Encompassing the business corridors contained within the Magnolia Center neighborhood, Midtown offers midcentury charm and a quieter, parking-friendly alternative to downtown. Some of Riverside’s most beloved restaurants are in Midtown.
The Brockton Arcade
The Brockton Arcade is the heart of Midtown.
Do you have Grandpa’s old coin collection lying around the house? Riverside Stamp and Coin Shop can help you determine if you have a real treasure or a trip to the coin-counting machine at the grocery store. You can spend hours looking at the rare coins and talking to the knowledgeable staff.
Mega cookie franchises are popping up everywhere, but none compare to the quality and variety at Riverside Cookie Shoppe. This long-time local favorite is a gem. It’s on the short list of must-go places for Riversiders at large returning to visit family and friends. Check out traditional favorites or seasonal offerings; Riverside Cookie Shop has no bad cookies.
Second only to City Hall, Backstreet might be the place where the most deals get done in Riverside. This is not just a sandwich shop. This is a favorite for power lunches and casual meetups. The food is classic deli fare done well. A French dip with banana creme pie is a bit of insight into the in-crowd. Only one rule…Get your pickle and move on; there is no loitering at the relish cart.
A longtime local favorite, The Little Green Onion serves up hearty Mexican and American classics in a cozy, no-frills setting that feels just like home. From fluffy breakfast burritos to satisfying burgers and enchiladas, it’s the kind of place where comfort food and friendly faces keep you coming back morning, noon, and night.
Sunnyside Drive
Sunnyside Drive is a charming, walkable retail sector with La Bomba Vintage Clothing and Liberty’s Buy, Sell, Trade down on the corner of Magnolia and Sunnyside with a mini thrift district. Satiate that sweet tooth at U.S. Donut or get one of the best Spronics around at Condron Coffee. When the weather is nice, you might find Sunnyside closed to cars for a pop-up street market with craft and food vendors. Sunnyside is a fun little street in the heart of Midtown and worth a stop on your trip around town.
The Sire
The Sire is Riverside’s neighborhood bar and grill, even if you live across town. Great for a quick bite and a beer or spend a whole night with friends. The Sire is a friendly, casual place in Midtown. The food is great, the drinks are fairly priced, and the patio feels like another world, even though it’s only a few feet away from Magnolia Avenue. Bring a friend or meet one when you get there. This is the type of place your dad might bring you for a beer on your twenty-first birthday. The Sire feels like a second home for generations of Riversiders.
The Outpost
Step into The Outpost—Riverside’s hidden gem where rustic charm meets Italian flavor. Designed like a dreamy walk through the woods, this cozy spot serves up artisan pizzas, crisp, fresh salads, and a handpicked selection of beers and wines. Whether you’re unwinding with friends or planning a date night, The Outpost offers a warm, woodsy escape with flavors that feel like home.
Antone’s
A good sandwich isn’t hard to find in Riverside, and Antone’s is among the best. The converted cottage has a full Italian menu, including pasta and pizza, but most people go for the sandwiches on house-baked rolls. The Mafia on garlic bread is something to experience. Antone’s has been doing it well for generations and is a must-stop in Midtown.
Ampersand Gifts & Goods
The Plaza may be more Midtown adjacent, but Ampersand deserves mention for its charming selection of Riverside-themed and branded merchandise. It’s a great stop for souvenirs and gifts.
