CLOSED with a dumpster in front of the restaurant. Website shows they are open for business.
(1)
Dianna K.
Good food. Horrible management. Long wait at the bar. We waited for over an hour for a table even though our entire party was there and waiting. You are not allowed to be seated unless your entire party is present. When we asked why others were getting seated before us who had arrived after us, their answer was that they did not have a table large enough to accommadate us. There was ten of us. The owner was not apologetic for the long wait and basically appeared arrogant and noncaring. Very poor costomer service skills. We came at 7:30 and at 8:50 we still had no table. We left at that time. We had always been loyal long time costomers Not any more. .My friends, family and I will not be back.
(1)
Paul C.
First of all, I am a Mexican food snob so take my review with a grain of salt. That said, this wasn't all that bad and I will be back at some point. I started with the chorizo fundido - nice taste and seasonings despite what tasted like a generic packaged cheese that you wouldn't normally find in fundido (wasn't the Oaxaca that I prefer). For the main course I went with the Tacos Pastor. These were as well seasoned and flavorful as any of the dozens of taquerias I have been to in many markets. There is enough of the menu to not classify it as "Tex-Mex" and making it worth more visits.
(4)
Eric N.
Truly"GOOD" Mexican is hard to find. Rivera's hits the bullseye. Keep in mind, it's not a big place and you'll wait a bit, don't worry. Thus place is doing it right. Great service, great food. They mistakenly made the wrong entree for my wife. Not only food they remake the correct item for her, they let her keep the wrong one and didn't charge us for either one!! And, Yummers. Just get in your car and go there NOW!
(5)
Michael G.
One of the best Mexican Resturants in Omaha. Great food! Great service!
(5)
Sarah G.
Wow, this place drives me crazy. I don't think I'll be back again. While I've been totally thrilled (fish tacos), I've also been really disappointed by cold, undersalted and stale chips, terrible acoustice, excessive waits, and lackluster service. And I don't know why they feel the need to nickle-and-dime you for everything. (No chips until you order entrees, $1 for an extra basket of chips, $0.50 for extra hot sauce, etc). Why can't they just build this into the price of the food? Finally, no splitting checks - which our server was apologetic about - but it's the manager or owner's rule. So the best you can do is split the check between 2 credit cards. SOL if you have more than 2 people dining and don't have cash. I'd rather eat somewhere where I don't feel like I'm being treated like some kind of food criminal. Honestly the quality of the meal is only worth 3 stars to begin with - at least these days. I wouldn't be suprised if there were some cost-saving methodologies going on in the kitchen as well.
(1)
Dianne M.
Still the best Mexican food in Omaha!! They remodeled, which helps with the wait time. They also put up the sound deadening ceiling tiles, which really helps everyone to be able to have a nice conversation with their amazing dinner. Rivera's serves superior food than Hectors and La Mesa serves. Don't waste your time going anywhere else!!
(5)
Amy O.
I love love Riveras!! I had the sonora wrap!! Shrimp, spinach, and loads of cheese! The atmosphere was a bit loud and overcrowded, but the food is always great!
(4)
Sharawn T.
This place is awesome! I am a California native so I know good Mexican food! Everything was great and tasted to authentic like it was straight from scratch! Nothing out of a can here! The bartender was very attentive and friendly..great service and great food! Just moving here from cali and have found my spot! :-D
(5)
Nick S.
The low ranks given by others are more reflection on Omahans poor taste in Mexican food rather than Riveras food quality. It probably isn't fried enough or not cheesy enough to satisfy most. This place is great, some of their rules are annoying but that quickly fades when you get served straight up deliciousness.
(5)
Robyn R.
When they say spicy.. they mean it. We went on a Friday night... there was a short wait.... cute environment, but loud. The salsa is different then most places. You can taste the cilantro. The service and portions were good. They have plenty of vegetarian options. Overall: very good.
(4)
Laura B.
By far the best and most authentic Mexican food you can get anywhere outside of south Omaha. They have a lot of "rules" which has put off some people I know; won't seat you til your party is all present, no free chips and salsa, no split checks. But if you can get past that, and you should, you are in for a delightful meal. The service is friendly despite the somewhat foreboding rule list. Margaritas are strong and good, and they offer tequila flights with all ranges of price and quality. My go to dish is the mole enchiladas. Mole takes a long time to make right and they hit the nail on the head. Also check out the Veracruz enchiladas (seafood). Get there early. It is always packed.
(5)
Christine B.
The last time I visited Rivera's was years ago and I vowed never to return - primarily as a result of the atrocious customer service. Fast forward a few years. We find ourselves in the area on a Saturday afternoon, too lazy to drive across town to our fav places for our mexi-fix. My vow is easily broken by promises of chips and salsa. Five tables. Two servers. Service was significantly better. The Enchilada Rancheras with steak ($8.55) is a large portion that was more than filling and pretty tasty, albeit a bit higher in sodium by the size of my fingers the next day. The Chile Colorado ($8.65) was an equally large portion, but the steak was tough and chewy, so would not recommend that particular protein choice with this dish. If you're not a fan of chipotle, stay away from this option because you can definitely taste the smoke flavor. While the lunch prices were decent, I agree with Sarah G. that charging for extra chips and sauce is lame. The place is super small, so can see how the dinner hour gets ridiculously busy. The bar area is equally small, so waiting for a table probably means standing in the airlock area between the two front doors. In a city that lacks decent Mexican options with table service the further west you go, Rivera's is a decent option.
(3)
Neal K.
Best mexican food in Omaha without a doubt. The shrimp Alambre appetizer may be one of the best things I have ever had. The margaritas are also incredible. Just expanded the dining room which is great. Still a little loud in the restaurant but definitely worth it.
(5)
Ron C.
Waitress served something other than what I asked for. She Offered to take it back and cook the correct entree. I refused because my husband would be eating alone while they cooked the correct entree so kept what was served and nibbled at it. Told her we would not pay for the incorrect entree. She insisted that because she offered to provide the correct dish that she would not take it off the bill The manager came and repeated the same but finally removed it after a nasty exchange Will not return
(2)
Kyle L.
God damn. God damn. This place is tasty. Pork shanks awesome. Fire House Albondingas awesome. Enchiladas awesome. Fish tacos awesome. You literally can not go wrong. Get there early.
(5)
Robert B.
Like lambs to the slaughter, we keep going back... That ends right now. No more Rivera's for us for quite a while. 1. If you are waiting for more guests, don't dare tell them! They won't seat you until everyone is there. If you are first to arrive, just tell them you are the only one in your party and be seated. When your friends arrive, act surprised and invite them to sit with you. 2. No chips until you order food. No, you can't get them if you order drinks. You must order food first. The chips are no longer served warm as in Rivera's days of glory. No, the chips are now cold, stale, and bland. 3. If you want another handful of chips, pony up another $2. 4. Food quality has fallen off the map. Completely. What used to be excellent, reasonably authentic south of the border fare now borders on Tex-Mex cliche. Black beans and lime rice have made way for canned re-fried beans and "Spanish-style" rice. That's all I can say. It's really sad what has happened to Rivera's.
(1)
Kayla A.
The food was alright, however the service was horrible!!! The server took for ever to come take our drink order, I asked for chips and salsa and he rudely told me we had to place our food order first. We placed our food order and waited 5 mins for him to come back and say he forgot what we ordered could we tell him again. At that point I had forgotten and asked to see the menu again so I could point it out, he rolled his eyes at me. It just went down hill from there..... he kept filling my sprite with water, spilled the chips and salsa on me ( after I asked 3 times for it), brought us the wrong food, and took 10 mins to bring us our check. Again the food was wasn't, bad. I think the rude service just made this a horrible experience however we will not be returning.
(1)
Rybin V.
Great food on hot plates the outrageous wrap is awesome! Beans are great and hot full of flavor just like the rice.I have been in 8 times and the give me the executive treatment like I am part of the family.Your food is awesome and keep it up !!!
(5)
Liz A.
Now that marriage equality is really picking up steam across the USA, and given that my significant other and I do not actually desire to marry, I wonder if now is my chance to achieve my newly ( last night) thunk up dream: to marry the spinach enchiladas at Rivera's. I LOVE THEM. They understand everything about me. They intrigue me and fulfill me. HOW CAN SOMETHING THAT TASTES SO RIGHT BE CONSIDERED WRONG? In all seriousness, the Veggie Combo that included my fiancee, the margaritas, the shrimp alambres appetizer -- best Mexican food I've had at LEAST since my family lived in SoCal.
(4)
Justine R.
Good but did not have a lot of vegetarian options which is too bad as most Mexican places have a variety of things that is why I don't go more often. Good chips and salsa. I went back and they modified an entree to make it vegetarian while it originally contained meat.
(3)
Lou T.
You can't go wrong with Enchiladas Rancheras, Mayan Pork, or Enchiladas Acapulco. Also, don't miss the supreme margaritas or queso!!
(5)
Joel D.
Food was excellent, service was good to , I would have gave it 5 stars if it wasn't so loud and overcrowded . Its time for a bigger building.
(4)
Ellen B.
Disappointing! So much hype for an expensive, crappy meal. For a four year old to eat and have a drink it was 8.25. The enchiladas suizas were disgusting with the mix of white and dark meat chicken. The beans had some weird taste too. The enchiladas rancheros were okay according to spouse. Also, the waitress offered habanero sauce but charged us $1 for it. Shouldn't you at least say I will bring you a sample for a $2? Next time will stick to good old tex-mex where the price and taste are good. Heck Taco Bell is better.
(1)
SheAndHim E.
Best Mexican food ever!! Smaller atmosphere with limited hours, but well worth the while.
(5)
Michael R.
This place is great. Crab Enchiladas are awesome. Friendly service and very accommodating even with two little kids when it's crowded. This is our go to spot for a good meal out.
(5)
Oscar G.
Admittedly, I am partial to Azteca, La Mesa, El Rey and Abelardo's. I've heard lots of good things about Rivera's, so DW and I ate here this evening (Friday dinner). This place is very small, and the wait times can get long. We waited a hair over 45 minutes for a table. Yes, like others have mentioned, the interior of the place is cramped and pretty loud. The service was very good. I was a little deflated that only the first round of chips/salsa was gratis. I can see that a lot of chips probably go to waste, but it's kinda tacky to charge. We stuck to being satisfied with what was served. I wanted to like the salsa, but I felt that there was too much cumin in it. I felt the same way about the salsa at Cilantro's, too. We ordered the Jalapeno popper appetizer. We're used to the store-bought variety with cream cheese, but these were huge, and boy were they spicy hot. I'm all for spicy stuff, but these were overbearingly so. The ranch-style dip for the poppers was very good. We wouldn't order them again. I had the fajitas matador. These were very tasty and tender, but I detected more of the gratuitous use of cumin, although it wasn't enough that it completely killed the fajitas for me. The rice and beans were decent as well. DW had the enchiladas suizas and was completely satisfied with them. They're made with corn tortillas, which is much more authentic than using flour tortillas. Their prices are as expected for a casual, sit-down restaurant at dinner time. Overall, a solid three stars is appropriate for Rivera's. We live much closer to Azteca and one of the La Mesa locations, so I'm not sure when/if we'll go back to Rivera's.
(3)
G. R.
Well, our appetizer was excellent, the entrees were only average, but having to scream at each other to be understood just turns me right off. I'll leave this one to people with better lungs and ears than I have.
(2)
Elizabeth H.
Five ladies went to lunch yesterday and we were all so pleased with the food and service! We had fajitas, enchilada suiza, carne asada... you could have shared the portions, they are that big. We also had chips and salsa and they make the salsa to your taste. We asked for mild and it was perfect. Our server was beyond great; he spent time with us answering questions, checking back with us, keeping our drinks full. Even better - the food reheats nicely and has the same great taste. This will be my go to Mexican restaurant!
(5)
Matt M.
If you sit down at a "Mexican" restaurant and you see the word "wrap" or the phrase "covered in nacho cheese sauce" you are not in a real Mexican restaurant. Get back in your car immediately and head for South Omaha. After seeing all the positive reviews I had to at least give it a shot. Absolutely disappointed from the chips & salsa on. Food was bad, service was weird & the whole vibe of the place is just off.
(1)
Heidi V.
Love this place! It is definitely a hole in the wall, but there is literally always a wait, which I think is a sign of a good find. I always get the Sparky's nachos and the carne asada. Although I have also tried the pollo alas brasas and that was also delicious. The margaritas aren't bad either. As a warning, everything is a little spicy, so be careful if that's not your thing. Overall, one of my favorite places in Omaha!
(5)
KR H.
A different kind of authentic Mexican restaurant. Some traditional choices and some house specials. The refried beans are too salty for me but my family loves them and the fried rice. There's usually a crowd and a wait but tonight we got right in. This is a small place and it's loud not intimate. The salsa is yellow and spicy but good. MOST of the choices here are spicy so if they mark it spicy expect heat. Everything we've had here has been great. The service is not fast but is efficient and never rude. The flan is some of the best in town. The sopapillas are excellent and is a very large serving. We've always come away with extra food for tomorrow and laughing. This place is unique and may not be for everyone, especially if you normally eat at chains.
(4)
A J.
Best Mexican food in Omaha. Period. Been going since first few months open and have tried half the menu. Everything is always great. Great service. Great tequila selection.
(5)
Mark E.
Upon moving to Omaha, I've been disappointed with what passed for Mexican food. I was thrilled to find Rivera's authentic Pueblan cuisine. Go for their carne asada! Amazing!
(4)
Allison M.
The white chickn chili is a must try! Oerfect amount of heat, texture fabulous and tons of white meat chicken!
(5)
Lauren S.
I absolutely love this place. It is authentic and reasonably priced for what you get. They usually have a cheap special that includes two authentic tacos (delish) and two seafood enchiladas which are great also. The only reason I did not give five stars is because my dad orders the Mahi Mahi every time which is fabulous but it takes forever so usually everybody else's dish is lukewarm or cold. However, their guacamole is the BEST I've ever tasted and would go there just for that! The atmosphere can be loud but I love it. Been there twice where tables next to us gave some of their appetizers because they ordered too much, and they were always great. Just understand that when their is a jalapeño next to a menu item it IS going to be spicy. The long wait and ordering/paying rules don't bother me at all when I dine at this Non-chain restaurant! I haven't tried the sopapillas yet because I'm always so full, but I need to because it is a great Mexican desert.
(4)
Brig A.
