Riva Cucina - Berkeley

I arrived at 5:10 PM on Friday after confirming their hours on their website and Google, which indicated they were open from 4-8 PM. However, I found the door b... read more I arrived at 5:10 PM on Friday after confirming their hours on their website and Google, which indicated they were open from 4-8 PM. However, I found the door blocked and discovered they were only offering takeout. To make matters worse, the man at the door was quite unfriendly.

The listing clearly states that it's take-out only, but the photos and other reviews on Google give the impression of a full restaurant. It seems they are still... read more The listing clearly states that it's take-out only, but the photos and other reviews on Google give the impression of a full restaurant. It seems they are still operating under a COVID-related mindset. This listing is misleading, as they don't provide the ambiance they suggest, which feels somewhat dishonest.

I haven't dined in at the restaurant yet since they were only offering pick-up when I placed my order. However, the pick-up service was excellent and very strai... read more I haven't dined in at the restaurant yet since they were only offering pick-up when I placed my order. However, the pick-up service was excellent and very straightforward! The enticing aromas from the food filled my car right away, completely whetting my appetite. I went from not hungry at all to ravenous in no time! The food was absolutely delicious, and the prices are more than reasonable. Honestly, it was a fantastic hidden gem for a little treat. I will definitely return, and I'm looking forward to dining in next time!

Finding the location was a bit tricky at first; we ended up at the back of the restaurant! Once we figured it out, though, we were impressed. I ordered the Old... read more Finding the location was a bit tricky at first; we ended up at the back of the restaurant! Once we figured it out, though, we were impressed. I ordered the Old Fashioned, and it was fantastic. They also have a great selection of wines. The clams on the shell were amazing. Although the portions of the risotto and ravioli seemed small, they turned out to be just the right amount—not too much, not too little—and the flavors were excellent! I really love this place, though it is on the pricier side. Definitely make a reservation! I believe it's a Michelin-starred restaurant, and it can get crowded. We were lucky that it was busy when we visited on Saturday night.

The sauce is as good as my mom's! I haven't had food this fresh, authentic, and flavorful in a long time! What a hidden gem of a restaurant! I tried the Bologne... read more The sauce is as good as my mom's! I haven't had food this fresh, authentic, and flavorful in a long time! What a hidden gem of a restaurant! I tried the Bolognese sauce over gluten-free pasta, and it was absolutely to die for! It was packed with flavor without being heavy or overly salty. The antipasto platter was generous enough to serve three of us, and the cocktail selection was impressive! The cozy ambiance and the wonderful staff will definitely keep us coming back for more!