Rio Brazilian Steakhouse - Durham
+44 191 372 9779+ Add websiteImprove this listing
Hours
Sun
12:00 - 20:30
Mon
12:00 - 21:00
Tue
12:00 - 21:00
Wed
12:00 - 21:00
Thu
12:00 - 21:00
Fri
12:00 - 22:00
Sat
12:00 - 22:00
Details
Someone from this business manages this listing.
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CUISINES
Brazilian, British, Healthy
Special Diets
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
features
Details
About
Let us take you on a culinary journey into the Tijuca Urban Forest that surrounds Rio de Janeiro, with planted walls and flowered ceilings towering high above a traditional Brazilian Churrasco dining experience, right here in Durham. Our specially trained Gaucho Chefs are on hand to serve our exquisite meat cuts that are continuously carved at the table in a traditional Rodizio style.
CUISINES
Brazilian, British, Healthy
Special Diets
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
FEATURES
Reservations, Buffet, Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Non-smoking restaurants, Gift Cards Available
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5.0
1,279 reviews
Excellent
1,223
Very good
39
Average
11
Poor
2
Terrible
5
Lisa
County Durham10 contributions
Dec 2022 • couples
First time we have tried Rio Steakhouse, we booked the last lunchtime sitting 3pm £22,95 each.
We arrived and were seated straight away, Angelo explained how everything worked and invited us to go to the salad bar all unlimited. Salad bar was extensive with salads, cheeses, breads, mushrooms in sauces, salad potatoes and more.
When we returned to our seats there was a bucket of seasoned fries and cheese balls .
There was about 6 different cuts of steak, also chicken and pork. Waiters continually come round carving the meats on your plate, once you have had enough just turn your card over to red, if you want more just turn it back to green.
The meats were insanely good, melt in your mouth and the flavours were amazing.
There was a optional 10% service charge on the bill which was highlighted and they did mention. We were happy to pay this as the food was so good and Angelo couldn’t do enough for us, well deserved we will definitely be back.
Written 8 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear H9650XNlisar,
What an amazing review! Thank you so much for providing such a great feedback.
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
Thank you once more for your lovely feedback, we hope to see you again soon.
Obrigado!
Written 16 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paul C
Durham1 contribution
Aug 2022 • couples
I have no words for how happy this place made me. I am not kidding when I say it brought a tear to my eye.
Firstly we were presented with complimentary chips and cheese bread (like dough balls with cheese in the middle, very nice). Both of which were replaced when we finished them.
Next, the salad bar. Quality ingredients, proper fresh salad, a selection of meats and cheeses, hot selections, bread, the list goes on. A fantastic and delicious selection.
Now the main event. My wife had a vegan pasta dish which she said she would rate a 4/10. However, to be fair, she does have a few intolerances so the dish had to have a few of the ingredients removed which affected the taste. It would have been nice if she was offered something else, to replace what she couldn’t have, to make the dish taste a bit nicer.
Having said that, I have no words to express how good my meal was. The meat is brought to your table based on a card you flip over to say if you want more or not. You can continue to do this for as long as you like. There were four different types of beef, minted lamb and from what I saw, two different types of chicken, sausages and gammon served with pineapple. All of which you can have as much as you want of. Can you believe that?? As much meat as you can eat! Ohhh I was happy! Not only that but the Picanha was cooked to an absolute perfect medium rare and rivalled any other steak I have had, anywhere.
Finally, just as I thought I had hit the meat wall, the servers brought out the most amazing rack of beef ribs. I have never tasted anything like it. Simply divine!
The service was outstanding, the servers, waitress and manager were all a fine example of how front of house staff should be. Nothing was too much trouble and they explained everything (as it was a new concept to the both of us) very patiently. My wife’s intolerances were also accommodated very well, but like I said it was a little disappointing that nothing was done to replace the ingredients lost.
Needless to say that this is a carnivore’s paradise. If you love your meat then you absolutely must try this place. Be warned, it is not cheap, but it certainly is worth the money! My own personal criticism is that they add on a service charge. This always annoys me when restaurants do this. It is not down to the restaurant to decide to add in a tip, that is down to the customer and if deserving will be applied. Please don’t do this, I find it a little off putting.
