Portneuf Grille & Lounge – Riverside Dining with Northwest Flair
Portneuf Grille & Lounge is the upscale dining experience nestled in the Riverside Hot Springs Inn & Spa, located at 255 East Portneuf Street. With scenic views of the river and surrounding hills, this lodge-style eatery blends Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine, attentive service, and a relaxed, casual-elegant ambiance—perfect for a romantic dinner after a soak or a celebratory evening out.
What to Expect
- Cozy Riverside Setting: Located on the lower level of the inn, the restaurant offers indoor dining in a warm, wood-paneled room and a charming seasonal patio overlooking the Portneuf River. It’s ideal for couples, spa guests, and small groups. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Northwest Meets Comfort: The menu highlights fresh seafood, USDA-aged prime steaks, seasonal pasta, and thoughtful vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Quality, consistency, and freshness are priorities. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Casual-Elegant Vibe: Think polished but relaxed—perfect for date nights, special occasions, or winding down after a dip in the hot springs. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
What to Eat & Drink
- Starters: Try the pan-seared scallops with bacon and macadamia–beurre blanc, or the Idaho potato nachos topped with bacon and cheese. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Entrées: Standouts include cioppino “fisherman’s stew” with shellfish, prime filet mignon or rib-eye, and pork Milanese with pasta aglio-olio. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Desserts & Sides: Classics like carrot-pineapple cake, crème brûlée, and chocolate torte round out indulgent meals. Sides include garlic-mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and Idaho potato fries. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Cocktails, Wine & Beer: The bar menu features handcrafted signature cocktails, regional wines, and local beers on tap. Don’t miss the “Purple Gold” or “Elevated Herb” cocktails. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Tips for Visiting
- Happy Hour: Enjoy discounted cocktails and bites from 4–6 pm daily in the lounge. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Live Music: Thursday evenings often feature live entertainment on the patio by the river. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Reserve Ahead: Open daily for dinner 5–9 pm, with extended bar hours on weekends; reservations recommended during busy summer months. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Casual Dress Code: Nicely casual—think collared shirts or blouses, no need for formal attire. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Final Thoughts
With its riverside charm, refined yet comfortable fare, and seasonal accents, Portneuf Grille & Lounge elevates the dining experience in Lava Hot Springs. Whether you’re celebrating, winding down, or simply savoring a delicious meal after the spa, this spot marries local ingredients, quality cooking, and warm Idaho hospitality to create a memorable evening.