Rio Ranch Steakhouse

I love good ‘ole fashioned Country Cooking. I think a shorter list would be: Who doesn’t? There’s just something about that amazing gluttonous white cream gravy with black pepper swimming satisfyingly throughout it. Sorry. I don’t know how pretty that picture was for you. At any rate, the guys over at Rio Ranch off Westheimer, outside Westchase, really know how it’s done. The items that comprise their menu is what you would expect from any restaurant boasting country cuisine: Fried Chicken and Steak fried just like its poultry counterpart. (Nice, Nat. Way to use six words instead of three.) After probing the waiter with that “What’s your fav?” question, my friend and I settled on an appetizer with two entrees. Quesadillas “Ranch Style” are the perfect way to get the meal started. Drizzled with sour cream and green sauce, these wedged pieces of amazingness (I know. Not a word. Humor me.) are the key to my heart. It is an oversized portion that will comfortably feed three. I say that because my friend and I - two guys who know how to eat (and will defend that we are still growing boys) - knew if we had finished the last two, our entrees would have been ordered for table piece conversation, rather than consumption. As far as the main course goes, try tackling the Chicken Fried Sirloin Steak “Handmade Here at the Ranch” (USDA certified steak) or the Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Fried Wing. Both will rock your face off. My friend and I opted to enjoy their outdoor patio - one of two. Of course, ours was right next to the bar. I think they had us figured out. Good call. The service was excellent and I had the pleasure of conveying to the F&B Director, Ali, my satisfaction with the establishment. It caters mainly to the guests of the Hilton Hotel, which is adjacent to it, but believe me, don’t allow just those people to indulge in Rio Ranch’s simplistic delicacies. It would be an unfortunate thing for you and your taste buds. Although the menu is strikingly similar to Cracker Barrel, don’t let it fool you. This ain’t no Back Water Diner. Rio Ranch - Next time, I’ll try and save room for dessert. You make it difficult, though. - n@. Shout Outs: “Slick Rick” & Enrique Pros: Large Portions, Dual Patios, Service Cons: No room for dessert. more

The great Texas atmosphere makes this amazing establishment complete. From great appetizers (Have to try the Wings and Potato Flouta's) to the friendly and prompt wait-staff. Rio Ranch is the tops! Pros: Amazing Appetizers and Steaks Cons: None! more

It has been several years since last dining @ RR, and in the past I had wonderful dining experiences. I recently had lunch there, and sensed something had changed immediately after walking in the door. It was very easy to pick up that things were not quite as polished as they once were. The food was average to say the least. Our server was friendly, but came across as being very nervous, and was very neglectful in regards to drink orders, clearing the table, etc.... I was disappointed in the over all dining experience as a whole. What was once a destination restaurant for me is no longer. Too bad...... Pros: parking Cons: expensive, poor service, lack luster food more

Just visited this once fine restaurant after not being there for ~2yrs......unfortunately, the meals are not what they once were and was very disappointed that the specials were priced $10-15 more than anything else on the menu (should have been advised of that before hand). Pros: good parking, nice atmosphere Cons: slow service, meals mediocre, poor value more

Went to RR twice for the brunch buffet, then returned for dinner. The menu is extensive and reasonably priced. The quality of the food is always excellent! Additionally, the service is friendly and prompt. There is a fireplace in the center of the restaurant that exudes a warm aura. This is our new favorite place! Pros: price, food, service more