Rios Barbacoa

4.4 (128 reviews)

ModerateMexican, Barbeque

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Rios Barbacoa - Mexican Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Rios Barbacoa - Special #1 1 Lb. Barbacoa, 10 Corn Tortillas and 1 Salsa - Mexican Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

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RIOS BARBACOA ATMOSPHERE

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Inside

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Outside

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Casual

Quiet

Good for kids

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Patricia M.

Actual purchased on Sunday Oct.2, as a local SA the crave for barbacoa always there, however the choices are not. After the Shipley's donut routine. I was determined to locate good non saturated fatty barbacoa. Rios, a bit further than your regular taco run. Never the less, the drive was well worth it. The barbacoa was not greasy & the taste was spot on! Just the suffrage seasoning. Oh how I miss my barbacoa & Big Red. I ended up purchasing a package that included a slight discount plus a dozen of Spicy pork tamales. The good, barbacoa. Would definitely drive way over there again for barbacoa. The bad, the tamales would skip, I ate about 2. Seem to be filled with more masa than meat. Tamales were bland. Nothing to brag about. The chili seemed fresh & spicy. Corn tortillas not home made. Customer service was awesome, & professional!

Line out the door. Is it worth it? We shall see.

Monica M.

Delicious! Love that this place is so conveniently located near my parent's place. The drive thru and in store order line are long on a Sunday but the lines move very fast due to efficient staff and good teamwork. I also love that social distancing markers are clearly visible which makes easy entry and exit out of the store. The barbacoa was tender and flavorful and of course paired well with big red, which they have a large fridge filled with for convenience at the start of the order line. The menudo was also delicious, just wished they had some chopped cilantro with it. Definitely recommend picking up some barbacoa from this little shop for your weekend family breakfast.

Jackie R.

Always get barbacoa from here and never disappointed. Decided to buy 4 dozen tamales for New Years and now wish we hadn't w/o trying previously. The stuffing is skimp, can hardly taste and is bland. There is an off smell

A facial hair(maybe pube) in my barbacoa tub

Sarah T.

I love this place so much. I love to get it every weekend for my boys and I. The line outside and inside goes by quick and they are efficient and kind. Best barbacoa in town. Except I was eating leftovers from yesterdays barbacoa and I found a hair at the bottom of the white tub. Maybe a pube or facial hair. So it would be nice if maybe the men there cover their beards or shave it cuz I don't want it on my food pls!

Amazingly delicious barbacoa. The family was super friendly. This will be a Sunday tradition.

Special #1 1 Lb. Barbacoa, 10 Corn Tortillas and 1 Salsa

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Lauren S.

12 years ago

The service is amazing! You walk in and automatically get greeted by at least one if not all of the employees! The menu is very simple and they have only 2 specials! We ordered the barbacoa, corn tortillas, avocado, and salsa (special number 1). The meat was so fresh just opening the container it was sent home in made my mouth water!!! I did not see one single piece of fat in the entire pond of meat! And the best part was that there was no oil waiting at the very bottom waiting to ruin that last bit of barbacoa you have left!!! The tortillas were still hot even out of the bag and after the drive home!!! I cannot wait for tomorrow!!!!:) This has officially become a Sunday ritual!:) read more

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Gina G.

11 years ago

I originally grew up in the west side of town, so i have had my share of Barbacoa. This weekend i did not feel like driving all the way to the west side of town, i yelped an area around my house and found Rios Barbacoa, at first i was skeptical because it is off Huebner Rd & Eckhert Rd, The minute i walked in i felt like i was at a Molina on Guadalupe street. The gentleman behind the counter assured me it was the best barbacoa, he let me try a sample and i was hooked. This is a very good place i would recommend it to anyone looking to find a place that is just as good as the west side of town. read more

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Katherine L.

10 years ago

We have been talking about going here for the past month -- we got the Barbacoa and carnitas to go and they were both equally delicious. You should Definitely get the tortillas and salsa as well... Very fresh tasting. Everything about this place was great!! Will for sure be back :) read more

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Liz R.

11 years ago

Still picking up my Barbacoa from here on Sunday mornings. They are still awesome and friendly. We had waited a month to go back and we still had the same great service. The food is still yummy. I will never go to another place again. This is my one stop for delicious Barbacoa. read more

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Nicole C.

