Michaels Riverside is by far one of the best resturants around. With Covid19 and all the restrictions, it is so nice to be able to get out, feel safe, enjoy amazing food, great atmosphere and wonderful staff. The owner and his wife are special people who make you feel like family. Also if you want to have an event there, you will not be disappointed!! Please tell your family and friends about Michaels and support a great place!! read more

Terrible experience! We will leave it at that. Food is marginal, at best. Owner basically told me he doesn't need my business, because I complain to much, although I have given this establishment business during the pandemic. read more

Amazing pasta and food great service! David is so nice!!! The best!! I had angel hair garlic and oil and it tasted so good

Our family had a repast here yesterday. Michael was helpful in the planning of the event during a tough time. He and his team provided a wonderful place for our family to meet after the burial. The food was delicious and plentiful. read more

My daughters shower was a memorable event. The food was delicious and the service was excellent. Michael, the owner, always goes above and beyond. When we think of celebrations, Michael's is always our first choice and it never disappoints. Thank you Michael for another great experience. read more

Had a fantastic 50th birthday party for my wife. Food, service & decor were fantastic! The appetizers were served timely and were delicious. Their cranberry salad is delicious & our buffet dinner options were great. All leftover items were neatly packed for us to take home. I was able to stream our party playlist over their Bluetooth seamlessly. We'll be back! Highly recommend! read more

I have been going to Michaels for over 10 years. His staff has always been friendly as well as attentive. There have been a few times when my food wasn't to my liking but Michael has always taken care of it for me. When you visit the same restaurant for as many years as I have there is no way everything is going to be perfect every time but I have to say Michaels comes darn close... read more

I have been going here for a while now and it is one of my favorite Italian restaurants to eat at. I have ordered almost everything and they were all amazing. My favorite is the Gorgonzola strip steak and the very creamy fettuccine Alfredo with chicken. This is a great restaurant that has a nice big parking lot for their banquet halls. If you are to go here on a weekend make sure you call to make a reservation because it can get busy especially if the restaurant is catering a wedding. If you are in the area definitely try it cause it will make you a familiar face like family. read more

I agree with many of my fellow yelpers below about the unbelievably rude and unprofessional staff and owner, Michael. I visited this establishment for the first time for my cousin's baby shower. It started off with service by a very rude waitress. When our table asked for... - a pitcher of regular soda (instead of diet) - salmon to be cooked medium well and - a vegetarian option ...we were visited by Michael who said that there were "many complaints" from our table. We explained that we simply asked for a different pitcher of soda to which he nastily replied, "if you don't like the soda then maybe you should have brought your own" and stormed away. He walked over to the woman who was hosting the shower and began talking about us (noting by his incessant finger pointing). I walked over to confront him about his rudeness. Me: "Excuse me, but you were very rude to our table." Him: "I'm not talking to you, I'm talking to the woman in charge." Me: "I'm talking to you because you came over and rude to us. That wasn't necessary." Him: (put his finger on his lips and actually shushed me) Me: "I'm not going to be quiet about it--you were rude!" Him: (stormed away like the childlike coward he is) I wish I could say the food made it worth it, but it didn't. By the way, if you want a list of actual complaints from paying customers, MIchael, here they are: -your salad is overdressed and old/wilted -your potato croquettes are dry and tasteless -your salmon is overcooked -your vodka sauce is watery -your fountain soda is flat -your staff is rude and so are you Fellow yelpers--you have been warned. I implore you to spend your money elsewhere! read more

So we had a party here, and overall this place had its ups and downs. Unfortunately, there were more downs than ups. I'll start with the good. The party was handled well. The bruschetta was extremely solid. Those dinner rolls as well, you can't get enough of those! I am not a big penne vodka guy, but as far as vodka sauce goes, it was solid. The major problem with this place was how incredibly mediocre the chicken parm dinner was. It was not bad tasting per say, but it was a little overdone and just had no real flavor. The most important dish in my opinion is the main course and not the appetizers, thus prompting me to leave me to this rating. If I were to come here again I would probably only order the bruschetta and not a dinner, which is unfortunate. read more

