Menu of River City Cafe in Conway, South Carolina, USA

Menu Overview

River City Cafe in Conway, SC, embodies the essence of classic American dining with a coastal twist. Situated conveniently on Laurel Street as part of the Black Water Market, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a highway diner—complete with road signs, beer memorabilia, and butcher paper-covered tables. This setting perfectly complements their hearty menu, anchored by fresh, never frozen ingredients and bold flavors.

The hallmark of River City Cafe’s menu lies in its burgers, which are crafted with care and packed full of satisfying, complex flavors. The Double Bacon Smash Burger is a standout: two ¾ lb beef patties smashed to achieve an ideal crust, layered with crumbled hickory smoked bacon, creamy American cheese, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and their signature 1000 Island dressing. This burger is incredibly juicy and flavorful, executing the smash burger concept with precision and richness that leaves a lasting impression. Paired with a generous portion of fries and creamy homemade coleslaw, it defines comfort food done right.

Other burger offerings push the envelope with creativity and zest. The Texas BBQ Burger and Fries brings smoky, sweet barbecue sauce and perfectly balanced toppings for a robust Southern-inspired bite. The Three Alarm Fireburger caters to thrill-seekers who crave heat, delivering layers of spice without sacrificing the burger’s juicy integrity. Sandwich enthusiasts will appreciate the Blackened Fish Reuben, which combines flaky, well-seasoned white fish with traditional Reuben components like sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and 1000 Island dressing on grilled rye, creating a coastal riff on a deli classic.

The menu diversity extends beyond burgers—beach favorite platters feature rich and hearty options such as the Philly Steak sandwich with melted provolone and grilled veggies, and the classic Reuben with corned beef. For those looking for a lighter or alternative protein, premium substitutions like fresh chicken breast, turkey, or a veggie burger add versatility without compromising quality.

Customer feedback consistently highlights the generous portion sizes and the care put into each dish. Reviewers mention the huge sandwich servings, unique burger options like the surf and turf burger, and the attention to detail in toppings and sauces. While some noted minor misses such as overcooked fries or missing sauerkraut in the Reuben, these are overshadowed by the overall freshness, flavor balance, and friendly, efficient service. The staff, notably servers like Hailey, receive praise for small-town charm and attentiveness, contributing to an enjoyable and unpretentious dining experience.

In sum, River City Cafe delivers a robust menu that honors classic American diner fare while infusing regional flavor and ample creativity. Whether you’re after a crispy patty melt, a smoky barbecue-infused burger, or seafood-inspired staples, this cafe rewards those with hearty appetites and a taste for quality. The atmosphere complements the meal perfectly—casual, welcoming, and full of personality—making it a must-visit for both locals and travelers passing through Conway.