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.
Customers frequently reported slow service, rude staff, and long waits for food and drinks.
Food Quality
The quality of food received mixed reviews, with some praising specific dishes while others found it mediocre or lacking flavor.
Atmosphere
The rooftop dining experience and overall atmosphere were often highlighted positively, with many enjoying the views and ambiance.
Staff Performance
While some servers received high praise for their attentiveness and friendliness, others were criticized for poor service.
JM
John Miller
5 days ago
4.0
Great value great food service at the bar could have been more attentive I missed out on a few additional orders from our party even though it wasn't very busy.
Overall we will be coming back!
KL
Kayla Lawrence
Jan 3, 2026
1.0
Very very slow service. Even though they were hardly busy. The dining room was filthy. Mediocore food at best. We used to love this place. What the heck happened? We will not be back unfortunately.
AS
Alison Santmyer
Jan 1, 2026
5.0
Our favorite restaurant by far, especially when the roof is open for seating complete with a strawberry lite frozen margarita, chips and salsa, guacamole, and shrimp fajitas with diabla sauce or a steak burrito deluxe!
TW
Thomas Wright
Dec 31, 2025
1.0
Went there for a beer, New Year's Eve at 9 PM and bartender could not have been more rude. Sat there for 15 minutes with four people waiting for a beer and she wasn't even busy.
I've always heard rough things about this place, but this was shocking.
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.