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Welcome to Clara's on the River

At Clara's on the River, located in the picturesque Battle Creek, MI, we craft a dining experience that blends delightful American cuisine with a charming ambiance. Our story is shaped by a commitment to satisfy diverse palates—from the comforting French Onion Soup to the succulent Filet Mignon Bearnaise. We offer a menu bursting with vegetarian options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Guests can enjoy al fresco dining by the river, enhancing their meal with a scenic view. With our attentive service and inviting atmosphere, Clara's becomes a haven for families and friends to gather, savor, and celebrate life's moments.

Clara's on the River: Reviews & Ratings

Tamra H.
Tamra H.

They have something for everyone for sure. Love the decor there. My favorite is lunch is half a BLT and French Onion soup. Yum!!

Karlee B.
Karlee B.

Came here for dinner with the family and we're seating pretty quickly on the patio. They put us in the back corner in the yard in a little brick pathway. It was a nice quiet spot but the tables and chairs were all very uneven and not sitting flat, which is not pleasant for dining. Had to shove some rocks and napkins under some of the legs to stabilize. We ordered pretty quickly and our server was very friendly, however the wrong order was first served to our table. We knew it wasn't right, so we didn't touch it, but our server was able to be waved down for at least 10 minutes to tell her, and when we did, she just took the food over to the correct table and served it... after it had sat out for that long and sat in front of other people. Wasn't the best impression. With all that said though, their food is pretty dang good if you're just looking for some comfort. While their menu is arguably too big with any possible thing you could ever want on it, it gives an option for anyone and any craving. I opted for the Michigan cherry salad and it was super light, refreshing and delicious. I split the crab and spinach quesadilla with someone and it was SO good. Like idk why I liked it so much but I did. My dad enjoyed the Polynesia tuna salad, which was a very unique combination but her really enjoyed it. Their rolls that came with the salad were soft and sweet. Great food, great people.

Robin H.
Robin H.

Lunch was great...wide range of options. Cobb salad comes in two sizes and the small was plenty. Delicious roll came with it. Soup and salad combo was a hit too. Excellent waitress! Kept water coming and very attentive. Fun atmosphere with retro feel. A super spot to stop for lunch between Detroit and Chicago.

Pamela C.
Pamela C.

The location and ambiance is the best part of this restaurant. So charming and cute. I love the details. We enjoyed walking around and marveling at the woodwork, stain glass windows massive fireplace and decorations. The menu is huge. There should be something for everyone. My sandwich was pretty good. It was not outstanding but pretty good. Very satisfactory. Husband had a mushroom and Swiss burger, which he enjoyed. It had brown gravy which gave it good flavor. Our waiter told us that they have music in the summer. It looked like there was a lovely outdoor eating area. They also have Sunday brunch, which you need reservations for. I would recommend this restaurant.

Mee V.
Mee V.

The out door dining was nice, food was good I would recommend this place if you were in the Battle Creek area. Very nice setting

Ray C.
Ray C.

Clara's on the river is a former Amtrak train station. The historic beauty has been maintained and is worth the trip just to experience. There is also a very spacious outdoor dining area which has lots of green spaces. It is like a stroll through a garden. Even though Clara's is located in a downtown area, the patio is quite peaceful as it boarders a walking path/park and then the river. There is also live entertainment in the garden area on some Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. The menu offers a large variety of food. Everyone should find something they will enjoy. There is a full bar and it is a beautiful area as well. Sunday Brunch is amazing and very popular. I recommend a recommendation for Sunday Brunch. I do recommend Clara's on the River. You will enjoy the experience.

Location

Welcome to Clara's on the River, a delightful culinary oasis nestled in the heart of Battle Creek, Michigan. Located at 44 McCamly St, this charming venue and event space offers the perfect blend of comfort, creativity, and flavor, making it an ideal spot for families, friends, and gatherings of all kinds.

As you step into Clara's, you'll be greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere that boasts retro decor and thoughtful details such as stained glass windows and a massive fireplace. The spacious outdoor seating invites you to enjoy your meal while basking in the natural beauty of the river views, creating an ambiance that’s both relaxing and enchanting.

One of the standout features of Clara's on the River is its extensive menu, which offers something for everyone—from hearty comfort food to lighter fare. The Nine Layer Dip is a must-try starter, featuring a scrumptious mix of warm refried and black beans layered with flavorful ingredients like cool guacamole and seasoned sour cream. For pizza lovers, the Royal Feast Pizza topped with a special blend of meats and cheese is a crowd-pleaser, while the Vegetarian Pizza offers a vibrant medley of veggies for those looking for a meatless option.

Guests rave about the variety found at Clara's, with **customer reviews** praising everything from the satisfying Michigan cherry salad to the indulgent crab and spinach quesadilla. Each dish is crafted with an eye for freshness and flavor, ensuring that your dining experience is both enjoyable and memorable. As noted by a satisfied diner, “their food is pretty dang good if you’re just looking for some comfort.”

Additionally, the friendly service enhances the overall experience, as several reviewers have noted the attentive staff who are quick to accommodate diners’ needs. Whether you’re visiting for lunch or dinner, you can expect to be treated with genuine care.

On weekends, Clara’s transforms into a brunch haven, often featuring live music during the summer months, making it a lively destination for friends gathering for fun and food. With its capability to host events, and catering options available, it truly stands as a versatile venue in the community.

In conclusion, Clara's on the River is more than just a restaurant; it’s a gathering spot where great food and good company collide. With space for groups, a variety of dining options, and a picturesque setting for outdoor seating, it’s a place to relax, savor, and enjoy the moment. So, the next time you find yourself in Battle Creek, consider stopping by Clara's—where delicious dishes and a charming atmosphere await.