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The Riata Diner & Tavern
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
The Riata Diner & Tavern
7.8
American tavern that draws crowds for Taco Tuesday deals alongside drink specials. Not a Mexican spot, but the Tuesday taco lineup and bar energy make it a go-to for budget-friendly HH tacos.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taco Tuesday street tacos, Loaded nachos (HH), House margarita
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Taco Tuesday with HH-level pricing and bar specials.
Who should go: Value seekers and casual groups
When to visit: Tuesdays 4–9pm
What to order: Street tacos; nachos; well margarita
Insider tip: You’ll need a beverage purchase for HH pricing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free public lot behind the building and limited parallel spots on South J Street; fills by 6pm on Taco Tuesdays.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, team gear, and polos are all common.
Noise level: Lively during happy hour and games; moderate otherwise, conversation possible at booths.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes on game nights; otherwise minimal wait.
Weekday lunch: No wait; quick seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—bean or veggie tacos available upon request.
Vegan options: Minimal—tacos can be modified if you skip cheese and sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas available but shared prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re looking for a relaxed, sports-bar vibe—better suited for casual hangs than quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Arrive early on Taco Tuesdays for best seating at the bar or patio.
Is it kid-friendly? During lunch or early evenings, yes—basic menu items and casual service fit families; later hours skew adult with bar focus.
Best For
Better for: Budget taco specials, sports viewing, and a lively bar crowd.
Skip if: You want authentic Mexican flavors or a quieter sit-down dinner.
The Riata Diner & Tavern
7.7
All-day diner/tavern with classic wings basted in Buffalo, Teriyaki, or BBQ and served with blue cheese or ranch. Comfortable booth seating and a full bar suit casual meetups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wings (Buffalo, Teriyaki, or BBQ), Potato Skins, Riata Spicy Buffalo Burger
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Straightforward, saucy wings in a comfy diner-tavern setting.
Who should go: Casual family dinners
When to visit: Early evenings before the rush
What to order: Buffalo wings; potato skins; draft beer
Insider tip: Ask for extra-crisp wings and sauce on the side.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Ample free parking in the shared downtown lot behind the restaurant; additional street parking usually available on Second Street.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, team gear, and relaxed attire fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate—busy during peak hours but still comfortable for conversation at booths or the bar.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during peak family hours, especially on Fridays.
Weekday lunch: No wait or brief seating delay around noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, mozzarella sticks, and veggie wraps available.
Vegan options: Limited—basic salad or fries only; no dedicated vegan entrées.
Gluten-free options: Some options—grilled meats and salads can be made gluten-free upon request, though fryer is shared.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual meetups than romantic dates—laid-back diner vibe and bar seating make it easygoing but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm here, and most parties are seated quickly except during peak weekend dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—booth seating, a kids’ menu, and friendly service make it comfortable for families with children of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Dependable comfort food, friendly service, and relaxed atmosphere for groups or casual dinners.
Skip if: You’re looking for gourmet wings or a trendy bar scene—try Sauced BBQ & Spirits or The Bourbon Pear instead.