10 years ago

First off, GREAT customer service!!! This was our first visit and we got there right before they closed so they were sold out of nearly everything. But they had some items that sounded really good. They offer ceviche, carnitas, tamales, menudo, and a few other meats and tortillas. The inside looked very clean with a nice atmosphere. They have a drive thru and also FREE coffee!!! The barbacoa was really good!!! It wasn't dry or greasy. We will definitely have to come back to try out the other food they have. I can see why they have 5 stars. read more

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Jocelyn R.

9 years ago

Customer service was amazing but their tamales were not good at. They taste like the tamales from the gas station near my hotel. I will be heading back there to try something else but I will most definitely not be getting their tamales again. I just moved Florida, so my search for amazing tamales still continues! read more

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Angie M.

7 years ago

The best barbacoa I have found so far on this side of town!!! So good taste like the south side. I ordered 1/2 lb barbacoa, corn tortillas, 16 oz beans, salsa, pico and a big red for about $15. Just enough barbacoa for the both of us read more

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Diana C.

7 years ago

After reading the reviews, I was excited to try the Barbacoa and tamales. Let's start with the tamales..they did not have flavor and the masa needed salt. The Barbacoa was a total let down. Maybe they had an off day but I will not return. read more

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Simon U.

11 years ago

The Best place in San Antonio! The service is wonderful and one of the best business owners I've ever met! Try it and leave satisfied!

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Jorge Z.

Elite 17

101

10 years ago

Well they have great Barbacoa, and especially for being located on the north side of San Antonio. The meat was clean and really didn't have any fat. I was super surprised. since they're a newish place I guess they have some growing pains. Slightly understaffed and just three done tables. But with superior product, I'm sure they'll be successful. Remember, try a little bit of everything in order to know u love in the future. read more

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Jamie Z.

176

10 years ago

There were only 2 cars ahead of me and it moved fast so that was good. I got the number 2 special with barbacoa and tamales. The barbacoa was good with a little hot sauce and salt added, definitely not greasy or fatty at all so that was great! The tamales had great flavor but there was very little meat in each tamale and I mean VERY little so that was disappointing, also the masa was too thick on a few of them so I won't be ordering that again. Stick with the Barbacoa! read more

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Richard R.

11 years ago

First thing I must say is that the family owned experience was wonderful. The tortillas are authentically homemade and the barbacoa is delicious. What really sold it to me was the welcoming customer service. The owner introduced his family and himself to me and my wife and earned a loyal customer from us. We definitely recommend this place to anyone in the Medical Center area. 5/5 Stars! read more

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Adrian H.

10 years ago

This place passes the barbacoa test. Very tasty and delicious. All they need to do is add big red to special and boom! But nothing tops this place. Great customer service. read more

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T S.

11 years ago

Tried Rios for the first time today - excellent Barbacoa and Pork/Jalapeno tamales! Service was fast, easy and friendly and Isaac patiently helped with our first time run through the menu. We will definitely make this our routine Sunday after church stop and hope to enjoy many more meals from Rios! read more

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Alejandro B.

10 years ago

Born in the west side of San Antonio I thought good barbacoa could only be found on my side of town, but boy was I dead wrong. Rios Barbacoa has found the way to transport this man back to his visits to Mexico. Not since my last visit to Mexico have I tasted such succulent and delicious barbacoa. The owners at Rios Barbacoa have found the perfect method to make their barbacoa tender and flavorful with out, it being overly greasy leaving a film in your mouth like other establishments. It takes love and attention to detail to master such succulent dish. Thank you Rios Barbacoa you have brought back wonderful memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and smiles.... Today you have made a customer for life! read more

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Katrina R.

Elite 17

10 years ago

Since we discovered Rios barbacoa we have gone back again and again for their delicious barbacoa. The menudo is really good too, you just need to go before 9 am to get the menudo. The service we have received is without a doubt excellent! Friendly, engaging, and accurate orders keeps us returning to Rios. read more

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Manda M.

11 years ago

So I found this hidden jewel on accident!!! All I can say is thank you Isaac is AMAZING! BY FAR THE BEST BARBACOA on the NW side!!! HOMEMADE, FRESH, AMAZING!!! The quality is the best, the quantity can't beat it for the price! Tamales, barbacoa, and menudo beyond my expectations! Go see Isaac, TOU WONT REGRET IT! A pound of barbacoa, a dozen HOMEMADE tortillas and salsa all for 14$ with tax! Oh these aren't baby tortillas either! I am so happy with this place! YOU WONT BE DISAPPOINTED. read more

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Nate G.

