Riverside Food Lab
A vibrant downtown food hall with over a dozen vendors offering diverse global cuisines, craft drinks, and lively events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere & special events
Riverside Food Lab
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere & special events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant downtown food hall with over a dozen vendors offering diverse global cuisines, craft drinks, and lively events.
"It's a smaller food hall, but it's definitely got food traffic. It's got Baba's Chicken (a Yelp favorite), Mixies (ice cream), Papa Smash (Anime Smash Burgers) and so much more."
🎯 Try the Jumbo Fried Shrimp
Don't miss the Jumbo Fried Shrimp with Cajun fries from Shrimp Shack! A must-try.
🚗 Free Parking Validation
Get your parking validated at the machine by the entrance for a free parking experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
BABA's Chicken Loaded Fries
BABA's Chicken
Indulge in crispy fried chicken piled high on creamy mac 'n' cheese. A viral sensation!
Shrimp Shack's Cajun Delights
Shrimp Shack
Savor the Jumbo Fried Shrimp with perfectly seasoned Cajun fries. A local favorite for a reason.
Mixies Ice Cream Creations
Mixies
Cool down with unique ice cream flavors and delightful creations. Perfect after a show or a meal.
Loose Leaf Boba Co.
Loose Leaf Boba Co.
Quench your thirst with a wide array of boba tea options. A sweet treat for any time of day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Variety is the Spice of Life
+1Location & Parking Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Try the Jumbo Fried Shrimp
Don't miss the Jumbo Fried Shrimp with Cajun fries from Shrimp Shack! A must-try.
🚗 Free Parking Validation
Get your parking validated at the machine by the entrance for a free parking experience.
✨ Diverse Culinary Adventure
Explore over a dozen vendors offering global cuisines, from vegan to seafood.
🎶 Check for Events
Look out for Karaoke Nights, paint-n-sips, and gaming events for extra fun!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Try the Jumbo Fried Shrimp
Don't miss the Jumbo Fried Shrimp with Cajun fries from Shrimp Shack! A must-try.
🚗 Free Parking Validation
Get your parking validated at the machine by the entrance for a free parking experience.
✨ Diverse Culinary Adventure
Explore over a dozen vendors offering global cuisines, from vegan to seafood.
🎶 Check for Events
Look out for Karaoke Nights, paint-n-sips, and gaming events for extra fun!
🥤 Boba & Craft Drinks
Grab a refreshing boba tea or explore the full bar for craft cocktails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible variety of food options at Riverside Food Lab, from loaded fries to ice cream and craft cocktails. The vibrant atmosphere, convenient downtown location, and free parking validation are frequently praised, making it a popular spot for families and friends. While most experiences are positive, some find certain cuisines, like Mexican food, to be just average.
"We had Monty's and it was to die for. We had the chicken sandwich, cheeseburger, animal fries, and a strawberry shake. Everything was absolutely phenomenal. Fresh produce on the sandwiches, everything was fresh, the shake had great flavor."
adrienne ingram
"Free parking with food lab validation. Machine right by entry door, super easy!! Had the Burria tacos, very delicious. Good selection of food. Fun atmosphere"
Sydney Mazat
"SMALLER FOOD HALL near HOTELS & VENUES! I'm increasingly enjoying the Riverside Food Lab, we came for a quick ice cream stop at Mixies on this visit after a show at the Fox Theatre next door! The exit to the theatre literally leads you to the front of the food lab! I got excellent vibes and great food during my visit. My ice cream was great and the indoor temperature wasn't outrageous like last time!
The RFL staff were constantly cleaning and wiping tables. I appreciate cleanliness in busy public spaces like this. It's a smaller food hall, but it's definitely got food traffic. It's got Baba's Chicken (a Yelp favorite), Mixies (ice cream), Papa Smash (Anime Smash Burgers) and so much more. The Food Lab bar is pretty neat too! If you're looking for vegetarian/vegan options, they have them here!
RFL is a family friendly place, I come here with my parents and we typically enjoy every visit when the AC is on lol. The RFL also has special gaming events in the next door Game Lab (an arcade) and weekly social events inside the Food Lab like Karaoke Night and paint-n-sips!
Note: If you're staying in Downtown, the Food Lab is near a Hyatt Place and Holiday Inn! It's very accessible to get here by foot."
Lorenzo Warfel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Riverside Food Lab is located at 3605 Market Street in Downtown Riverside, CA. It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying in Downtown hotels like Hyatt Place or Holiday Inn.
