Rioja is an excellent place to drink exceptional wines at a reasonable price. The location has great ambience and can be an excellent place for an evening drink on your own, a night out with your girls, or a nice date spot. I will say the parking lot is super hectic and stays pretty packed. I was able to find a nice part, but it didn't look promising and I'm not sure where the next this area is to park if you can't get in the parking lot. For this visit, my group split a bottle of wine. Our host made it easy to do so. He answered all of our questions, let us sample a few ones to see which one we liked best, and he was super attentive. I forget about this spot because it's not on my normal route, but when I go, it's always an amazing experience. read more

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The staff here is INCREDIBLE. Super kind and welcoming. Great chicken salad and tinned fish selection. Perfect for a girls night! read more

Rioja! A Wine Bar - Wine Bars Near Me - Greensboro, North Carolina

Eh, out of several items, fair service and tables you need to clear yourself. I may have visited on an off day. Who knows.

Nathanael is great! He makes you feel at home and he has so many interesting stories. The wines are reasonably priced.

The bartender was welcoming, kind and knowledgeable without being pushy or pretentious. The space doesn't seem that it's been maintained (or updated) very well and could use some attention. Wine I tried was a very nice Riesling and we enjoyed our time here during our tour of Greensboro wine bars. read more

Rioja! A Wine Bar - Menu - Wine Bars Near Me - Greensboro, North Carolina

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Popped in around 8:30pm on a Saturday, a half hour before closing and had an amazing experience. Very knowledgeable staff, expansive wine selection for in-house consumption and purchase, and yummy food options. Had a glass of Chenin Blanc from Vouvray, sampled a Beaujolais Cru and delicious dark chocolate truffles that truly melted in my mouth. Definitely planning to become a regular at this place. read more

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Rioja is a hole in the wall tucked away in a small shopping center on Battleground just North of downtown, but it is not to be overlooked. Inside, a very intimate and welcoming space awaits. It's a small spot, but has plenty of tables for seating as well as a small bar. Shelves filled with wine adorn the walls along with artwork from local artists, creating a very comforting and relaxing atmosphere. Rioja has a huge selection to choose from - over forty wines by the glass and many more available to purchase. They also have a small beer selection as well as some small plates and snacks to enjoy. I'm no wine connoisseur, but I'm trying to learn so I opted for the red flight. The flights are generous pours of three wines served with a small cheese and nut sampler with quality cheeses. I did not notice that on the menu so I was very happy when that came out! The staff is very knowledgeable, explaining the notes to look out for with each wine in the flight, highlighting the differences between each one. Even as a novice, I felt that their direction helped me pick out certain notes that differed between each wine. Overall it was a fantastic experience and I felt that I learned a lot just in conversation with the staff at Rioja. Rioja also has weekly wine tastings and other events. One that was brought up was a blind tasting trivia, where questions are asked about food, wine and travel, eventually leading to a final round of naming the exact wine that is in your glass. It sounds like an absolute blast. Rioja is an absolute must visit. I will definitely be back for a tasting soon! read more

Rioja! A Wine Bar - A nice, cozy bar space - Wine Bars Near Me - Greensboro, North Carolina

Visiting Rioja was like visiting Italy in my dreams. What a wonderful experience on this lovely wine tasting night. Rioja has wine tastings every Thursday 6-8pm. They also offer half off food everyday 4-6pm. What a delight! We had the spinach and artichoke dip, creamy brie and cheese and fruit plate. All fresh and delicious. Perfect snacking with a glass of Rose', which was perfectly sweet and crisp. The wine tasting was Old World wines from Italy. The specialist, Lauren, was very knowledgeable and kind. She has a great sense of humor and knew her stuff. She gave a great experience as we were trying these new wines. I had a Riesling while I was there as well which was on the sweeter side as recommended by the wonderful server we had, Dawn. She was so kind and lovely. I will most definitely become a regular here and be back for more wine tastings and half off food. Love it! read more

