River Bottom Grille is a great place to go when yo...

River Bottom Grille is a great place to go when you have a little extra money in your pocket and want a higher end experience in the Shoals without regretting it the next day. Its location is simply unbeatable; the river generates the atmosphere at Stanfield's. When seated outdoors, you'll always find yourself comfortable, even as a gentle thunderstorm rolls through Florence. That's because Stanfield's outdoor seating is found on a covered balcony on the second floor (!) of the restaurant. The atmosphere at RBG is simply unbeatable.

As for the food, there is room for improvement. I ordered "fish and chips" and expected the traditional, British recipe. Unfortunately, I found the cornmeal-coated fish, typical of Southern restaurants, and it was unexceptional. The French fries were nothing notable.

For me, the biggest draw to RBG was the shucked oysters. I was disappointed to find that they charged nearly ten dollars for only six petite oysters! Nevertheless, they were delicious. Another appetizer, the crab dip, was probably the best item on the menu.

RBG offers a unique drink menu, including the Bushwhacker, an alcoholic milkshake of sorts. Another signature drink of theirs, the Juice Joint, will not disappoint lovers of fruity beverages.

Overall, River Bottom Grille was a great experience, but it was not an exceptional restaurant. I would definitely go back for drinks and appetizers, though.