If you’re looking for a delicious meal in the charming town of Carmel, California, look no further than the Rio Grill Restaurant. This local favorite has been serving mouth-watering dishes for over 30 years, and it’s no surprise why it’s still a top choice for locals and tourists alike. It’s considered one of Carmel’s top ten restaurants. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at Rio Grill and why it’s a must-visit restaurant in Carmel.
Rio Grill Restaurant Review
Creative American cuisine at its finest awaits you at Rio Grill Restaurant. Indulge in a remarkable dining experience with a full bar and an exceptional wine selection. Impeccable service further enhances your visit to this vibrant culinary hotspot on the beautiful Monterey Peninsula. Meet friends and savor exciting food that will leave a lasting impression.
The Atmosphere
You’ll feel the warm and inviting atmosphere as soon as you step into Rio Grill. The restaurant is decorated with rustic wood accents, giving it a cozy and intimate feel. The dim lighting creates the perfect ambiance for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends.
The Service
The staff at Rio Grill are known for their exceptional service. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be greeted with a smile and a warm welcome. The servers are attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, making recommendations and answering any questions you may have.
The service is efficient but not rushed, allowing you to enjoy your meal leisurely. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure every guest has a memorable dining experience.
Rio Grill Restaurant -The Menu
Rio Grill offers a diverse menu that is sure to please any palate. From fresh seafood to mouth-watering steaks, this restaurant has something for everyone. They also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions. One of the ladies a few tables from us had an allergy to sunflower oil. The waitress was extremely knowledgeable and helpful in suggesting dishes that she might enjoy.
Appetizer
Start your meal off with one of Rio Grill’s delicious appetizers. The Ahi Tuna Tartare is famous, featuring fresh tuna, avocado, and a spicy aioli. The Grilled Artichoke is also a must-try, served with a lemon aioli for dipping.
We decided, this visit upon the Monterey Bay Calamari with orange sesame dipping sauce. I asked for a half serving of Iceberg Wedge Salad with garlic bread crumbs, Roma tomatoes, and Blue Cheese dressing.We dived straight into the appetizers, so I forgot to take pictures. The Calamari was delicious, and the salad was refreshing.
Entree
When it comes to entrees, Rio Grill does not disappoint. Their signature dish, the Rio Grill BBQ Half Chicken, is a local favorite. The chicken is slow-roasted with their famous BBQ sauce, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. This dish was my first choice. However, I felt that having a portion of half chicken was a bit much.
I decided on the Wood Grill Double-Cut Pork Chop, and I’m glad I did. It’s a gluten-free dish with smoked Chili Apple Honey glaze, mouthwatering creamy mashed Yukon golds, and roasted cauliflower. It certainly didn’t disappoint. I paired it with a glass of Sonoma Coast Martin Ray 2020 Pinot Noir.
For seafood lovers, we heard the Pan-Seared Sea Scallops are a must-try. Served with a citrus beurre blanc and a side of creamy risotto, I’m sure it’s a dish that will leave you wanting more.
Illya decided to go with the Cioppino, which, as some may know, mixed seafood with Dungeness Crab Meat, Prawns, Mussels, and Clams and a rich tomato sauce. It was served with herbed butter toast. He was a little bolder and paired it with a Silver Coin, which is Silver Tequila, orange liquor and lime juice.
Dessert
No meal is complete without a dessert, and Rio Grill has some delectable options. The Warm Chocolate Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The Key Lime Pie also sounded heavenly, tangy, and refreshing. Since we were so full from the meal and drinks, we opted out of dessert this time.
MTA4U Rio Grill Restaurant Review:
Local Favorite
Rio Grill has been a local favorite for over three decades, and it’s easy to see why. The restaurant has a loyal following of regulars who return for the delicious food, warm atmosphere, and exceptional service. Chef Eduardo Coronel creates inspired Southwestern American dishes.
In addition to being a top restaurant in Carmel, Rio Grill is also known for its involvement in the community. They regularly host fundraising events and donate some of their proceeds to local charities. This commitment to giving back has made them a beloved establishment in the community.
Supporting Local Farms and Wineries
Rio Grill takes pride in supporting local farms and wineries. They source their ingredients from nearby farms and feature a variety of local wines on their menu. This supports the local economy and ensures guests get the freshest and highest quality ingredients.
But don’t just take our word for it. This restaurant has received rave reviews from not just from the locals but those visiting this charming coastal town, including a stellar rating of ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 out of 5 Stars) from MTA4U Restaurant Review.
Rio Grill Restaurant Review: A Culinary Coastal Cuisine Journey On Your Way To The Sea
The colorful lounge and full bar add to the dynamic environment of this award-winning restaurant.
Would We Recommend Rio Grill Restaurant? Absolutely!
In conclusion, Rio Grill is a must-visit restaurant in Carmel. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, exceptional service, and delicious menu, it’s no surprise that it’s a local favorite.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends, Rio Grill is the perfect choice for a memorable dining experience. So next time you’re in Carmel, stop by Rio Grill to taste their mouth-watering dishes.
Preview Rio Grill Coastal Cuisine Menu
So why wait? Indulge in the wonderful flavors and culinary dishes that Rio Grill Restaurant has to offer.
Look at the menu to preview the mouthwatering creations that await you. Don’t miss out on this must-visit establishment that combines the best fine dining with the allure of coastal cuisine.
Join us on this culinary adventure and discover why Rio Grill Restaurant is a true treasure on the coast.
Welcome to creative American food at its best with a full bar, great wine, and impeccable service.
Rio Grill Restaurant – The Location
The Rio Grill Restaurant is located at The Crossroads. A local landmark for over forty years, The Crossroads Carmel has an impressive lineup of upscale shops & boutiques, exceptional restaurants & wine tasting combined with all your daily necessities such as grocery, pharmacy, and personal service businesses.
The Crossroads Carmel is conveniently located along scenic Highway One and Rio Road at Big Sur and Carmel Valley gateways. The Crossroads Carmel showcases vibrant landscaping and quaint courtyards and promotes a relaxed & enjoyable experience for residents and visitors to the Monterey Peninsula.