10 years ago

Good food and good people. The great smell of menudo as I walk through the doors.

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Gaston G.

11 years ago

I can honestly say this is the best barbacoa in San antonio. Great way to start your Sunday.

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J B.

11 years ago

Awesome Barbacoa! We have quite a few places we can go to in the area (live around Wurzbach) but I plan on going here from now on. The customer service is just as amazing as the food. I got a pound of all meat and it was really on point without the grease and fat you see from other places. The tortillas and avocados were also fresh as could be. I actually haven't had an avocado that fresh in a really long time. Check it out! read more

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Renee G.

7 years ago

EVERY time I visit San Antonio this is a MUST! We usually pick up and eat at a near by park seeing there's not really enough space to eat their. The barbacoa is life! read more

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Jessie E.

10 years ago

Best Barbacoa in SA! Amazing Staff, very friendly! Deff coming back, worth the 35 min drive!

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Alec C.

10 years ago

Rios Barbacoa is the perfect way to start your Sunday morning. I've always recieved quality barbacoa from here. The staff is friendly, and they have a drive thru. 5 stars. read more

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Customer O.

11 years ago

I pass by Rio's every single day going home and have always wanted to try it and finally I was able to get up early enough on a Sunday morning to grab some. I'm so glad I did! The owners are extremely nice and the food is amazing. I got the #1 which is a pound of barbacoa plus tortilla n salsa. It's not greasy which I love. The tortillas are awesome and the salsa gives it a nice kick. I wish I could eat it every Sunday! Make you you go early before they sell out! read more

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Brandon A.

8 years ago

Disappointed!! Always Runs out before they close, even an hour before they close... When they do have Barbacoa, they run out of tortilla.. They have A special that can't be completed... Done!!! read more

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Joanna F.

10 years ago

Good barbacoa, not too greasy like other places. Super friendly staff. Convenient drive through as well. Will definitely be back!

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Milen F.

9 years ago

Checked this spot out due to its reviews and I was not let down. The barbacoa is really good and the customer service is amazing. I will definitely be coming back to try other menu items. read more

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Carlos G.

11 years ago

This place is great! I drove all the way across town to try this place out, and it was great! Great service too!

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Mic V.

8 years ago

Very small space... so if you're looking for to-go options it would be okay. We got there 30 mins before closing and they were almost out of every thing. Not that clean inside. I would be willing to give it another shot if I'm ever in this area again... which isn't very often, so... :( read more

Business owner information

Isaac T.

Yes...we are a very tiny to-go barbacoa joint... and we do sell out…

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Kendra M.

8 years ago

I've lived in San Antonio for almost 8years already. And this is by far the best spot. We are definitely coming back.

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Carlos E.

8 years ago

This is one of the best places in San Antonio for barbacoa. The barbacoa is tasty and more importantly Not Greasy! The owner is friendly and works everything from behind the counter to unloading merchandise etc... He is fast in getting orders out and also has a great personality in making you feel at home! For great service and food Rios is a place to go for! You will not be disappointed! read more

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Marcela H.

9 years ago

Really really good barbacoa! Tastes like Mexico and those corn tortillas taste like they came straight off the conveyor belt. Mmm.

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Elí C.

10 years ago

The barbacoa is not too shabby I love it!!! We've bought barbacoa a couple times here haven't had anything negative to say just yet keep up the good work Rios!!!Great service and great food! read more

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Chris G.

10 years ago

Great food doesn't come easily when I'm on the road working. It's hard to compete with the great restaurants of New York. But this restaurant nailed it!! Next time I'm in San Antonio that's my first stop. read more

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Rene S.

12 years ago

Once you try Rios Barbacoa, it will become a tradition to drive every weekend morning to get their delicious barbacoa. I grew up in Mexico and I can tell you that this place can't get more authentic, both in terms of food and service. The barbacoa is super tender, not greasy, melts in your mouth and seasoned perfectly. Their tortillas are 100% authentic Mexican tortillas, something that is surprisingly hard to find in the US. Please do yourself a favor and try this place, you will be greeted as if you were family and their food will leave you always wanting for more. read more

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Tee L.

9 years ago

Barbacoa expert here and this place nailed it! Very lean, yet flavorful meat! The flour tortillas are nothing to brag about so I suggest you get those at Taco Cabana to accompany your meal. read more

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Navoda P.

