Our Story

More Than a Meal,
A Community

Born from a love of fresh ingredients and genuine hospitality, Cafe Rio has been the heartbeat of Rexburg dining since 2008.

Cafe Rio restaurant interior with warm ambiance
Our Story

Where Every Dish Tells a Story

Cafe Rio was founded in 2008 by Maria and Carlos Rodrigues, two passionate food lovers who believed that great food should be accessible, honest, and deeply satisfying. Starting as a modest 12-table cafe on the corner of 2nd South in Rexburg, Idaho, their dream quickly captured the hearts of locals.

From our signature slow-braised meats to our hand-crafted sauces made fresh each morning, every item on our menu reflects a commitment to quality that has never wavered. We source locally whenever possible, partner with Idaho farms for seasonal produce, and treat every guest like family.

  • Locally sourced ingredients from Idaho farms and producers
  • Sauces, dressings, and breads prepared fresh daily in-house
  • Community-focused with regular local events and partnerships
  • Dedicated to sustainability and reducing food waste
15+ Years Serving Rexburg
50k+ Happy Guests Served
40+ Menu Items
12 Local Farm Partners
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What We Stand For

Our Mission & Core Principles

Everything we do at Cafe Rio is guided by four simple but powerful commitments that shape every plate we serve.

Fresh First

We never compromise on freshness. Every ingredient is selected with care, ensuring the highest quality reaches your plate each day.

Made with Love

Our kitchen team approaches each recipe with genuine passion, crafting dishes that comfort, delight, and bring people together.

Community Roots

Rexburg is our home. We invest in local suppliers, hire locally, and actively support community events and initiatives throughout the year.

Sustainability

From compostable packaging to zero-waste kitchen practices, we take responsibility for our environmental footprint seriously every single day.

Our Journey

From a Corner Table to Rexburg's Favorite

Fifteen years of growth, flavors, and unforgettable moments — here's how Cafe Rio became a beloved institution.

2008

The Doors Open

Maria and Carlos Rodrigues open Cafe Rio with 12 tables, a handwritten menu, and a dream to bring soulful, scratch-made food to Rexburg's Main Street community.

2011

First Expansion

Growing demand leads to our first expansion — doubling seating capacity and adding an outdoor patio. We also launch our now-legendary weekend brunch service.

2014

Farm Partnership Program

We launch our Idaho Farm Partnership Program, establishing direct relationships with 8 local farms for seasonal produce, free-range eggs, and artisan dairy products.

2017

Catering & Events Launch

Cafe Rio extends beyond our walls with a full-service catering operation, bringing our flavors to weddings, corporate events, and community celebrations across Eastern Idaho.

2020

Resilience & Reinvention

Adapting to new challenges, we launch online ordering, curbside pickup, and family meal kits — serving our community without missing a beat during difficult times.

2023

New Location on 2nd South

We move to our current home at 76 W 2nd South — a beautifully renovated space featuring an open kitchen, private dining room, and a community table for shared meals.

The People Behind the Food

Meet Our Passionate Team

Every great meal starts with great people. Our dedicated team brings experience, creativity, and warmth to everything they do.

Maria Rodrigues - Co-Founder and Executive Chef

Maria Rodrigues

Co-Founder & Executive Chef

With a culinary degree from the Culinary Institute of America and 20+ years in the kitchen, Maria's recipes are the soul of Cafe Rio. Her grandmother's influence shines in every dish.

Carlos Rodrigues - Co-Founder and General Manager

Carlos Rodrigues

Co-Founder & General Manager

Carlos's hospitality background and warm personality set the tone for how every guest is welcomed. He oversees operations and ensures every visit exceeds expectations.

Priya Sharma - Head Pastry Chef

Priya Sharma

Head Pastry Chef

Priya joined us in 2015 after training in Paris and New York. Her inventive pastries and seasonal desserts have become some of Cafe Rio's most-talked-about offerings.

James Thornton - Sous Chef and Menu Developer

James Thornton

Sous Chef & Menu Developer

James brings bold global influences to our seasonal menu rotations. His farm-to-table philosophy drives our ingredient sourcing and keeps the menu exciting all year long.

Interested in becoming part of our team? We're always looking for passionate food lovers.

View Open Positions
What Drives Us

The Values That Define Cafe Rio

These aren't just words on a wall — they're the principles our entire team lives by, every shift, every service, every season.

Uncompromising Quality

From the first ingredient purchased to the final garnish placed, quality is never negotiable. We hold ourselves to the highest standard in every detail.

Genuine Hospitality

We believe dining out should feel like coming home. Every guest is welcomed with sincerity, attentiveness, and a genuine desire to make their experience memorable.

Environmental Stewardship

We minimize waste, choose sustainable suppliers, and continuously seek ways to operate with greater care for the planet and future generations.

Continuous Innovation

We stay curious, rotate seasonal menus, and embrace new culinary ideas while honoring the classic flavors that made our guests fall in love with us.

Fairness & Respect

We treat every team member, supplier, and guest with equal respect and dignity. A fair, inclusive workplace is the foundation of great service.

Local Pride

Rexburg made us who we are. We champion our local economy, support neighboring businesses, and take pride in representing our community at its best.

Come Visit Us

Taste the Story for Yourself

We'd love to welcome you to our table. Whether it's a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a special occasion, Cafe Rio is ready for you.

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Find Us

76 W 2nd S, Rexburg, ID 83440

Call Us

+1 208-535-5000

Opening Hours

Mon – Fri: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM