Tio's Tacos Folk Art Garden
A vibrant Mexican eatery and folk art garden, showcasing incredible sculptures made from recycled materials. A feast for the eyes and the palate!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art exploration
Tio's Tacos Folk Art Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Mexican eatery and folk art garden, showcasing incredible sculptures made from recycled materials. A feast for the eyes and the palate!
"This place is such a vibe, the backyard is beautifully decorated with quirky statues. It’s worth it to check it out."
📸 Capture the Art
This place is a photographer's dream! Allow ample time to wander and snap photos of the incredible folk art.
🍹 Try the Agua Frescas
Don't miss the unique and delicious Agua Frescas! The chamoy cup is a must-try for an extra kick.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Folk Art Garden
Outdoor patio and garden area
An explosion of creativity! Explore a wonderland of sculptures and art crafted from recycled materials.
Wet Burrito Supreme
Menu item
A highly recommended dish featuring carne asada, packed with flavor and a satisfyingly generous portion.
Unique Agua Frescas
Beverage menu
Experience a variety of refreshing and flavorful drinks, including unique options like pineapple, chia, parsley, and lemon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art & Atmosphere
Savor the Flavors and Drinks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Mexican Folk Art Palace at Tio's Tacos | SoCal Wanderer | KCET
📸 Capture the Art
This place is a photographer's dream! Allow ample time to wander and snap photos of the incredible folk art.
🍹 Try the Agua Frescas
Don't miss the unique and delicious Agua Frescas! The chamoy cup is a must-try for an extra kick.
Moving to Riverside soon — any must-try food spots?
What’s some good authentic Mexican food in riverside, recently moved!!
🍤 Shrimp Tacos Delight
If you're unsure what to order, the shrimp tacos are a standout, packed with flavor and fresh ingredients.
💰 Reasonable Prices
Enjoy delicious food and a unique experience without breaking the bank; prices are reasonable for California.
What is the best Mexican food in the Inland Empire?
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Art
This place is a photographer's dream! Allow ample time to wander and snap photos of the incredible folk art.
🍹 Try the Agua Frescas
Don't miss the unique and delicious Agua Frescas! The chamoy cup is a must-try for an extra kick.
🍤 Shrimp Tacos Delight
If you're unsure what to order, the shrimp tacos are a standout, packed with flavor and fresh ingredients.
💰 Reasonable Prices
Enjoy delicious food and a unique experience without breaking the bank; prices are reasonable for California.
🚶 Explore the Garden
The outdoor art garden is vast and constantly expanding. Take your time to discover all the quirky statues and creations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tio's Tacos is celebrated as a unique Riverside treasure, blending delicious casual Mexican cuisine with an extraordinary folk art garden crafted from recycled materials. Visitors rave about the immersive atmosphere, creative decor, and flavorful dishes like the Wet Burrito Supreme and unique Agua Frescas, making it a must-see destination.
"Such a cool place to eat some very delicious food!!! The setting is vast… Full of art and it looks like they are consistently expanding their funky decor too over the years.
Service is perfect. I highly recommend getting the Wet Burrito Supreme (Carne Asada) and to drink i vouch for the Chia Flavor of the Agua Fresca (has real Pineapple, Chia Seeds, Parsley & Lemon so good!) IN THE CHAMOY CUP!!!!! 😍😍😍😍😍
Trust me, I won’t steer you wrong!"
Kay D.
"This is definitely one of the better restaurants in Riverside. I liked the character of the place, and the mole on my enchiladas had very good flavor. Service was friendly and the food came out quickly. Everything was reasonably priced for California."
Austin T
"This place is such a vibe, the backyard is beautifully decorated with quirky statues. It’s worth it to check it out. The food is average tho, the refried beans are too salty, but the price was reasonable."
Samantha Cox
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tio's Tacos is located in Riverside, California. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach this unique spot.
While the address is straightforward, the sheer visual spectacle of the place can be a bit surprising! Keep an eye out for the vibrant and eclectic decorations that signal you've arrived.