This is one place when they say something is spicy they are not kidding. I got the enchiladas al diablo. HOLY COW! Those things cleared out my sinuses immediately. The overall flavor was very good, but they did not disappoint in the spiciness. The big disappointment of this place was for some reason it is CRAZY loud. The other thing is that the salsas are not good. The chips and salsa were really bizarre tasting. I don't understand how you mess that up, but what can I say. I will say, if the restaurant hadn't been so loud it would be a four star experience.
(3)
Kyle T.
The food is absolutely transcendent -- we've been going for years and have never had so much as an "okay" dish. If you're looking for an enchilada combo plate you'll be disappointed, but if you have an open mind, a moderate heat tolerance that (sadly) matches your tolerance for fellow diners with loud/unsupervised children you will find a lot to like here. First, the food is uniformly superb. If that's your sole criteria, this place deserves a solid 7 on a 5 point scale. They routinely exceed expectations. Second, the employment of hard surfaces only compounds and amplifies the problem of unattended/ignored children, which ranges from "tolerable" to "cacophony" depending on the number of children present. Don't say you weren't warned.
(4)
China F.
I love their mole. Everything is great. My favorite Mexican restaurant in Omaha Nebraska.
(5)
Joan W.
If you love authentic Mexican food, this place will will not disappoint you. Every meal my husband and I have ordered has been delicious with a mouth watering presentation. Watch out - some of their dishes are very spicy; all dinners are marked on the menu their heat index for that meal so there are no surprises.
(5)
Anna R.
The guacamole, all types of enchiladas, and the salsa are amazing! I've never had anything I didn't love. You might have to wait a bit for a table, but it is worth it! Delicious food and good service too!
(5)
Dave B.
Like the re-design of the place. We hadn't been there in over a year. Its very busy on a Saturday night. 6pm arrival means 45 minutes for a table. All food was good. Carne Asada was two large pieces of the meat. Tacos Nortenos were super and the Fire Pork"wrap" was more of a smothered burrito that was huge. Lots of different flavors you don't get a most other places in town. Service for our visit was very good and the food came out in an appropriate amount time. Only one free chips and salsa.
(5)
Mike C.
Don't miss out on best flavor, spiced Mexican food! I have been eating here for almost five years. Travel here for biz. Can't miss when in town. They get busy, but the wait is worth it! Try many things. I've found my favorite is anything with the green sauce...somewhat hot, but I love it. Salsa/Chips, brands, Guac, soups are phenomenal! Everything is from scratch. See you there soon!
(5)
Jason L.
Authentic, inexpensive, and delicious! Not fancy by any means but I'd you want a great torta for lunch or amazing carne asada for dinner. Check this place out!
(5)
Christine S.
Great homemade salsa and well worth the wait. We will be adding this authentic spot to our rotation.
(4)
Lauren P.
Some of the best Mexican food I've ever had. I got the spinach enchiladas (vegetarian dish) with guacamole dip and a margarita (which was potent, by the way). The enchiladas were stuffed with loads of fresh spinach and cheese. Their spicy sauce also complimented the dish well. The guac was spicy with fresh avocados and jalepenos. The downside: 30 minute wait and it's about $12-18 a dish. But that doesn't stop me from going back often!!
(5)
Chris C.
Absolutely the best Mexican food in town. Awesome carne asada; actually everything on the menu is very good. Excellent margaritas with a definite kick....drink more than one and you'll feel it! Our group of friends go every Friday night. No reservations, so get there early.
(5)
Bill K.
Good food. Horrible, horrible rude service. Food not THAT good to make up for the bad service and attitude that the owner of this establishment has. Won't be back.
(1)
Audrey C.
Very dissapointed in my most recent visit to Rivera's. The Al Pastor tacos were floating oil, and the rice was obviously made with a stale seasoning packet giving it a lumpy consistency and horrible flavor. The beans were off as well, too much sage or something. My husband had the "Bo" Pork Enchiladas. No joke these were smothered in Cheez Whiz, ick! Both pork dishes had such a strong, 'gamey' flavor, this pig must have been 50 years old in order to achieve that kind of stank. Really the only thing good was the chips and salsa. I have always enjoyed the food in the past here. It has gone downhill in my opinion. Oh well, good thing there are thousands of other Mexican places in Omaha because I won't be back to Rivera's unless I have to.
(2)
Ema N.
My husband and I have been to Rivera's on multiple occasions and always have had a great experience. The margaritas are always delicious and the food is excellent. They don't take reservations so expect a bit of a wait depending on the day of the week. The atmosphere is great too. It will be worth the wait.
(5)
Chris B.
Food was good. Service was terrible. Owners wife is a waitress and has a terrible attitude. I have eaten there 20 times and have never been treated this poorly. The owner knew we were upset and tried to comp our meal. I chose to pay and never return.
(1)
Stewart W.
Tried Rivera's for the first time. Timing was perfect, arriving at 12:30 p.m. for lunch. It was crowded but a table was available, with several other tables opening up soon afterwards. Service was fine. Chile rillenos is my standard dish to judge Mexican restaurants by, and I was not taken by Rivera's, which had cinnamon overtones that did not complement the chiles to me. But I didn't care about that, as my lunch partner and I shared an order of shrimp alambres, which was absolutely delicious -- one of my favorite dishes in all of Omaha restaurant-dom. I will be headed back to Rivera's specifically to order them, perhaps as a main dish all to myself instead of an appetizer. Would also like to go back at dinnertime to try a margarita and flan.
(4)
Melissa P.
The food was awesome! Love their Carne asada! no compalints, the waitress was friendly and tended to our needs.
(4)
Josh H.
Finally got a chance to stop in for lunch after a number of reccomendations. As I walked in I must say I was a little shocked at the size... I mean this place is SMALL and that's an understatement but quite cozy if you're on a date I guess. I can only imagine how many people they must have to turn away on the weekends due to lack of seating.. With that being said the food was delicious and fresh. I had the steak fajitas with rice and beans and enjoyed all of it. Also the chips and salsa were quite unique in fact the salsa had more of a yellow color to it and I mistakenly thought it was cheese at first none the less it was delicious.. The service was adequate and very friendly. Can't wait to try some of their other dishes..
(4)
Natalie E.
RIvera's is pretty good, and you can definitely find a good meal here, but not as good as they used to be. When they first opened the menu was more authentic, but (as I'm sure was necessary financially) to cater to the gringo population in West O, the food was Americanized. The free chips and salsa are good and the drink selection is actually impressive for the place they run. Seating is limited, the dining room is small. On happy hour nights expect to wait at least 30 minutes. Service, though occasionally slow, is always friendly. Never a problem with the wrong food or a mistake on an order.
(3)
Stefanie N.
Perhaps it was because I went with a person who loves this place, or perhaps it was because my first time here...but whatever the case, I liked what I ordered and I will be coming back. The chips and salsa weren't terrible but they weren't something to write home about. I ordered the al pastor tacos and unlike the other reviews, mine wasn't drenched in oil. In fact, it was well seasoned and tender and all sorts of deliciousness al pastor tacos should be. I kind of compared it to Robo Taco in Portland, OR and while Robo Taco had the better tortilla, Rivera's had just as good seasoned meat.
(4)
Francisco F.
The food is still awesome, but the service is getting so bad I will not be going back. The last time I went for dinner there were only 3 other tables full and it took an hour to get my food, without so much as an apology or a (good) reason. When I asked the waitress her response was that the cook is slow today.
(2)
Chad D.
Here's the deal. We had a party of 9. Maybe that's the reason the service was HORRIBLE. The food, however was AMAZING. I'd give the food more than 5 stars if I could, and give the service less than 1. We arrived and were told 20-25 minutes for a table. We waited nearly an hour, and were finally seated. It took the waitress almost 10 minutes to come say hello and get a drink order. She brought back half the drinks, then was gone another 5 minutes getting the others. It took 15 minutes before she came back to take our orders. So now we've been here an hour and a half, and just got our order taken. Chips and salsa were good, though not incredible. They stated that we would only get 1 basket of chips and salsa despite having 9 people. We asked why and they said it was because one of our party ordered Nachos which they consider an appetizer and their policy is that if you order an appetizer you don't get chips. Huh? I'm not sure what their logic is. Chips are WAY cheap, and most Mexican restaurants in the area provide them free of charge. Anyway, we had 3 kids with us, and they were HUNGRY since everything was taking so long. Another woman came over and explained the "chip" situation. She asked if we were ordering the Nachos as an appetizer or as a meal. We explained as a meal, and then she said "Sorry for the misunderstanding, we'll bring you 2 baskets of chips." Not sure why it mattered but it did. Food took about 20-25 minutes, and it was AMAZING. Here's where another issue arises though. 2 of the kids meals weren't brought out. 1 order of fish tacos wasn't brought out. We told her we were missing some food, and she told us it would be right out. 10 minutes later, 1 order of chicken fingers came out. ONLY 1. We told her we were still missing 1 order of chicken fingers and an order of fish tacos. "He hasn't gotten his fish tacos yet? " she asked. We told her no, and she brought them out almost immediately. But they were COLD. Not cool, not lukewarm, but COLD. They had sat there awhile it was obvious. Then, another 10 minutes later, as everyone who had received their food was finishing up, the last kids meal arrives. To top it all off, they added 18% gratuity automatically for the service we got. I had real heartburn with that, and brought it to her attention. She told me I could change it if I wanted to, but it was actually an item on the bill, and not like where you add it on your credit card slip. I paid it anyway, told her that her service was bad though. Overall, the food is AMAZING, and the service was HORRIBLE. I would recommend this place, though with some caution. It was a tough review to write because it truly was a tale of good vs. evil. LOL
(2)
Rudy W.
some of the seafood plates are awesome. went there for 3 weeks straight every day. pick every single item on the menu. the good part of being regular, i guess they know what you like in regards to spiciness. so they always give me the habenero sauce on the side and use less salt. good food. and come early, otherwise expect to wait. the only thing I don't like ( I always asked them to hold on the sauce), is they use a lot of sauces.
(4)
Tessa W.
I had the Chicken Pibl and it was DELICIOUS!!! Took awhile to figure out what we wanted because it was kind of a strange menu - but I was so happy with my choice. My husband had some kind of seafood plate and his only complaint was that he asked for it a little too spicy so it was difficult for him to eat. Looking forward to going there again!
(4)
Megan P.
Don't let the size and location of this restaurant fool you. Their food is incredible with intense flavors and unique combinations. It is one of the best Mexican restaurants in town. There is often a wait but it is worth it!!! My husband loved the Cazuela Al Horno and I had the fajitas, both were delicious. This is a "must try" for all Mexican food lovers.
(5)
Ali L.
I actually wasn't too impressed. At all. I ordered the Enchiladas Poblanas on recommendation of the waiter, and even though the food was semi-tasty, I wasn't really a big fan. Wish I would've tried fish tacos or the lobster enchiladas. But at $10 for what I ordered, not impressed. My friend wanted a simple burrito, but there aren't any on the menu, so went with the Spicy Chicken Wrap instead. He said it was pretty good, but then found a TOOTHPICK inside his food. I told a waitress next to our table about this, she just shrugged and said "oh well" and walked over to another table. Annoyed, I told our our waiter when he came back, he apologized profusely and gave us the chicken wrap for free. He offered to make something else, but we were short on time and not in the mood to wait another half hour for something else we weren't thrilled with. This place was packed at 12:30 for lunch, and tables are closely seated together which was inconvenient since my friend has his back being jabbed in by someone else's chair. The chips were fresh and homemade, but I wasn't a big fan of the salsa. It was good, but the spice of it just didn't make me want to devour it like I normally do with most things left on a table pre-meal. I may go back some other time, but for the price of $9-12 a plate for lunch, I have other places I would like to investigate.
(2)
Michelle H.
placed my order and it came out wrong three times. I ordered sea bass and they must have thought that chicken or pork was the same. after 45 mins of this bs I complained that if it came out wrong we would be leaving. The owner came out of the kitchen and told us to get the F-out if we didn't like the service. this happened two years ago I still won't give them the time of day. I also make it a point to tell everyone about this experience.
(1)
Sarah A.
I'm originally from Texas, so I have very strong opinions about mexican food. My previous experiences with mexican food in Nebraska have been extremely disappointing. I stopped by Rivera's for lunch one Sunday after being told repeatedly by a friend that Rivera's was the best place in Omaha for Mexican food. I've gotten recommendations before and was expecting an equivalent to Carlos O'Kelly's or Romeo's. Boy was I pleasantly surprised! The food was great! Authentic and flavorful! In no way did I feel like i was eating bland, chain restaurant food. I always recommend it to friends and coworkers. The service wasn't the speediest, but I had my chips and salsa so that kept me company! Definitely try it out!
(4)
Katrina O.
Best fish tacos in town!! I try fish tacos everywhere they're served...and I've never had better. First of all they use Mahi (most places use Tilapia) & second, the chipotle sauce is enough to dream about. Amazing. FOOD In addition to the amazing fish tacos, Rivera's has really good seafood enchiladas; however, I've heard mixed reviews about the rest of their food from people I've dined with. Rivera's also won't do special orders - a downfall for us picky eaters. My friend ordered steak tacos without onion. When they wouldn't take off the onions we assumed they were mixed in with the steak, but nope...they were simply sprinkled on top. Still not quite sure why they couldn't just leave them off. They're homemade salsa is really good - it's got a good kick to it, but you only get one free basket of chips (after you order food). It's a cheap move considering the average ticket price. SERVICE The place is always packed, which makes me wonder why they are ALWAYS understaffed. We waited 10 minutes last night before giving our drink order....which is not uncommon. It's definitely not a place to take a group larger than 4 (if you have 5 they'll squeeze you all around one table) as the dining room is very small & you'll wait awhile. It's also not a place to go if you're in a hurry. PRICE Average prices, but you do get a lot of food (dinners in the $10-$15 range). The house margaritas are $8 - a little high I think. The good news is that they're pretty strong! KID FRIENDLY The chicken fingers are made with chicken breast (which is hard to find) & they cut them up before serving to help them cool faster. As a mom, that was awesome! They do not have ground beef though for tacos - only shreaded chicken (which had some spice to it) & steak. All in all - if you want to try out Rivera's, expect to be there awhile & try the fish tacos!
(3)
Alexis A.
