Riverview Restaurant - Troutdale, OR

If you live in the northwest, then you surely must know Yoshida.  He's been everywhere:  on TV, in print and on billboards.  He's our version of the energizer bunny.  The story goes that he arrived in Seattle from Japan with only $500 in his pocket, taught karate, then started making his gourmet cooking sauce as gifts for friends.  Our waiter reported that Yoshida continues to market this and other products along with being responsible for 35 additional enterprises, including the Riverview Restaurant where he dines on a regular basis. 

The Yoshidas acquired the historic fifteen acre site in 1991.  According to their website, the Riverview Restaurant "was specifically designed to take advantage of the natural beauty of the region and provide an exceptional view of Troutdale’s scenic Sandy River. Adding to its unique elements, all of the milled trees that were removed on the property were incorporated into the building’s structure. The gazebo and manicured grounds have been designed to explore, host weddings and receptions, and for entertainment or musical venues."  Throughout the restaurant,  original artwork from the Yoshida's private collection is displayed.

Nestled into a wooded area just downstream and across the river from the historic Tad's Chicken 'N Dumplins, the Riverview is amazing from the minute you spot the restaurant and its lovely landscaping.  As we entered the building, the ambiance of the evening was set by a talented musical duo on piano and cello.  Look for them every Sunday night with other musicians scheduled on other nights. 

Steven ordered the lamb chops and I requested the Seafood Tower (prawns and cod skewered in a coconut and panko breading).  Both of these entrees came with garlic mashed potatoes  and stir-fried vegetables.  Although I found the breading somewhat overwhelming on the seafood, this detracted only a little from the enjoyment of our evening.  We capped off the feast with Bananas Foster, served table side for two, and weren't disappointed either by the rich dessert or the waiter's flambe performance.

We're planning another evening at the Riverview soon.  Not only is it close to our little cabin on the mountain, but it's also one of those wonderful restaurants that always has something going on:  winemaker's dinner, holiday themed event, or some other special occasion.  Frankly, we think a visit to the Riverview will be a special occasion in itself.

 

Riverview Restaurant

29311 SE Stark Street

Troutdale, OR 97060

503.661.3663