I've been to the Riverside Cafe countless times and it has never disappointed. My family ritually takes over half the small space for brunch and a 'natter' and the staff are very accommodating with prams and walking sticks and extra people.
One half of the small building (by the river as the name suggests, but not overlooking it) is their kitchen, the rest light and airy with about six or seven round tables perfect for families and groups. It does get to be a bit of a squeeze in there at times though. On their walls are their chalked up specials and paintings for sale borrowed from the People's Gallery across the road.
This cafe is perfect for traditional English breakfast and lunches like paninis, baked potatoes, soups with specials like lasagne and chilli con carne all under £5. They also provide a takeaway service which is pretty popular at lunchtimes. read more