Cafe Rio Mexican Grill

I feel like all chain restaurants let me down eventually. Once that happens, the only thing that brings me back is if someone I want to eat with insists on eating at one of their locations. That's what happened here. I loved Cafe Rio when i first discovered it on a trip to UT about a decade ago. They eventually arrived in my former home state of WA and, as many good restaurants do when they come to WA, their quality and service took a pretty pronounced plunge downward. I rarely have eaten there the past several years but I was in town dropping a couple of my kids off at school and I had the opportunity to grab lunch with my cousin who was there as well. She wanted Cafe Rio and I agreed to meet her there. All it takes is one good experience to bring you back. It's happened with me so many times with Red Robin, I've lost count. I think their recent decision to get rid of my favorite burger and the fact that I no longer live in the state of their origin probably signals the end of that relationship but my meal at this Cafe Rio location was very good and they may have gotten me back. The food was fresh and tasty, the service was friendly and fast and this location actually empties their garbage cans, unlike their Lynnwood, WA location. One persistent complaint I have with Cafe Rio is their refusal to do substitutions without charging you but I just ordered a salad on this visit and had no subs. I guess I'll try one of their locations in my new home town in NV and see if the quality holds up but these guys are a credit to the organization.

Been here a few times with friends. Honestly no complaints! The restaurant feels authentic and has that similar vibe with all of the other Cafe Rio restaurants. You can never go wrong with the sweet pulled pork. 👌 After my dad & mom would go out on date nights their pay for me was whatever the leftovers were to whichever restaurant they went to and Cafe Rio NEVER disappointed me 🤤