I've been to Rivera's at least three times, and every meal has been stellar. The experience is always the same on a Friday or Saturday night... complete chaos. I actually enjoy the atmosphere; you know that the food is good if the restaurant is always this busy. When you arrive, make sure to write your own name on the register. If you forget this vital step, you may be waiting longer than you'd like. While you wait, enjoy one of the margaritas or a Mexican beer. So far I've enjoyed the camarones a la diabla: shrimp, peppers and onions in a spicy chipotle sauce served with rice, beans and tortillas; the tierra y mar combo with lobster enchiladas enchiladas rancheras and... something else which I'm sure was also delicious. This last time my husband had the chile colorado with beef and wow... that's definitely one I will order in the future. Usually forgettable and mundane at most restaurants, the rice and beans are delicious, as is the complimentary (after you place your order) chips and salsa. This time we ordered sopapillas, which I hadn't eaten for nearly 20 years and they were just as delicious as I remembered--perfect light clouds of fried dough drizzled with honey! The food is always fresh and very flavorful. Not sure how authentic it is, but it's definitely a notch above most Mexican restaurants in creativity and quality. Tip: Go to their website to print some coupons for $5 off your meal of $30 or more.
(5)
D O.
Entire dinner ruined by obnoxious service. Went to eat at Rivera's with a party of 9. We went early because we know it can be busy and wanted to make it easy to accommodate us. We drove in separate cars and one arrived before the other and they refused to seat us until the whole party was present (6 of us were there too!), even though the restaurant was essentially empty and I told them the other car would be there within a couple minutes. That was annoying and unnecessary. Then to seat us they just put two tiny tables together - not enough for space for 9 people by any means. Sigh. When ordering I requested two a la carte enchiladas and was told by the server (with a sharp tone of voice) "We don't do that, you can only buy the platter." I started to reply but she just ignored me and stepped to take the order of the next person (and I probably would have even ended up ordering another platter if she'd kept talking to me...). Another person in our party requested sauteed onions with her meal and the server responded "That wouldn't be good, you wouldn't like that" and then, again, just stepped to the next person without anything further. Wow. According to the menu the first round of chips and salsa is on the house and further rounds are charged. We only got two baskets of chips (again, 9 people) and we'd even gotten as appetizer two orders of guacamole ($8), yet they still charged us when we asked for more chips (how would two baskets have been enough for even a first round for 9, particularly with 2x guacamole?). Weak. We'd asked up front about splitting the bill and were told that no, they don't do that, but that we could work it out ourselves and they would ring it up on different credit cards. So we figured out the amounts and asked our server to ring it up. But then nope, what she'd meant to say was that they will ONLY evenly divide the check into equal amounts, and at most they will take two cards and cash. What the...?!? So we had to roll with that nonsense and then work out a cash exchange amongst ourselves to sort it out. Lovely. Of course, for the pleasure of being treated like we were a nuissance, we were automatically charged an 18% gratuity. Totally undeserved. Was the food good? Who cares? We were so annoyed the whole time we couldn't enjoy it. One positive point I will make is this - the bus people were absolutely super. In all, I would never consider going back.
(1)
Matthew B.
We love Rivera's. We've been there a dozen times or more and love it more each time. Last night I had the Carne Asada. Oh My God. Best Carne Asada I've had. It rivals the Asada I was served by some Hispanic cooks I managed in Phoenix years back. Wow. My wife had her stand by Enchilada and my daughter had chicken tacos. All of us had left overs. We had the Spicy Cheese Dip. It was hot last night, but oh so good. Yes - they have some weird policies....but the food is so worth it. We'll be back!!
(5)
J P.
Rumor is there is always a wait. I echo other people--it is worth it! Great food, fast service and.... great food. We stopped in with a party of 8, 5 of which were kids. This after driving for 13 hours--everyone was starving. The servers got us in fast, we were almost immediately greeted with water, chips and salsa. Server had good recommendations and catered to the picky eaters. Not well known by the locals I spoke to. Make this a stop!
(4)
Sarah W.
Bitchy reviews tend to annoy me, but I guess it's my turn...... Have always liked the food here, and the service is colorful and fun. Last night was no exception. Wonderful server and decent food. The problem was the owner. He will be called Milo Minderbinder for the remainder of this review. My friend and I were sat around 8:30. We ordered, ate, drank, chatted and our togo boxes were dropped with the check around 9:20. As I am boxing my food, and my friend is still eating, Milo steps out of the kitchen and yells from the opposite side of the dining room, "ladies, I'm going home". My friend responds, "have a great night?" Milo responds, "No, we are leaving, I am locking the door." We abandoned our leftover food, left a 30% tip and shall never return. Milo's posted hours for his establishment are 5:00 p.m.-Close(?) To Milo: I recommend you retire from the service industry and move on to smuggling tobacco.
(1)
Randy C.
After reading some of the reviews, I figured that I needed to add my two cents, since I know this restaurant well. I've been going to Rivera's since shortly after it opened, literally eaten there over 100 times, and tried almost everything on the menu. I give it 5 stars for value. It's not Topolobampo or the Frontrera Grill, but the food is excellent and the wait staff friendly and efficient. I see that many complain about the service, but they're so freakin' busy most of the time, it's not surprising that it is slow at times. Chips and salsa are homemade, usually pretty decent. Several of the dishes are excellent: Chicken Laredo, the Pibil dishes (fish or Chicken), Carne Asada, and the Mole is good as well. I can't think of anything that disappointed me, except perhaps the Bo Enchiladas. The flan and sopapillas are nice deserts (if they have the habanero flan, give it a try). I've tried the South O restaurants, and Rivera's is definitely better. Probably the best value for a Mexican restaurant in Omaha. Agave has better sauces, but is far too limited in what they do.
(5)
John M.
Love this place!! I had been living on the East Coast for six years and I crave this place. I eat here whenever I come back. Now I live here. I'm a big Mexican food fan from East Coast to West Coast I've been in all the Mexican places and all of Omaha. Best Mexican in West Omaha hands down. Only one place came close in Washington but it was all about the trend. I love that this is family owned and super friendly with generous portions. Their mole is great and authentic. The guacamole is awesome. It's a small place. So plan accordingly. Don't recommend large groups. The last time I was there they sat a big group. They dominated our dinner. It was noisy. Have a margarita while you wait. Everything on the menu is great. The diablo is memorable in more ways than one. Salsa is fresh authentic and just like I remember my "abuelita" friend inLA used to make me!
(5)
Mary Q.
Amazing Mexican food for those of us who don't get down to South O very often. Service is very friendly, but they don't split checks so bring cash if you're with friends. Try the Fish Tacos!
(5)
Cory B.
I tell everyone about riveras, I always explain it as highly flavorful Mexican food that tips the scale towards the gourmet side of Mexican food. Also if you order something spicy here they mean it. The secret is getting out about this place.
(4)
Jonathan H.
I finally stopped for lunch the other day after hearing so many good things about Rivera's from coworkers (and yelpers.) I was not disappointed. Me being a fan of tex-mex, I was unsure of what I would think. Wow is my thought. How have I worked so close to Rivera's and not stopped. Soo good. Really. A coworker and I stopped in just after 11 and the place was empty. An empty restaurant for a person who has never been there is an ominous sign if you ask me, but we went ahead and sat down and ordered. By the time our food arrived every single table in the place was filled (11:25.) Everyone from suit wearing lawyers to salty construction workers filled up the place. That is a good sign. I enjoyed the enchiladas rancheras and my coworker had the Chile Colorado. Both were obviously made from scratch and were fantastic. Filed with flavor (and not for the diet conscious.) I can't wait to go back during dinner so I can sample their AMAZING tequila selection that has to topping 50+. If you work around the area, stop by (and if you don't want to wait, do it before 11:30.) Cheers!
(4)
Carly K.
Best Mexican Food Ever! My favorite is the enchaladas de mole. The food tastes homemade. This is real Mexican food; not the microwaved, over cheesed, greasy, unflavored stuff you get at some of the so called Mexican restaurants.
(5)
David W.
We have been there a few times now. They have removed some of the items on the the menu that were wonderful and unique. The food is usually very good. The main issue is that its a poorly run business. The noise can definitely be an issue. They do nickel and dime you. I'm surprised they don't charge you for the napkins! The wait staff at times can be a little sketchy. If you ever have to deal with the owners, you'll discover they really have no class at all and shouldn't be business owners. He should just be a cook/chef (his food is good), and she should be a dishwasher at best. They should stay away from customers instead of driving them away.
(3)
TL C.
6th time I've ate at Rivera's.... 1st... Worst service period! 2nd.. Guaca Maya is way way better. 3rd.. tonight I ordered a dish that had chicken and shrimp in it which was all the menu said were in the dish meat wise. I found some type of red meat in my dish and the waitress then said oh yeah it has sausage in it. First off I told her I don't eat pig or cow when i order the dish and she said then you will love this. Then after I found out that the dish had pig in it the waitress said and sorry took the dish back... They never offered me another dish or said sorry you ate pig.. she just put our ticket on the table with my dish included on the tab..... I manage a great restaurant in the old market and we would offer another dish if you you not happy with what you received.Plus we list everything that is in everyone of our dishes. I have tried to enjoy Rivera's now for years and this is my take on what they're trying to do. It looks like Romeo's, They have a horrible wait every night, I will say they have great drinks.... Bad service.. and the food is nothing more than tacobell meet Michaels in the old market... save yourself the wait and go downtown to Guacamaya or any real Mexican restaurant down on 24th... It's not great or even worth the wait.... I'd pass on this place... and by the way worst Guacc in town... my grade D- ...... go to tacobell then go there for drinks if you can get to the tiny bar... Booooooo!!!!
(1)
Tyson B.
After reading the previous reviews about this place we decided to check it out. Walking in, I must say I was skeptical at first. The place is new and clean but it is tiny! Unless you are sitting around the booths you are pretty much next to other parties in the middle of the restaurant. The size factor is the only thing that kept me from giving a 5 star review. That aside, the food and service was incredible! I agree with the others that this is by far the best Mexican food I have had in Nebraska so far. I took up Derek E.'s suggestion by getting the Enchiladas Racheras ($10 on dinner menu I think) and it was amazing (it's spicy though, watch out!). It was a lot of food too so I ended up taking some home. Others in my group got the Enchiladas Vera Cruz (seafood) and the shrimp inside were high quality and the Mole Platter I believe it was, which he was very impressed with. At a glance: Pros: - Food!! - Taste it and it speaks for itself - Service - Fast and friendly - Location - 120th and Blondo Cons: - Size/atmosphere - Too small and cluttered If you love Mexican food you at least need to go here once. Enjoy!
(4)
Anthony K.
All of the food is flavorful, and the ambiance is okay. Had the green chile pork, and it was deliciously spicy. The portion sizes are huge. Upon request, they substituted really tasty black beans for my refried beans, which I appreciate. Selection of Mexican beer was excellent, although there is nothing on tap and it wasn't as cold as I hoped. If you're into Tequila, they have over 60 types from which to choose. The restaurant is small but very open, so it gets loud in a hurry. A few booths line the walls and table fill the middle. Service was solid. Keep you expectations low for the atmosphere and high for the food, and you will leave Rivera's jolly and full.
(4)
Meredith R.
Food sucked! Guess being from Texas I'm a little spoiled. Service was bad and who doesn't serve SIZZLING fajitas???
(1)
Guillermo L.
Smallish in a good way (limited seating but cozy). Love the nachos! (best in Omaha). Very low key, with plenty of choices.
(4)
Lou M.
I drive down Blondo all the time and just noticed this place earlier this week. Kinda funny we ended up going there tonight with some friends. I got the combo rancheros enchilades with the shrimp enchiladas and it was good. One thing about that dish I have seen mentioned is that it is spicy. I liked it but it was at my tolerent for spicy-ness. If you think the tinyest thing is spicy, you probably will think this is super hot. Like I said, it was good. Wife had the mahi mahi tacos and liked them. We'll go back there for sure. We ate here on a Friday night at 6pm, got seated immediatly, and had great service. Only downfall abut this place i think is that it was certianly loud in there the whole time. Probably due to it being so small....guessing maybe 20-25 tables total. In all, a very enjoyable meal.
(4)
Laura B.
Things I like: -Strong margaritas---yes! -Place was packed with a line -Great shredded chicken and carne asada -Excellent service! -Delicious beans and rice! -Great for a family Things not sure about: -I liked and disliked the salsa at the same time -My chicken enchiladas had a lot of crushed red pepper seeds in them--and felt chewy..not in a good way -Vinyl booth seats
(3)
Marc A.
Best Mexican food in town, hands down!!! My wife and I have been coming here for years, and I have literally probably eaten here over 40 times. I like to try different things when I go and have tried most things on the menu (except I don't like seafood in general). Every thing I have is always different and delicious, the food is authentic, spicy, flavorful, and far from the usual ground hamburger taco's at your typical mexican restaurant. Their wraps, fajitas, enchiladas bravas, enchiladas rancheras, chile colorado, and chipotle enchilada are my favorites. The place is small...they owner said they did consider expanding to a larger restaurant, but evidently it was gonna cost about triple their rent of what they paying now. My only advise is I don't recommend going here if you have a party bigger than six because you'll wait for a while, and if you don't like (very) loud, fun atmospheres this isn't for you either. They have been understaffed in the past, but I think this is much better now, they are always so busy because everyone goes there because it is so good. The marg's are a bit expensive ($8) but considering how strong they are, you can consider it as getting 2 for $4. Sum it up, this is the best Mexican food I've ever had and worth going at least once.
(5)
Ali M.
Amazing! Authentic! Always super busy, be prepared to wait... but well worth it. Strong margaritas at times... beware.. they can sneak up on you! ;) Staff are extremely friendly and really hard working. We've got 2 favorite Mexican places in town.. this is one.
(5)
Lisa G.
Absolutely delicious. Great Mexican food (I got the outrageous wrap), great margaritas, so crowded. They don't split bills, which is a bit frustrating, and service is a bit slow. Overall, food is so great that it doesn't even really matter.
(5)
Cody P.
Amazing food! I get the Chiles En Nogada, it is a pepper stuffed with cheese and topped with a walnut sauce and a pomegranate reduction. So amazing! I just wish there was more seating because it is packed on the weekends!
(5)
Carol P.
Love their shrimp appetizer! Very small, loud, and crowded. Not a place for large groups or conversation but good Mexican food!
(4)
Rob B.
