We had reservations for 6:30 but had to push them back. Riverside was very accommodating and it seemed no be no big deal. We showed up right on time and only had a brief wait. We were seated in a nice booth and a drink order was promptly taken and brought to us.

As I looked around the place I was really digging the historic photos and fish mounted on the wall. Our first taste of Riverside was the blackened shrimp nachos. I know, it sounds weird but trust me on this one. They are absolutely scrumptious. And after eating them I wasn’t sure I would have room for my entree.

Then came our salads, which were excellent as well. They weren’t the iceburg lettuce ones that you find in so many restaurants. These were the real deal, composed of nice greens and a real treat.

At this point, I was contemplating telling them to put the rest of my dinner in a box to go, since I would have to eat it later. But I resisted and decided to go for it.

Out came my filet, and lobster tail. I was expecting the typical Red Lobster type of lobster tail. However, this thing was HUGE! My wonderful girlfriend had the softshell crabs which were delicious as well.

So in conclusion I would have to recommend Riverside in Swansboro for a fine dining experience in the Crystal Coast area. It is my new favorite restaurant in Swansboro.