Our Favorite Local Restaurants in Riverside

Located in the Inland Empire metropolitan area and along the Santa Ana River, Riverside is a city known for its rich culture and history. Founded in the early 1870s, it is the birthplace of the California citrus industry. As the story goes, someone planted the first citrus tree in 1871, but it wasn’t until Eliza Tibbets received two Brazilian navel orange trees that the industry took off. Farmers noticed how the warm and sunny California climate was perfect for this type of crop and triggered a new kind of gold rush.

Fast forward, and Riverside is thriving. Not only does it boast some of the best citrus fruits in the nation, but there are dozens of diverse dining options from which to choose. Whether you’re in the mood for something salty or sweet, mild or spicy, Riverside has you covered.

Hungry in Riverside? Our team at Corona Pointe Resort and Townhomes has some stellar recommendations for you.

Monty’s Good Burger

What began as an idea amongst friends in 2017 has grown into an iconic restaurant on the coast of Southern California. With plant-based, artisanal burgers made from locally-sourced ingredients, house-made sauces, and dairy-free shakes, Monty’s Good Burger is undoubtedly worth the hype. The staff feels like close friends, welcoming you with a warm smile and happy hello. The atmosphere is retro-themed with brightly colored signs, classic bar stools, and oldies music in the background.

Stand-out items on the menu include the original Good Burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, house spread, and cheese, served on an artisan bun. Also, try the tater tots, crisped to golden tot perfection and served with your choice of dipping sauce.

All locations are currently take-out only due to COVID-19 restrictions. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Sushi OK

Sushi restaurants have become particularly popular over the last decade. Who doesn’t love fresh fish, cucumber, avocado, and crispy shrimp, rolled into rice with house-made sauces, ginger, and sesame seeds? If your mouth is watering, Sushi OK is the place to go. Located at 5228 Arlington Avenue, the restaurant takes it to the next level with consistent quality, outstanding service, and a diverse selection of menu items from which to choose. Fan-favorites include the Superman Burrito, Spicy Tiger Roll, and Yummy Yummy Roll. Prices range from $9 to $13 per entree.

The restaurant is currently open for take-out only. Hours of operation are 12 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Pier 76 Fish Grill

Last but certainly not least on our list is Pier 76 Fish Grill , which features “quality seafood coupled with genuine hospitality.” Enter the doors and discover a bright, open-air layout with industrial light features, wooden bar stools, and subway tile. The staff is lively, attentive, and eager to assist you in ordering. Choose from a fresh, locally-sourced selection of entrees such as the wild pacific salmon ($12.95), sea bass ($13.50), and parmesan-crusted whitefish ($12.95). Sides include salad, regular and sweet potato fries, Brussel sprouts, brown rice and quinoa, and more.

Located at 3555 Riverside Plaza Drive, hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Saturday. As a special note, customers can now enjoy indoor and outdoor dining, as well as take-out and delivery.

If you’re interested in sushi, burgers, or the catch of the day, Riverside boasts plenty of options to satisfy your craving. Support your local restaurants, discover your favorites, and don’t be afraid to try something new.

Image courtesy of Monty’s Good Burger