Great food, good service. But they left town like a fifty eight cadillac gone for good

Chipotle who?!?? I'm so sad I've been depriving myself of Cafe Rio for years! There use to be one in Duarte that I never gave a second glance at. After being on TikTok what fast food restaurant do people miss. A lot of people in the chat mentioned this spot. I got a steak bowl to share with my daughter, let me tell you the next day she asked if we can have it again lol. The day we came in we were helped by Arlene. She had the most beautiful & biggest smile the whole time, excellent customer service. Because of her interaction, we are a customer for life. Come out and support Cafe Rio! Trust me you won't go back to chipotle cuz there is NO chipotle sized serving here! read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Awesome. . - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

This review is solely based on the fact that Cafe Rio shouldn't offer online pickup if they can't handle orders on time. Every time I place an order and get to the restaurant for pickup it is NEVER READY. What's the difference of me going physically into the store and waiting in line? Today I order 45 minutes in advance because I'm ordering for my entire work place, thinking I'm being proactive and giving the store plenty of time, I take my time because I know they take forever to do anything, 15-20 min wait?? HOOOOOOW!?? Make it make sense. read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Salad with all the extras! - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

3.5 stars Cafe Rio was a nice change up from our usual. Like Chipotle, the prices are based on your choice of protein. I ordered a bowl ($10.49) with fire-grilled chicken (+$1.00). I ordered the bowl with cilantro lime rice, black beans, and plenty of toppings (corn, tomatoes, a scoop of sour cream, etc). I also ordered a side of their queso ($7.19). The bowl was good! Different, but good. I didn't love the chicken. It was whatevs. There wasn't anything particularly special about the flavoring either. The sauces were a little muted to really add any additional flavor. It's a good value for what you get. And I do like the nachos here, but I'll hold off on the bowl for a bit. read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - fire-grilled chicken bowl - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

The food was delicious. My prego wife demanded we have CAFE RIO. The staff was friendly and quick to prepare the food The restaurant is beautifully decorated with Christmas themed GRINCH decorations. The restaurant and restrooms are clean. Thank you. read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

Would not recommend the tacos. Not worth $18, they're mostly tortilla. Rice & beans were a good portion amount. read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - shredded chicken taco no lettuce - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

THE MANAGER HERE IS SO NICE! THE FOOD IS ALWAYS SO GOOD! I've always wondered about this place, but I've noticed we don't have much here in CA. When I saw one was in San Dimas- I knew I had to try. Customer service: 4/5 I did encounter a man who had a bad attitude, which always sucks because part of the job is being nice when people are ordering their food. . but the manger made up for it. She's so kind, fast, and respectful and relatable! She deserves a raise lol Food: 5/5 The food is pretty damn great. The chicken is fresh, the tortillas are handmade, fresh produce, and the meal itself of big. Their queso and chips is out of this world! Their salsas? Bomb! Price: 5/5 I think for what you're getting, the price is great. I also love that they have coupons and deals always going on. read more

See all

I have to update my review from a 1 star to a 5. After that insect incident years ago (found it on the cilantro in my salad), I've been consistently going to Cafe Rio after a long hiatus. Every visit I leave happy and the food is delicious. I still love their salad and obsessed with the vinaigrette dressing. Everyone who works there is nice and the restaurant is clean. read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - There's a freaking BUG in my salad. This used to be my favorite place to eat and my favorite salad but Not Anymore. - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

They didn't add the grilled veggies on wife's tostada or my tacos. They also forgot the rice and beans for my two taco entree. I guess I can see them forgetting or running out of veggies but no rice and bean?! read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - The line on Taco Tuesday - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

Venturing to a place we've forgotten about. I don't think Cafe Rio has a huge presence in SoCal. I really do not recall seeing many in the LA area. Back to try the enchiladas. It's basically a taco faves down with some Green sauce. Not bad. I had the pork barbacoa and it was tasty. I could forego the beans and rice but I had with the meal already. The new queso dip is ok. It's nothing like elote on the cob. It's just melted cheese which I can't figure out what kind of cheese with chili powder on top. Nothing to it. The chips are the best light and crunchy. Better than any fast food casual dining. I think I'd pass on this queso dip next time. The restaurant is clean and could be swept and tables wiped down. Service is efficient. Ample parking (lot). read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Double enchiladas - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