Written 7 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear Mark D,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a fantastic 5* review on your Rio experience at our newly-opened venue at Durham! We are very happy and proud to open our fourth Rio and to receive so much love and care from our customers!
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Although our speciality may be our rodizio selection, our kitchen team put the same care and attention into crafting each of the 3 delicious dishes on our vegan/vegetarian/pescatarian menu. We are sorry if your wife were disappointed with the spicy fajita pasta because we had to take some ingredients out in order to accommodate her requests so it lost completely the taste. Our General Manager tried to offer her a better option, the pescatarian (Salmon) which would be better for her and full of flavour also.
However, Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
It is so fantastic to hear that you enjoyed your experience so much, we cannot wait to welcome you back for your next visit.
Obrigado!
Written 7 August 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
James P
1 contribution
Sept 2022 • family
We booked for Rio Durham on a lunchtime slot as it was fully booked on the afternoon and short notice. Staff were very friendly and polite (Thank you Sohini and Aryaman!), and gave good recommendations for the drinks menu and desserts. Every meat served to the table was excellent and cooked to a perfect level of wellness (medium rare for steaks, pork and chicken were not overcooked and were juicy). One of the table preferred medium well and accommodations were made so that they got a chance to try each meat being served at that level of wellness, which was great. The salad bar was more of a charcuterie buffet, with some excellent options of cold cuts, cheese, breads and sauce based foods to compliment your meat. Everything i put on my plate tasted excellent and this was echoed by the whole table! Cocktails were also great as well, the signature ones are excellent. Overall all guests were super satisfied with our food and experience at Rio and definitely felt it was great value for the price paid. Will definitely be returning here more in the future!
Written 10 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear jamespD131AX,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a fantastic 5* review on your Rio experience at our newly-opened venue at Durham! We are very happy and proud to open our fourth Rio and to receive so much love and care from our customers!
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
It is so fantastic to hear that you enjoyed your experience so much, we cannot wait to welcome you back for your next visit.
Obrigado!
Written 18 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Cairine C
Durham1 contribution
Aug 2022 • couples
We ate here when the restaurant had only been open 5 weeks. Service was very friendly and efficient. All the food was amazing and one of the front of house managers even asked if there was a special cut of meat we’d like that he could ask the chef for!!
We visited at 5.30 on a Friday when it was only a third full and found the whole experience really good value for money. Well done Rio!! Hopefully they can maintain the same standards when busy too as it’s a winning formula!!
Written 15 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear cairinec2015,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a fantastic 5* review on your Rio experience at our newly-opened venue at Durham! We are very happy and proud to open our fourth Rio and to receive so much love and care from our customers!
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
It is so fantastic to hear that you enjoyed your experience so much, we cannot wait to welcome you back for your next visit.
Obrigado!
Written 18 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TonyNev
Durham63 contributions
Sept 2022 • couples
We have just had our first and defiantly NOT our last dinner at Durhams new Rio Brazilian Steakhouse.
We went for our anniversary and from arrival to leaving it was all very special.
Nice gestures of a sign on table and then a complimentary dessert for us to share.
Salad buffet was more than you could need and would be a great meal on its own.
Meats that came around were amazing and cooked (for me) to perfection.
The red green card system works very well and no rush or pressure to eat as much as you can in one go.
Drinks were priced very well for Durham and and cocktails defiantly had booze in and not just pop.
Staff were great and a shout out to Luke who was very attentive and good fun as well as supervisor sorry we didn’t get her name.
We will be back and already planning our next visit only minutes after leaving
Well done guys great addition to Durham
Written 4 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear TonyNev,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a fantastic 5* review on your Rio experience at our newly-opened venue at Durham! We are very happy and proud to open our fourth Rio and to receive so much love and care from our customers!
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
It is so fantastic to hear that you enjoyed your experience so much, we cannot wait to welcome you back for your next visit.
Obrigado!