I visited Rivera's for lunch, and loved it. The salsa is different from the regular, and the chips are fresh and crispy. I had a rock shrimp enchilada, the Veracruz. It was amazing. The seasoning, the obvious freshness of the seafood, it was perfect. The service was really good. I am a big water drinker, and will go through four glasses during a typical dinner, and my glass was never empty for very long. The only thing that keeps Rivera's from getting a 5 star is the prices. I think that is probably just because of the size of the place....less sqf means more $ per sqf :-) for overhead, and this place is small. Even there though, they have a nice lunch menu with appropriate pricing, so it is not all bad.
(4)
Derek E.
I actually didn't like Rivera's when I first tried it. The menu was very interesting, but I didn't get the impression that it was completely authentic. To be fair, I've never been to Mexico, so the closest I've come to authentic Mexican food is Howard's on 13th, and even that impression might based solely on the fact that I've found few other places that serve tamales (which I don't even like). Then I went back and I decided to just order what ever was my waiter's favorite dish. That was the right choice. He recommended the Enchiladas Ranchera's which had a lot more flavor complexity than I've ever had from Mexican dish before. It was diced skirt steak mixed with chorizo, sauted with green onions, finished with a spicy green sauce and cheese ($8.25). Still not in awe of Mexican cuisine, but this was certainly tasty. They seem a little on the pricey side for Mexican food and their sides kind of suck, so I only give them 4 stars. Read more Mexican Restaurants in Omaha Reviews: gastronomicfightclub.com…
(4)
Theo H.
The chicken tacos tasted so good after two patron and sodas. The queso was a bit runny for my preference, but the guacamole was right on.
(4)
Melissa W.
First and foremost I would like to state that the food here is wonderful. It's always fresh and flavorful, as well as authenic. But I do have a few problems with this place, like many people have said before the customer service is lacking and it seems like they're doing you have favor when you come to eat at their place, not the other way around. First off, they don't give you chips and salsa until after you order and then there are no free refills, if you want more than one basket, you have to pay. Also, I've ordered food to go twice from there and both times they got my order wrong and I ended up getting home and then realizing they only gave me half my food or they gave me something I didn't order at all. Once I called and ordered the tacos de pollo (my favorite!) and the diablo steak enchiladas for my husband. I got all the way home before I realize they only have me the tacos but charged me for both meals. The second time I ordered tacos de pollo on my lunch break, when I got back to work with my food I noticed that they had give me some sort of chicken wrap. Another peeve of mine with their take out is that they never include utensils or napkins in the bag. Things that are very important to me when I order take-out and things that should be included. I feel as if Rivera's food is fabulous but their management needs to change or they're going to start driving people away.
(3)
lorne h.
Menu lists fish tacos and fish entrees, however there was no fish. Shrimp tastes like it is out of a can. Food was dry and over cooked. Owners don't smile at their customers. Service is poor. This mexican restaurant is not recommended.
(1)
Russ C.
Consistently a great place to eat. I've only had one bad meal here-the dish I ordered was fried, and it was extremely greasy, like the fryer wasn't turned up high enough. Other than that I've loved this place, especially because when he says spicy, he means it. The chicken nachos are the the best in town and so are the margaritas. A few words of caution: they are very strong, always stop at two, and spend the extra buck for the supreme. The tequila list is very impressive as well.
I finally made it to this place I've heard quite a lot about. I'm sure glad I came here. Real nice and packed inside. The rumors were right. We were greeted happily and seated quick. Our server Freddy came over and told us a little history of how long the restaurant been around. 11 years. I can't believe I haven't already tried this restaurant. Wonderful decor on all walls. Real comfortable setting. Loud, but a cheerful loud. I looked over the menu and everything looked great but the word venomous popped out. Seasoned pork over white rice, Pico and guacamole. Sour cream with a habanero cheese sauce. All wrapped up in a tortilla. No refunds LOL. I had to take the challenge. It sounded great but I knew how hot it would be. I finished about 3/4 before saying I was to full to finish. Freddy the server had a hilarious attitude, bringing beverage napkins to wipe the sweat away. Best dang server I've ever had. That guy should be nominated. Ask for Freddy! He new the struggle of eating spicy food. Wife and kids were happy as well!!! Glad I finally made it. Won't be my last. In my top 5 for authentic Mexican.
(5)
Brandon A.
Riveras is hands down the most authentic and best Mexican food in town. The Enchiladas Rancheras is phenomenal and packs some flavor that you would not believe. I can also speak highly of the Carne Asada, Shrimp Alambres, and Chicken Nachos. The supreme margarita is fantastic, along with the complimentary chips and salsa. If you would like to purchase another appetizer, I enjoy both the queso and guacamole. Riveras is not Tex Mex, so don't expect that from this restaurant. Some of the flavors of the food in this place will blow your mind. I see a lot of regulars which is nice. If you are new and service seems slow and shaky, just give it a chance and wait for your food. It's worth it. Brat
(5)
Susan P.
This has quickly become our new favorite Mexican restaurant! Go early or be prepared to wait. Everything I have had has been delicious. Service is good and fast. I have had better margaritas, but not better Mexican food in a long time. Portions are huge. I eat about 1/2 and then enjoy the rest at home later!
(4)
Eric N.
Great food. Great service. Chile Colorado and Shrimp Alambra!
(5)
Bob A.
My office moved so this place fell out of my regular rotation. Stopped by for lunch today and saw that they had remodeled. Basically the same but larger and brighter (black ceiling tile to white). This will definitely help drop the wait times during busy times. One think I noticed was that the acoustics are still bad. Place echos. This is very common with places today with the design function that is popular. On to the food. On of my favorite Mexican places... hands down. Ordered the enchiladas pontisitas (spelling). Awesome... hot with a hint of sweet. Loved it. Lunch mates ordered their favorites... shrimp enchiladas and steak taco's and everybody was satisfied. Service was great. Read other reviews and not sure what happens but I am assuming that when they get really busy.... and they do get really busy... that service suffers. We will continue to make the...now long dive... to this place to cure our Mexican cravings.
(4)
Rich E.
Terrible service and food on my last visit, plus I left my Oakley sunglasses at the table and they "told me" I didn't leave them there... In a nutshell: terrible food and dishonest staff! Rich
(1)
Staci D.
First experience was good! I would have given 4 stars but it's very loud in there. Lunch was served fairly quickly and service was friendly. Prices are fair. Excellent "fairly authentic" Mexican food! I would go back.
(3)
Holly H.
The food had been going downhill so we stopped going for a while but heard that they had remodeled so we returned to give it another chance. On our visit back, I was told that since my daughter had not arrived yet that they would not seat me even though there were 12 open tables. I asked since I knew what she wanted to order if I could please put our order in but was told VERY rudely by the OWNER no less that the rules are the rules. I have no problem with the need to have rules, but I do have a problem with the rude way I was treated and the owner's complete lack of any customer service skills at all. If you want good Mexican food and excellent service, go to Hectors or La Mesa where your business will be appreciated and your taste buds treated!
(1)
J P.
Rumor is there is always a wait. I echo other people--it is worth it! Great food, fast service and.... great food. We stopped in with a party of 8, 5 of which were kids. This after driving for 13 hours--everyone was starving. The servers got us in fast, we were almost immediately greeted with water, chips and salsa. Server had good recommendations and catered to the picky eaters. Not well known by the locals I spoke to. Make this a stop!
(4)
Brandon A.
Riveras is hands down the most authentic and best Mexican food in town. The Enchiladas Rancheras is phenomenal and packs some flavor that you would not believe. I can also speak highly of the Carne Asada, Shrimp Alambres, and Chicken Nachos. The supreme margarita is fantastic, along with the complimentary chips and salsa. If you would like to purchase another appetizer, I enjoy both the queso and guacamole. Riveras is not Tex Mex, so don't expect that from this restaurant. Some of the flavors of the food in this place will blow your mind. I see a lot of regulars which is nice. If you are new and service seems slow and shaky, just give it a chance and wait for your food. It's worth it. Brat
I finally made it to this place I've heard quite a lot about. I'm sure glad I came here. Real nice and packed inside. The rumors were right. We were greeted happily and seated quick. Our server Freddy came over and told us a little history of how long the restaurant been around. 11 years. I can't believe I haven't already tried this restaurant. Wonderful decor on all walls. Real comfortable setting. Loud, but a cheerful loud. I looked over the menu and everything looked great but the word venomous popped out. Seasoned pork over white rice, Pico and guacamole. Sour cream with a habanero cheese sauce. All wrapped up in a tortilla. No refunds LOL. I had to take the challenge. It sounded great but I knew how hot it would be. I finished about 3/4 before saying I was to full to finish. Freddy the server had a hilarious attitude, bringing beverage napkins to wipe the sweat away. Best dang server I've ever had. That guy should be nominated. Ask for Freddy! He new the struggle of eating spicy food. Wife and kids were happy as well!!! Glad I finally made it. Won't be my last. In my top 5 for authentic Mexican.
(5)
Susan P.
This has quickly become our new favorite Mexican restaurant! Go early or be prepared to wait. Everything I have had has been delicious. Service is good and fast. I have had better margaritas, but not better Mexican food in a long time. Portions are huge. I eat about 1/2 and then enjoy the rest at home later!
(4)
Eric N.
Great food. Great service. Chile Colorado and Shrimp Alambra!
(5)
Bob A.
My office moved so this place fell out of my regular rotation. Stopped by for lunch today and saw that they had remodeled. Basically the same but larger and brighter (black ceiling tile to white). This will definitely help drop the wait times during busy times. One think I noticed was that the acoustics are still bad. Place echos. This is very common with places today with the design function that is popular. On to the food. On of my favorite Mexican places... hands down. Ordered the enchiladas pontisitas (spelling). Awesome... hot with a hint of sweet. Loved it. Lunch mates ordered their favorites... shrimp enchiladas and steak taco's and everybody was satisfied. Service was great. Read other reviews and not sure what happens but I am assuming that when they get really busy.... and they do get really busy... that service suffers. We will continue to make the...now long dive... to this place to cure our Mexican cravings.
(4)
Rich E.
Terrible service and food on my last visit, plus I left my Oakley sunglasses at the table and they "told me" I didn't leave them there... In a nutshell: terrible food and dishonest staff! Rich
(1)
Staci D.
First experience was good! I would have given 4 stars but it's very loud in there. Lunch was served fairly quickly and service was friendly. Prices are fair. Excellent "fairly authentic" Mexican food! I would go back.
(3)
Holly H.
The food had been going downhill so we stopped going for a while but heard that they had remodeled so we returned to give it another chance. On our visit back, I was told that since my daughter had not arrived yet that they would not seat me even though there were 12 open tables. I asked since I knew what she wanted to order if I could please put our order in but was told VERY rudely by the OWNER no less that the rules are the rules. I have no problem with the need to have rules, but I do have a problem with the rude way I was treated and the owner's complete lack of any customer service skills at all. If you want good Mexican food and excellent service, go to Hectors or La Mesa where your business will be appreciated and your taste buds treated!
(1)
Paul C.
First of all, I am a Mexican food snob so take my review with a grain of salt. That said, this wasn't all that bad and I will be back at some point. I started with the chorizo fundido - nice taste and seasonings despite what tasted like a generic packaged cheese that you wouldn't normally find in fundido (wasn't the Oaxaca that I prefer). For the main course I went with the Tacos Pastor. These were as well seasoned and flavorful as any of the dozens of taquerias I have been to in many markets. There is enough of the menu to not classify it as "Tex-Mex" and making it worth more visits.
(4)
Eric N.
Truly"GOOD" Mexican is hard to find. Rivera's hits the bullseye. Keep in mind, it's not a big place and you'll wait a bit, don't worry. Thus place is doing it right. Great service, great food. They mistakenly made the wrong entree for my wife. Not only food they remake the correct item for her, they let her keep the wrong one and didn't charge us for either one!! And, Yummers. Just get in your car and go there NOW!
(5)
Michael G.
One of the best Mexican Resturants in Omaha. Great food! Great service!
(5)
Sarah G.
Wow, this place drives me crazy. I don't think I'll be back again. While I've been totally thrilled (fish tacos), I've also been really disappointed by cold, undersalted and stale chips, terrible acoustice, excessive waits, and lackluster service. And I don't know why they feel the need to nickle-and-dime you for everything. (No chips until you order entrees, $1 for an extra basket of chips, $0.50 for extra hot sauce, etc). Why can't they just build this into the price of the food? Finally, no splitting checks - which our server was apologetic about - but it's the manager or owner's rule. So the best you can do is split the check between 2 credit cards. SOL if you have more than 2 people dining and don't have cash. I'd rather eat somewhere where I don't feel like I'm being treated like some kind of food criminal. Honestly the quality of the meal is only worth 3 stars to begin with - at least these days. I wouldn't be suprised if there were some cost-saving methodologies going on in the kitchen as well.
(1)
Dianne M.
Still the best Mexican food in Omaha!! They remodeled, which helps with the wait time. They also put up the sound deadening ceiling tiles, which really helps everyone to be able to have a nice conversation with their amazing dinner. Rivera's serves superior food than Hectors and La Mesa serves. Don't waste your time going anywhere else!!
(5)
Amy O.
I love love Riveras!! I had the sonora wrap!! Shrimp, spinach, and loads of cheese! The atmosphere was a bit loud and overcrowded, but the food is always great!
(4)
Sharawn T.
This place is awesome! I am a California native so I know good Mexican food! Everything was great and tasted to authentic like it was straight from scratch! Nothing out of a can here! The bartender was very attentive and friendly..great service and great food! Just moving here from cali and have found my spot! :-D
(5)
Nick S.
The low ranks given by others are more reflection on Omahans poor taste in Mexican food rather than Riveras food quality. It probably isn't fried enough or not cheesy enough to satisfy most. This place is great, some of their rules are annoying but that quickly fades when you get served straight up deliciousness.
(5)
Robyn R.
When they say spicy.. they mean it. We went on a Friday night... there was a short wait.... cute environment, but loud. The salsa is different then most places. You can taste the cilantro. The service and portions were good. They have plenty of vegetarian options. Overall: very good.
(4)
Laura B.
By far the best and most authentic Mexican food you can get anywhere outside of south Omaha. They have a lot of "rules" which has put off some people I know; won't seat you til your party is all present, no free chips and salsa, no split checks. But if you can get past that, and you should, you are in for a delightful meal. The service is friendly despite the somewhat foreboding rule list. Margaritas are strong and good, and they offer tequila flights with all ranges of price and quality. My go to dish is the mole enchiladas. Mole takes a long time to make right and they hit the nail on the head. Also check out the Veracruz enchiladas (seafood). Get there early. It is always packed.
