World famous, this beloved London institution came from humble beginnings to earn a reputation as the best place to eat Italian food outside of Italy. If you know you know and if you don’t….then please allow us to introduce you. 

As you might have guessed, The River Cafe is so named because the River Thames runs right past the restaurant. This part of the river, just by the beautiful Hammersmith Bridge, has been Ruthie and her team’s home and their daily view since they opened in 1987 and whilst Londoners and tourists alike love the river, photograph it, want to dine and celebrate whilst looking over it, we’re not actually very good at taking care of it. 

Last year, The River Cafe opened it’s first new venue in 37 years and we were right there with them. Those of you who joined in last time were the first to know about it and the firstin. Now, just over a year later, we’re back again and ready to get you through winter with a special River Cafe Cafe VIP-ring which celebrates all those who care as much about where they live as they do with a special treat every time you pop in.

The Details

  • The Who

    The River Cafe Cafe

    Thames Wharf, Rainville Road,

    W6 9HA

  • The When

    Saturday 18th April 2026

    10.30am - 1pm

  • The What

    A VIP-ring which unlocks a coffee or soft drink on the house each time you visit The River Cafe Cafe.

Sign up FAST!

Where brand activation looks a lot like brand activism…

Caring deeply and acting meaningfully is what unites every EARNT brand.

We have been collecting plastic from the river with your help since 2022 and it’s more important than ever. Last summer, the Port of London Authority attempted to remove about 180 tonnes of wet wipes from the infamous “Wet Wipe Island” under Hammersmith Bridge.

Raising awareness about what we can do to improve our city’s river health is just as important as doing our bit IN the river.

And, if you’re wondering if we’re making a difference-it’s a resounding YES! In the 1950’s, the Thames was declared biologically dead, but this has been turned around, with 125 different species of fish and 92 species of bird thriving today. We just need to keep making an effort.

‘The River Cafe is what it is today because of the river, guests dine alongside it, chefs cool off next to it, it’s our responsibility to keep it clean.
Richard, my husband, often quoted the Ancient Athenian oath ‘I shall leave this city not less but more beautiful than I found it’ And that’s what we are trying to do’

Ruth Rogers.

 FAQs

  • One free tea / coffee / beer / glass of wine per person on presentation of the keyring at the River Cafe Cafe. Valid Monday - Friday.

  • Anyone who has registered and received their confirmation email. You can bring a friend but they wont be eligible to the offer unless they signed up too. Let us know so we can check we have enough equipment.

  • We know weekends can be a juggle, so children are very welcome to join! They love looking for the grossest thing the river has to offer!

    We just don’t have any specific equipment for them, and we kindly ask that they’re supervised at all times, as we can’t take responsibility for them on the day.

  • Unfortunately the foreshore is not easily accessible so those with restricted access will not be able to join this time.

  • We would obviously prefer you come by public transport but if you are driving, there is limited pay and display in surrounding areas

  • Please wear very sturdy wellies and appropriate clothing.

    We have pickers, hoops, bin bags (obviously) and some gloves but if you do have your own gloves, please bring these.

  • The River Cafe will provide coffee and cake before the event but if you want to stay afterwards for lunch, you will need to book in advance.

    It’s a busy weekend so this can’t be guaranteed unfortunately.