The Rumors Are Over: Here’s What’s Coming to the Former Bob Evans Building

Robert’s By The River Announces New Restaurant Coming to the Former Bob Evans

If you loved the comfort food and familiar flavors from Robert’s By The River, you won’t have to say goodbye just yet.

After weeks of rumors and speculation about what would be moving into the former Bob Evans building on Evansville’s east side, we finally have an answer. Owner Robert Russell has announced that a new restaurant is coming to the space called Robert’s Comfort Food.

Canva/Fingers, Fork, Knife, and Spoon

The new restaurant will be located at 1125 N. Green River Road, and Russell says while the name and location may be changing, the heart of the restaurant will stay the same.

Canva/Fingers, Fork, Knife, and Spoon

Same Comfort Food, New Home

In a post shared online, Russell addressed the rumors and shared his excitement about this next chapter.

He said customers can expect the same homemade comfort food, familiar flavors, and welcoming atmosphere they’ve come to know, along with a few new specialty dishes they’ll be adding to the menu.

One thing that won’t change is the focus on quality. Russell says they will continue using fresh ingredients and sourcing meats from the same local butcher shops and trusted distributors they’ve relied on for years.

That’s something I think a lot of people appreciate when it comes to local restaurants. It’s not just about the food, it’s about knowing the people behind it and having a place where you feel welcomed when you walk through the door.

Canva/Fingers, Fork, Knife, and Spoon

A New Chapter for a Familiar Local Favorite

The announcement comes shortly after Robert’s By The River shared that it would be closing its downtown Evansville location. Now, instead of the story ending, it looks like it’s turning into a new beginning.

The former Bob Evans building has been empty since the east side location closed in September 2025. Now, it will soon have new life as Robert’s Comfort Food.

The restaurant is expected to open in early August 2026, with more details, including the official grand opening date, menu sneak peeks, and hours of operation expected to be announced soon.

According to the announcement, plans include lunch and dinner Monday through Friday, breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Saturdays, and an all-day brunch option on Sundays.

So if you’re someone who misses Robert’s By The River, keep an eye out. A familiar local favorite is getting ready to welcome customers into a brand-new home.

Source: Robert’s By The River Facebook

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