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A pretty solid spot for date night or just want a low key night of wine. Easy to miss on Battleground, it's part of a small shopping center near Red Cinemas. A large selection of various wines from all over the country and the world. The waiters and waitresses are more than accommodating with their preferences and education on different types - even going so far of recommending by your specific likes and tastes. They offer some finger food there which is good and also hold trivia nights. Ambiance is chill and dark (in a good way) and not loud at all. Would recommend. read more

How have I lived in the Triad for almost three years now and never discovered Rioja!? Shame on me. We didn't want to go home from work on a Thursday night, wanted wine and small plates, and literally searched for "Greensboro wine bar." Rioja! was the top result, and became our destination. Rioja! is quite small with an intimate, coffee shop with a library type of vibe. But instead of books, there's wine everywhere, on every wall, for you to either take home or enjoy in the bar. Yes, there's an actual bar, behind which... did you guess more wine?! YES! We're off to a good start, amirite?! More about the wine in a bit because though I arrived in a wine mood, I immediately noticed that Rioja! also has a small, but phenomenal beer selection, including the Belgian Trappistes Rochefort #10. I rarely find legit Trappistes ales (made in monasteries by Belgian monks, sometimes the same way for as long as 700 years) outside of Belgium or Germany (last time was a couple years ago at a gastropub in Williamsburg, VA), so this was a real treat and I had to have one. Amazing, as expected. Next, on to the $5 wine tasting, which we learned is an every Thursday night thing. Last night featured a range of some very legitimate petite syrahs, two of which were from a couple of my favorite vineyards (Concannon in Livermore, CA and Stags Leap in Napa Valley). The gentleman serving and narrating the tasting was very knowledgeable and passed all the mental fact checks you would expect from someone that used to live in the Bay Area. We ordered the rotating Reserve cheese plate, which consists of four French cheeses at the moment. All were heavenly, with the Loire Valley soft cheese being a particular favorite due to the taste and consistency (like a buttermilk biscuit if you can imagine). We also ordered the spicy chicken salad with fruit. Some of the best chicken salad I've had in a while and I was happy to see it's also available as a panini because the tapas plate leaves you wanting more (next time, Gadget). You dessert folks should know they serve Cheesecakes by Alex, and have a selection of chocolate truffles to pair with your favorite red. Rioja! is somewhere you want to take your friends for a relaxing night of great wine and conversation. I absolutely encourage you to do so, but the seating is somewhat limited, so plan ahead. Some reviews complain of the slow service, and it does get slow at times. However, the team of two tending to customers were going well out of their way to give a very personal experience to every patron. I feel like something would've been lost with a larger team of waitstaff hustling and bustling about - not the right setting for the efficiency of an assembly line. Be advised that Rioja! shares a very small parking lot with other businesses in a tiny strip mall, including a Starbucks. Parking spaces are coveted on Thursday nights for the tastings, and maneuverability can be limited for larger vehicles. Unfortunately, most of the neighboring parking lots of businesses that close around 5-6pm have menacing 24 hour towing signs (great neighbors!). Rioja! is a true Triad gem, one that I even hesitate to share publicly, but one can't in good conscience keep this place a secret. In vino veritas, friends. read more

Great selection, atmosphere, and service! Loved learning from the owner and spending an evening with friends here.

It has a cozy atmosphere and every day, they have a special deal. Just check their menu for it. When I was there, I was there with a group. The waiter filled up everybody's glass with water and he skipped mine. I feel a bit overlooked. It was probably just an intentional mistake but I hope they will be mindful to fill up everybody's glass for all future groups read more

