The Riverhouse Restaurant officially opened for business on July 15. The casual, chef-inspired, steakhouse aims to provide the town of Atchison a gathering place to unwind and socialize.
It is located at 101 Commercial St, and operates Thursday through Saturdays from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. It also provides special happy hour discounts from 3-6 p.m.
In its weeks since opening, the restaurant has featured multiple live music performances and plans to offer several other forms of entertainment in the future.
Abby Joyce, junior, enjoyed her experience going The Riverhouse.
“The atmosphere is the best part of the entire restaurant. It’s a different place than what Atchison is used too,” Joyce said.
Kathleen Mayer, owner of the restaurant, began the idea of opening the venue in early 2019. She was first made aware of the opportunity by the Rainbow Communications group, former owners of the riverfront property.
The location boasts a slightly cosmopolitan accent. The building borders the Missouri River and features a spacious patio seating area.
The interior features two conjoined rooms. The first includes highlighting rustic hardwood, exposed brick and a large wooden bar. The other has floor to ceiling windows, white walls, local art and finer lighting.
It also features a second-floor event venue. Mayer mentioned the space may be used for events such as reunions, office parties or instructional classes in the future.
As for cuisine, the restaurant is a “casual, chef-driven, steakhouse with other barbecue items.” The menu aims to differentiate itself from other restaurants in the area and will feature local ingredients on a seasonal menu.
Mayer noted the importance of Sunday brunch and more weekly hours as the next steps into fully incorporating The Riverhouse into its new home.
“The goal is to create a gathering place for people to socialize and hangout, and hopefully unwind from what the day to day has brought them,” said Mayer.
The Riverhouse Restaurant welcomes Benedictine College students and members of the community for food, drink, and social activities.