I actually really life Cafe Rio because their sweet pork barbacoa tastes so good and I haven't found another place that makes barbacoa like that yet. Their fresh housemade tortillas are also quite a treat on its own and it makes for a good burrito! Service is okay but it can be a bit disorganized. Their assembly line is not as refined as chipotle and seems a bit chaotic when it gets really busy. Also, I don't mind when places charge extra for sides but they give such a little portion of sour cream on the side for what you pay for. It's the tiniest baby scoop ever. The inside is usually clean and there is seating inside and outside. There is also plenty of parking. Overall, I love the food here but the service and price point could be better. read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Sweet pork Barbacoa burrito - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

Good food ok prices but sucks with no drive thru option but good family eat in joint! You have the space just throw a window in there like panera 5 guys should too the driveway is there! read more

Long time resident have been coming here for years and years. Food is always decent and easy. The service has always been terrible but, today was exceptionally bad thus the review. The associate behind the glass did not look up or say a word to me when I came in. I was the only person in the restaurant. Barely looked at me when asking for my order. And the cherry on top - the lids were not shut tight so spillage all over the bag when I got home with my dinner. There are just some people who do not belong in customer service. For reasons that escape me - Cafe Rio seems to find them and hire them. read more

When is their last week and spoke with? I think the manager or owner he is very very tall.. great guy very helpful. He suggested items on the menu like the shrimp and he said come on Saturday. So today, Saturday I go down to get a shrimp quesadilla and another guy with long hair in a bun was helping people on the food line. When it came to me, I said did you guys have shrimp today? He said no our supplier didn't deliver. I said OK, what's the next time Tuesday? I just glanced at the menu on the wall and I saw Thursday or Thursday and he looked side to side with an expression as if he bid into a lemon. He paused for a very long time which which was really awkward. I found it frustrating that he wasn't answering So I just said I'm gonna go and he said yes go.. here's a thing with Customer Service especially in food you gotta be on your game. I've been there before and the employees have been polite and kind. This guy was clearly not happy and it showed. He was letting his mood dictate the way he spoke to customers. Fortunately, there's so many other selections in and round the city to choose from. I hope the management addresses the situation with the guy with the long hair. He pulls it back into like a bun like a Spanish señorita. read more

1st off - Wow Wow...WOW! I didn't even know about this place until it was name dropped by a very close person I know. The seating is plenty. food is AMAZINGLY fresh and delicious! more options than competitors...eh'hem (Chipotle) The servings are huge! I can't even finish my bowl! I love it! so many options to choose from and to make your own bowl- this place can feed an army! the meats/protein sections are so many, and so fresh and hot and delicious. the flavors were bursting on my pallet! they have four types of home made lemonade, and lots of options for soft drinks. their service is incomparable. the staff is clean, nice looking, very nice and patient! Ask for ARLENE and LISA! They are amazing!!!!!! How does this place NOT have 5 stars?! It takes good staff and clean unbelievable food and service to make this place run! Bathrooms were amazing and clean and smelled fresh and full of soap and paper. (Yes those that know me, know me) ;) The kitchen behind them was spotless! I'm going to make an effort and come here at least 1-2 times a week. I LOVE THIS PLACE!!! Let's give them 5 stars and go try them out! Trust me when I say this, you won't regret it! Go Go Go! read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Steak & Chicken Bowl - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

Extremely busy and crowded Service is a bit rushed but they are friendly Very small portions of the meat The guacamole is an extra price and it's a small scoop definitely not worth the price read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

Came in at 4:20pm. And order was not ready. That's fine. I waited. The name they gave originally was not my name. I said my name and they just looked at each other. They said they were waiting on the chicken. Okay. Great. See one of the workers cutting the chicken and put it in the serving station. They proceeded to make 3 more orders of people in line. They continue to look at me. And continue to help the people in line. Okay. Whatever. And continue to just look at me. My husband and I use to love going here. Eating in. And this place has just gone down hill with their service and food. The food use to be great, now the protien is always burned. Food is usually lukewarm at best. And 99% of the time there is always something wrong with our to go order or delivery order. I think we may stick to the other fresh fast food mexican across the street. read more

Horrible place ordered tortilla soup and only got broth , no replacement at all or refund this place have incompetent people working here just sending broth no chicken read more

This location is nestled in the parking lot of Costco. There are plenty of parking spots. Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. I got a shredded chicken tostada and my husband got chicken tacos. Both were delicious service was friendly and quick. No restaurant was clean as well as the bathrooms. read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Chicken Tostada - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

