Cravings
Wild River Grille
Traditional Fare with Fun Twists
Story by Bob Gourley
Photography provided by Wild River Grille
There are many instances when there is more to a restaurant than just food, and that’s certainly the case at Wild River Grille in Reno. It all began in 2007 when Chuck Shapiro and Doug Holter had an idea to bring vibrancy back to the downtown area.
Wild River Grille is located at the Riverside Hotel, which is on the National Register of Historic Places and is currently home to the Riverside Artist Lofts. The ambiance includes an outside patio featuring live music, scenic vistas, and animals that traverse the riverbanks. The owners understand the importance of community as they partner with non-profits to help the locals.
With a cuisine that combines many locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, Rustic American and Italian dishes make for adventurous dining.
At lunch you may want to begin your experience with a cheese plate. An impressive list of European cheeses, fresh fruit, local honey, fig jam, and selected cured meats are perfect for sharing with a group. Ahi poke is another choice with sushi grade tuna, orange-soy ponzu, wasabi peas, and more.
A Wild River salad that has pleased diners for years combines Spring mix with apples, dried cranberries, marinated red onions and balsamic dressing. A classic Caesar is another choice.
A tantalizing group of sandwiches includes a brie and pear affair with warm cheese, jam, arugula, and pears nestled in a French baguette. House made kettle chips fill up the plate.
Entrees feature a nice list of beef, seafood, and pasta. Not only is there a selection of steaks running the gamut from filet mignon to a dry run flank but a double cut pork chop is another choice. The chop is high quality all-natural Berkshire enhanced with garlic mustard marinade.
You can do no wrong by ordering the land and sea assortment. Filet tips, shrimp, linguini, and spinach are included along with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, blue cheese, and garlic bread. Everyone at the table will enjoy pan seared scallops with polenta cake as an appetizer. Or, you might try the steamed mussels. I enjoyed a prime rib melt, the beef complemented with provolone cheese, mushrooms, and caramelized onions.
House specialties are highlighted with meatloaf constructed with fresh ground beef, Italian sausage, mushroom ragout, portabella mushrooms, and more. On the exotic side of things are grilled elk medallions with mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, and parmesan risotto cake.
Pan seared duck breast is accompanied by house-made gnocchi, confit ragout, and veggies.
For those looking to go meatless, the wild mushroom flat fits the bill—sautéed mushrooms enhanced with balsamic glaze, grilled cauliflower, and chips.
Lemonade fans will go wild as they discover a list of their favorite drink. Peach, strawberry, raspberry, and pomegranate add a burst of flavor.
Desserts are a great way to end the meal. How about cinnamon apple mousse with pumpkin spiced cheesecake fluff, caramel drizzle, and fresh whipped cream? Or maybe a flourless chocolate torte?
Wild River is not only a restaurant but a community gathering place. Signature cocktails help to set the mood for lively conversation after a tough day at the office. The Philosopher is a case in point. Four Roses bourbon is enhanced with amaretto, bitters, orange zest, and cherry. The Riverside Margarita has a base of Mi Campo Reposado tequila, house-made mix, orange brandy with a float of Grand Marnier. Seasonal specials are also part of the fare. Fourteen vodkas are part of an expansive list of spirits that include bourbon, whiskeys, blended scotch and gin. Draft beers include Pigeonhead Red Rye Lager and Lead Dog Cita Soto.
Red wines by the glass include vintages from California, such as Clay Shannon Cabernet from Lake County and Opola Petite Sirah from Paso Robles. Malbec from Argentina, which many feel is the best location for this variety, is represented by a 2023 Lola Mora.
Happy Hour is in session weekdays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Discounts on drinks and snacks are popular.
There is a growing trend of dogs accompanying their humans, and a fundraiser is held each year to help the Shakespeare Animal Fund. Pets and owners get to dine on a seasonal menu as they relax along the Truckee River downtown. Book your calendars each April for the event.
Downtown Reno has gone through a renaissance in the last decade. The once-neglected river walk area is now flourishing as families walk along the river’s edge and enjoy the clean air and magnificent views. People watching has become a popular sport, and a visit to the grill with their eclectic menu and drinks will entice you to indulge often.
Bring the family and enjoy the fare.
Wild River Grille
17 S Virginia St, Reno
775-284-7455