A surprisingly good experience. The interior is comfortable, a little cold, the music was interesting pop but not too loud. You can tell it's a place for regulars, it's got that vibe. The owner was at the bar shmoozing the whole time. The food is good. It's not overly creative, just good. If you are craving meat, the Spicy skirt steak with gorgonzola or the lamb chops are great. Just simple ingredients and simple preparation. The lamb was perfectly med-rare, and just enough salt and spices to not overpower the lambyness you expect. They have your ItaliAmerican standards like blah blah parm and fried calamari. The portions are big and you will have left overs. My only complaints are, that we ordered the "rock shrimp" but instead we got regular shrimp, it was still good just not as described; our server did not come over to ask if we wanted more drinks as often as he could have. With 1 appetizer, 4 salads, 4 sodas, 1 wine, & 4 entrees, the bill with tip was $100. Don't expect the Ritz, but i think you may be pleasantly surprised here. read more

Michael's Riverside isn't your typical warm, cozy, intimate atmosphere that you'd expect from an italian restaurant. This is more of a catering hall with a side business of a bar and restaurant. If I look passed the layout and decor I must say that food was actually pretty descent. We had Fried Calamari and the Hot Appetizer dish. For entrees I went with the Osso Bucco special which I thought they did a pretty good job with. I ate it all and liked the combination of rice and the real hearty sauce to dip in. read more

BEWARE!!! if I could give no stars I would. I hosted my babyshower here and the staff and owner were beyond rude. they lost not 1 but many customers as everyone at my shower was victims to the rude wait staff and Michael the owner. read more

i was at a wedding and I knew my fish was coming from thirty feet away. It was horrible to smell, to look at and even worst to attempt to eat. i wouldn't recommend this place for an event or anything else read more

Michael's Riverside - foul smelling fish entree - Italian Near Me - Lyndhurst, New Jersey

Its hard to give a bad review because the food was outstanding and the wait staff was so gracious however the owner seriously ruined the experience. Dealing with him is not pleasant he is rude condensing and has that typical I'm a man attitude. I had a party previous to the last one we just had about 6 years ago one of the owners very good friends i worked with and always had parties there so i knew the food was outstanding. The first party i did not deal with Michael until it was give your count so it was brief heres my menu choice heres the # of people. I liked to state his very good friends wife was with me so it may be why it was different the first time. Even the day of party payment and everything else was dealt with a woman who was so lovely I wish I got her name. This time around we dealt with him the entire time and omg he was the worst. There is a contract which is completely fine I understand the concept but when there is a state of emergency and the roads are closed due to a severe snow storm and the person the party is coming for is coming an hour away because they loved their first experience and you are pretty much told you will be sued its a little hard to swallow. The person the party was for was getting concerned because we were due for a massive snow storm. They inquired things such as what happens in the case if a shut down and do we get to work out another date? It was a very pleasant conversation and It was asked when would we know to start advising people of any changes. I asked i understand we would lose deposit if we canceled but if there was a state of emergency and they closed due to that how did that work? Again it was pleasant that question however switched the gears of the conversation. He began to yell and say I will sue you and bring you to court one phrase he kept repeating was "i shouldnt even be talking to you your name is not on the contract" the person stated the name on the contract was with them and we were on speaker. The bride knew about the party and was just trying to help get together all information because we wanted no issues with family attempting to travel. I should have also stated this was a week before the party it wasn't like we were inquiring this the day before. He then proceeded to tell us he no longer wanted to have our party and that we were very difficult for inquiring these questions and that he was busy. In the next breathe it was like give it some time but you are the only one canceling all parties are on. We NEVER tried to cancel. Safe to say night before party we were in a state of emergency and he called the person on the contract and said we werent able to have the party that Saturday and we should call him in a week or two for a new date. That saturday we got almost 2 feet of snow. We called that week and he told us a date available and we said okay great we'll take it because our deposits was being transferred over we said we'd come do all the paperwork he specifically said for now write date on old contract sign it and send me a picture which we did. The next day we got a text long stating he does not do business this way and he really wasn't sure about doing business with us. We texted back and asked what the issue was and he said the date is not ours and we needed a new contract which we already knew. We called and said we did what was asked and he acted like we were the crazy ones. We said we can come down now if thats all that is not guaranteeing the date he said no no im busy. We had to hold our breathe while this man held our party over our heads we went there the following day and signed the contract which i would like to also state had a $5 difference to the amount per person. Honestly i almost said screw the deposit but it as alot of money to lose and attempt to then pay another venue. The only saving grace to the party was Michael was no where in sight of our party I did see his head pop in right before food came out but other than that he stayed away. Unfortunately I will never have another party there. read more

