Italian restaurants

RIVA - 169 Church Rd

4.5 171 reviews Closed 169 Church Rd, London SW13 9HR, United Kingdom

Discover this place

RIVA is an Italian restaurant located in the heart of Barnes, London. It offers a menu featuring classic Italian dishes such as scampi, ravioli, octopus, and linguine with clams. The selection also includes tempura, fritto misto, panna cotta, risotto, and spaghetti carbonara, highlighting a blend of traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine. The restaurant’s atmosphere is described as cozy and welcoming, providing a relaxed setting for diners. Generous portions and carefully prepared dishes emphasize quality ingredients and authentic flavors. The venue aims to balance a homely vibe with attentive service, making it suitable for both casual meals and special occasions. Its location on Church Road makes it a notable dining option for local residents and visitors seeking Italian cuisine in a comfortable environment.

Photos

Amenities & More

Service options

Dine-in

Highlights

Great coffee
Great dessert
Great wine list

Popular for

Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Dining options

Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Table service

Amenities

Restroom

Atmosphere

Cozy
Romantic
Trendy
Upscale

Crowd

Groups

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with RIVA - 169 Church Rd before visiting.

Reviews for RIVA - 169 Church Rd

4.5

171 reviews

100%

18%

10%

Review highlights

Based on 171 reviews

RIVA consistently receives acclaim for its authentic Italian cuisine, characterized by generous portions and high-quality ingredients. Reviewers frequently highlight the rich flavors and well-executed dishes, including both seafood and classic Italian staples, which strike a balance between indulgence and value. The restaurant’s atmosphere is often described as cozy and welcoming, creating an inviting environment that dispels any notions of pretentiousness. Service is noted as friendly, efficient, and attentive, contributing to an overall enjoyable dining experience. Despite its popularity and occasional booking challenges, guests appreciate the approachable yet refined setting, making RIVA a favored destination for both casual nights out and special occasions.

María Fernández

Jul 30, 2025

Tucked away in the heart of Barnes, Riva offers a dining experience to indulge oneself and guests. The welcoming venue matches the quality of the food. The Fritelle starter is a must-try, satisfyingly filling with an array of flavours. The Spaguetti alle Vongole and Cotoletta alla Milanese are all excellent choices, all at reasonable prices with generous portions.

Helen Ryan

Jul 09, 2025

Incredible tasty food, octopus with beans and chilli was my favourite. Delicious Sauvignon Blanc, that’s wasn’t overpriced. Very efficient and entertaining service. Great evening was had by all.

Tatiana Sanches

Jul 02, 2025

Amazing delicious food, full quality ingredients and outstandingly prepared. Very friendly staff and charming cozy environment. Fully recommend. First time I have been there and I am looking forward to be back very soon!

Alla Tsyganova

Jun 16, 2025

We had amazing dinner at Riva today. Food was delicious, perfect combinations and flavours. My squid main course was absolutely fantastic. Highly recommended and we will be back for sure!

Phil

May 01, 2025

Having been denied a number of last minute reservations as they have always been fully booked, we finally decided to book in advance and we didn’t regret it at all. We were afraid it could be slightly pretentious, but it was far from it. It was homely, with lovely service, with delicious and generous portions of beautiful Italian staples and the quality of it really reflected good value. We booked table again while paying the bill. Thank you and see you soon.

Monique Vajifdar

Apr 14, 2025

Excellent food and atmosphere. I've been coming here since the restaurant opened, when it was unknown. Though I cannot go there as much as I'd like, since I've left Barnes, I love coming back. Our visitor from the US was most impressed too.