Joe Aguilar’s Templo Del Sol — Restaurant in Riverside

This is my second time coming in, the first time I was looking for a job (I’ve worked in kitchens for years) and discovered this place accidentally because it appeared on my maps- despite my never noticing this hidden gem even living only blocks away. The atmosphere is very comfortable, you feel right at home as soon as you take a seat. I’ve been helped by two women so far, both are very sweet and helpful. The staff is patient and happy to help you figure out what you’re likely to enjoy, I even requested an item that had apparently since been removed from the menu and was no longer available- but when I expressed that I was bummed to hear that because it sounded so good, they figured out a way to make it for me anyway. Everything is incredibly well-priced, especially for having a true “grandma’s kitchen” vibe to the restaurant as a whole. There are many items on the menu that I almost never see at Mexican restaurants in the area, including many soups, salads and even several desserts that each looked fantastic. I’ve decided to make an effort to come here to eat instead of the mostly generic food and atmosphere generally found in the area, I would highly recommend you do the same. The location makes the restaurant almost blend into the background and the surrounding area has many closed shops which doesn’t help it stand out as an open business with exceptional staff and service-which it most certainly is. Come check this place out, you won’t be...

It breaks my heart to leave a negative review... I really wanted to love this place. I've been 3 times now, always hoping to give them another shot because I love the history of this place, but they have unfortunately disappointed every time.

The first time I came the food was just entirely flavorless. I tried again a year later (this was a few weeks ago). We picked up food to go and waited 20 minutes after our latest order estimate for it to be ready. I got pezole and it was pretty good. My partner got the templo special and they did not include two of his 4 items, the beans were rancid, and they charged us extra for salsa.

Tonight I got pezole and the templo special again. It was a good thing i checked the order because one of my items was missing. They charged extra for salsa, which I just cannot understand. And again, the beans are rancid. I don't know if they're using expired lard or what, but beans should not taste sour. It's a bummer because beans are my favorite part of every meal. Again, the pezole was good. I think if I come here again I'll have to stick to pezole because everything else is pretty flavorless and mediocre.

I don't know how so many people can say this is the best mexican food in riverside. I really wish it was, but it's not. Los jilbertos and tios tacos are consistently better, more flavorful, and more timely... and they don't...

Food was just OK. For the price we paid we should of left full. Portions are great for an elderly home. A 8.99 bean and cheese burrito thats not even on a burrito size tortilla. I could of made these myself for a few bucks. For a table of 4 they give you about 24 corn chips thin and cold, for the one size soda it's 12oz if that, only one refill the same for the chips. They have a kid size burrito that left my 5 and 7 year old hungry they also finished in 3 minutes. Then started eating mine and my wife's. For over 40 bucks???? Rip-off PLACE!!!! We will Happily go up the street to our regular spot where I can get regular size food. A big basket of hot & thick corn chips a nice heavy burrito plus 5 grilled chicken tacos 2 large 40oz sodas for under 30 bucks. Perfect for a family of 4. I know times are hard for small businesses but they need to find a better way to do business so they can stay in business. Service was also lacking at this place. They get the 1 star for the A/C. I bet they don't care and we should be so lucky to eat them Rosarita's on a Stater bros tortilla. Hit up Dos Hermanas right down the street you'll leave full and with a smile. 😃 food even taste homemade at...