River House

Work Hours

Location

About the Business

John Varanese first signed an intent to lease the building in 2001, and went as far as getting architectural renderings for his concept in 2004. Despite his best efforts to push the project forward, the timing was not right and John realized he needed to scale back his plans, thus creating his namesake on Frankfort Avenue.

Even while working for 8 years to make Varanese successful and unique, John was never able to let go of his original grandiose dream, and he kept close watch on the property at 3015 River Road to ensure it was still available. His ultimate dream of opening a riverfront dining option in Louisville was fulfilled when construction began on the 27,000 sq. ft. former boat storage facility in September 2015.

River House encompasses 16,000 sq. ft. of the first floor of the building, and Chef Varanese also has long-term plans to build out the 11,000 sq. ft. of space on the 2nd floor for private catered events and banquet facilities.

Established in 2016.

Business Name

River House

Specialties

The menu features regional cuisine with a Southern flair and an emphasis on fresh seafood including Grilled Oysters on the Half Shell, BBQ Braised Beef Short Rib, and the Maker's Mark Bourbon Barrel Smoked Salmon. Our 15 foot raw bar features assorted raw oysters, king crab, and jumbo shrimp.

Amenities

Takes Reservations, Offers Takeout, Vegan Options, Limited Vegetarian Options, Accepts Credit Cards, Accepts Apple Pay, Accepts Cryptocurrency, Outdoor Seating, Trendy, Intimate, Romantic, Classy, Upscale, Moderate Noise, Offers Catering, Good for Groups, Good For Kids, Good for Dinner, Private Lot Parking, Valet Parking, Waiter Service, Free Wi-Fi, Happy Hour Specials, Full Bar, Wheelchair Accessible, TV, Heated Outdoor Seating, Covered Outdoor Seating, Dogs Not Allowed, Bike Parking, Provides reusable tableware

Business Owner

John V. (Business Owner)

John Varanese obtained his BA in Food Service Management and AS in Culinary arts from Johnson and Wales University in South Carolina. During his enrollment there, Varanese was Kitchen Manager for Magnolias, a landmark in Southern cuisine, for three years.

Categories

• Food
• Restaurants

Categories By Location

• Louisville, Kentucky, United States
• Food
• Restaurants

• Kentucky, United States
• Food
• Restaurants

• United States
• Food
• Restaurants

Tags

New American, Live/Raw Food, Southern