Michael's is an interesting place. It seems to cater to an older crowd mostly but not exclusively. There is a small dance floor and it is put to use by the 60+ crowd that seem to always be there. And while I'm not sure the place has an official dress code, you will not be at home here in jeans and a t-shirt. Many wear slacks and a sports jacket and you'll want to wear at least a nice pair of dockers and polo. If you can deal with that an excellent meal awaits you. Everything we've had here has been quite good and the staff is friendly and attentive. read more

Went for a friend's party. Place was very nice. Bartender was great and friendly! It was buffet style for dinner. Only problem was the staff didn't let the food out for a while. The appetizers were taken off of our table very quickly. And when dinner was served I felt like I was still eating with the fork in my hand and they were trying to take my plate. There were other people too at the restaurant that felt the same way. They weren't letting us enjoy our food and they were making us feel rushed to finish. read more

I went here today for the repast following the funeral of a friend. So...the mood was distinctly somber, but I thought everything at Michael's was handled well, with proper respect and a sense of decorum, given the occasion. The staff moved about efficiently but not obtrusively, moving empty dishes and replacing them with practiced dexterity. Soda and water were provided, bread and butter, and a salad. First course was ziti, which I thought was surprisingly tasty. We had the choice of a chicken dish, a beef dish, or salmon, which is what I chose. And I was happy with the choice: the salmon was delicious-- the sides were a potato and a large portion of broccoli. We had coffee afterwards and a piece of cake. Overall, very satisfactory. And they didn't rush us out; we were able to take our time to reminisce, remember, reflect, laugh about old times, shed a few tears. I would definitely recommend it to anyone unfortunate enough to be in a similar situation. read more

I have been to Michael's many times in the past 10 years. Michael and his wife Marilyn couldn't be more Pleasant and accommodating! Tonight My wife had Eggplant Parmesan ,she claims it's the best she ever had ! I had Veal Marsala and it was well prepared,tender and very tasty ! It seems that Michael does quite a catering business, So if you going there on Saturday night the parking lot may seem very crowded but there are usually tables open in the dining room ! Our company has had several company functions here and everyone raved about the food ! My biggest problem with Michaels is that the portions are too large and I prefer not to bring home food from a restaurant because it always sits in the fridge and goes bad . However, my wife doesn't have any problem with that. Given the huge selection of Italian restaurants in North Jersey I consider Michael's to be one of the best !! read more

Michael's Riverside - Owner Michael standing in front of Dining room - Italian Near Me - Lyndhurst, New Jersey

Five stars for this restaurant! Michael's was extremely accommodating and absolutely wonderful in our time of need. My family and I needed last minute preparations for a funeral reception for almost 60 people, and the owner was responsive and understanding, and went above and beyond to ensure everything was taken care of. The staff was helpful and the food was fabulous! read more

I was here for a banquet, so I can't comment on dinner. The food was very good and we had may choices to choose from. The parking lot can be tight. read more

Lovely place. Unfortunately, extremly rude stuff, especially the actual owner . Have never seen anything like that before. Food was very good . So thank you Chef. Was called trash by the waitress due the argument started by one of the waitress in regards to not wearing a mask inside the restaurant, even though first thing she said when we walked in: you don't need to wear a mask ever, and the only people who have to wear a mask were - employees. Sadly, shitty atmosphere. Plans for the bday l-ruined. Bye money I paid . Much regret . read more

