Cafe Rio Aptos

Nothing better after a walk on the beach…5pm, looks like a great place abandons is playing in the outdoor sitting area but I go straight to the indoor bar area and order a glass of wine, then order a fish plate with mashed potatoes, all great but then then owner came by and asked if every good, well that’s it, perfecto I said. Really good)

I think our server was stoned or on valium. Just okay food and over priced. I ordered the special which was something like tilapia with panko crust. But was soaked in amounts of butter. We asked for some of bread, but that cost $5 extra. My boyfriend had the pasta and clams and it was flavorless. Had a martini that was more like a shot...didn't meet the brim of the tiny glass. Nice location though.

Having an early dinner en pleine aire near the beach was a treat especially during these COVID-19 times so the location itself is fabulous. Also it’s great that’s the patio seating and service extends to the Flats pizza joint next door (take-out menu sharing). The rating I give this is based on my roots. If I wasn’t from Hawai’i I might have rated the poke salad higher. Generous portion, check. But the tuna was more cooked than seared. The calamari could have been crisper but I realize they need to serve it in the take-away container that keeps moisture in the box. The full service bar was a treat —beer on tap and accommodating to my special request for a Mezcal mule.

Food was pretty tasty, service left us disappointed. Our waitress was a little rough around the edges and in a hurry which didn't feel good. Beautiful view of the ocean and live music when we first arrived. The Ahi Tuna was delicious! My prawns were ho hum. The crack cauliflower is definitely worth it too. Oh, and don't forget to try the homemade mud pie for dessert- scrumptious with the best chocolate toffee!