OK, so there's alot of differing opinions about the Rio. The truth- it is one of the best places in Boulder. Nowhere else can u go for the atmosphere, overall food quality and delicious margarita. As a long time regular I'm going to lay out a set of rules to keep in mind if u have never been there and respond to the 'naysayers,' which is bound to happen when u serve as many people as the Rio does.\r
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1- the price. u can be in and out with a margarita and entree for under 20$. Try that anywhere else in Boulder that isn't a dive inside like Juanita's. 2- to the one who complained about a chicken bone in her enchilada. This isn't taco bell, they use real chickens, which have bones. Did u know that?\r
3- The trick to the Rio is keeping things simple. Its high volume and cheap, so u cant expect ""Frasca-like"" service. Also the waitstaff is mostly college kids looking to pay their bills and have a good time while they work. I have met so many people that come every week, alot of families, because they know the faces and love the prices. Anywhere else in town you will pay 8$ and up for a margarita that has less tequila. \r
Did you know the Rio's has 3 shots of alcohol? Hence the 3 limit. 4- The rooftop patio is one of the best on earth. Problem is there is no kitchen or bar on the roof so things take longer, plus they have a whole downstairs with hundreds of hungry, thirsty people. How to avoid that? Grab a drink downstairs and carry it up, or order extra when the waiter ""finally"" arrives. Be patient, u are lucky to be served in such a beautiful place! 5- Cinco de Mayo at the Rio trumps any other Cinco party. \r
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Menu tips- Bobby Flay isn't cooking, got it? \r
-Guacamole is amazing. Simple, delicious, no unnecessary ingredients.\r
-Burrito de Carne smothered in Green/spicy or ranchero sauce. So good, especially w/ a margarita!\r
-Cheese queso appetizer\r
-Enchiladas,Tostadas,Chicken Salads,Fajitas\r
-Agave Martini on the rocks= Top shelf margarita for 8-9$!
Pros: Awesome food, margaritas and service. Rooftop patio, ""Garage"" seats.
Cons: Can get a busy on weekends, but worth the wait!
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