Im sorry to see them go, Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is hands-down one of the best fast-casual Mexican spots out there, and after trying many competitors like Chipotle and Qdoba, it consistently comes out on top for flavor, freshness, and that craveable factor. The Sweet Pork Barbacoa--tender, juicy, and perfectly balanced with a subtle sweetness that's unlike anything else. I always go for the Sweet Pork Barbacoa Salad. It's massive, flavorful, and honestly life-changing in the best way. If you're in the mood for something handheld, the Sweet Pork Burrito (especially queso style, smothered in their creamy queso and enchilada sauce. The handmade tortillas fresh off the comal make a huge difference--soft, warm, and authentic-tasting. Other standouts include the fire-grilled chicken or steak tacos, loaded quesadillas, and enchiladas. Everything feels freshly prepared. The sides like chips with queso, Mexican street corn, or avocado corn salsa are perfect add-ons, and the portions are generous enough to satisfy even big appetites. The staff is always friendly and quick, even when the line is out the door (a good sign!). The vibe is casual and welcoming--great for a quick lunch, family dinner, or takeout. Yes, it's a bit pricier than some chains, but the quality and taste make it worth every penny. read more

Horrible customer service. Charging extra for salsa depending on their moods. Petty review for petty service

Not clean Nor clean Not clean Taco Tuesday smacks if you have someone buy it and you don't see where your food is prepared. But once you see the line and display of food you wanna walk out. Shredded taco on a flour tortilla with cheese should be your only go to because it's made on the grill top and tell them to run it through the toaster oven. it is hot to order knowing your food was sitting there long before it was prepared for you. My personal score : 3/10 read more

My last visit was marked with them messing up my order, refusing to fix it, and then getting yelled at by the staff when I was shocked and appalled they told me to take it as is. It was my literally my worst experience ever at Cafe Rio. read more

See all

My first and last time trying Cafe Rio. Flavorless, cold, soggy food. Also very overpriced and nothing whatever like the fake ad on TV.

This place is DISGUSTING! came in here Tuesday night and ordered 2 salads to go through the mobile app. They messed up the order. They put things on the salad I clearly asked them to remove. The salad was a literal SWAMP of liquid from the shredded chicken they didn't drain out before putting it on the salad. AKA SOGGY TORTILLA. Ohhhhh and the worst and most disgusting part?! The guacamole was literally RANCID!! It smelt terrible and was so incredibly sour. I cannot believe they are serving this garbage to people and also charging $15 + for it. I WILL NEVER BE BACK. YOU HAD YOUR CHANCE RIO!! read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Brown NASTY rancid guacamole sitting in a swamp!! - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

Thank goodness for David! Even when things are overly busy, he is great with customer service and keeping the employees informed and staying on top of the orders that haven't come through read more

Food - Always fresh, flavorful & delicious. Cleanliness- Always clean Service - In my experience always greeted with a smile and service is excellent. Shout out to Micahel and Lisa well the entire staff. Always satisfied. One of my favorite spots under fast food categories. My kids always request Cafe Rio especially on Tuesdays. Haha read more

Food is good but I can't leave more than 2 stars because why are the high chairs extremely dirty for the kids? When was the last time you cleaned them??? I cleaned one of the high chairs and it took me 3 wipes to get it semi clean and my wipe still came up black. read more

Im so sad this place has gone down in quality. My rice was very hard so I think it was undercooked. The tortilla for my enchilada was very hard. I had to cut through it with a plastic knife as if it was a steak. The last time I came here I remember it being SO good. Totally disappointed I wasted almost $13 on this meal. Didn't even bother taking what was left home. ): read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

Food was cold after waiting in line for 20mins i ordered a burrito and it was cold and falling apart by the time i was able to sit down and try and eat the meal it was ok read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Their supposed burrito - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

I'm updating my review because I feel like they've stepped up their game. Not sure if the location is under new management, but the food quality is much better. I love cafe Rio, my favorite place to eat, and this location seems like it's improved read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Didn't even fill the container - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

Overpriced mediocre food with horrible customer service and dirty tables and floors. If that's what you're looking for then go here! The staff, and I have to blame management for this or ownership, are dull, slow and lack zero customer service training. I approach ready to give my order, I am the only customer in line by the way... the girl behind the counter is working on a dish, I'm assuming an online order as no one else was there. I stood there for about 10 minutes without a hello, without a "we'll be right with you", nobody from the staff said a word. My husband asked for a table to be cleaned while I was waiting in "line" and nobody got to it, he ended up getting the rag to clean it up himself. At this point we probably should've left but of course like idiots we stayed. The girl finally finishes whatever she was doing and asks "are you ready to order?" Ugh!! I was like I've been ready... the whole staff including manager move like sloths! The register froze while my card transaction was going through and there went another 5 minutes waiting again, then moved to another register which also didn't work... then finally I was asked if I had cash. I paid cash. I shouldn't have paid for jack! It was a horrible experience, food was gross, guacamole old and dark. My advice, find somewhere else to eat and give your hard earned money to. ZERO STARS! read more

