Cafe Rio Mexican Grill

Last night I visited this Cafe Rio location with my partner, going through the Drive Thru and ordered my food with no issues. It was made perfectly and delicious. The guy working there was very nice and even gave us a free drink even though I didn't order one.

Once I got home and opened my bag, I discovered that the young man who helped us had written a very kind note on the lid. I have had a horrible last two weeks and it's wrecked havoc on my mental health, and yesterday had been one of the worst. Seeing this little note honestly made my day and deeply touched me. That gentleman didn't have any idea what is going on with me, so I appreciate his random act of kindness. I never expected something like this from a Cafe Rio and I don't know his name, but I hope Cafe Rio knows what a valuable employee they have and hopefully he gets some much earned recognition.

This was our first time visiting this restaurant. We used the drive-thru and ordered a burrito to share. We picked the Sweet Pork Barbacoa, since that seems to be their signature item. We asked for the rice and pinto beans with mild sauce inside. They were out of the mild sauce, so we asked for the medium on the side, instead.

The employee taking the order was polite and patient since this was our first time ordering. We didn't know that enchilada-style was included in the price or we probably would have ordered it like that. Most places charge extra for enchilada style.

We drove to the window to pay and our order was done really quickly.

When we got home and removed the container from the bag, the presentation of the food looked nice with the burrito and a lettuce garnish on the side. When we took the burrito out of the container to split and the bottom of the burrito was completely soggy with juice from the pico de gallo that was on the lettuce garnish. It might have been better if there was a partition in the container to keep the wet lettuce and tomatoes away from the burrito.

As far as the taste of the burrito, I would have to call it average. We don't live far from the restaurant, maybe 5 minutes, and the burrito was barely warm when we got home. Maybe if we would have gotten it enchilada style it would have been warmer with sauce and cheese melted on top and we wouldn't have noticed the wet tortilla on the bottom as much. My son liked the sweet pork and I thought it was too sweet.

We will try it again, though. Maybe next time we will dine inside so we can see the food options better and ask more questions about the best way to order.

They also have a rewards program called Rio Rewards where you get points and special offers when you sign up. You can also order online from their website and pick it up at the restaurant.

This is definitely one of the better locations. The food is great, the decor is nice, and there is plenty of seating. The only issues: the music is played too loudly, and the service is slow.
*There is an outdoor patio and the prices are reasonable for the portion sizes.

I have always loved Cafe Rio. I have visited them out of state and lived near the one in Ahwatukee. This one is every bit as great as the others. The food is fresh and flavorful. My favorite is the salad with shredded chicken and tomatillo ranch. It is like a party in my mouth. The staff is friendly and fast. The drive through is a nice addition. I will be a regular here.