180

8 years ago

came here with a group of 7 people total, ordered two #1 specials and food was delicious and fast and enough for everyone. service and price was amazing, these are really kind and generous people. definitely stop by, they usually sell out by 12 or so. read more

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M D.

11 years ago

This location and the Rios on Fredericksburg are the best Barbacoa in town. Friendly staff and great food.

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Patrick B.

109

12 years ago

Great service this place is amazing with Costumer service and the quality of food is the best in town. Defiantly hit this place up ASAP

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Eric P.

1086

9 years ago

After having Rios Barbacoa back in October no one comes close to the deliciousness of their amazing barbacoa. Today I went in to get some barbacoa for some teachers and it is already gone! Definitely great food amazing customers services! read more

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Page 3 of 4

8601 Huebner Rd
San Antonio, TX 78240
Directions
(210) 558-4818
Call Now

Full menu

Hours

What time does Rios Barbacoa open?

Rios Barbacoa opens at 6:30 AM on Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Rios Barbacoa close?

Rios Barbacoa is closed on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.Rios Barbacoa closes at 1:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Fri ClosedSat-Sun 6:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Rios Barbacoa take credit cards?

Yes, Rios Barbacoa takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Rios Barbacoa have catering options?

No, Rios Barbacoa does not have catering options.

Does Rios Barbacoa have a drive thru?

Yes, Rios Barbacoa has a drive thru.

Does Rios Barbacoa have a happy hour?

No, Rios Barbacoa does not have a happy hour.

Does Rios Barbacoa serve alcohol?

No, Rios Barbacoa does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Rios Barbacoa have TVs?

No, Rios Barbacoa does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Rios Barbacoa have bike parking?

Yes, Rios Barbacoa has bike parking.

Does Rios Barbacoa have outdoor seating?

No, Rios Barbacoa does not have outdoor seating options.

Does Rios Barbacoa have parking?

Yes, Rios Barbacoa has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Other Amenities

Does Rios Barbacoa have free WiFi?

No, Rios Barbacoa does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

best barbacoa and menudo in san antonio, made fresh every Saturday and Sunday.

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Review Highlights - Rios Barbacoa

“They offer ceviche, carnitas, tamales, menudo, and a few other meats and tortillas.”

$4.95 Menudo

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Ceviche dish Photo by Amanda Spencer

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Panfila Cantina And Restaurant

I still can't get enough of this place!!!! I keep coming back and love it every single time!! The…read morefood, the cafe de olla, the service the atmosphere, I love it all!! Been coming here for about 3 years, just updating my review!

Surprised the wife with a trip to Pan Fila for her favorite hot chocolate and concha. We started…read morewith the Pan Fila Conchota combo that is a combination of the two that is 1/2 gallon of hot chocolate made using a base of Abuelitas with additional cinnamon, and cocoa along with something special. It was delicious! The concha was soft, buttery and flaky, with just the right sweetness. We took home the majority of it and it stayed nice and soft instead of turning hard like so many others. We decided to try several appetizers to go along with our concha to get a wider taste of their food than we would by just ordering a couple entrees. Let me tell you, this was a great idea! We ordered the Tosti-Ceviche Verde, Panela Asado, Mexican Street Corn, and their Spicy Bean Dip. The Ceviche Verde was excellent, the freshness of the fish and shrimp was wonderful with the chipotle mayo and avocado. We chose to have it on the salsa Verde Tostitos and it was all great combination. The Panelo Asado was a completely new dish for us and was extremely good with a savory flavor from the salsa Tlaquepaque that mixed well with the Panela cheese. Their tortillas though not made in house, are made for them and taste like mom made them. The Mexican Street Corn was great and had the perfect bit of char taste from the corn. It was creamy and flavorful, we did think it could use just a tad more lime juice though. The Spicy Bean Dip was very good. You can't go wrong with Oaxaca, Chorizo, and pieces of pork mixed with some mildly spicy beans. Our server was fantastic. She had great recommendations for us, and was quick with checking on our drinks and generally helping us throughout our dinner. The food was prepared quickly, was hot, tasteful and refreshing. We definitely will be going back, and recommend Pan Fila to all of you.