(5)
Christine B.
The last time I visited Rivera's was years ago and I vowed never to return - primarily as a result of the atrocious customer service. Fast forward a few years. We find ourselves in the area on a Saturday afternoon, too lazy to drive across town to our fav places for our mexi-fix. My vow is easily broken by promises of chips and salsa. Five tables. Two servers. Service was significantly better. The Enchilada Rancheras with steak ($8.55) is a large portion that was more than filling and pretty tasty, albeit a bit higher in sodium by the size of my fingers the next day. The Chile Colorado ($8.65) was an equally large portion, but the steak was tough and chewy, so would not recommend that particular protein choice with this dish. If you're not a fan of chipotle, stay away from this option because you can definitely taste the smoke flavor. While the lunch prices were decent, I agree with Sarah G. that charging for extra chips and sauce is lame. The place is super small, so can see how the dinner hour gets ridiculously busy. The bar area is equally small, so waiting for a table probably means standing in the airlock area between the two front doors. In a city that lacks decent Mexican options with table service the further west you go, Rivera's is a decent option.
(3)
Neal K.
Best mexican food in Omaha without a doubt. The shrimp Alambre appetizer may be one of the best things I have ever had. The margaritas are also incredible. Just expanded the dining room which is great. Still a little loud in the restaurant but definitely worth it.
(5)
Ron C.
Waitress served something other than what I asked for. She Offered to take it back and cook the correct entree. I refused because my husband would be eating alone while they cooked the correct entree so kept what was served and nibbled at it. Told her we would not pay for the incorrect entree. She insisted that because she offered to provide the correct dish that she would not take it off the bill The manager came and repeated the same but finally removed it after a nasty exchange Will not return
(2)
Kyle L.
God damn. God damn. This place is tasty. Pork shanks awesome. Fire House Albondingas awesome. Enchiladas awesome. Fish tacos awesome. You literally can not go wrong. Get there early.
(5)
Robert B.
Like lambs to the slaughter, we keep going back... That ends right now. No more Rivera's for us for quite a while. 1. If you are waiting for more guests, don't dare tell them! They won't seat you until everyone is there. If you are first to arrive, just tell them you are the only one in your party and be seated. When your friends arrive, act surprised and invite them to sit with you. 2. No chips until you order food. No, you can't get them if you order drinks. You must order food first. The chips are no longer served warm as in Rivera's days of glory. No, the chips are now cold, stale, and bland. 3. If you want another handful of chips, pony up another $2. 4. Food quality has fallen off the map. Completely. What used to be excellent, reasonably authentic south of the border fare now borders on Tex-Mex cliche. Black beans and lime rice have made way for canned re-fried beans and "Spanish-style" rice. That's all I can say. It's really sad what has happened to Rivera's.
(1)
Kayla A.
The food was alright, however the service was horrible!!! The server took for ever to come take our drink order, I asked for chips and salsa and he rudely told me we had to place our food order first. We placed our food order and waited 5 mins for him to come back and say he forgot what we ordered could we tell him again. At that point I had forgotten and asked to see the menu again so I could point it out, he rolled his eyes at me. It just went down hill from there..... he kept filling my sprite with water, spilled the chips and salsa on me ( after I asked 3 times for it), brought us the wrong food, and took 10 mins to bring us our check. Again the food was wasn't, bad. I think the rude service just made this a horrible experience however we will not be returning.
(1)
Rybin V.
Great food on hot plates the outrageous wrap is awesome! Beans are great and hot full of flavor just like the rice.I have been in 8 times and the give me the executive treatment like I am part of the family.Your food is awesome and keep it up !!!
(5)
Liz A.
Now that marriage equality is really picking up steam across the USA, and given that my significant other and I do not actually desire to marry, I wonder if now is my chance to achieve my newly ( last night) thunk up dream: to marry the spinach enchiladas at Rivera's. I LOVE THEM. They understand everything about me. They intrigue me and fulfill me. HOW CAN SOMETHING THAT TASTES SO RIGHT BE CONSIDERED WRONG? In all seriousness, the Veggie Combo that included my fiancee, the margaritas, the shrimp alambres appetizer -- best Mexican food I've had at LEAST since my family lived in SoCal.
(4)
Justine R.
Good but did not have a lot of vegetarian options which is too bad as most Mexican places have a variety of things that is why I don't go more often. Good chips and salsa. I went back and they modified an entree to make it vegetarian while it originally contained meat.
(3)
Lou T.
You can't go wrong with Enchiladas Rancheras, Mayan Pork, or Enchiladas Acapulco. Also, don't miss the supreme margaritas or queso!!
(5)
Joel D.
Food was excellent, service was good to , I would have gave it 5 stars if it wasn't so loud and overcrowded . Its time for a bigger building.
(4)
Ellen B.
Disappointing! So much hype for an expensive, crappy meal. For a four year old to eat and have a drink it was 8.25. The enchiladas suizas were disgusting with the mix of white and dark meat chicken. The beans had some weird taste too. The enchiladas rancheros were okay according to spouse. Also, the waitress offered habanero sauce but charged us $1 for it. Shouldn't you at least say I will bring you a sample for a $2? Next time will stick to good old tex-mex where the price and taste are good. Heck Taco Bell is better.
(1)
SheAndHim E.
Best Mexican food ever!! Smaller atmosphere with limited hours, but well worth the while.
(5)
Michael R.
This place is great. Crab Enchiladas are awesome. Friendly service and very accommodating even with two little kids when it's crowded. This is our go to spot for a good meal out.
(5)
Rc D.
CLOSED with a dumpster in front of the restaurant. Website shows they are open for business.
(1)
Oscar G.
Admittedly, I am partial to Azteca, La Mesa, El Rey and Abelardo's. I've heard lots of good things about Rivera's, so DW and I ate here this evening (Friday dinner). This place is very small, and the wait times can get long. We waited a hair over 45 minutes for a table. Yes, like others have mentioned, the interior of the place is cramped and pretty loud. The service was very good. I was a little deflated that only the first round of chips/salsa was gratis. I can see that a lot of chips probably go to waste, but it's kinda tacky to charge. We stuck to being satisfied with what was served. I wanted to like the salsa, but I felt that there was too much cumin in it. I felt the same way about the salsa at Cilantro's, too. We ordered the Jalapeno popper appetizer. We're used to the store-bought variety with cream cheese, but these were huge, and boy were they spicy hot. I'm all for spicy stuff, but these were overbearingly so. The ranch-style dip for the poppers was very good. We wouldn't order them again. I had the fajitas matador. These were very tasty and tender, but I detected more of the gratuitous use of cumin, although it wasn't enough that it completely killed the fajitas for me. The rice and beans were decent as well. DW had the enchiladas suizas and was completely satisfied with them. They're made with corn tortillas, which is much more authentic than using flour tortillas. Their prices are as expected for a casual, sit-down restaurant at dinner time. Overall, a solid three stars is appropriate for Rivera's. We live much closer to Azteca and one of the La Mesa locations, so I'm not sure when/if we'll go back to Rivera's.
(3)
G. R.
Well, our appetizer was excellent, the entrees were only average, but having to scream at each other to be understood just turns me right off. I'll leave this one to people with better lungs and ears than I have.
(2)
Elizabeth H.
Five ladies went to lunch yesterday and we were all so pleased with the food and service! We had fajitas, enchilada suiza, carne asada... you could have shared the portions, they are that big. We also had chips and salsa and they make the salsa to your taste. We asked for mild and it was perfect. Our server was beyond great; he spent time with us answering questions, checking back with us, keeping our drinks full. Even better - the food reheats nicely and has the same great taste. This will be my go to Mexican restaurant!
(5)
Matt M.
If you sit down at a "Mexican" restaurant and you see the word "wrap" or the phrase "covered in nacho cheese sauce" you are not in a real Mexican restaurant. Get back in your car immediately and head for South Omaha. After seeing all the positive reviews I had to at least give it a shot. Absolutely disappointed from the chips & salsa on. Food was bad, service was weird & the whole vibe of the place is just off.
(1)
Heidi V.
Love this place! It is definitely a hole in the wall, but there is literally always a wait, which I think is a sign of a good find. I always get the Sparky's nachos and the carne asada. Although I have also tried the pollo alas brasas and that was also delicious. The margaritas aren't bad either. As a warning, everything is a little spicy, so be careful if that's not your thing. Overall, one of my favorite places in Omaha!
(5)
KR H.
A different kind of authentic Mexican restaurant. Some traditional choices and some house specials. The refried beans are too salty for me but my family loves them and the fried rice. There's usually a crowd and a wait but tonight we got right in. This is a small place and it's loud not intimate. The salsa is yellow and spicy but good. MOST of the choices here are spicy so if they mark it spicy expect heat. Everything we've had here has been great. The service is not fast but is efficient and never rude. The flan is some of the best in town. The sopapillas are excellent and is a very large serving. We've always come away with extra food for tomorrow and laughing. This place is unique and may not be for everyone, especially if you normally eat at chains.
(4)
A J.
Best Mexican food in Omaha. Period. Been going since first few months open and have tried half the menu. Everything is always great. Great service. Great tequila selection.
(5)
Mark E.
Upon moving to Omaha, I've been disappointed with what passed for Mexican food. I was thrilled to find Rivera's authentic Pueblan cuisine. Go for their carne asada! Amazing!
(4)
Allison M.
The white chickn chili is a must try! Oerfect amount of heat, texture fabulous and tons of white meat chicken!
(5)
Lauren S.
I absolutely love this place. It is authentic and reasonably priced for what you get. They usually have a cheap special that includes two authentic tacos (delish) and two seafood enchiladas which are great also. The only reason I did not give five stars is because my dad orders the Mahi Mahi every time which is fabulous but it takes forever so usually everybody else's dish is lukewarm or cold. However, their guacamole is the BEST I've ever tasted and would go there just for that! The atmosphere can be loud but I love it. Been there twice where tables next to us gave some of their appetizers because they ordered too much, and they were always great. Just understand that when their is a jalapeño next to a menu item it IS going to be spicy. The long wait and ordering/paying rules don't bother me at all when I dine at this Non-chain restaurant! I haven't tried the sopapillas yet because I'm always so full, but I need to because it is a great Mexican desert.
(4)
Brig A.
This is one place when they say something is spicy they are not kidding. I got the enchiladas al diablo. HOLY COW! Those things cleared out my sinuses immediately. The overall flavor was very good, but they did not disappoint in the spiciness. The big disappointment of this place was for some reason it is CRAZY loud. The other thing is that the salsas are not good. The chips and salsa were really bizarre tasting. I don't understand how you mess that up, but what can I say. I will say, if the restaurant hadn't been so loud it would be a four star experience.
(3)
Kyle T.
The food is absolutely transcendent -- we've been going for years and have never had so much as an "okay" dish. If you're looking for an enchilada combo plate you'll be disappointed, but if you have an open mind, a moderate heat tolerance that (sadly) matches your tolerance for fellow diners with loud/unsupervised children you will find a lot to like here. First, the food is uniformly superb. If that's your sole criteria, this place deserves a solid 7 on a 5 point scale. They routinely exceed expectations. Second, the employment of hard surfaces only compounds and amplifies the problem of unattended/ignored children, which ranges from "tolerable" to "cacophony" depending on the number of children present. Don't say you weren't warned.
(4)
China F.
I love their mole. Everything is great. My favorite Mexican restaurant in Omaha Nebraska.
(5)
Joan W.
If you love authentic Mexican food, this place will will not disappoint you. Every meal my husband and I have ordered has been delicious with a mouth watering presentation. Watch out - some of their dishes are very spicy; all dinners are marked on the menu their heat index for that meal so there are no surprises.
(5)
Anna R.
The guacamole, all types of enchiladas, and the salsa are amazing! I've never had anything I didn't love. You might have to wait a bit for a table, but it is worth it! Delicious food and good service too!
(5)
Dave B.
Like the re-design of the place. We hadn't been there in over a year. Its very busy on a Saturday night. 6pm arrival means 45 minutes for a table. All food was good. Carne Asada was two large pieces of the meat. Tacos Nortenos were super and the Fire Pork"wrap" was more of a smothered burrito that was huge. Lots of different flavors you don't get a most other places in town. Service for our visit was very good and the food came out in an appropriate amount time. Only one free chips and salsa.
(5)
Mike C.
Don't miss out on best flavor, spiced Mexican food! I have been eating here for almost five years. Travel here for biz. Can't miss when in town. They get busy, but the wait is worth it! Try many things. I've found my favorite is anything with the green sauce...somewhat hot, but I love it. Salsa/Chips, brands, Guac, soups are phenomenal! Everything is from scratch. See you there soon!
(5)
Jason L.
Authentic, inexpensive, and delicious! Not fancy by any means but I'd you want a great torta for lunch or amazing carne asada for dinner. Check this place out!
(5)
Christine S.
Great homemade salsa and well worth the wait. We will be adding this authentic spot to our rotation.
(4)
Lauren P.
Some of the best Mexican food I've ever had. I got the spinach enchiladas (vegetarian dish) with guacamole dip and a margarita (which was potent, by the way). The enchiladas were stuffed with loads of fresh spinach and cheese. Their spicy sauce also complimented the dish well. The guac was spicy with fresh avocados and jalepenos. The downside: 30 minute wait and it's about $12-18 a dish. But that doesn't stop me from going back often!!
(5)
Dianna K.
Good food. Horrible management. Long wait at the bar. We waited for over an hour for a table even though our entire party was there and waiting. You are not allowed to be seated unless your entire party is present. When we asked why others were getting seated before us who had arrived after us, their answer was that they did not have a table large enough to accommadate us. There was ten of us. The owner was not apologetic for the long wait and basically appeared arrogant and noncaring. Very poor costomer service skills. We came at 7:30 and at 8:50 we still had no table. We left at that time. We had always been loyal long time costomers Not any more. .My friends, family and I will not be back.
(1)
Chris C.
Absolutely the best Mexican food in town. Awesome carne asada; actually everything on the menu is very good. Excellent margaritas with a definite kick....drink more than one and you'll feel it! Our group of friends go every Friday night. No reservations, so get there early.
(5)
Bill K.
Good food. Horrible, horrible rude service. Food not THAT good to make up for the bad service and attitude that the owner of this establishment has. Won't be back.
(1)
Audrey C.
