Delicious Tex Mex and Margaritas - located just off Boulder’s famous Pearl Street Mall! We are open for dine-in service as well as food and margaritas for takeout. Whether you're coming in to unwind and dine with us, to have a drink on our rooftop patio with sweeping views of the Flatirons, bringing food home for the family or just grabbing some margs for a fun night at home, the Boulder Rio is a delicious escape.
Mixed reviews on food quality; some dishes praised while others criticized for being bland or poorly prepared.
Service Experience
Service quality varies significantly; some customers report excellent service while others mention slow or inattentive staff.
Atmosphere
The rooftop dining experience and overall ambiance are frequently highlighted as positive aspects.
Drink Quality
Drinks, particularly margaritas, receive mixed feedback; some find them weak or lacking flavor.
Cleanliness Issues
Concerns raised about cleanliness, particularly in restrooms and dining areas.
AS
Aiden Semet
3 days ago
3.0
This place is really just fine. There's nothing really stand out about this place and I have a hard time saying a ton of positive or negative things about it. The atmosphere feels upscale and trendy, the margs are good enough, the food is just alright. The food is like something you'd get served at any regular low quality Mexican restaurant. It's really not bad, but could use some more love in the kitchen to bring it in line with what you'd expect given the atmosphere (and price!).
PG
Patrizia Giassa
4 days ago
5.0
Loved the rellenos and enchiladas. Also really good chips and salsa.
Our waiter, Ansel, was the best! He's a true asset to The Rio and his industry!
Thank you for your wonderful service Ansel!
CP
Camilo Pineda
6 days ago
3.0
Cranky bartender tried to get me to spend a fortune for a birthday shot of tequila. Apps and food was great.
GG
Gigi
Nov 8, 2025
1.0
The hosts at the front table were very disrespectful towards me and my friend. It was a male with red curly hair and about 20 and a female with blonde hair and about 18. They were giving us very rude looks and laughing at us and it made us very upset. I hope they get penalized or fired.
AW
Ashley Wehunt
Nov 1, 2025
3.0
The food was mediocre and service was just okay — there were long waits between courses, and we had to ask for the next step each time. My biggest concern, though, was the baby changing table in the restroom. It was broken, tilted, and filthy — completely unusable. I ended up having to change my 5-month-old on the waiting bench outside the restaurant, which was really disappointing. Also worth noting: I had two mimosaritas and a margarita, all of which were very weak. Overall, not a great experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
Where are you located?
We are located off Pearl Street on the corner of Walnut & 11th!
Do offer happy hour specials?
Yes, we do! Check out our happy hour menu online which is available Monday through Friday from 3pm to 6pm!
Can you go to the Rio if you’re doing the keto diet?
The Rio has a variety of keto-friendly options available to our diners! Check out our blog post that outlines some of our favorite dishes that can be modified to be low carb.
Do you have a gluten-free menu?
Of course! Check out our gluten-free website on our website or talk with your server to find a delicious gluten-free TexMex meal!
Do you have a vegan menu?
Yes, of course! We are proud to offer vegan choices. Please know that our kitchen is not a dedicated vegan kitchen. Despite our best efforts, it is possible that cross contamination may occur.
Where is Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant located?
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant is located at 1101 Walnut Street, Boulder, CO 80302, just off Pearl Street on the corner of Walnut & 11th.
Does Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant accept reservations?
Yes, Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant accepts reservations which can be made through their reservation URL on Resy.
What are the dine-in hours for Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant?
The restaurant is open Monday to Wednesday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Thursday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Friday and Saturday until 10:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
When is brunch served at Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant?
Brunch is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM; it is closed for brunch Monday through Friday.
Does Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant offer happy hour specials?
Yes, happy hour specials are offered Monday through Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM.
Can I order takeout or delivery from Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant?
Yes, takeout is available daily with varying hours and delivery services including in-store pickup, curbside pickup, delivery, and same day delivery are offered.
Does Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant have vegan and gluten-free menu options?
Yes, the restaurant offers vegan options and a gluten-free menu. Note that the kitchen is not dedicated vegan, so some cross contamination may occur.
Are there any nearby places to visit around Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant?
Yes, nearby places include The Walrus Saloon, a dive bar; The Spotted James, a dance club and bar; and Rosetta Hall, a food court which offers a variety of dining options.
What nearby entertainment options are within walking distance of Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant?
Nearby entertainment includes The Spotted James, a lively dance club and pub, and Walnut Brewery for craft beer enthusiasts, ideal for visitors looking to extend their night out.
How can nearby real estate agents assist customers visiting Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant?
Several real estate agents like RE/MAX Alliance on Walnut and Stewart Ward Real Estate are nearby, which may be helpful for customers interested in local property or relocation information while dining in the area.