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Chicken Milanesa torta

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Chips and salsa

Pinkerton's Barbecue

IMMACULATE. My grandma and sister picked up my girlfriend and I from the airport and pulled up here…read moreright after on 4th July weekend. We arrived around 5pm on a Thursday and got in queue which was out the door and wrapping around the front porch. Their host/doorman was kind, he offered the line water on many occasions and made pleasantries with almost all guests as the line moved. It was a hot day so those waters were clutch. By the time we made it to the front of order line maybe 40 minutes had passed. But ladies and gents the wait is worth it. When we plated our trays on the table my family all had heart eyes, and had equally loved our first bites. Their brisket is extremely tender. It's beautifully sliced and made for an amazing welcome back to the South taste for me. I was in heaven. I particularly enjoyed having the fresh pickled red onion for fresh, zesty cuts through the abundance of other saltier elements on the plate. Their menu is slammin! Their sides, and sausages all had crafty ingredients. I enjoyed their spicy link options and their macaroni was delightful. Their BBQ sauce was a nice 4/5 but certainly did the job. As a native Texan who's had their fair share, this was easily some of the best barbecue I've ever had. Top 5 top 5 top 5. I'm of course coming back and looking forward for more banana cream pudding especially. They were small, slightly sweet, and had great balance with the vanilla wafer ratio. That whip cream on top too had me hooked. I couldn't have asked for a better welcome back meal for the bold Texas cuisine, hospitality, and novelty animal and cowboy decor.

great food kind and attentive staff…read more amazing vibes loved it awesome check em out

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Kitchen carving area

IG: tonylameats | Sliced turkey, sliced brisket, pork rib, jalapeno sausage, mac n cheese, aunt may blueberry cobbler!

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Hot sides

Tokyo Cowboy

Cody! He was a rockstar!! Helped with my decision fatigue by pointing out the best flavors and…read moremaking recommendations. The "Fried Chicken Sandwich" was spicy, crunchy, saucy, creamy and DELICIOUS! The beer recommendation was crisp and refreshing. Thank you, Cody.

Went to Tokyo cowboy on a whim to celebrate my friends new job. And boy did it not disappoint…read more The menu seems interesting at first. Maybe even a little confusing, but I think it's all part of its charm. 100% take the recommendations from the server they know their way around that. It was a nice eclectic way of perusing through a menu that seemed like it was gonna be a disaster, but then ended up cohesively melting in your mouth, the entire journey. Such a good night, me and my friends are still raving about it!

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Tlahco Mexican kitchen

Sope de Chicharron, menudo, cafe de olla.

Inside

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Chili Relleno plate

Ming's at Midtown

Great food, fresh and fast Good for families…read more Extra dining room available Lunch specials Lots of parking in lot below the highway Staff friendly Rewards are quick to earn

Ming's is Asian fusion and I found it to have Asian confusion. The food was fine but nothing…read morespecial. It's casual, order at the counter, but pricey. Most of the steam buns are about $5.00 and are good for three bites. The bowls selection reminded me of ordering at Chipotle, but with an Asian flare. The high point was the service. We had a very attentive food runner that cared and was very nice.

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Inside

Ma La Sweet Potatoe Noodle Soup | Feb 2026

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Crispy Money Bag Shrimp Dumplings

Papa Nacho's

Where should we go? How about Papa nachos?…read moreGround Beef Enchiladas, and I'm like oh my God. That's what I'm like. Oh my God.

I came here for lunch after a strong recommendation from a friend. Well, I was rather disappointed…read more The restaurant itself is clean and spacious but sterile like a cafeteria . The menu itself is expansive and service was quick enough. I ordered the puffy taco plate. The portion was generous but you could taste the industrial "taco seasoning" in the meat. The rice wasn't bad but the charro beans were flavorless, straight from a can but it seemed like the menu lacked focus as it tries too hard to offer "something for everyone ". It did look like a nice place to sit and have a few drinks, but the food leaves a lot to be desired. I'll probably give it another shot, but maybe not.

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Inside of restaurant

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Frozen Margarita no salt (delish!)

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14 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Matt B.

11 years ago

I can't say enough about this place. The food was great, and priced well. The owner was super friendly and knew the name of everyone in line besides me, which isn't surprising as it was my first time there. He took the time before I left to ask my name and shake my hand. He thanked me an said "God Bless." I couldn't be happier with my experience there. I for sure won't be going anywhere else for my barbacoa. I'm more than happy to spend my money here anytime and so should you! read more

Laura P.