Very dissapointed in my most recent visit to Rivera's. The Al Pastor tacos were floating oil, and the rice was obviously made with a stale seasoning packet giving it a lumpy consistency and horrible flavor. The beans were off as well, too much sage or something. My husband had the "Bo" Pork Enchiladas. No joke these were smothered in Cheez Whiz, ick! Both pork dishes had such a strong, 'gamey' flavor, this pig must have been 50 years old in order to achieve that kind of stank. Really the only thing good was the chips and salsa. I have always enjoyed the food in the past here. It has gone downhill in my opinion. Oh well, good thing there are thousands of other Mexican places in Omaha because I won't be back to Rivera's unless I have to.
(2)
Ema N.
My husband and I have been to Rivera's on multiple occasions and always have had a great experience. The margaritas are always delicious and the food is excellent. They don't take reservations so expect a bit of a wait depending on the day of the week. The atmosphere is great too. It will be worth the wait.
(5)
Chris B.
Food was good. Service was terrible. Owners wife is a waitress and has a terrible attitude. I have eaten there 20 times and have never been treated this poorly. The owner knew we were upset and tried to comp our meal. I chose to pay and never return.
(1)
Stewart W.
Tried Rivera's for the first time. Timing was perfect, arriving at 12:30 p.m. for lunch. It was crowded but a table was available, with several other tables opening up soon afterwards. Service was fine. Chile rillenos is my standard dish to judge Mexican restaurants by, and I was not taken by Rivera's, which had cinnamon overtones that did not complement the chiles to me. But I didn't care about that, as my lunch partner and I shared an order of shrimp alambres, which was absolutely delicious -- one of my favorite dishes in all of Omaha restaurant-dom. I will be headed back to Rivera's specifically to order them, perhaps as a main dish all to myself instead of an appetizer. Would also like to go back at dinnertime to try a margarita and flan.
(4)
Melissa P.
The food was awesome! Love their Carne asada! no compalints, the waitress was friendly and tended to our needs.
(4)
Josh H.
Finally got a chance to stop in for lunch after a number of reccomendations. As I walked in I must say I was a little shocked at the size... I mean this place is SMALL and that's an understatement but quite cozy if you're on a date I guess. I can only imagine how many people they must have to turn away on the weekends due to lack of seating.. With that being said the food was delicious and fresh. I had the steak fajitas with rice and beans and enjoyed all of it. Also the chips and salsa were quite unique in fact the salsa had more of a yellow color to it and I mistakenly thought it was cheese at first none the less it was delicious.. The service was adequate and very friendly. Can't wait to try some of their other dishes..
(4)
Natalie E.
RIvera's is pretty good, and you can definitely find a good meal here, but not as good as they used to be. When they first opened the menu was more authentic, but (as I'm sure was necessary financially) to cater to the gringo population in West O, the food was Americanized. The free chips and salsa are good and the drink selection is actually impressive for the place they run. Seating is limited, the dining room is small. On happy hour nights expect to wait at least 30 minutes. Service, though occasionally slow, is always friendly. Never a problem with the wrong food or a mistake on an order.
(3)
Stefanie N.
Perhaps it was because I went with a person who loves this place, or perhaps it was because my first time here...but whatever the case, I liked what I ordered and I will be coming back. The chips and salsa weren't terrible but they weren't something to write home about. I ordered the al pastor tacos and unlike the other reviews, mine wasn't drenched in oil. In fact, it was well seasoned and tender and all sorts of deliciousness al pastor tacos should be. I kind of compared it to Robo Taco in Portland, OR and while Robo Taco had the better tortilla, Rivera's had just as good seasoned meat.
(4)
Francisco F.
The food is still awesome, but the service is getting so bad I will not be going back. The last time I went for dinner there were only 3 other tables full and it took an hour to get my food, without so much as an apology or a (good) reason. When I asked the waitress her response was that the cook is slow today.
(2)
Chad D.
Here's the deal. We had a party of 9. Maybe that's the reason the service was HORRIBLE. The food, however was AMAZING. I'd give the food more than 5 stars if I could, and give the service less than 1. We arrived and were told 20-25 minutes for a table. We waited nearly an hour, and were finally seated. It took the waitress almost 10 minutes to come say hello and get a drink order. She brought back half the drinks, then was gone another 5 minutes getting the others. It took 15 minutes before she came back to take our orders. So now we've been here an hour and a half, and just got our order taken. Chips and salsa were good, though not incredible. They stated that we would only get 1 basket of chips and salsa despite having 9 people. We asked why and they said it was because one of our party ordered Nachos which they consider an appetizer and their policy is that if you order an appetizer you don't get chips. Huh? I'm not sure what their logic is. Chips are WAY cheap, and most Mexican restaurants in the area provide them free of charge. Anyway, we had 3 kids with us, and they were HUNGRY since everything was taking so long. Another woman came over and explained the "chip" situation. She asked if we were ordering the Nachos as an appetizer or as a meal. We explained as a meal, and then she said "Sorry for the misunderstanding, we'll bring you 2 baskets of chips." Not sure why it mattered but it did. Food took about 20-25 minutes, and it was AMAZING. Here's where another issue arises though. 2 of the kids meals weren't brought out. 1 order of fish tacos wasn't brought out. We told her we were missing some food, and she told us it would be right out. 10 minutes later, 1 order of chicken fingers came out. ONLY 1. We told her we were still missing 1 order of chicken fingers and an order of fish tacos. "He hasn't gotten his fish tacos yet? " she asked. We told her no, and she brought them out almost immediately. But they were COLD. Not cool, not lukewarm, but COLD. They had sat there awhile it was obvious. Then, another 10 minutes later, as everyone who had received their food was finishing up, the last kids meal arrives. To top it all off, they added 18% gratuity automatically for the service we got. I had real heartburn with that, and brought it to her attention. She told me I could change it if I wanted to, but it was actually an item on the bill, and not like where you add it on your credit card slip. I paid it anyway, told her that her service was bad though. Overall, the food is AMAZING, and the service was HORRIBLE. I would recommend this place, though with some caution. It was a tough review to write because it truly was a tale of good vs. evil. LOL
(2)
Rudy W.
some of the seafood plates are awesome. went there for 3 weeks straight every day. pick every single item on the menu. the good part of being regular, i guess they know what you like in regards to spiciness. so they always give me the habenero sauce on the side and use less salt. good food. and come early, otherwise expect to wait. the only thing I don't like ( I always asked them to hold on the sauce), is they use a lot of sauces.
(4)
Tessa W.
I had the Chicken Pibl and it was DELICIOUS!!! Took awhile to figure out what we wanted because it was kind of a strange menu - but I was so happy with my choice. My husband had some kind of seafood plate and his only complaint was that he asked for it a little too spicy so it was difficult for him to eat. Looking forward to going there again!
(4)
Megan P.
Don't let the size and location of this restaurant fool you. Their food is incredible with intense flavors and unique combinations. It is one of the best Mexican restaurants in town. There is often a wait but it is worth it!!! My husband loved the Cazuela Al Horno and I had the fajitas, both were delicious. This is a "must try" for all Mexican food lovers.
(5)
Ali L.
I actually wasn't too impressed. At all. I ordered the Enchiladas Poblanas on recommendation of the waiter, and even though the food was semi-tasty, I wasn't really a big fan. Wish I would've tried fish tacos or the lobster enchiladas. But at $10 for what I ordered, not impressed. My friend wanted a simple burrito, but there aren't any on the menu, so went with the Spicy Chicken Wrap instead. He said it was pretty good, but then found a TOOTHPICK inside his food. I told a waitress next to our table about this, she just shrugged and said "oh well" and walked over to another table. Annoyed, I told our our waiter when he came back, he apologized profusely and gave us the chicken wrap for free. He offered to make something else, but we were short on time and not in the mood to wait another half hour for something else we weren't thrilled with. This place was packed at 12:30 for lunch, and tables are closely seated together which was inconvenient since my friend has his back being jabbed in by someone else's chair. The chips were fresh and homemade, but I wasn't a big fan of the salsa. It was good, but the spice of it just didn't make me want to devour it like I normally do with most things left on a table pre-meal. I may go back some other time, but for the price of $9-12 a plate for lunch, I have other places I would like to investigate.
(2)
Michelle H.
placed my order and it came out wrong three times. I ordered sea bass and they must have thought that chicken or pork was the same. after 45 mins of this bs I complained that if it came out wrong we would be leaving. The owner came out of the kitchen and told us to get the F-out if we didn't like the service. this happened two years ago I still won't give them the time of day. I also make it a point to tell everyone about this experience.
(1)
Sarah A.
I'm originally from Texas, so I have very strong opinions about mexican food. My previous experiences with mexican food in Nebraska have been extremely disappointing. I stopped by Rivera's for lunch one Sunday after being told repeatedly by a friend that Rivera's was the best place in Omaha for Mexican food. I've gotten recommendations before and was expecting an equivalent to Carlos O'Kelly's or Romeo's. Boy was I pleasantly surprised! The food was great! Authentic and flavorful! In no way did I feel like i was eating bland, chain restaurant food. I always recommend it to friends and coworkers. The service wasn't the speediest, but I had my chips and salsa so that kept me company! Definitely try it out!
(4)
Katrina O.
Best fish tacos in town!! I try fish tacos everywhere they're served...and I've never had better. First of all they use Mahi (most places use Tilapia) & second, the chipotle sauce is enough to dream about. Amazing. FOOD In addition to the amazing fish tacos, Rivera's has really good seafood enchiladas; however, I've heard mixed reviews about the rest of their food from people I've dined with. Rivera's also won't do special orders - a downfall for us picky eaters. My friend ordered steak tacos without onion. When they wouldn't take off the onions we assumed they were mixed in with the steak, but nope...they were simply sprinkled on top. Still not quite sure why they couldn't just leave them off. They're homemade salsa is really good - it's got a good kick to it, but you only get one free basket of chips (after you order food). It's a cheap move considering the average ticket price. SERVICE The place is always packed, which makes me wonder why they are ALWAYS understaffed. We waited 10 minutes last night before giving our drink order....which is not uncommon. It's definitely not a place to take a group larger than 4 (if you have 5 they'll squeeze you all around one table) as the dining room is very small & you'll wait awhile. It's also not a place to go if you're in a hurry. PRICE Average prices, but you do get a lot of food (dinners in the $10-$15 range). The house margaritas are $8 - a little high I think. The good news is that they're pretty strong! KID FRIENDLY The chicken fingers are made with chicken breast (which is hard to find) & they cut them up before serving to help them cool faster. As a mom, that was awesome! They do not have ground beef though for tacos - only shreaded chicken (which had some spice to it) & steak. All in all - if you want to try out Rivera's, expect to be there awhile & try the fish tacos!
(3)
Alexis A.
I've been to Rivera's at least three times, and every meal has been stellar. The experience is always the same on a Friday or Saturday night... complete chaos. I actually enjoy the atmosphere; you know that the food is good if the restaurant is always this busy. When you arrive, make sure to write your own name on the register. If you forget this vital step, you may be waiting longer than you'd like. While you wait, enjoy one of the margaritas or a Mexican beer. So far I've enjoyed the camarones a la diabla: shrimp, peppers and onions in a spicy chipotle sauce served with rice, beans and tortillas; the tierra y mar combo with lobster enchiladas enchiladas rancheras and... something else which I'm sure was also delicious. This last time my husband had the chile colorado with beef and wow... that's definitely one I will order in the future. Usually forgettable and mundane at most restaurants, the rice and beans are delicious, as is the complimentary (after you place your order) chips and salsa. This time we ordered sopapillas, which I hadn't eaten for nearly 20 years and they were just as delicious as I remembered--perfect light clouds of fried dough drizzled with honey! The food is always fresh and very flavorful. Not sure how authentic it is, but it's definitely a notch above most Mexican restaurants in creativity and quality. Tip: Go to their website to print some coupons for $5 off your meal of $30 or more.
(5)
D O.
Entire dinner ruined by obnoxious service. Went to eat at Rivera's with a party of 9. We went early because we know it can be busy and wanted to make it easy to accommodate us. We drove in separate cars and one arrived before the other and they refused to seat us until the whole party was present (6 of us were there too!), even though the restaurant was essentially empty and I told them the other car would be there within a couple minutes. That was annoying and unnecessary. Then to seat us they just put two tiny tables together - not enough for space for 9 people by any means. Sigh. When ordering I requested two a la carte enchiladas and was told by the server (with a sharp tone of voice) "We don't do that, you can only buy the platter." I started to reply but she just ignored me and stepped to take the order of the next person (and I probably would have even ended up ordering another platter if she'd kept talking to me...). Another person in our party requested sauteed onions with her meal and the server responded "That wouldn't be good, you wouldn't like that" and then, again, just stepped to the next person without anything further. Wow. According to the menu the first round of chips and salsa is on the house and further rounds are charged. We only got two baskets of chips (again, 9 people) and we'd even gotten as appetizer two orders of guacamole ($8), yet they still charged us when we asked for more chips (how would two baskets have been enough for even a first round for 9, particularly with 2x guacamole?). Weak. We'd asked up front about splitting the bill and were told that no, they don't do that, but that we could work it out ourselves and they would ring it up on different credit cards. So we figured out the amounts and asked our server to ring it up. But then nope, what she'd meant to say was that they will ONLY evenly divide the check into equal amounts, and at most they will take two cards and cash. What the...?!? So we had to roll with that nonsense and then work out a cash exchange amongst ourselves to sort it out. Lovely. Of course, for the pleasure of being treated like we were a nuissance, we were automatically charged an 18% gratuity. Totally undeserved. Was the food good? Who cares? We were so annoyed the whole time we couldn't enjoy it. One positive point I will make is this - the bus people were absolutely super. In all, I would never consider going back.
(1)
Matthew B.
We love Rivera's. We've been there a dozen times or more and love it more each time. Last night I had the Carne Asada. Oh My God. Best Carne Asada I've had. It rivals the Asada I was served by some Hispanic cooks I managed in Phoenix years back. Wow. My wife had her stand by Enchilada and my daughter had chicken tacos. All of us had left overs. We had the Spicy Cheese Dip. It was hot last night, but oh so good. Yes - they have some weird policies....but the food is so worth it. We'll be back!!
(5)
Mary Q.
Amazing Mexican food for those of us who don't get down to South O very often. Service is very friendly, but they don't split checks so bring cash if you're with friends. Try the Fish Tacos!
(5)
Cory B.
