norman, the owner’s rescue dog, is a common presence, maximizing the down-home and cozy feel.
The menu has a lovely balance between savory and sweet, offering french toast, waffles and even a variety of gluten-free pastries and desserts. “We take pride in baking everything in house,” said Russo.
Along with typical cafe fare, River House intends to incorporate plenty of Italian and Swedish dishes. “Comfort food is the best way to put it,” said Russo, in the middle of cooking his 105 year-old Italian grandma’s meatball recipe. There are a variety of new dishes to look forward to, many of them centering around the chef’s specialty, Swedish crepes.
Not to be overshadowed by the food are the drink selections. Russo also takes pride in the wide variety of holistic loose leaf tea and coffee from a local roaster in Tarrytown.
“We want a good variety for people who enjoy teas and coffees,” said Russo. He also plans to expand the menu to offer plenty of smoothies.
Russo hopes for River House to become a community hangout, though he also hopes to cater to commuters with quick service and special deals.
Commuters can pop in and grab a hearty breakfast of eggs, coffee and a freshly baked pastry. Visitors on-the-go can place their order ahead of time and pick it up before they get on the train. In fact, frequent commuters can pay $39 a month for unlimited coffee at any time and, if they sign up before the October 1st grand opening, the first month is free.
Whether you’re rushing to the train or looking for the perfect place for brunch with friends and family, River House fits the bill. Be sure to attend the grand opening on October 1st or to pop in afterwards to check out the constantly expanding menu.