I don't think I've ever had a good experience here, and Cafe Rio managed to ruin our dinner plans yet again. This place is CONSTANTLY out of medium sauce - I'm talking every single freaking day of the week, no matter time of day. Even if you try and go earlier for dinner to ensure there's ingredients available, they're still going to be out of medium sauce even at 4pm. Their mild sauce is revolting and just tastes like sour like straight up vinegar, it's nasty. I don't know who the manager is here or who is in charge of keeping ingredients stocked, but this place sucks at it and should get a new employee to fill that role immediately. Your restaurant sucks and the reviews prove it. read more

Cafe Rio is literally the worst run business I have ever encountered in my life. We have been coming here since they opened and every time we go, we say it's the last time we'll go. They never get the order right, the employees always have some weird shenanigans. I have literally seen the oddest things happen here (not food safety related, otherwise I wouldn't go back). Today we ordered food with Postmates after avoiding this restaurant for a while and of course, they forget the dressing on both salads that we ordered. Literally every single time they mess up on orders. This was literally the last time. We can't take it anymore. I understand we are dumb for continuing to go even when they make so many mistakes, but we generally like the food but they have collectively the worst staff over the course of the nearly 10 years they have been open. read more

Sweet pork barbacoa is always good! Flavor is always consistent at each location. But the servings are always different. The worker at this location told me the mild sauce on my tostada would be an additional charge but I've never got charged for it on tostada at other locations. The workers never seem happy working here. They don't smile but food is good so can't complain much. read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Tostada - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

I returned to this Cafe Rio after many months of not eating here. The only reason I hadn't stopped by was because I wasn't near by. I am so surprised by some of the negative reviews because I had a fantastic experience this time. I get the two enchiladas bowl with shredded chicken and it was prepared perfectly! The staff was friendly, considerate, and double checked my order with me to make sure I was satisfied. The bowl itself was deeeeelicious! It really hit the spot. I will always return to this Cafe Rio to satisfy my enchilada craving and especially for their creamy cilantro sauce! read more

What's up with all the bad reviews, I thought it was really good. Came here with a coworker as he has been here before and said it was pretty good. Quite a few options like nachos, burritos, tacos, and quesadillas, and lots of protein choices to choose from. I got the barbacoa burrito with black beans, rice, cheese, mild sauce, and got it enchilada style. Added some pico de gallo on the side and I gotta say, it was really, really good. I obviously had to eat it with a knife and fork, but each bite contained a little bit of everything and the flavors all melded well together. Really friendly staff and the food is made in front of you and the line moved very fast. Decent prices and portions are very generous. If you like chipotle, this is a better version of it, in my opinion. read more

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican - Barbacoa burrito Enchilada style. - Mexican Near Me - San Dimas, California

I just wanted to take a moment to share my positive experience at Cafe Rio in San Dimas. Arlene, the shift manager, and Jacob provided exceptional service during my visit. I often see people using this platform to complain about their experiences, but I believe it's important to acknowledge great service as well. There was an issue with one of my credits issued by Cafe Rio customer support, and Jacob accidentally voided it. However, Arlene quickly came to the rescue. Not only did she comp my meal, but she also gave me a free drink, which was above and beyond what she needed to do. I felt a bit guilty since the line was getting long, but both of them took the time to make sure I was taken care of. I just had to give them praise because this is what excellent customer service looks like. As someone who works in the customer service industry, it always makes me happy to see workers going the extra mile. read more

Café Río is San Dimas serves very good food with lots of toppings choices. Michael, the manager, is very accommodating and friendly.

Ordered a chicken burrito for pick up. It was awful. Mostly beans and rice, very little chicken, no flavor and the tortilla was dry. Took 2 bites and tossed it in the trash. Mind you, I paid about $18 for this burrito, if I had the time, I would have driven back and asked for a refund. I have had other items there before, which were OK, but nothing as bad as this. I had a better burrito at Del Taco last week for a fraction of the price. Never going back there. read more