Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican — Restaurant in Yorba Linda

In past years, I had always loved going to Cafe Rio. I was delighted to see that there was a cafe rio in Yorba Linda when I located here. I have been there 3 times over the last 5 years and each time I am sadly disappointed. Today was the last time I am eating at their establishment. The food was clearly not fresh at all- the salsa had a thick dark layer on the top, the meat did too. The surrounding surface areas were very dirty. It does not appear that any thorough cleaning takes place on the counter surfaces or the food preparing areas. I actually questioned if I wanted to continue with my order as I was worried I may be eating bacteria contaminated food. The employees were slightly more enthusiastic than previously observed but still not a welcoming entourage. I have noticed that everytime I go to Cafe Rio, there is little to no customers and I understand why. The food did not taste horrible, although the rice was not fully cooked. But just the thought of eating old food that’s been left out for an unknown amount of time (probably because of a lack of customers) had made me think twice about the food I was consuming. I agree with the other customers complaining of small food portions, they offer super tiny portions at high prices… I would’ve been able to look past that if I trusted the food but it’s just another nail in the coffin. Sadly , I won’t...

A very inappropriate thing happened on my last visit. I hate to leave this in a review but can’t find any way to reach the owner on their website. I have ordered catering on several occasions here and haven’t had an issue, until recently.

Apparently it was the day of the employee party. Several of us were waiting for our pick up orders and a few customers were in line for food. An employee ( I was told her name was Laura.) was loudly and angrily ranting and carrying on, mad that customers were there. She was saying things about being overworked and tired from making tortilla's, mad no one locked the door. She started cursing profanities, walking over to waiting customers and yelling the F word at them. My husband and I were sitting and waiting. She approached us and started cussing at us. I told her to leave. She went in the restroom for a while, then left out the door stopping at the window to scream at us and flip us off. Everyone ignored her, including the employees.

I feel like the owners should know about this. This cannot be a one time thing. She was way too comfortable, and now she behaved and no one seemed to know what to do with her. This threatening behavior is absolutely...

Update April 2024 There were a few new faces in the house today and all were great. John, Peter, Melissa, and the team provided excellent customer service and overall staff morale seems improved. As always, food was delicious! Portion sizes were decent as well. Prices have gone up slightly recently, but still my favorite choice for taco Tuesday.

They recently lost some great staff. Apparently, they're not allowed to take their sick days per several staff (illegal) and lack any health benefits. The manager, Christopher, has started charging for things that have always been included, but his new "rules" are applied haphazardly. The overall morale of the staff stinks and is sometimes directed to the guests. All that being said, the food is good. The amount of meat given varies by who's serving you. Sometimes, it's super stingy, other times it's perfect. Taste is excellent. The hand-made drinks are delicious but often run out before closing. The fish and shrimp always look dry - haven't tried them. Melissa and Laura are super nice and are part of the reason we keep returning. We also love Peter, Shaw,...