Written 8 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
j g
19 contributions
Jan 2023 • family
If you have not been here before your life is about to be changed!!! The restaurant itself is beautiful, nice and cool and the decor was Brazilian and vibrant, gorgeous! The front door staff were so lovely and friendly and helped us to our table straight away.
Angelo came straight over and asked if we had been before, and explained the salad bar and how everything worked, such a lovely guy! He’s a credit to the restaurant!
We ordered the tropical punch mock tail and this was so refreshing and tasty!
Immediately we were presented with a beautiful selection of meats including bbq chicken, sirloin, rib-eye , pork belly, lamb! If you keep your sign of green the waiters will continue to bring meat and if you keep it on red they will stop until your ready. I can honestly say this was the best meat I’ve ever had, each one was stunning! Each waiter was so friendly, patient and explained the meat and flavouring! The salad bar was also beautifully presented and again each item I had was to die for!
Unlimited dough balls, chips and peppercorn sauce also accompanied this meal extravaganza, all stunning again!
Big shout out to Gustavo as well who was not only charming and friendly but also 🔥
By far the best meal I’ve had in years if not ever, a little pricey that other restaurants but 100% worth it for the incredible service, value for money and incredible atmosphere!!
Wow wow wow!!!!
Written 30 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear jg636,
What an amazing review! Thank you so much for providing such a great feedback.
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
Thank you once more for your lovely feedback, we hope to see you again soon.
Obrigado!
Written 1 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gary
9 contributions
Sept 2022 • couples
First time at Rio in Durham. Birthday meal for my wife. From entering the restaurant we were well looked after. A young girl called Neeve served our table and was the most sociable 16 year old and a pleasure to meet. We were asked throughout the evening if we needed anything and Neeve always found time to chat. The food was outstanding, salad bar was fabulous and the meat just kept coming and was beautifully tender. The price of the evening was reflected in the quality of the food and service we received. Thank you to all the staff for a wonderful evening.
Written 2 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear surgicalspirit1,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a fantastic 5* review on your Rio experience at our newly-opened venue at Durham! We are very happy and proud to open our fourth Rio and to receive so much love and care from our customers!
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
It is so fantastic to hear that you enjoyed your experience so much, we cannot wait to welcome you back for your next visit.
Obrigado!
Written 8 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Heynonymousse
1 contribution
Dec 2022 • family
Family of 2 meat eaters and 2 vegetarians.
We called in after a trip to the cinema.
The manager managed to squeeze us in despite we did not have a booking.
Very happy with the food and especially impressed by the high standard and varied selection of the buffet.
The restaurant caters for Meat Eaters, Pescetarians, Vegan and Vegetarians. Particularly the carved meats are the speciality.
My wife and son were not so keen on the vegetarian pasta dish. It was a tad to creamy for their tastes.
However, the manager arranged free ice creams for the kids. She really didn't have to do that. The ice cream was very nice.
Was slightly surprised at the price. The final bill was almost twice what I was initially expecting. The buffet was advertised at under £20 per person yet the final bill came to nearly £150 for a family of four with a round of drinks.
I would still recommend this restaurant, mostly because of the standard of food and the brilliant customer service. Just beware of the prices.
Written 20 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear stephenwT2828SM,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such an amazing review on your Rio experience at our newly-opened venue at Durham! We are very happy and proud to open our fourth Rio and to receive so much love and care from our customers!
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
I apologise for the miss communication, but the price of £19,95 is just for the vegan/vegetarian/pescatarian option including unlimited salad bar. The 2 guest that had the meat, they paid the normal price for lunch/dinner that includes the meat.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
Obrigado!
Written 3 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
rowtietowers
647 contributions
Oct 2022 • friends
A brilliant addition to the Durham restaurant scene (we’ve already been to the one in Jesmond, Newcastle so knew what to expect).
The choice from the salad bar alone is well worth it with masses of choice, both hot & cold (over 40 choices).
The meat selection (7 different cuts of beef plus lamb, pork & chicken) served up by the rodizio’s is second to none and only stops coming when you turn your mat over to red if you’ve had enough or want a break.