Yes, free parking is available with validation. Look for the machine near the entry door to get your parking validated.
Absolutely! It's conveniently located near hotels like Hyatt Place and Holiday Inn, making it a great option for visitors staying downtown.
Yes, the exit from the Fox Theatre leads directly to the front of the Food Lab, making it incredibly convenient for show attendees.
Driving and parking with validation is a popular option. For those staying nearby, walking is highly recommended due to its central downtown location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter Riverside Food Lab. It's a public food hall open to everyone.
Hours can vary slightly by vendor and season, but generally, it's open for lunch and dinner. Check their social media or website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for special events like the Maruchan pop-up.
There is no admission fee to enter Riverside Food Lab. You only pay for the food and drinks you purchase from the various vendors.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted as the venue thrives on supporting its diverse range of vendors.
Yes, Riverside Food Lab frequently hosts events like Karaoke Night, paint-n-sips, and seasonal pop-ups, such as the Maruchan pop-up during the Festival of Lights.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Riverside Food Lab offers a wide variety of cuisines, including fried chicken, ramen, Mexican food, burgers, seafood, vegan options, ice cream, coffee, and craft cocktails. +2
Yes, Riverside Food Lab has dedicated vegetarian and vegan options available from various vendors, ensuring diverse dietary needs are met.
Popular recommendations include BABA's Chicken loaded fries, Shrimp Shack's Jumbo Fried Shrimp with Cajun fries, and various burgers. Some also enjoy the burritos and beignets. +1
Yes, Riverside Food Lab features a full bar offering craft cocktails and other beverages, perfect for enjoying with your meal.
Reviews on Mexican food are mixed. While some find it 'meh,' others enjoy specific dishes like Birria tacos or burritos. It's worth trying to see for yourself! +1
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant decor, diverse food presentations, and the lively atmosphere make for great photo opportunities. Look for unique vendor signage and colorful dishes.
Absolutely! The food presentation is often Instagram-worthy, so feel free to capture your delicious meals. +1
Yes, with its variety of food, drinks, and often lively atmosphere, it's a popular spot for food bloggers and content creators to capture engaging visuals.
The aesthetic is modern and industrial with a lively, urban vibe. The coffee shop area, in particular, has been noted for its design.
Evenings can offer a more atmospheric glow with lighting, while daytime provides natural light. Weekdays are less crowded, allowing for unobstructed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place for a casual family outing, especially since it's near the arcade (Game Lab) for some post-meal fun. The clean restrooms and generally pleasant atmosphere make it comfortable for parents. Plus, the availability of vegan and vegetarian options ensures dietary needs are met.
👫 Couples & Friends
Check their schedule for social events like Karaoke Night or paint-n-sips for a unique date night or group activity. The variety ensures you can try something new every time you visit.
🚶 Day-Trippers & Tourists
Take advantage of the free parking validation and explore the diverse culinary landscape. It’s a convenient and enjoyable way to sample various cuisines in one go, offering a true taste of the Inland Empire's food scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Culinary Melting Pot
+3The beauty of the Food Lab lies in its ability to cater to varied cravings and group dynamics. Whether you're a fan of spicy fried chicken, craving authentic ramen, or seeking out delicious vegan burgers, you'll find it here. This variety makes it an ideal spot for friends or families with different food preferences, eliminating the need for multiple stops.
Beyond the food, the atmosphere is a key draw. It's described as having 'good vibes' and a lively energy, especially during evenings and weekends. The presence of a full bar adds to the social experience, making it a great place to gather with friends for a casual night out.
Events and Entertainment
During the holiday season, the Food Lab transforms, especially with events like the Festival of Lights in Riverside. They've hosted special pop-ups, such as the popular Maruchan Pop-Up, drawing in crowds eager for unique culinary experiences.
For those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition or a nostalgic gaming experience, the adjacent Game Lab (an arcade) often hosts special gaming events. This makes the Riverside Food Lab a perfect destination for a complete evening of dining and entertainment, catering to a wide range of interests.
Accessibility and Convenience
Parking is often a concern in urban areas, but the Food Lab addresses this with free parking validation. Visitors can simply use the machine located by the entrance to ensure their parking is covered, removing a common travel hassle.
Furthermore, its proximity to major venues like the Fox Theatre is a significant advantage. The direct exit from the theatre leads right to the Food Lab's entrance, making it an ideal place to grab a bite before or after a show. The staff's commitment to cleanliness, with constant table wiping, also contributes to a pleasant and comfortable dining environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit