overview

Introducing Chef Raul! From The SUMMERHOUSE in Nantucket, CIPRIANI in NYC and RENATOS in Palm Beach to The River House in Westport.

Located on the banks of the Saugatuck river near the heart of Westport, we offer year-round dining—and year-round celebrations of the waterfront. We pair a fresh seasonal menu to complement the ever changing water views. The lively warmth of friends meets the serene quiet of nature. There is always something new—and always something familiar.

A letter from the Chef

The palate is an extremely intimate vehicle through which to touch someone. When I prepare a meal, I always do so with the intention of evoking the same response: unadulterated enjoyment.

I try to accomplish this by using locally grown products as often as possible, and designing a menu that changes with the seasons. Food is something we intake to improve our health, and to enjoy at the same time, hence why we place so much emphasis on our ingredients! I ensure that we use only those that are grown naturally and/or without having been altered by fillers or artificial flavors. I prepare healthy foods like quinoa and other whole grains in a way that makes them delicious and palatable, while still maintaining their nutritional value.

We use all-natural chickens and cattle that have been raised wholesomely, in a humane way; I take extra steps to certify these conditions (i.e., we grind our own certified Black Angus beef and cure our own meats). Everyday, we bake our own bread and handcraft our pastas and raviolis, on-premise. In addition, we are currently cultivating a plot here in Westport where we are growing part of our salads, vegetables, and herbs for the exclusive consumption of the restaurant.

Our desserts are 100 % artisanal, including our ice cream, in which we use only natural flavors and fresh fruits, grown exclusively by us, for us. We also pay special attention to sugar, gluten and other health-sensitive issues by including menu items that cater to these particular needs and requests.

We look forward to inspiring your palate and sharing the beauty of the River and the heart of the house. It’s in our name. And it’s in everything we do.

Executive Chef Raul Restrepo