I can not move on without leaving a GLOWING review for this place for this owner... Last week we had a 50th birthday party for my girlfriend.. From the first minute we walked thru the door to book it till the end of the party when we left our experience was amazing.. The owner here not only took care of our every need but went way above and beyond.. He helped us plan it all.. The food was amazing ..so very tasty and this is coming from someone who tries every Italian Restaurant everywhere. We googled a cake out of no where and said this is what we want and he had it made for us. It was a amazing beautiful cake and also booked us a DJ at a huge discount.. He bought me dinner and gave me a additional discount on the whole party.. YOU DO NOT MEET PEOPLE LIKE THIS ANYMORE. i am so thankful I found the best place ever for our party.. The waitstaff also was amazing ..We have zero complaints and would book again in a minute..Oh yeah and I found a great place to frequent just for dining..Thank you for everything once again!! Lori & Dianne read more

Had my daughters baptism party here. Michael made sure he accommodated every need I had. The service was excellent as well as the food. Everyone left happy and so did my pockets. This will be my new go-to spot when I have an event read more

Unfortunately my experience at this place was very mediocre. Owner definitely saves money sacrificing quality of food. Pasta in penne vodka was so overcooked it was falling apart and breaking to pieces, very soggy. Overall the food is very bland, seems underseasoned. Everything is very plain and leaves an unpleasant aftertaste. Will not come back. read more

Spend your money elsewhere - Did a repast here and was assured of his hospitality, service and ability to accommodate the event. I ran into a guy who looked like Mo Green from the Godfather who I assume was Michael. I asked him if he was Italian and he said to go inside and then we can talk about nationality, not understanding that this was something all my aunts and uncles were going to ask him again in succession and its a good way to know your customers. I don't like jerky people and thats the way he presents himself and I was in no mood for slap happy idiots that day. The food is good but the portions are small and the roast plate was slices of deli meat with sauce. If not for Mo Green's stupid attitude it was deserving of four stars but he ruins it cause he can't help himself. read more

Cannot recommend enough! I had my wedding here as well as a few parties and countless dinners. The owner is fantastic and very hands on with the company. We have always experience top tier service and food. read more

This was my first time there. The food was very good. The penne vodka sauce could have been creamier (but that is my opinion). I did not have any dessert here so I am in aware of how that would taste. I did visit the bar. The drinks are good but pricey. A Malibu babryes was $8 and a beer $5. read more

Just celebrated my cousin's graduation party at Michael's Riverside. We had an amazing time! The food was delicious , the drinks were strong, and most of all everyone was so kind and hospitable! From the first time I met Michael and his lovely wife they were nothing but helpful and made sure that anything I wanted or needed was taken care of. My family and I, all 26 of us, had an amazing night. This will be our go to place when we want to throw a party. Highly recommended!! Thank you Michael and team for making our night so wonderful. read more

Ok, So I'm here for my good friends daughter's 1st birthday party.....Got here late. Parking was still good. The food was still there and hot and very tasty. I really enjoyed the tortellini alfredo!! I think it's a nice place for a quaint get together. read more

Michael's Riverside - Italian Near Me - Lyndhurst, New Jersey

Amazing food and staff! I host every event here. Great price, great rooms, better than an venue around! read more

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Came here for a mercy meal/reception after my great aunt passed away yesterday. The place itself was very nice, clean....but food was okay and the coffee was not ready on time..family members had to ask a few times, first few cups braught out were not even warm...the chicken Francesè tasted a little funny...Makes me wonder if the food was pre cooked,stored, and warmed for the occasion ...pasta with what looked to be vodka sauce was real watery...the salad, Italian sausage, veggies, and potatoes I did enjoy! ... I had to take off a few stars for what I stated and not only that it's like people who worked their were trying to rush us out...as I'm eating a lady or the gent would come ask if they can take the plate away...happened two occasions...twice to me and one to the the person next to me...rushed service...horrible turn off...i really don't like to complain..as you read in my many reviews but I was their for family, which means it would of been nice to stick around, converse, and not be rushed as we were .. read more

