Overview

Nestled in the heart of Strawberry Plains, Tennessee, River Islands Country Store & Grill offers a warm slice of country charm that resonates with locals and travelers alike. Housed in a restored old schoolhouse, the venue captures a unique blend of nostalgia and modern comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere where tradition meets contemporary dining.

The menu is rooted in classic country fare, with standout offerings drawn from both the deli and grill. Whether you’re craving a perfectly assembled deli sandwich—rich with smoked turkey, ham, or roast beef—or a hearty grilled pork chop sandwich served on a toasted bun, the flavors ring true to Southern roots. The freshly hand-cut fries and expertly seasoned burgers earn high praise for their balance of texture and taste, while the fried okra and Tuckahoe beans deliver an authentic taste of Tennessee’s culinary heritage. Complementing the savory dishes, the sweet tea is a local favorite, refreshing and well-crafted to round out the meal.

The experience extends beyond food. Visitors appreciate the quirky, charming space where country music videos play on a big screen, and shelves are stocked with nostalgic pantry staples like pickled goods, dried fruits, and nuts—items that echo times gone by while serving today’s discerning palate. This setting transports diners, bridging the past and present with a touch of Southern hospitality.

River Islands naturally attracts a diverse audience—from longtime locals seeking a place that feels like home to food enthusiasts drawn by authentic taste and quality. It's a destination for those who appreciate a laid-back, genuine experience paired with thoughtfully prepared dishes. The staff’s friendliness and attentive service reinforce the community feel, making each visit memorable.

For anyone on the lookout for honest country cooking with a dash of character and a welcoming vibe, River Islands Country Store & Grill stands out as a hidden gem in Tennessee’s culinary landscape. It’s a place where simplicity and flavor meet, and where each bite invites you to savor the story of the region.


Amenities & Services

Popular for
Lunch
Solo dining
Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Small plates
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy

What Customers Say

Treadstone 1138
Mar 28,2026
5/5
I have been coming to this place now for about 4 months and I am sold on it. I'm now a regular. The food is fantastic. The price point is more than reasonable. The atmosphere is amazing and the staff are great. I know the GM has a lot more planned for the restaurant and I look forward to seeing what they do in the future. By all means I recommend it.
marines28
Mar 28,2026
5/5
This place is the bomb! The burger had a crust to it, the jalapeños are pickled, the cheese was melted, the burger had the perfect amount of seasoning on it, the fries are hand cut, and extremely well seasoned, and onions were grilled too perfection. Sweet tea is excellent, service was prompt and our order was accurate. We will absolutely return and look forward to having many experiences here. Support local! The prices were superb and the quality was higher than the fast food and chain restaurants. 100000 out of 5 stars.
Matthew Stanley
Mar 28,2026
5/5
This place is excellent!! As a chef with three Michelin stars, I am impressed. This food reminded me why I started cooking in the first place. The fried okra brought a single tear to this cold cynic’s long-dry eye. When I first felt the symphony of spices in the Tuckahoe beans dancing sumptuously on my tongue, I know I would be returning from France soon. Also the coffee is free.
Jessica Ennis
Mar 28,2026
5/5
This is of those hidden gems that will make your day if you are lucky enough to stumble upon it! The market & grill is in a lovely restored section in the back of the old school. The folks are super nice and the food is great! Lots of options! We tried and really enjoyed the burger, fries, wings & fried okra! Good selection in the country store, too.
Jerry Caldwell
Mar 28,2026
5/5
Set in an old school house cafeteria, the place is quirky in a charming way. The biscuit and gravy breakfast was nearly 1950s revisited, with crispy bacon on the side. Set near Seven Islands, nature is abundant. The groceries stocked include dried fruit and nuts, lots of pickled foods and foods from decades gone by. Big screen TV features country music videos. I had a surreal feeling of having one foot I n the 1950s and the other foot approaching 2030. Tennessee has a special twist on evolution, and River Islands invites you to feel that twist.
Ricky Christopher
Mar 28,2026
5/5
This is a unique store and grill in an old school building. We visited the store and ended up eating at the grill. The store is a little lacking, but the grill is the star of the show! Burgers and sandwiches are the best in the area! Friendly service and a TV to watch the game on while you eat. We will definitely be repeat customers!
Steven Mckissick
Mar 28,2026
5/5
Great friendly People/ Great Food…I love it Here… Great Fries/Wings/pizza And More!!!
Teresa Monday
Mar 28,2026
5/5
Great food. I love the store. The staff is so nice. Super clean. Our first experience here nothing short of amazing. I got the BLT and it was delicious. Bring your appetite, the portions are big! We'll definitely be back. Oh, and get a fried pie! So many flavors to choose from, and absolutely yummm

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday 07:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Tuesday 07:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Wednesday 07:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Thursday 07:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Friday 07:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Saturday 07:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Sunday 07:00 AM - 03:00 PM
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