Cafe Rio Blanco

Name: Cafe Rio Blanco

Location: 148 Laurens Street, Aiken, SC 29801-3848
# (803) 643-7075

Guests: Angel & Steve (Friends from the area)

Thoughts: Cafe Rio Blanco is a cozy little family-owned Cuban diner on Laurens Street in Historic Downtown Aiken. The small restaurant front could easily be missed by casual passersby, but nevertheless this is a "must try" on our list. As one walks in, he/she is greeted by the friendly staff and is told sit "wherever". They offer dinner specials every evening and the diners are welcomed to go look them over on the steam table before ordering. Every dish is served with rice (yellow or white) and beans which were seasoned to perfection. Sam, Lacey and Angel all ordered a steak dish, while Steve opted for a pork dish. The steak dishes were served with a garlic butter and herb sauce that was unlike any other; an interesting dipping choice for steak but nonetheless delicious. All the dishes were thoroughly enjoyed and we all nearly licked our plates clear. The service was friendly as they let us sit a talk for 30 minutes after closing and still offered us refills with a smile. While chatting at dinner and thereafter we all noticed the walls and how they were painted to look like a street in Cuba. It was a nice touch of flare. The cafe also offers outdoor seating, a selection of beers and don't forget the Plantains! Angel had two orders of this Caribbean favorite. The experience was a good one and we are looking forward to our next visit.

Ratings:
Flavor: Excellent
Service: Excellent
Presentation: Excellent
Price: $$*
Ambiance: No Frills Dining

Pros/Cons:
Pros: Great food and service; unique food option in Aiken; prime location with outdoor street seating.
Cons: Only open until 8:30p during the week; the menu was rather short in selections; No full bar; pay for soda by the can (no free refills).

Final Thoughts: Overall, we would rate this a great dining experience that we hope to enjoy again and would recommend to any living in or just passing through Aiken.

* Price guide:
$ = under $10 per person
$$ = Between $10-$20 per person
$$$ = Over $20 per person