Michael's Riverside - Italian Near Me - Lyndhurst, New Jersey

I wish I could give this place no stars. The first time I came here for food, three out of four people got so sick for a week. The second time we came was for a baby shower. The service felt rushed, the waitress kept yelling at me asking where I was sitting. When my salad came, the waitress would come everything me five minutes asking me if I was done. She was just overall nasty and rude. Then when it was time to go, I asked for a tray and a cover to put the remaining desserts away. She said to me that this party was asking for too much. Overall, horrible food dining experience with rude staff. Never coming here again. The only reason why this place gets one star is because the owner was very nice. He needs to pay attention to the people he hires as these folks are not made to work in a public setting due to poor manners and lack of social skills. read more

Never disappointed... food is, simply put... delicious!! We've had a bridal shower there, a baby shower there and have gone many times for dinner... always delicious, wait staff excellent!! If it were located closer to where I live it would be a more regular stop. Couldn't recommend it more!! read more

Just went there the other night and I still love the penne vodka. We again had excellent service and I have no complaints.

Best filet ever! Always cooked to the perfect temperature and so flavorful and juicy. Penne vodka is also pretty amazing.

Horror story alert: My cousin was here for an easter pre-fixed $45 per $18 for kids. for 26 people. last min. 5 can't make it, 3 kids two adults. they are told everything is fine but are billed for the whole 26. 5 adults added to the bill. not a mistake, and then they ask for the 5 meals and are told no. who cares how good the food is. THIS IS ROBBERY. NO ONE SHOULD EVER GO TO MICHAEL'S RIVERSIDE. read more

I heard wonderful things about this restaurant and finally gave it a try. I was terribly disappointed. The salad was soggy and seemed day old. The roast beef dinner was actually 3 slices of cold cut meet and was dry. The chocolate cake was stale. To make matters worse, the service was horrendous. The waitress was beyond rude and the busboy did not understand English. We continually asked for drinks, utensils, glasses, and dishes and never got them. We had to keep getting up and taking them from unused tables. I will NEVER go back. read more

This is our favorite place to go for a delicious, fulfilling meal. The owners are ever present and will accommodate your every need. The staff quickly learns your name and greets you like one of the family. The food has never failed to please and the filet mignon is better than those in the best restaurants within miles. read more

As of this review, my company will be having our holiday party at this restaurant so I thought perhaps a re-visit was due. I had previously visited this restaurant a couple of years back and was far from impressed. Did this trip change my thought about the place?? Absolutely NOT! The items ordered were: Baked Filet of Sole w/ baked potato and fresh vegetables, Spicy Skirt Steak topped with Gorgonzola Cheese, & Linguine w/ Meatballs (Kids Menu). Needless to say the best thing about these choices were the 2 side salads that accompanied the main dish entrees! The Filet was barely "baked", you could clearly tell it wasn't fresh fish and had that freezer taste to it. Absolutely no flavor at all. The potato was overly starchy as well. The Steak was not spicy at all. (Why advertise it if you don't plan on using seasoning??). It had such a pungent smell and overbearing taste from the cheese and was overcooked. I asked for it medium and it was closer to well done. My poor son, who I told could not order the typical chicken fingers meal, had to deal with FROZEN meatballs and overcooked linguine! I say FROZEN because they too had the taste of freezer burn and were all the same size mini balls. Think Mama Lucia in the frozen food aisle at Shop Rite. Absolutely disgusting! They weren't even microwaved all the way through. Unfortunately for me I will be going back to this restaurant however only because I had already RSVP with my company for the party. Believe me, it'll be a steady diet of salad and maybe, just maybe a chicken dish if there is one available. I mean, they can't mess that up too can they?!? Avoid this place at all costs. read more