I tell everyone about riveras, I always explain it as highly flavorful Mexican food that tips the scale towards the gourmet side of Mexican food. Also if you order something spicy here they mean it. The secret is getting out about this place.
(4)
Sarah W.
Bitchy reviews tend to annoy me, but I guess it's my turn...... Have always liked the food here, and the service is colorful and fun. Last night was no exception. Wonderful server and decent food. The problem was the owner. He will be called Milo Minderbinder for the remainder of this review. My friend and I were sat around 8:30. We ordered, ate, drank, chatted and our togo boxes were dropped with the check around 9:20. As I am boxing my food, and my friend is still eating, Milo steps out of the kitchen and yells from the opposite side of the dining room, "ladies, I'm going home". My friend responds, "have a great night?" Milo responds, "No, we are leaving, I am locking the door." We abandoned our leftover food, left a 30% tip and shall never return. Milo's posted hours for his establishment are 5:00 p.m.-Close(?) To Milo: I recommend you retire from the service industry and move on to smuggling tobacco.
(1)
Randy C.
After reading some of the reviews, I figured that I needed to add my two cents, since I know this restaurant well. I've been going to Rivera's since shortly after it opened, literally eaten there over 100 times, and tried almost everything on the menu. I give it 5 stars for value. It's not Topolobampo or the Frontrera Grill, but the food is excellent and the wait staff friendly and efficient. I see that many complain about the service, but they're so freakin' busy most of the time, it's not surprising that it is slow at times. Chips and salsa are homemade, usually pretty decent. Several of the dishes are excellent: Chicken Laredo, the Pibil dishes (fish or Chicken), Carne Asada, and the Mole is good as well. I can't think of anything that disappointed me, except perhaps the Bo Enchiladas. The flan and sopapillas are nice deserts (if they have the habanero flan, give it a try). I've tried the South O restaurants, and Rivera's is definitely better. Probably the best value for a Mexican restaurant in Omaha. Agave has better sauces, but is far too limited in what they do.
(5)
John M.
Love this place!! I had been living on the East Coast for six years and I crave this place. I eat here whenever I come back. Now I live here. I'm a big Mexican food fan from East Coast to West Coast I've been in all the Mexican places and all of Omaha. Best Mexican in West Omaha hands down. Only one place came close in Washington but it was all about the trend. I love that this is family owned and super friendly with generous portions. Their mole is great and authentic. The guacamole is awesome. It's a small place. So plan accordingly. Don't recommend large groups. The last time I was there they sat a big group. They dominated our dinner. It was noisy. Have a margarita while you wait. Everything on the menu is great. The diablo is memorable in more ways than one. Salsa is fresh authentic and just like I remember my "abuelita" friend inLA used to make me!
(5)
Jonathan H.
I finally stopped for lunch the other day after hearing so many good things about Rivera's from coworkers (and yelpers.) I was not disappointed. Me being a fan of tex-mex, I was unsure of what I would think. Wow is my thought. How have I worked so close to Rivera's and not stopped. Soo good. Really. A coworker and I stopped in just after 11 and the place was empty. An empty restaurant for a person who has never been there is an ominous sign if you ask me, but we went ahead and sat down and ordered. By the time our food arrived every single table in the place was filled (11:25.) Everyone from suit wearing lawyers to salty construction workers filled up the place. That is a good sign. I enjoyed the enchiladas rancheras and my coworker had the Chile Colorado. Both were obviously made from scratch and were fantastic. Filed with flavor (and not for the diet conscious.) I can't wait to go back during dinner so I can sample their AMAZING tequila selection that has to topping 50+. If you work around the area, stop by (and if you don't want to wait, do it before 11:30.) Cheers!
(4)
Carly K.
Best Mexican Food Ever! My favorite is the enchaladas de mole. The food tastes homemade. This is real Mexican food; not the microwaved, over cheesed, greasy, unflavored stuff you get at some of the so called Mexican restaurants.
(5)
David W.
We have been there a few times now. They have removed some of the items on the the menu that were wonderful and unique. The food is usually very good. The main issue is that its a poorly run business. The noise can definitely be an issue. They do nickel and dime you. I'm surprised they don't charge you for the napkins! The wait staff at times can be a little sketchy. If you ever have to deal with the owners, you'll discover they really have no class at all and shouldn't be business owners. He should just be a cook/chef (his food is good), and she should be a dishwasher at best. They should stay away from customers instead of driving them away.
(3)
TL C.
6th time I've ate at Rivera's.... 1st... Worst service period! 2nd.. Guaca Maya is way way better. 3rd.. tonight I ordered a dish that had chicken and shrimp in it which was all the menu said were in the dish meat wise. I found some type of red meat in my dish and the waitress then said oh yeah it has sausage in it. First off I told her I don't eat pig or cow when i order the dish and she said then you will love this. Then after I found out that the dish had pig in it the waitress said and sorry took the dish back... They never offered me another dish or said sorry you ate pig.. she just put our ticket on the table with my dish included on the tab..... I manage a great restaurant in the old market and we would offer another dish if you you not happy with what you received.Plus we list everything that is in everyone of our dishes. I have tried to enjoy Rivera's now for years and this is my take on what they're trying to do. It looks like Romeo's, They have a horrible wait every night, I will say they have great drinks.... Bad service.. and the food is nothing more than tacobell meet Michaels in the old market... save yourself the wait and go downtown to Guacamaya or any real Mexican restaurant down on 24th... It's not great or even worth the wait.... I'd pass on this place... and by the way worst Guacc in town... my grade D- ...... go to tacobell then go there for drinks if you can get to the tiny bar... Booooooo!!!!
(1)
Tyson B.
After reading the previous reviews about this place we decided to check it out. Walking in, I must say I was skeptical at first. The place is new and clean but it is tiny! Unless you are sitting around the booths you are pretty much next to other parties in the middle of the restaurant. The size factor is the only thing that kept me from giving a 5 star review. That aside, the food and service was incredible! I agree with the others that this is by far the best Mexican food I have had in Nebraska so far. I took up Derek E.'s suggestion by getting the Enchiladas Racheras ($10 on dinner menu I think) and it was amazing (it's spicy though, watch out!). It was a lot of food too so I ended up taking some home. Others in my group got the Enchiladas Vera Cruz (seafood) and the shrimp inside were high quality and the Mole Platter I believe it was, which he was very impressed with. At a glance: Pros: - Food!! - Taste it and it speaks for itself - Service - Fast and friendly - Location - 120th and Blondo Cons: - Size/atmosphere - Too small and cluttered If you love Mexican food you at least need to go here once. Enjoy!
(4)
Anthony K.
All of the food is flavorful, and the ambiance is okay. Had the green chile pork, and it was deliciously spicy. The portion sizes are huge. Upon request, they substituted really tasty black beans for my refried beans, which I appreciate. Selection of Mexican beer was excellent, although there is nothing on tap and it wasn't as cold as I hoped. If you're into Tequila, they have over 60 types from which to choose. The restaurant is small but very open, so it gets loud in a hurry. A few booths line the walls and table fill the middle. Service was solid. Keep you expectations low for the atmosphere and high for the food, and you will leave Rivera's jolly and full.
(4)
Meredith R.
Food sucked! Guess being from Texas I'm a little spoiled. Service was bad and who doesn't serve SIZZLING fajitas???
(1)
Guillermo L.
Smallish in a good way (limited seating but cozy). Love the nachos! (best in Omaha). Very low key, with plenty of choices.
(4)
Lou M.
I drive down Blondo all the time and just noticed this place earlier this week. Kinda funny we ended up going there tonight with some friends. I got the combo rancheros enchilades with the shrimp enchiladas and it was good. One thing about that dish I have seen mentioned is that it is spicy. I liked it but it was at my tolerent for spicy-ness. If you think the tinyest thing is spicy, you probably will think this is super hot. Like I said, it was good. Wife had the mahi mahi tacos and liked them. We'll go back there for sure. We ate here on a Friday night at 6pm, got seated immediatly, and had great service. Only downfall abut this place i think is that it was certianly loud in there the whole time. Probably due to it being so small....guessing maybe 20-25 tables total. In all, a very enjoyable meal.
(4)
Laura B.
Things I like: -Strong margaritas---yes! -Place was packed with a line -Great shredded chicken and carne asada -Excellent service! -Delicious beans and rice! -Great for a family Things not sure about: -I liked and disliked the salsa at the same time -My chicken enchiladas had a lot of crushed red pepper seeds in them--and felt chewy..not in a good way -Vinyl booth seats
(3)
Marc A.
Best Mexican food in town, hands down!!! My wife and I have been coming here for years, and I have literally probably eaten here over 40 times. I like to try different things when I go and have tried most things on the menu (except I don't like seafood in general). Every thing I have is always different and delicious, the food is authentic, spicy, flavorful, and far from the usual ground hamburger taco's at your typical mexican restaurant. Their wraps, fajitas, enchiladas bravas, enchiladas rancheras, chile colorado, and chipotle enchilada are my favorites. The place is small...they owner said they did consider expanding to a larger restaurant, but evidently it was gonna cost about triple their rent of what they paying now. My only advise is I don't recommend going here if you have a party bigger than six because you'll wait for a while, and if you don't like (very) loud, fun atmospheres this isn't for you either. They have been understaffed in the past, but I think this is much better now, they are always so busy because everyone goes there because it is so good. The marg's are a bit expensive ($8) but considering how strong they are, you can consider it as getting 2 for $4. Sum it up, this is the best Mexican food I've ever had and worth going at least once.
(5)
Ali M.
Amazing! Authentic! Always super busy, be prepared to wait... but well worth it. Strong margaritas at times... beware.. they can sneak up on you! ;) Staff are extremely friendly and really hard working. We've got 2 favorite Mexican places in town.. this is one.
(5)
Lisa G.
Absolutely delicious. Great Mexican food (I got the outrageous wrap), great margaritas, so crowded. They don't split bills, which is a bit frustrating, and service is a bit slow. Overall, food is so great that it doesn't even really matter.
(5)
Cody P.
Amazing food! I get the Chiles En Nogada, it is a pepper stuffed with cheese and topped with a walnut sauce and a pomegranate reduction. So amazing! I just wish there was more seating because it is packed on the weekends!
(5)
Carol P.
Love their shrimp appetizer! Very small, loud, and crowded. Not a place for large groups or conversation but good Mexican food!
(4)
Rob B.
I visited Rivera's for lunch, and loved it. The salsa is different from the regular, and the chips are fresh and crispy. I had a rock shrimp enchilada, the Veracruz. It was amazing. The seasoning, the obvious freshness of the seafood, it was perfect. The service was really good. I am a big water drinker, and will go through four glasses during a typical dinner, and my glass was never empty for very long. The only thing that keeps Rivera's from getting a 5 star is the prices. I think that is probably just because of the size of the place....less sqf means more $ per sqf :-) for overhead, and this place is small. Even there though, they have a nice lunch menu with appropriate pricing, so it is not all bad.
(4)
Derek E.
I actually didn't like Rivera's when I first tried it. The menu was very interesting, but I didn't get the impression that it was completely authentic. To be fair, I've never been to Mexico, so the closest I've come to authentic Mexican food is Howard's on 13th, and even that impression might based solely on the fact that I've found few other places that serve tamales (which I don't even like). Then I went back and I decided to just order what ever was my waiter's favorite dish. That was the right choice. He recommended the Enchiladas Ranchera's which had a lot more flavor complexity than I've ever had from Mexican dish before. It was diced skirt steak mixed with chorizo, sauted with green onions, finished with a spicy green sauce and cheese ($8.25). Still not in awe of Mexican cuisine, but this was certainly tasty. They seem a little on the pricey side for Mexican food and their sides kind of suck, so I only give them 4 stars. Read more Mexican Restaurants in Omaha Reviews: gastronomicfightclub.com…
(4)
Theo H.
The chicken tacos tasted so good after two patron and sodas. The queso was a bit runny for my preference, but the guacamole was right on.
(4)
Melissa W.
First and foremost I would like to state that the food here is wonderful. It's always fresh and flavorful, as well as authenic. But I do have a few problems with this place, like many people have said before the customer service is lacking and it seems like they're doing you have favor when you come to eat at their place, not the other way around. First off, they don't give you chips and salsa until after you order and then there are no free refills, if you want more than one basket, you have to pay. Also, I've ordered food to go twice from there and both times they got my order wrong and I ended up getting home and then realizing they only gave me half my food or they gave me something I didn't order at all. Once I called and ordered the tacos de pollo (my favorite!) and the diablo steak enchiladas for my husband. I got all the way home before I realize they only have me the tacos but charged me for both meals. The second time I ordered tacos de pollo on my lunch break, when I got back to work with my food I noticed that they had give me some sort of chicken wrap. Another peeve of mine with their take out is that they never include utensils or napkins in the bag. Things that are very important to me when I order take-out and things that should be included. I feel as if Rivera's food is fabulous but their management needs to change or they're going to start driving people away.
(3)
lorne h.
Menu lists fish tacos and fish entrees, however there was no fish. Shrimp tastes like it is out of a can. Food was dry and over cooked. Owners don't smile at their customers. Service is poor. This mexican restaurant is not recommended.
(1)
Russ C.
Consistently a great place to eat. I've only had one bad meal here-the dish I ordered was fried, and it was extremely greasy, like the fryer wasn't turned up high enough. Other than that I've loved this place, especially because when he says spicy, he means it. The chicken nachos are the the best in town and so are the margaritas. A few words of caution: they are very strong, always stop at two, and spend the extra buck for the supreme. The tequila list is very impressive as well.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Loud Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
Rc D.
CLOSED with a dumpster in front of the restaurant. Website shows they are open for business.
(1)Dianna K.
Good food. Horrible management. Long wait at the bar. We waited for over an hour for a table even though our entire party was there and waiting. You are not allowed to be seated unless your entire party is present. When we asked why others were getting seated before us who had arrived after us, their answer was that they did not have a table large enough to accommadate us. There was ten of us. The owner was not apologetic for the long wait and basically appeared arrogant and noncaring. Very poor costomer service skills. We came at 7:30 and at 8:50 we still had no table. We left at that time. We had always been loyal long time costomers Not any more. .My friends, family and I will not be back.
(1)Paul C.
First of all, I am a Mexican food snob so take my review with a grain of salt. That said, this wasn't all that bad and I will be back at some point. I started with the chorizo fundido - nice taste and seasonings despite what tasted like a generic packaged cheese that you wouldn't normally find in fundido (wasn't the Oaxaca that I prefer). For the main course I went with the Tacos Pastor. These were as well seasoned and flavorful as any of the dozens of taquerias I have been to in many markets. There is enough of the menu to not classify it as "Tex-Mex" and making it worth more visits.
