All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

The River Cafe opens at Riverbend Golf Course in Buckhannon

River Cafe owner Katelynn Rhodes (Photo by Lily Hicks / My Buckhannon)

BUCKHANNON — A new addition has arrived on the local culinary scene with the opening of The River Cafe on the grounds of the Riverbend Golf Course in Buckhannon.

Owner Katelynn Rhodes, inspired by her passion for coffee and community, embarked on this new venture with enthusiasm and a vision for growth. The idea for The River Cafe emerged during a conversation with her father while Rhodes was in California.

“My dad called me and said, ‘I think I’m going to open up a golf course.’ And I said, ‘Can I open up a cafe?’ And he said, ‘Yes, let’s work out a deal,'” Rhodes recalls.

The result is a charming cafe that provides goodies for golfers and café goers alike. The cafe currently offers a selection of coffee and food items, with plans for expansion in the works.

“I think it’s going to evolve,” Rhodes said. “Eventually we would love to add breakfast, more menu options, and maybe even cater events in the future.”

The opening day of The River Cafe was met with a fantastic turnout. “The first day was phenomenal,” Rhodes said.

The cafe’s peaceful ambiance and scenic surroundings make it an inviting spot for both locals and visitors.

“It looks really good. It’s super peaceful. I would totally bring my laptop and drink my coffee here,” expressed one visitor.

The River Cafe is not just about food and drinks; it also aims to be a place of opportunity and support for those in recovery.

“I’m going to be hiring a lot of girls in recovery. It’s a big passion of mine,” Rhodes said.

Currently, The River Cafe operates from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, with plans to expand its hours soon. The cafe also plans to introduce homemade lemonade, sweet tea and a variety of baked goods to its menu, all made from scratch.

Whether you’re stopping by for a cup of coffee, a bite to eat or simply to enjoy the serene surroundings, The River Cafe promises a delightful experience. For more information about The River Cafe, visit their location at the Riverbend Golf Course, 591 Evun Breth Acres Road, or follow them on social media for updates.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Winter weather advisory: Snow, ice could make Tuesday morning commute tricky

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Upshur County from 11 p.m. Monday through 1 p.m. Tuesday. Residents can expect up to two inches of snow and a tenth of an inch of ice.

Upshur County Sports Calendar

Weekly Upshur County sports calendar lists area high school and college basketball, wrestling and swimming events Dec. 1–7, highlighted by Buckhannon-Upshur teams’ multiple games, duals and meets throughout the week.

Parents attend commission meeting as new fence and deputy pledged for Hodgesville Elementary amid safety concerns

After online threats against Hodgesville Elementary, Upshur County will station a sheriff’s deputy at the school through January 2026, but parents are pressing for permanent safety measures and improved communication from the board of education.

West Virginia Wesleyan College freshman competes for $10,000 for her start-up business

A West Virginia Wesleyan College student made it into the top five of an undergraduate business competition for the Mountain State Innovators Summit.

Ruth Louise Smith

Ruth Louise Smith, 77, of Buckhannon, WV, a retired history teacher and longtime Methodist active with Boy Scout Troop 100, died November 27, 2025; she is survived by two sons, a grandson, siblings and extended family.

Buckhannon Colonial Arts Center Board Agenda: December 2, 2025

The Buckhannon Colonial Arts Center Board will meet December 2, 2025; this article publishes the meeting agenda.

Local photographers featured in state’s free wildflower calendar

Several Buckhannon-Upshur Camera Club members were honored with inclusion in the state’s annual wildflower calendar, which is now available to order for free.

Upshur County Commission asks state attorney general to probe high gas prices

Upshur County commissioners voted to send a letter to West Virginia Attorney General John McCuskey seeking an explanation for why local gas prices are higher than in neighboring counties. Officials hope an official response will clarify whether market forces are to blame.

Trumps Salon angel tree helps high school students in Buckhannon have Christmas

Trumps Salon is seeking to help 22 high school students on its Angel Tree with requested items to make their holidays brighter. Gifts and donations can be dropped off at the salon on Main Street by December 12.