This is a small place which offers a nice variety of liquid refreshments and a number of small plate food choices - Cheese & Charcuterie, Salads, Bruschetta, Gourmet Panini Sandwiches, and Snacks (Bread,Nuts, Olives, Hummus, Dip, Salsa, Crudite, Dates, and more). I put together an order of Creamy Brie ( with Granny Smith, Multigrain Crackers, and Jam for $7), Italian Meatballs (with mozzarella, tomato, pecorino, and focaccia for $8), Dip Sampler (Hummus, Spinach, & Salsa with Tortilla Chips for $12), Smoked Salmon (with dill creme & capers for $7), and an Italian Meat & Cheese Plate (with fresh bread and olives for $14). I probably would not reorder the Italian Meatballs ( a spice or something in them I didn't care for), but the other items were quite nice, especially the Italian Meat & Cheese and the Creamy Brie with an amazing fresh jam. The Smoked Salmon was also excellent. Based on portion size, the items are a bit pricey, but all the quality and freshness was there. read more

Cute little place, hidden gem! I went there with a couple of my co workers. Service was very professional, we sat and talk for awhile and the waiter did not rush or bother us too much . Nice little vibe and cool seating arrangement. I had one of the panini for lunch which was pretty good. read more

I have recently left California for NC and was spoiled having lived near the Napa Valley, therefore I was a little concerned about not having access to quality wine- that is, until I discovered this quaint and cozy wine bar. I am quite the loner, so finding a space that is both welcoming and social (when I'm feeling "wild") and comfortable enough for relaxing with a book on my own is often difficult. Rioja! is it. I discovered this place on happenstance. My first visit I chose to sit at the bar to chat with the sommelier/wine steward. He was really chill and professional, but also gave me a 'cool bar chat' vibe too. I even met my first official new friend that day. We all engaged in fun and low key conversation. Having been a wine member with various wineries in CA and attending various tastings and functions, I was always surrounded by pretentious wine snobs who made the environment stuffy and a bit boring. This is NOT that type of place. In fact, I will absolutely make fun of you if you bring that sort of vibe here. Just kidding. I will probably just stare at you until you stop talking. Or maybe I will engage with you in pretending to taste the 'notes' and taking note of the 'legs' after swirling and sniffing. I digress. Great selection of wines and tasty small plates. I LOVE the Sweet Medjool Dates. I've been back a few times already and will definitely return. read more

Great atmosphere - prime spot to stop on Friday night. Great wine list - and a good chance to try something new!

What a great obscure gem!! I hope I don't review myself out of a seat. LOL. The wine list is diverse and far from ordinary. Don't know wine from grape juice just ask the man with all the knowledge-Jake. Also known as the owner :) who was there when I popped in. Nice array of small plates. My new favorite hang out!! read more

I attended the Smoke and Mirrors wine dinner at Rioja and it was worth every penny that I I paid for. Who knew Jake the owner was such an amazing chef. I also really enjoyed the wine pairing with the food. My favorite was the duck confit paired with the 2011 Chateau Maison Blanche Medoc Cru Bourgeois. The duck was outstanding and who knew I would love a Bordeaux. Sign me up for next year!!! read more

Rioja! A Wine Bar - Wine Bars Near Me - Greensboro, North Carolina

There are wine bars, and there is Rioja. I doubt that there are many wine bars in town with someone as knowledgeable as Jake. After you have been there a few times, he starts to learn your preferences, and you will never regret a recommendation from Jake. The wine club is some of the best "house wine" you will find, and Jake uses his thorough knowledge of wine to bring selections that taste above their price point. When you go, get the French cheese plate, tell Jake what you like in wine, turn him lose and enjoy the evening. read more

Beautiful atmosphere, quiet bar with cute seating. My husband and I met friends here and were kindly served by the bartender who did an amazing job describing the different drink options. I had a pink rose wine and then a Valdelamillo Crianza red. After losing track of time, our friends and us realized we had stayed after hours. Our bartender never once mentioned it and was so sweet and polite. Awesome experience, we will definitely be going back! read more

Great atmosphere and the wine is delicious. My wife and I love wine and we found the owner, the establishment, and the whole experience to be absolutely lovely. read more

Rioja! A Wine Bar has EXCELLENT wines, food, service and atmosphere. Do not miss an opportunity to visit this place. Pro Tip: Let Lauren choose your wine and food selections and you will be in heaven. read more

Not a bad little joint. The ambiance seems more cobbled together than eclectic. I've been here a few times, and have found the service to be hit or miss. If you get a good server who cares about wine, you'll probably have a good experience. If not, well, you probably won't. Haven't had the tapas, but they serve delicious locally-made truffles that you shouldn't miss! While they have an extensive wine list at pretty good prices, I have yet to be recommended a really great choice. Worth a try. read more

Dessert and wine single date night a success !! Offer a decent selection including light snacks, salads, cheese plates in addition to the drink menu. Great wine selections ...malts, hops & cider on deck too! Cute. local. Decent parking. Cool vibe in a not so busy area of town. Wine tasting on Thursdays ...open on Sundays 3-8 ..no corker fee! Owner is from Gastonia . Jordan is the man !! Tell em Terra sent ya! read more

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Interesting place. We came on a busy Saturday night to use our Groupon. Wine for 3, a beer, and mini chocolate truffles only totaled $33- not bad. Our wine was good with a plentiful selection of around $7-9/glass. The food menu looked varied and heavy on the typical tapas (cheese, charcuterie, etc). The truffles were great but came in tiny portions of less than a bite. Overall, I think this place is decent but not somewhere that impressed me immediately like 1618. The interior feels really crowded and not especially interesting. The service was abrupt and we had to haggle to use our Groupon (?). Worth a try but would recommend 1618 over Rioja. Maybe we'll come back on a night that they have some of their tapas or wine specials ($4 Tuesdays). read more

Come here for the large selection of wines, relaxed atmosphere, and Jake. The Atmosphere This is a good spot for people who want to relax with a glass of wine and converse, just not at home. It can be so relaxed in fact, that I've come in a few times by myself on a weeknight with a book. That said, I've also run into friends here and hit it off with some other patrons. The Lady once got so raucous that we felt the need to self-impose a temporary ban. A really good acoustic duo has been playing here on weekends lately, with sets ranging from Across the Universe by the Beatles to Wagon Wheel by Old Crow Medicine Show. Rioja feels like a library of wine, hundreds of bottles line the wall in a bookshelf-like arrangement. On the down side, Rioja is located in a strip mall anchored by a Starbucks, and many of the tables and chairs might work better on an outdoor patio. The Wine There are a few dozen wines available by the glass here. The top-shelf wines are poured from the Cruvinet, which is a tap system that prevents the wine from oxidizing. Rioja also scores wine-geek cred with its Riedel stemware. This is the new home of the former Wine Warehouse, so there are plenty of bottles to select from. The Beer There's also a really nice range of bottled beers. A flight of Chimay is an option if you want to opt out on wine. The Service The bartender/server/manager?/owner? Jake is more or less a one man show, which is alright, because he's a really endearing and helpful guy. He's clearly passionate about wine, but will never rub knowledge in your face. Don't expect the speediest service. The Food Oh yeah, there is food here. It's a bit basic, but it supports the wine nicely. Think: cheese, charcuterie, deserts, and paninis. The Lady Says Remember the time I delighted an audience by harassing that dude for not wanting to date my sister despite the fact that he had never met her? We were out of control! and I think I have a crush on Jake. read more

My husband and I went here about a year back, I think we had a groupon. They serve small plates, think tapas. The meat and cheese tray we got was AMAZING! We also ordered a bottle of champagne and man did it go ever so perfectly with our tray! It's a nice hip place for the 30s and up crowd and I think the prices are well worth the quality food and wine they provide! :) actually now I want to stop by after work read more

I visited rioja for a girls night bout a wine tasting. The staff who awaited us with tasting was extremely knowledgeable, and helped us understand both the method of tasting and what we should be experience while tasting. The menu was limited in my opinion but normally I just like BIG plates to fit my big appetite! I'll be back soon! read more

AWESOME! Been very impressed with this place not once, not twice but 3 times already. This place is really really cool, only a few miles from d-town g'boro (which is getting kindda crowded). This place offers a chilled trendy atmosphere, great wines, great appetizers and great service. The crowd that goes there is a nice mixture of young and older folks but all really into their stuff - not a pick me up meat market place. Lighting is just right and although you might think the glasses are expensive - they do serve you more than what you usually get elsewhere - I mean almost half a big merlot glass. Great food, great wine, great place. (if you are not a wine drinker and are stuck with a wine guzzlin' crowd - they'll let you sneak in Starbucks from next door) read more

Friendly staff! Excellent food. Cozy atmosphere. Large wine selection. Can't wait to go back!

