Riverside Family Restaurant

Welcome to the Riverside Family Restaurant, an authentic gem nestled in the heart of Ottumwa, Iowa, at 1317 E Mary St #2. This beloved eatery has become a staple for locals and travelers alike, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and hearty home-cooked fare.

From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a warm ambiance that feels like stepping into a comforting embrace. Riverside combines the essence of a classic diner with touches that make it uniquely its own. Customers rave about the nostalgic charm, referring to it as a "Mom & Pop" establishment that embodies the spirit of family dining.

  • Signature Dishes: Riverside is renowned for its skillets, featuring options like the Boneless Chicken Breast and Steak Skillet, both served over a generous bed of hash browns, two eggs any style, and the choice of toast or pancakes—all for an incredibly reasonable $8.25.
  • Breakfast All Day: For those who can’t get enough of breakfast, Riverside serves it all day long. Treat yourself to a variety of breakfast sandwiches that are perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal.
  • Homemade Soups and Hearty Portions: Diners are particularly fond of the homemade soups served daily, with rave reviews about the creamy potato and broccoli varieties. Pair your soup with generous portions of their signature meals, ensuring you leave with a satisfied appetite.
  • Friendly Service: The staff at Riverside is praised for their friendly demeanor and attentiveness. Whether you’re dining alone or with a large group, they ensure everyone feels at home, making it a perfect stop for families and travelers passing through.

With its extensive menu and commitment to quality, Riverside Family Restaurant truly stands out. Reviews highlight everything from the perfectly cooked steak to the comforting atmosphere filled with regulars who share a love for great food and good company.

So, whether you’re craving a massive skillet breakfast, a delicious homemade soup, or just a cozy spot to enjoy a cup of coffee, Riverside Family Restaurant is the place to be. It's a dining experience that goes beyond the food, offering a sense of community and warmth that keeps guests returning for more. Don’t forget to say hello to their feline greeter while you’re there!

If you find yourself in Ottumwa, stop by Riverside Family Restaurant. Good food, friendly service, and a cozy, homey atmosphere await you!

Menu

Location

Address: 1317 E Mary St #2, Ottumwa, IA 52501, United States
Phone: +1 641-682-2386

🕓 Work Hours
MON 6:00 AM - 3:00 PM
TUE 6:00 AM - 3:00 PM
WED 6:00 AM - 3:00 PM
THU 6:00 AM - 3:00 PM
FRI 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
SAT 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
SUN 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Business info

  • Wheelchair-accessible Car Park
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Entrance
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Seating
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Toilet
    Yes
  • Offers Takeaway
    Yes
  • Serves Dine-in
    Yes
  • Delivery
    No
  • Serves Great Coffee
    Yes
  • Serves Great Dessert
    Yes
  • Popular For Breakfast
    Yes
  • Popular For Lunch
    Yes
  • Popular For Dinner
    Yes
  • Good For Solo Dining
    Yes
  • Serves Coffee
    Yes
  • Serves Comfort Food
    Yes
  • Serves Healthy Options
    Yes
  • Quick Bite
    Yes
  • Serves Small Plates
    Yes
  • Serves Breakfast
    Yes
  • Serves Brunch
    Yes
  • Serves Lunch
    Yes
  • Serves Dinner
    Yes
  • Serves Dessert
    Yes
  • Seating
    Yes
  • Toilet
    Yes
  • Wi-Fi
    Yes
  • Free Wi-Fi
    Yes
  • Casual
    Yes
  • Cosy
    Yes
  • Family Friendly
    Yes
  • Good For Groups
    Yes
  • Popular With Tourists
    Yes
  • Doesn't Accept Reservations
    Yes
  • Accepts Cheques
    Yes
  • Accepts Credit Cards
    Yes
  • Accepts Debit Cards
    Yes
  • Accepts NFC Mobile Payments
    Yes
  • Credit Cards
    Yes
  • Good For Kids
    Yes
  • High Chairs Available
    Yes
  • Kids' Menu
    Yes
  • Free Of Charge Street Parking
    Yes
  • Free Parking Lot
    Yes
  • Plenty Of Parking
    Yes

Last Reviews

  • Author: Nancy J. Whitlow

    13 May 2025

    The food is delicious & service is very good . The hours open are different !

  • Author: Дмитрий Рамсовой

    11 May 2025

    This place deserves 5 stars for the steak they cook. Ordered eggs and steak and it was perfect. I haven’t been eating such a well prepared meat for a while. The place is old and authentic, looks like classic local business.

  • Author: Sam

    06 April 2025

    Awesome on everything. Very reasonable price . Ordered Gyro , was really great taste and came with soup and fries. Diesel & Gas station next to restaurant. They have yard for semi trucks ( not paved ) .

  • Author: Holly Dawn Hewlett

    02 April 2025

    I love Mom & Pop places, they have to fight the big chains, so when I find one, I make sure everyone else can find them! This place is like a great Greek and Italian diners on the east coast! The menu goes on for days and the waitresses are on point. I had Chicken Alfredo with broccoli, a salad, and tea. The place feels very homey and lots of locals to talk to. My WHOLE meal, including tip was 16! Portions are huge. The one thing I really loved was there were lots of seniors hanging out and the waitresses treated them with patience and respect. Stop by and keep Mom and Pop places like the Riverside Restaurant serving their communities! Be sure to say Hi to Riverside, their feline greeter! There is parking for about 20-30 trucks behind the building.