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Named after a forgotten river that used to run through Murray Hill, this bistro–country kitchen is long on rustic charm in a rather desolate section of midtown. Opened in 2006 by the owners of Arlene's Grocery, the restaurant is frequented by low-key celebs like Matthew Broderick and Diane Lane, as well as a mix of residents, Actors Academy students, and nearby 30/30 Hotel overflow. The draw is homey food like beef stew, veggie chili, and shepherd's pie, a live jazz band playing every Tuesday night, and an atmosphere overseen by twinkling Christmas lights. Corn husks are pinned up the deep green and red walls framing the large open room, while two fireplaces, cheerily striped booths, and cheeky antique paintings of barns and farm animals add another layer of quaintness. For starters, the charcuterie plate is as popular as the house salad piled high with assorted vegetables and a tennis-ball-size hunk of fried goat cheese—almost a meal in itself. Specials change twice daily and reflect fresh-catch choices like sea scallops over saffron pasta, and grilled branzino, but menu staples like the aforementioned meat pies or the lamb stew are always a winning choice. A weekend prix fixe brunch includes an entrée and unlimited Bloody Mary's or mimosas for $25; pints of Miller Light are $3 and margaritas go for $4 anytime. — Lauren Salazar

Goat cheese salad $13, Shepard's Pie $15