I'm starting to think that the guys who wrote Cheers! actually have a time machine, and they came to Greensboro, NC in 2018 and found this awesome little spot where the cute bartender always remembers your name and what you're drinking and all the regulars are excited to see you again and have interesting stories to tell. They promptly zipped back to the 1980s and wrote a TV show about it. Far fetched? Perhaps. But if you want to go where everybody knows your name, and they're always glad you came, this is the spot. Sit at the bar, have a flight and enjoy your night. read more

We been consistently visiting Rioja for 4+ years and during that time we have never been disappointed. The management team has done a great job growing the business and now offer high quality beers, enhanced appetizer and dessert menus and regularly host special events such as tastings and pairings. The crowd is always diverse and friendly. This still a great little place to relax and enjoy good company, food and wine. read more

Great spot, nice and quiet with a great variety of wines. Bartender is friendly and recommended and explained well. Just what I was looking for. read more

Rioja fit my party's needs beautifully. We lounged on the couch in back and enjoyed finger foods and wine. Perfect. The cheese plate and brie on bread were delicious. Our wines were good and properly served. The tacos were not that great - we had Asian and Southwestern - though the mango salsa that accompanied them was very good. Service was friendly and slow. One waiter and one food runner in a full wine bar. We were nowt in a rush, though, and I'm sure we could have flagged someone down if we had chosen to try. read more

This place exceeded my expectations! Great intimate atmosphere, incredible tapas and wine. Also had the homemade truffles which were amazing! Great place for a date or to spend quality time with friends! read more

Rioja! A Wine Bar - Goat cheese pesto was amazing! Loved this place - Wine Bars Near Me - Greensboro, North Carolina

Celebrated a friends birthday with a rather large group. Service and wines were exceptional. Certainly surprisingly to find such a gem in Greensboro! We absolutely had no complaints and will be returning! read more

Such a great neighborhood gem! Went with a friend and we both enjoyed our wine and appetizers. The spinach dip is yummy! It's small but cozy. Also like their outside seating. read more

So this is one of my very favorite bars in Greensboro! Often a bar has one or two elements that make it successful, and because of those things it's worth putting up with the rest. Rioja is more than just those couple of pedestrian elements. Jake is the best part of this place. He knows wine like you know your Facebook feed. His knowledge is intimate, it's friendly, he will confidently reccomend a wine by flavor, or attitude, by occasion or by region. I've never met someone with this much wine love and/or knowledge. The food, basically everything I've always wanted to eat with wine - without displacing it. It's the perfect compliment to a fabulous glass! Meat and cheese plates are never a bad choice, and the dates are divine! The selection of wine is inspired. Wide range of price points, flavor profiles, and regions. Basically this is why you come here, the other stuff is why you come here multiple times per week. Atmosphere is cluttered and welcoming. It feels like an artistic aunt's cool dining room. It's welcoming but not too familiar. In short. I love you Rioja. read more

Great atmosphere! All the staff we have run into seem to really know what they are serving! We were able to get detailed descriptions. We have been a few times. We enjoy the wine flight night where we can create our own. We also enjoyed Monday night 1/2 off cheese plates. We got the reserve plate with an assortment of Spanish cheeses (goats milk, sheeps milk and cows milk cheese) they were all delicious and once again the staff was able to provide detailed descriptions. read more

The food was amazing! The service was awesome, the guy working did a great job giving recommendations for wines that matched my taste and that paired well with the food. Will definitely return. read more