The immediate area is generally easy to navigate. The main attraction is Tio's itself, so focus on parking and then immersing yourself in the garden and restaurant.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission tickets required to enter Tio's Tacos. It's a restaurant where you can enjoy the art as part of your dining experience.
Operating hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
There is no cover charge for the art garden. The art is integrated into the dining experience, and you can explore it freely while you're there.
While the art is a huge draw, Tio's Tacos is primarily a restaurant. It's generally expected that visitors will order food or drinks to enjoy the space.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Tio's Tacos serves casual Mexican fare. Popular items include burritos, enchiladas, tacos, and taco salads, with a focus on flavorful dishes.
Many visitors highly recommend the Wet Burrito Supreme (Carne Asada) and the shrimp tacos. The mole on the enchiladas is also praised for its good flavor.
Absolutely! The Agua Frescas are a highlight, with unique flavors like pineapple, chia, parsley, and lemon. Some even come in a chamoy cup for an extra zing.
Reviews suggest that the prices at Tio's Tacos are reasonable, especially considering the unique dining experience and location in California.
While specific vegetarian/vegan options aren't detailed in all reviews, Mexican cuisine often offers bean and vegetable-based dishes. It's advisable to inquire with your server about available options.
📸 📸 Photography
Tio's Tacos is an absolute paradise for photographers! The entire garden is filled with unique, quirky, and colorful folk art made from recycled materials, offering endless photo opportunities.
Everywhere! From the intricate sculptures to the vibrant murals and the overall whimsical atmosphere, you'll find something interesting to photograph around every corner of the garden and patio.
While not explicitly stated, for personal photography, it's generally acceptable. For professional shoots, it's always best to contact the establishment beforehand to inquire about their policy.
Daylight hours offer the best natural light to capture the vibrant colors and details of the art. Evenings can offer a different, more atmospheric vibe with lighting.
Expect a wild and imaginative collection of art made from repurposed items like tires, bottles, metal scraps, and more, transformed into whimsical sculptures and installations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place to let kids burn off some energy while you enjoy a meal. The casual atmosphere means you don't have to worry too much about them being too loud. Plus, the unique drinks like the Agua Frescas can be a fun treat for them to try. Just be mindful that the art is everywhere, so supervise younger children to ensure they don't touch or damage the exhibits.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
Plan to spend a good amount of time here, as there's so much to see and photograph. The constantly evolving nature of the art means even repeat visitors might find something new. It’s a place that truly sparks the imagination and offers a visual feast unlike any other.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Instead of paying for separate museum entries, you can immerse yourself in art while enjoying a meal. The generous portion sizes also mean you might even have leftovers, further stretching your budget. It's a perfect spot for travelers looking for memorable experiences without excessive spending.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Tio's: A Recycled Wonderland
This unique approach not only makes Tio's visually stunning but also carries an underlying message of sustainability and imagination. The art is constantly evolving, with new pieces being added, ensuring that each visit can offer a fresh discovery. It’s a testament to the power of artistic vision and a truly one-of-a-kind experience that sets Tio's apart from any other dining establishment.
When you visit, take your time to truly explore. Wander through the garden paths, peek into hidden corners, and appreciate the intricate details of each piece. It’s an immersive experience that engages all the senses, making it a memorable destination for art lovers and casual diners alike.
Culinary Delights Amidst Creativity
Beyond the burritos, the shrimp tacos have also received high praise for their taste and ample shrimp filling, often served on handmade tortillas. The mole sauce on enchiladas is noted for its excellent flavor profile. For beverages, the Agua Frescas are a standout, offering a refreshing escape with unique flavor combinations that go beyond the usual.
Despite the artistic spectacle, the dining experience is complemented by friendly service and reasonable prices, making it a great value. While some reviews mention the food as 'average,' the overwhelming sentiment is that it's a delicious accompaniment to the visually stimulating environment, and many find it to be among the better dining options in Riverside.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit