★★★★★
My go to spot for my girlfriend and I to celebrate big events. The food is delicious and a great selection. Some things are a little pricey for the amount you get but you are paying for the terrific Service as well. Drinks are a little expensive... a glass of cabernet is $22, which I thought was a little much.
Terrific place especially in the warm weather where you can sit outside and get a beautiful view of the Hudson and the Palisades on the opposite Shore
★★★☆☆
I visited Red Hat on the River for a daytime meal with a friend, and while the restaurant itself is beautiful and the host stand staff were warm and welcoming (coat check included, which was a nice touch), my overall experience was disappointing.
Most of the staff we encountered were friendly, but the service from our assigned server fell far below the standard one would expect from an establishment that presents itself as upscale. While I was asking questions about the menu, it became clear that our server was far more engaged with another newly seated table—guests who appeared to be her regulars. Their interactions were warm, attentive, and enthusiastic, while our table was largely overlooked.
Throughout the meal, our server rarely checked on us. We had to flag her down for basic things like water, refills, or assistance. She didn’t return to ask how our food was, didn’t offer dessert, and made no effort to provide the level of service typically associated with fine dining. Other staff members ended up being more attentive to our table than she was.
As for the food: unfortunately, it did not redeem the visit. The $42 salmon was a very small portion, dry, and overcooked. The Florentine Eggs Benedict was average at best, and the potatoes were simply large chunks without any memorable flavor or preparation. For pricing at this level, I expected much better quality and execution.
I travel often and visit restaurants ranging from small local spots to high-end dining, and I try to be fair in my assessments. While the front-of-house team was lovely and the restaurant’s setting is genuinely beautiful, I would not return based on the service we received or the quality of the food. Perhaps sitting at the bar or having another server might lead to a different experience, but the food itself was underwhelming.
I’m sure the restaurant maintains a loyal following, and I can understand how regulars enjoy being warmly recognized and cared for. However, as a first-time patron, my experience did not reflect the level of hospitality or culinary quality I expected.
★★★☆☆
1st time dining here and the ambiance was excellent. Beautiful views of the city & TZ bridge from the front patio area. The service was very very attentive and on point. The place is very cozy and beautiful. The only negative thing (which is really major) was the value & food. The charcuterie was embarrassing & poorly presented. Most of the food was drenched and I mean drenched in oil like the Exxon-Valdez and don’t tell me it’s “finishing oil”. The kids pasta & steak were great. The $17-$18 salad was dressed perfectly but the price for a simple salad! I guess you gotta pay the rent.
★★★★★
We celebrated one of our dear friend’s final birthdays at the Red Hat and she absolutely loved it. The staff was so kind and accommodating. All members of the party were treated respectfully (unlike our experience across the way at MP Taverna.) The food was absolutely delicious, well plated, and served in a timely and organized manner. It was a little chilly for outdoor seating but we still admired the view of the Hudson River. The fresh tuna appetizer was a fan favorite! We will be back for more celebrations in the future.
★★★★☆
Red Hat is always great, inviting and trendy but still comfortable. The food is always fresh and cooked well. Service is great, servers are knowledgeable. The apple tart tatin was delectable!