At £34.95 for meat eaters (£22.95 at lunchtime), it sounds expensive but for what you get, it is well worth it.
For those who don’t like meat, there are vegan, vegetarian & fish options at a reduced price.
Written 27 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear rowtietowers,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a fantastic 5* review on your Rio experience at our newly-opened venue at Durham! We are very happy and proud to open our fourth Rio and to receive so much love and care from our customers!
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
It is so fantastic to hear that you enjoyed your experience so much, we cannot wait to welcome you back for your next visit. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Obrigado!
Written 13 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
shaun1967
3173 contributions
Feb 2023 • couples
My wife booked us a table here on a Sunday afternoon. I lolled up the reviews on TA, and noted that it was rated #1 in Durham. A lot of the most recent reviews were from single/very low contribution accounts, and had “common themes” but still, there were plenty of very positive more obviously genuine reviews that suggested my wife had made a good choice. Plus I’d spoken to a few folk face to face who’d been and no-one had a bad word to say.
On arrival we were quickly greeted and seated, and were given a brief run through about how it all worked. The salad bar was well stocked with good quality options, but you’d do well to hold back, because once the cuts of meat arrive, carved at your table by a variety of friendly servers, you really want to leave plenty of head room. So long as you want it keeps coming. Various cuts of beef, including rib, a delicious sweet belly pork, marinated lamb, chicken wings, sausages. House style for the beef and lamb is medium rare, but you can ask for well done if that’s not to your taste. A 10% service charge is added as a default option.
We’ll go again, no doubt.
Written 20 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear shaun1967,
What an amazing review! Thank you so much for providing such a great feedback.
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
Thank you once more for your lovely feedback, we hope to see you again soon.
Obrigado!
Written 28 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kim A
1 contribution
Mar 2023 • couples
We came for a date night and honestly Rio’s Durham delivered. We were welcomed as friends upon arrival, showed to our table quickly. A quick run down of how things worked and we were all set - Jayne our server brought our drinks had a quick chat and we went to the salad bar - here was a huge selection of Brazilian flavours, it looked and tasted amazing. We had a couple of free appetisers left on our table whilst we were at the salad bar and then came the meat - rump, sirloin, ribeye, gammon and lamb. Each meat sever came to our table asked us how we were, how much we’d like and explained what it was if we asked. The fillet was just perfection but the lamb was just mouth watering. Jayne was superb always just checking and having a bit chat! Even the owner came to say hi and got us a special request of chicken hearts! It was absolutely fabulous dining experience and we most certainly will be back!!
Written 11 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer Relations
Dear U3418ZOkima,
What an amazing review! Thank you so much for providing such a great feedback.
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
Thank you once more for your lovely feedback, we hope to see you again soon.
Obrigado!
Written 20 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
aratelli
Chester-le-Street360 contributions
Aug 2022 • couples
We’ve visited several Rios/Estabulos over the past few years throughout the UK but first time here and far by my favourite for service and food.
Warm welcome. Everything explained to us by Maddie. Very attentive - she cane and checked numerous times if everything was okay and if we needed anything else.
Good choice on salad bar. Range if meats cooked to perfection.
Clean, lovely decor.
£22.95 each lunch time special bargain for the quality and quantity of food and also the service. 10% service charge is automatically added to the bill but it’s made clear that you don’t have to pay it - but we thought it was worth it.
Will definitely be back lots more, thank you!
Written 30 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear aratelli,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a fantastic 5* review on your Rio experience at our newly-opened venue at Durham! We are very happy and proud to open our fourth Rio and to receive so much love and care from our customers!
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
It is so fantastic to hear that you enjoyed your experience so much, we cannot wait to welcome you back for your next visit.
Obrigado!
