Distinctive Local Dining
Where the river meets sophistication, Maxwell’s On the River invites you to indulge in an elevated culinary journey. Led by Executive Chef Tessa Cardoza, our kitchen transforms the finest locally sourced ingredients into artfully plated dishes that delight the senses. Paired with sweeping waterfront views and impeccable service, every moment here is designed for those who appreciate the extraordinary. Discover a destination where elegance, flavor, and ambiance converge—only at The Maxwell’s On the River.
Hours
Breakfast
Monday - Friday 6:30am - 11am
Brunch
Saturday & Sunday 7am - 2 pm
All Day Dining
Sunday - Thursday 11am - 9pm
Friday & Saturday 2pm- 10pm
Room Service
Monday - Thursday 6:30am - 9pm
Friday 6:30am - 10pm
Saturday 7am - 10pm
Sunday 7am - 9pm
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ReservationsNew Classic American Food + Drink
Welcome to Maxwell’s on the River
At Maxwell’s on the River, dining is more than a meal, it’s an experience shaped by the rhythm of the water and the soul of the kitchen.
Led by Executive Chef Tessa Cardoza, our team crafts food and libation that celebrate seasonality, local ingredients, and bold, beautiful flavor. Every dish is grounded in respect for the ingredients, the craft, and the people we serve.
Our space is warm yet sophisticated — where a sunset over the river pairs perfectly with a hand-crafted cocktail, and every plate tells a story. Whether you’re joining us for a quiet dinner, a celebration, or just to unwind, we’ll make sure it’s memorable from the first bite to the last sip.
Maxwell’s on the River — where great food meets effortless atmosphere.
Executive Chef – Tessa Cardoza
Sous Chef – Ryan Causse
Restaurant Manager – Molli Torres
Elevate Your Special Event with a Custom Menu
Create a custom menu with Executive Chef Tessa Cardoza that is sure to delight your family and friends at Maxwell's On The River.
Maxwell's On The River Pays Homage to Muscatine History
Maxwell's On The River restaurant's name is a tribute to Maxwell Stanley — manager, childhood Scoutmaster, and Sunday School teacher to Stanley Merrill Howe.
Stanley Howe began working at Hon Industries under the management of Maxwell Stanley in 1948 and for 36 years they worked together while developing a close bond. Howe looked up to Stanley and considered him to be one of the pivotal role models in his life and career. Working his way up the corporate ladder, Howe eventually took over as Chairman and CEO upon Stanley's passing in 1984.
Their friendship was one of respect and admiration. Under Stanley's management and guidance, Howe flourished and went on to become one of the most prominent and respected members of the Muscatine, IA, community to date. Howe and his wife, Helen, were incredibly selfless. They cared deeply for their community and for others, as did Stanley. It is with great pride that we chose to call our restaurant inside The Merrill Hotel & Conference Center, Maxwell's, as a tribute to the late and great Maxwell Stanley.
We are Muscatine and Muscatine is The Merrill. We hope to capture the stories of this Iowa town through everything from the Boy Scouts to Mark Twain sunsets. For those seeking a genuine experience, The Merrill shares our heritage and culture.

Distinctive Local Dining