4 years ago

This morning after a trip to Rio's on Huebner, I purchased a special. Later I called Rio's to share a concern I had with one of their products. The caballero I spoke with offered me no excuses, justifications,or blame. He immediately asked what HE could do to "rectify my inconvenience". THIS is why I will continue to support THIS establishment. Thank you, Rio's. I will be seeing you next week read more

J B.

10 years ago

Best barbacoa in town, it's always fresh and really meaty. Try out the tamales too if they haven't ran out for the morning. Want some menudo? Yep they got it. Make sure to grab some fresh avocados and a big red on the way out. Go support these guys! Super friendly, family owned business with excellent service and food. Feeling lazy? Yeah they have a drive-thru. read more

Pat O.

11 years ago

Get there before 11AM to ensure you'll leave with a bag full of amazing food! I'm hoping I/We can convince Isaac to open up a couple more days each week...as I can't seem to get enough of it on the weekend alone. Who says Barbacoa is only for the weekend?? :) read more

Samuel M.

11 years ago

Best spot to get breakfast on Sunday best service you can get on a Sunday morning go over and try it out for your self I loved it best place to get barbecue read more

Tony H.

148

10 years ago

Great tasting barbacoa, even greater, friendly owners and a must have every time my daughter's home from college!!! The drive thru is an awesome bonus!!! read more

Rod J.

10 years ago

Delicious,authentic Mexican barbacoa, the most important piece of advice is that you need to get there early, this is a must visit place.

Ana C.

12 years ago

Walked in and got a sample of the barbacoa and it was amazing. Bought 1 pound right away with awesome service. This place gets 5 stars.

Mary R.

11 years ago

Love this place! I've only been here twice and I feel at home... Great customer service!!! Fresh delicious barbacoa every Sunday!

Miranda P.

10 years ago

This place is great!! EVERYTHING!! The staff was awesome very friendly they treated me like family! Two thumbs up!

Benito C.

11 years ago

It's so good, I'd push you out of line to get served next. All meat, no grease. Fast, extremely friendly service. read more

Reynaldo R.

11 years ago

Just good barbacoa. Friendly service. Clean establishment.

Ernie E.

7 years ago

Man that is some good barbacoa THANK YOU!!!

Jerry R.

11 years ago

food was really good

Rios Barbacoa - mexican - Updated July 2026

People who viewed Rios Barbacoa also viewed

Papi's Barbacoa

4.5

(45 reviews)

Great spot for tortillas, barbacoa, tamales, & menudo. The place is straight forward…read more Walk in, look at menu, they sling it over to you and you're out in less than 5 minutes. I like showing up early, the spot can get packed but the line also moves. They sell avocados too and other food items to compliment your breakfast.

Let's start off with the highlight barbacoa was very good true all meat was maybe just a lil dry…read moreand that's why won't get 10/10 but it was a strong 9/10 then the menudo smelled amazing very good ratio of meat and hominy also plenty of meat but lacked just a lil bit of flavor nothing a few pinches of salt and limón and some salsa couldn't change 8/10 after mixed 7/10 before adding anything the salsa was good as well to add flavor nothing spicy at all just a lil watery tho no worries still good but the tamales is where the let down happend 3/10 super dry not a lot of flavor but good ratio of meat to masa so I'd give a 4/10 will be back for barbacoa for sure not sure about the others

Mimi's Barbacoa and Tamales Y Mas

3.9

(195 reviews)

•$

I went a few weeks ago to pick up some breakfast tacos for a late breakfast during the work week…read more This place exceeded my expectations! Potato, bacon, & egg tacos were delicious with tasty whole strips of bacon, fluffy & aesthetically pleasing eggs, and good sized potatoes. The whole thing was really well balanced! I also got a barbacoa taco and bean & cheese taco. Great news for cheese fans-- they don't skimp on the cheese if you ask for it...it was A LOT (& actually next time I'll say light cheese for my own preference). Yes, the barbacoa could use a little extra seasoning or spicy salsa, however I personally put garlic/onion powder, & cracked pepper on almost all of my food regardless of where I order from, so I wasn't upset...especially considering the size of the tacos and the fact that the meat wasn't too fatty/gristly! So hard to come by with barbacoa sometimes. Also, the man who took my order over the phone/cashier when I picked up at the restaurant was super polite, professional, and welcoming 10/10 would order again!

Friends, here is a review, the meat of which I am hanging on the horns of a dilemma. Dear lady…read moreMarjan rates Mimi's three, and I prefer a four. Is it obvious who is the power player here?? So, a compromise. If there were some way to indicate, we negotiate a 3.5 rating. And for the review. Mimi's is found at the corner of Vance Jackson and Babcock, nestled within several commercial operations that live and breathe there. There is plenty of parking in the lots. The taco shop has been in operation for at least 30 years, and Mimi, the original proprietor has ceded the business to her sons, and they continue neighborhood offerings to this very day. Marjan and I search for taco restaurants in every corner of our fair city: some are more upscale, some rather modest in character. But no matter, real treasures can be found in the most modest, and some ptomaine taverns can be found in the most elevated. Mimi's tends to the most modest. The entry is, in truth, shop worn. Think peeling paint, dated signage, unfinished floors, rough hewn counter. One or two tables for patrons, evidence that this is definitely a "take out" operation. Entering, there was some concern viewing the landscape, but also pasted on the counter: rating of "A" at its most recent review by the city health department!! The counter person was immensely welcoming, asking if we had visited previously. Behind the counter, the working kitchen was visible. Several employees hard at work filling orders...there were 4 or 5 patrons waiting for their take outs. This is an operation devoid of the niceties of appearance. The staff were in casual shirts, jeans. But readers, do not be deceived by appearance. We ordered bean and cheese, machacado, potato and egg and cheese and chicken fajita tacos...all to go. The impression: all were a bit laden with grease, so much so that Marjan had to absorb the grease of her machacado with Bounty. The tacos lacked a bit of salt, and the fajitas had a rather different spice that we had not experienced previously, a spice that Marjan didn't quite enjoy, but that I found tasty. The bean and cheese were laden with cheddar to the max. The flour tortillas were exceptional. Every taco was literally bursting at the seams with content. Our impression: this is a rather "homey" take on the treasured taco, not elevated, but warming to the palate none the less. I was reminded of the tacos that I had enjoyed at the colonias outside Saltillo in Mexico, one where one would be served less than cold beer, or perhaps mescal or pulque. I think the offerings would not satisfy every palate, but I would return, given my history with Mexican food of every type, growing up on the west side of our fair city.

Andrea's Barbacoa & Tacos

4.2

(31 reviews)

•$

I eat my barbacoa from Andrea's every weekend! I give it a 10. The service is excellent.read more

Always a 10/10. This is where I bring my friends and family when they're visiting & want a quick…read morebreakfast. Especially considering everything on the weekends is an hour wait. It's super quick, very clean, and the taste stays consistent. We get the bean & bacon or the posole. My mom loves the chicharrón because they cook it fresh. Very limited seating though, so would recommend to come in a group no large than 5 or takeout.

Tacos Y Burritos Metro Basilica 2

4.4

(230 reviews)

•$

I came here with a few friends to try pozole for the first time. I had a great experience! The…read morestaff were friendly and welcoming, they thanked us for coming in multiple times. I also got a bean and egg breakfast taco which was wonderfully overflowing with beans. The pozole was extremely enjoyable, I would definitely go again! Clean place no frills. Easy parking too.

First time visiting with my girlfriend who loves the burritos here. I was so surprised at how good…read morethe food was. Ordering was quick and when we did get the food it was stuffed to the brim with not just rice and beans but also meat and avocado. I highly recommend this place for lunch as the service is so quick and people were so nice.

Rios Barbacoa Helotes, TX

3.9

(18 reviews)

I love this place and order almost every Sunday, but today, Father's Day when I really wanted…read moreBarbacoa I could not order on the app. I tried the website and was told, " item not available " for 1 lb of meat. I tried calling, no answer. WTF? I thought could they have sold out by 10:20 am? So I drive by and the parking lot is packed but I'm not waiting in that line, which is why I order online, walk in, and pick up. Just not today. Extremely frustrating and disappointing. Either get the app working or answer the phone.

I was hesitant about getting barbacoa from a new place. This place be was good…read more First thing, this place is in Helotes, right next to the Little Caesars. There's no drive thru so you will have to get down. When I got there, there was a line of two people outside the door but more inside. I didn't have to wait very long. Once inside there is a fridge with cold big red and another fridge for the variety of salsas. The menu is on the wall and it's a very simple menu. The do not have a lean or fatty option, just barbacoa. The staff was very friendly. Once I got the food home I was able to see the barbacoa and it looked and tasted good. No large pieces of fatty chunks, not too greasy, just right. The green salsa was good too and the corn tortillas were def delicious. I was a bit disappointed by the chicharones because I'm so used to the large pieces and variety types at my previous location but no big deal. Even my Big Red was cold when I got home. Will def continue to go to this place in the future

La Ideal Molino

4.4

(12 reviews)

I drove 20 miles, one way, to get 1 lb. of the all-beef barbacoa, 1/2 lb. of regular barbacoa, 1…read moredz. pork tamales and 1 lb. tripas because it was recommended w/high praise on FB. Well, it wasn't all that was stated?! I'm from San Antonio, Texas, BTW!!! First, the all-beef barbacoa had chunks of fat and a small round black foreign object in it (seed of some sort); the tamales were 30% filling and 60% masa, and the tripas had a lot of fat still on them, with no savor (flavor-seasoning-were they even cleaned)! I just threw away $45.71!!! BE WARY!!! I will drive all the way (23 miles one way) to Del Rio on Gillette BLVD next time.

We brought our family here after hearing that this place had the best barbacoa in San Antonio. And…read moreI gotta say WE AGREE!!!! The food is amazing!! We also had some breakfast tacos and a Gordita and they rocked!! The staff is kind and helpful and the food came quick! The restaurant is small but quaint and clean. We will be coming back regularly.

La Monita Tortilleria Factory

4.3

(31 reviews)

•$

Great spot for corn & flour tortillas as well as barbacoa and tamales…read more Made the mistake of coming here minutes before a cowboys game on a Sunday. The place was packed! The guy in front of me seemed to be ordering for an entire family as his order took a while. The place is a get in and get out spot, no where to sit or eat. Lots of people coming and going with trays full of tortillas, barbacoa, & salsa. We just went for tortillas, tried both the corn and flour. We made a second mistake of only ordering a dozen of each. Will have to come back to try again!

What a great place ! The Barbacoa was amazing and the tamales where really good(made just the way I…read morelike them)just moved here to San Antonio and iv been trying to find a new place to get my Barbacoa and this was definitely it I'll definitely become a regular! Everyone was really nice and friendly as well

Tellez Tamales & Barbacoa

3.8

(80 reviews)

•$$

Hands down the best barbacoa in town. They also have some really tasty carne guisada. The service…read moreis always friendly and they make you feel like you're eating with family

Just amazing food!! Every time I'm back in the San Antonio area, it's a must have. Hands down great…read moretamales and breakfast tacos too.

Tacos Betos

4.0

(34 reviews)

•$$

Súper ricos tacos que de verdad saben a Mty! Los recomiendo venir a probar. Esperemos volver muy…read morepronto para probar mas comidas deliciosas que nos faltaba ordenar del menu jiji.

Me and my man went by today and got 2 orders of tacos & a quesadilla & a side of beans and…read moreeverything was super delicious especially the beans and the quality of the meat was perfect definitely will be going back !!

Wapo Taco

3.8

(260 reviews)

•$

I go here strictly for the "Cucumber Lemonade". ! It made not be the official name of the drink but…read moreit is so cool and refreshing any day of the week! I search for them at locations that serves Agua Fresca and this is it for me! The servers are always pleasant in the drive thru. Any other suggestions? (Aside from making it fresh at home)

Went in one evening to try this place with my family. We all ordered our food to go, and the…read morecontainers were placed inside a bag that was tightly knotted shut, so we didn't think to open everything until we got home. My son ordered the enchiladas, and when we opened the container, we found cold tortillas rolled around cheese. There was no enchilada sauce, the cheese wasn't melted, and the tortillas were cold. It was not what we expected when ordering enchiladas. Overall, the food was very average, and this experience was disappointing enough that we haven't been back since.

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14 Rios Barbacoa reviews that are not currently recommended

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14 reviews that are not currently recommended

Rios Barbacoa - mexican - Updated July 2026

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People who viewed Rios Barbacoa also viewed

Papi's Barbacoa

Mimi's Barbacoa and Tamales Y Mas

Andrea's Barbacoa & Tacos

Tacos Y Burritos Metro Basilica 2

Rios Barbacoa Helotes, TX

La Ideal Molino

La Monita Tortilleria Factory

Tellez Tamales & Barbacoa

Tacos Betos

Wapo Taco