Written 1 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
irenenights
Bedlington171 contributions
Oct 2023 • friends
Absolutely dreadful, service virtually non existent and the food just awful. I explained to our waiter that I prefer my meat cooked med/well done, I was told the kitchen would be informed and then went to get a plate of salad. On my return to the table, my friend who likes her food med/rare was offered several cuts of meat, I mentioned to three different servers that I was waiting for meat cooked slightly longer, from then on I was offered no meat whatsoever despite the servers again returning to offer various meats to my friend. I did eventually speak with our waiter who then checked with the kitchen, he returned to the table and offered me either a free dessert or a 10% discount on my bill, I opted for the latter which meant one plate of salad actually cost me just over 26 quid, never to be repeated under any circumstances, It was explained to me before I left that basically you need to eat your food medium rare or the kitchen can't cope, just shambolic service and a total lack of any thought to the customer experience.
Written 7 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer Relations
Dear irenenights,
Thank you for your feedback.
We take a lot of pride in the meat cuts we serve and want every guest to enjoy them to the fullest, which is why we strive to cater for every cooking preference. Whilst our meats are medium to medium rare as standard, our team are trained to deliver cuts from blue through to well-done on request - we are truly sorry the meats served to your table were not to your preference. Nevertheless, we understand that their offers of desserts or discounts as compensation were not what you had hoped at that point, considering the disappointment you had already experienced. Please let us assure you that our only intention in offering the complimentary desserts or the 10% discount was to express our sincere apologies and provide a gesture of goodwill. However, we apologise for any inconvenience.
Please be assured that we have taken your feedback very seriously, and your comments have been shared with the management team.
We hope that you will reconsider visiting us in the future so that we may have the opportunity to show you the truly Rio experience,
Kind Regards,
Written 13 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stephen G
2 contributions
Nov 2022 • family
Angelo served us today first time at durham venue and we where not disapointed one bit. Meats where all amazing the cheesy steak special and the lamb and belly pork where absolutely fab mocktails and drinks where all fab and the salad bar was lush darei say we thought this was better than some of the otther rios e have visited (none of which have disappointed at all. Angelo is a great server too but too be honest they all where really great at the service thanks a lot see you all soon !!!!!
Also too add the quality of this place is unreal like the salad bar is so fresh the chips are like not just basic chips. He meats are all really tasty and well marinated and seasoned. We'll worth a visit. And so reasonable for really nice meal out with the kids where they get treat like the adults none of this chicken nuggets or sausage malarkey like just exactly the same for the kids as the grown ups. Even down too the drinks selection with the mocktails ect.
Written 25 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer R
Dear R1625UHstepheng,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a fantastic 5* review on your Rio experience at our newly-opened venue at Durham! We are very happy and proud to open our fourth Rio and to receive so much love and care from our customers!
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
It is so fantastic to hear that you enjoyed your experience so much, we cannot wait to welcome you back for your next visit. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Obrigado!
Written 13 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
fran d
Durham4 contributions
Sept 2023 • family
As locals this was our third visit, it’s that good, this time with visiting relatives. The salad bar is way more than that and you could fill up on this plus the fries they bring, so try not to go overboard. Then the meat is brought round by waiters on huge skewers and carved onto your plate. There’s a large variety of meat dishes from chicken, pork, lamb and beef, so try a bit of each, all cooked as I like it (medium rare) tender and delicious. There is a red/green beer mat system, although the waiters seem to ignore it and still offer you food when your beer mat is on red. Staff are friendly and attentive and it’s a good atmosphere. On the downside I find the background music a bit too loud. And I’m not a fan of service charges added to bills. But all in all it was a good night out and we will be back.
Written 28 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Customer Relations
Dear 806frand,
What an amazing review! Thank you so much for providing such a great feedback.
We're pleased to read that the food and service from the team reached those high standards we pride ourselves on. We pride ourselves on offering our guests a unique dining experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding the journey through their time with us. From expert meat servers to attentive waiters, all of our team work hard to create that perfect Rio experience. With 16 different cuts of meat, and a range of options on our gourmet sides selection, there is a flavour for everyone.
Our team will be so pleased to hear your kind words, it is always lovely to hear when their hard work has been appreciated.
Thank you once more for your lovely feedback, we hope to see you again soon.
Obrigado!
Kind Regards,
Written 31 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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