Tio’s Tacos Restaurant

Half art gallery, half taqueria, Tio’s Tacos Restaurant has been feeding hungry Californian’s delicious casual Mexican food, and beautifying the historic Downtown Riverside district for years. 

Created by owner and artist Martin Sanchez, Tio’s Tacos has one of the most unique atmosphere of pretty much any taqueria in the city. For over a decade Sanchez has been expanding the property to include his strange and wonderful art installations. While you eat you’ll be surrounded by re-purposed bicycle decorations, hand-made water fountains, gigantic statues, and folk art as far as the eyes can see. In fact, it would be easy to spend an hour just walking around the property peeping all the found object sculptures that Martin Sanchez has made over the years. 

Make sure to explore the path behind the building, which will take guests to a glass bottle chapel, murals, teepee fountains, gardens, rooftop exhibits, and art covering every inch of the property. 

The art isn’t the only thing that makes Tio’s Tacos great, however... the food it pretty much to die for, so make sure you come hungry. Carnitas burritos, Sopes de Cabeza, and a Michelada that is more like a meal than a drink. The menu has something for anyone, including pretty decent options for vegetarians, so don’t be afraid to pull up a seat, veggies! -Roadtrippers