01
Best overall pick
Mission Inn Restaurant
Historic Mission Inn District • Historic Californian Restaurant • Local Icon
A grand, historic dining room that turns a night out in downtown Riverside into an occasion.
Set inside the landmark Mission Inn Hotel, this restaurant is all about classic comfort dishes served with a sense of occasion. The shaded courtyard and ornate interiors feel tailor‑made for lingering over brunch, celebrations, or a slow-paced dinner. It’s the spot locals choose when they want Riverside to impress out-of-town guests.
02
Date-night classic
Mario's Place
Downtown Arts District • Elegant Northern Italian Restaurant • Best For Date Night
Refined Italian cooking, polished service, and a softly lit room made for long conversations.
Across from the Mission Inn, Mario's Place leans into seasonal Northern Italian dishes with thoughtful wine pairings. The atmosphere is intimate without feeling stuffy, with attentive staff who know the menu inside and out. It’s a go-to for anniversaries, pre-theater dinners, and anyone who cares as much about the wine list as the entrée.
03
Mesquite-grill favorite
Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar
Arlington / La Sierra • Southwestern Grill And Cantina • Best For Big Appetites
Lively Southwestern spot known for hand-made tortillas, mesquite-grilled plates, and generous portions.
Anchos draws crowds for its warm, tortilla-scented dining room and open mesquite grill that anchors the space. The menu leans hearty—think sizzling fajitas, smoky steaks, and combo plates that can easily be shared. It’s an easy choice when you want bold flavors, a casual vibe, and enough food to leave with leftovers.
04
Lively crowd-pleaser
Heroes Restaurant & Brewery
Downtown • Bustling American Pub And Brewery • Best For Game Day And Groups
A high-energy pub pouring local brews alongside huge, shareable plates in the heart of downtown Riverside.
Heroes is the kind of place where the walls are packed with memorabilia and the tables are packed with nachos, burgers, and wings. Portions are famously oversized, making it easy to split a few mains and still leave full. With plenty of screens and a noisy, upbeat crowd, it’s where locals gather for casual nights out, big games, and group meet-ups.
05
Seafood standout
Market Broiler Riverside
Riverside Plaza • Casual Seafood And Grill Restaurant • Best For Seafood Lovers
Reliable, family-friendly seafood with a polished feel, set just off the shops and theaters at Riverside Plaza.
Market Broiler offers a wide range of fresh fish, shellfish, and grilled classics without feeling fussy. The dining room is relaxed but put-together, making it equally suited to a quick bite before a movie or a leisurely dinner with visiting family. Consistent cooking and approachable prices have kept it a staple for locals craving seafood inland.