he River Café and its owner, Michael “Buzzy” O’Keeffe, have become renowned for producing more great American chefs than any other restaurant in America. Mr. O’Keeffe has raised many talented chefs to national prominence - including Larry Forgione, Charles Palmer, David Burke, Rick Laakonen, Rick Moonen and Brad Steelman. What began as the singular vision of Mr. O’Keeffe for an elegant waterfront restaurant took many years of lengthy negotiation with The City of New York before permission was granted to start construction. At the time, the notion of building a restaurant amid what was such an isolated and neglected part of New York seemed like a great risk. Since opening in May of 1977, however, The River Café has been the recipient of numerous awards including selection as one of the five best restaurants in New York by the French culinary guide “Gault Millau”. The restaurant will forever hold the distinction of being at the forefront of what has become the re-birth of the Brooklyn waterfront. Celebrating our 30th year of offering some of the world's finest food with professional service in a magical atmosphere. Goosebumps included. The River Cafe Rose Garden is now in full bloom !