(4)Eric N.
Truly"GOOD" Mexican is hard to find. Rivera's hits the bullseye. Keep in mind, it's not a big place and you'll wait a bit, don't worry. Thus place is doing it right. Great service, great food. They mistakenly made the wrong entree for my wife. Not only food they remake the correct item for her, they let her keep the wrong one and didn't charge us for either one!! And, Yummers. Just get in your car and go there NOW!
(5)Michael G.
One of the best Mexican Resturants in Omaha. Great food! Great service!
(5)Sarah G.
Wow, this place drives me crazy. I don't think I'll be back again. While I've been totally thrilled (fish tacos), I've also been really disappointed by cold, undersalted and stale chips, terrible acoustice, excessive waits, and lackluster service. And I don't know why they feel the need to nickle-and-dime you for everything. (No chips until you order entrees, $1 for an extra basket of chips, $0.50 for extra hot sauce, etc). Why can't they just build this into the price of the food? Finally, no splitting checks - which our server was apologetic about - but it's the manager or owner's rule. So the best you can do is split the check between 2 credit cards. SOL if you have more than 2 people dining and don't have cash. I'd rather eat somewhere where I don't feel like I'm being treated like some kind of food criminal. Honestly the quality of the meal is only worth 3 stars to begin with - at least these days. I wouldn't be suprised if there were some cost-saving methodologies going on in the kitchen as well.
(1)Dianne M.
Still the best Mexican food in Omaha!! They remodeled, which helps with the wait time. They also put up the sound deadening ceiling tiles, which really helps everyone to be able to have a nice conversation with their amazing dinner. Rivera's serves superior food than Hectors and La Mesa serves. Don't waste your time going anywhere else!!
(5)Amy O.
I love love Riveras!! I had the sonora wrap!! Shrimp, spinach, and loads of cheese! The atmosphere was a bit loud and overcrowded, but the food is always great!
(4)Sharawn T.
This place is awesome! I am a California native so I know good Mexican food! Everything was great and tasted to authentic like it was straight from scratch! Nothing out of a can here! The bartender was very attentive and friendly..great service and great food! Just moving here from cali and have found my spot! :-D
(5)Nick S.
The low ranks given by others are more reflection on Omahans poor taste in Mexican food rather than Riveras food quality. It probably isn't fried enough or not cheesy enough to satisfy most. This place is great, some of their rules are annoying but that quickly fades when you get served straight up deliciousness.
(5)Robyn R.
When they say spicy.. they mean it. We went on a Friday night... there was a short wait.... cute environment, but loud. The salsa is different then most places. You can taste the cilantro. The service and portions were good. They have plenty of vegetarian options. Overall: very good.
(4)Laura B.
By far the best and most authentic Mexican food you can get anywhere outside of south Omaha. They have a lot of "rules" which has put off some people I know; won't seat you til your party is all present, no free chips and salsa, no split checks. But if you can get past that, and you should, you are in for a delightful meal. The service is friendly despite the somewhat foreboding rule list. Margaritas are strong and good, and they offer tequila flights with all ranges of price and quality. My go to dish is the mole enchiladas. Mole takes a long time to make right and they hit the nail on the head. Also check out the Veracruz enchiladas (seafood). Get there early. It is always packed.
(5)Christine B.
The last time I visited Rivera's was years ago and I vowed never to return - primarily as a result of the atrocious customer service. Fast forward a few years. We find ourselves in the area on a Saturday afternoon, too lazy to drive across town to our fav places for our mexi-fix. My vow is easily broken by promises of chips and salsa. Five tables. Two servers. Service was significantly better. The Enchilada Rancheras with steak ($8.55) is a large portion that was more than filling and pretty tasty, albeit a bit higher in sodium by the size of my fingers the next day. The Chile Colorado ($8.65) was an equally large portion, but the steak was tough and chewy, so would not recommend that particular protein choice with this dish. If you're not a fan of chipotle, stay away from this option because you can definitely taste the smoke flavor. While the lunch prices were decent, I agree with Sarah G. that charging for extra chips and sauce is lame. The place is super small, so can see how the dinner hour gets ridiculously busy. The bar area is equally small, so waiting for a table probably means standing in the airlock area between the two front doors. In a city that lacks decent Mexican options with table service the further west you go, Rivera's is a decent option.
(3)Neal K.
Best mexican food in Omaha without a doubt. The shrimp Alambre appetizer may be one of the best things I have ever had. The margaritas are also incredible. Just expanded the dining room which is great. Still a little loud in the restaurant but definitely worth it.
(5)Ron C.
Waitress served something other than what I asked for. She Offered to take it back and cook the correct entree. I refused because my husband would be eating alone while they cooked the correct entree so kept what was served and nibbled at it. Told her we would not pay for the incorrect entree. She insisted that because she offered to provide the correct dish that she would not take it off the bill The manager came and repeated the same but finally removed it after a nasty exchange Will not return
(2)Kyle L.
God damn. God damn. This place is tasty. Pork shanks awesome. Fire House Albondingas awesome. Enchiladas awesome. Fish tacos awesome. You literally can not go wrong. Get there early.
(5)Robert B.
Like lambs to the slaughter, we keep going back... That ends right now. No more Rivera's for us for quite a while. 1. If you are waiting for more guests, don't dare tell them! They won't seat you until everyone is there. If you are first to arrive, just tell them you are the only one in your party and be seated. When your friends arrive, act surprised and invite them to sit with you. 2. No chips until you order food. No, you can't get them if you order drinks. You must order food first. The chips are no longer served warm as in Rivera's days of glory. No, the chips are now cold, stale, and bland. 3. If you want another handful of chips, pony up another $2. 4. Food quality has fallen off the map. Completely. What used to be excellent, reasonably authentic south of the border fare now borders on Tex-Mex cliche. Black beans and lime rice have made way for canned re-fried beans and "Spanish-style" rice. That's all I can say. It's really sad what has happened to Rivera's.
(1)Kayla A.
The food was alright, however the service was horrible!!! The server took for ever to come take our drink order, I asked for chips and salsa and he rudely told me we had to place our food order first. We placed our food order and waited 5 mins for him to come back and say he forgot what we ordered could we tell him again. At that point I had forgotten and asked to see the menu again so I could point it out, he rolled his eyes at me. It just went down hill from there..... he kept filling my sprite with water, spilled the chips and salsa on me ( after I asked 3 times for it), brought us the wrong food, and took 10 mins to bring us our check. Again the food was wasn't, bad. I think the rude service just made this a horrible experience however we will not be returning.
(1)Rybin V.
Great food on hot plates the outrageous wrap is awesome! Beans are great and hot full of flavor just like the rice.I have been in 8 times and the give me the executive treatment like I am part of the family.Your food is awesome and keep it up !!!
(5)Liz A.
Now that marriage equality is really picking up steam across the USA, and given that my significant other and I do not actually desire to marry, I wonder if now is my chance to achieve my newly ( last night) thunk up dream: to marry the spinach enchiladas at Rivera's. I LOVE THEM. They understand everything about me. They intrigue me and fulfill me. HOW CAN SOMETHING THAT TASTES SO RIGHT BE CONSIDERED WRONG? In all seriousness, the Veggie Combo that included my fiancee, the margaritas, the shrimp alambres appetizer -- best Mexican food I've had at LEAST since my family lived in SoCal.
(4)Justine R.
Good but did not have a lot of vegetarian options which is too bad as most Mexican places have a variety of things that is why I don't go more often. Good chips and salsa. I went back and they modified an entree to make it vegetarian while it originally contained meat.
(3)Lou T.
You can't go wrong with Enchiladas Rancheras, Mayan Pork, or Enchiladas Acapulco. Also, don't miss the supreme margaritas or queso!!
(5)Joel D.
Food was excellent, service was good to , I would have gave it 5 stars if it wasn't so loud and overcrowded . Its time for a bigger building.
(4)Ellen B.
Disappointing! So much hype for an expensive, crappy meal. For a four year old to eat and have a drink it was 8.25. The enchiladas suizas were disgusting with the mix of white and dark meat chicken. The beans had some weird taste too. The enchiladas rancheros were okay according to spouse. Also, the waitress offered habanero sauce but charged us $1 for it. Shouldn't you at least say I will bring you a sample for a $2? Next time will stick to good old tex-mex where the price and taste are good. Heck Taco Bell is better.
(1)SheAndHim E.
Best Mexican food ever!! Smaller atmosphere with limited hours, but well worth the while.
(5)Michael R.
This place is great. Crab Enchiladas are awesome. Friendly service and very accommodating even with two little kids when it's crowded. This is our go to spot for a good meal out.
(5)Oscar G.
Admittedly, I am partial to Azteca, La Mesa, El Rey and Abelardo's. I've heard lots of good things about Rivera's, so DW and I ate here this evening (Friday dinner). This place is very small, and the wait times can get long. We waited a hair over 45 minutes for a table. Yes, like others have mentioned, the interior of the place is cramped and pretty loud. The service was very good. I was a little deflated that only the first round of chips/salsa was gratis. I can see that a lot of chips probably go to waste, but it's kinda tacky to charge. We stuck to being satisfied with what was served. I wanted to like the salsa, but I felt that there was too much cumin in it. I felt the same way about the salsa at Cilantro's, too. We ordered the Jalapeno popper appetizer. We're used to the store-bought variety with cream cheese, but these were huge, and boy were they spicy hot. I'm all for spicy stuff, but these were overbearingly so. The ranch-style dip for the poppers was very good. We wouldn't order them again. I had the fajitas matador. These were very tasty and tender, but I detected more of the gratuitous use of cumin, although it wasn't enough that it completely killed the fajitas for me. The rice and beans were decent as well. DW had the enchiladas suizas and was completely satisfied with them. They're made with corn tortillas, which is much more authentic than using flour tortillas. Their prices are as expected for a casual, sit-down restaurant at dinner time. Overall, a solid three stars is appropriate for Rivera's. We live much closer to Azteca and one of the La Mesa locations, so I'm not sure when/if we'll go back to Rivera's.
(3)G. R.
Well, our appetizer was excellent, the entrees were only average, but having to scream at each other to be understood just turns me right off. I'll leave this one to people with better lungs and ears than I have.
(2)Elizabeth H.
Five ladies went to lunch yesterday and we were all so pleased with the food and service! We had fajitas, enchilada suiza, carne asada... you could have shared the portions, they are that big. We also had chips and salsa and they make the salsa to your taste. We asked for mild and it was perfect. Our server was beyond great; he spent time with us answering questions, checking back with us, keeping our drinks full. Even better - the food reheats nicely and has the same great taste. This will be my go to Mexican restaurant!
(5)Matt M.
If you sit down at a "Mexican" restaurant and you see the word "wrap" or the phrase "covered in nacho cheese sauce" you are not in a real Mexican restaurant. Get back in your car immediately and head for South Omaha. After seeing all the positive reviews I had to at least give it a shot. Absolutely disappointed from the chips & salsa on. Food was bad, service was weird & the whole vibe of the place is just off.
(1)Heidi V.
Love this place! It is definitely a hole in the wall, but there is literally always a wait, which I think is a sign of a good find. I always get the Sparky's nachos and the carne asada. Although I have also tried the pollo alas brasas and that was also delicious. The margaritas aren't bad either. As a warning, everything is a little spicy, so be careful if that's not your thing. Overall, one of my favorite places in Omaha!
(5)KR H.
A different kind of authentic Mexican restaurant. Some traditional choices and some house specials. The refried beans are too salty for me but my family loves them and the fried rice. There's usually a crowd and a wait but tonight we got right in. This is a small place and it's loud not intimate. The salsa is yellow and spicy but good. MOST of the choices here are spicy so if they mark it spicy expect heat. Everything we've had here has been great. The service is not fast but is efficient and never rude. The flan is some of the best in town. The sopapillas are excellent and is a very large serving. We've always come away with extra food for tomorrow and laughing. This place is unique and may not be for everyone, especially if you normally eat at chains.
(4)A J.
Best Mexican food in Omaha. Period. Been going since first few months open and have tried half the menu. Everything is always great. Great service. Great tequila selection.
(5)Mark E.
Upon moving to Omaha, I've been disappointed with what passed for Mexican food. I was thrilled to find Rivera's authentic Pueblan cuisine. Go for their carne asada! Amazing!
(4)Allison M.
The white chickn chili is a must try! Oerfect amount of heat, texture fabulous and tons of white meat chicken!
(5)Lauren S.
I absolutely love this place. It is authentic and reasonably priced for what you get. They usually have a cheap special that includes two authentic tacos (delish) and two seafood enchiladas which are great also. The only reason I did not give five stars is because my dad orders the Mahi Mahi every time which is fabulous but it takes forever so usually everybody else's dish is lukewarm or cold. However, their guacamole is the BEST I've ever tasted and would go there just for that! The atmosphere can be loud but I love it. Been there twice where tables next to us gave some of their appetizers because they ordered too much, and they were always great. Just understand that when their is a jalapeño next to a menu item it IS going to be spicy. The long wait and ordering/paying rules don't bother me at all when I dine at this Non-chain restaurant! I haven't tried the sopapillas yet because I'm always so full, but I need to because it is a great Mexican desert.
(4)Brig A.
This is one place when they say something is spicy they are not kidding. I got the enchiladas al diablo. HOLY COW! Those things cleared out my sinuses immediately. The overall flavor was very good, but they did not disappoint in the spiciness. The big disappointment of this place was for some reason it is CRAZY loud. The other thing is that the salsas are not good. The chips and salsa were really bizarre tasting. I don't understand how you mess that up, but what can I say. I will say, if the restaurant hadn't been so loud it would be a four star experience.
(3)Kyle T.
The food is absolutely transcendent -- we've been going for years and have never had so much as an "okay" dish. If you're looking for an enchilada combo plate you'll be disappointed, but if you have an open mind, a moderate heat tolerance that (sadly) matches your tolerance for fellow diners with loud/unsupervised children you will find a lot to like here. First, the food is uniformly superb. If that's your sole criteria, this place deserves a solid 7 on a 5 point scale. They routinely exceed expectations. Second, the employment of hard surfaces only compounds and amplifies the problem of unattended/ignored children, which ranges from "tolerable" to "cacophony" depending on the number of children present. Don't say you weren't warned.
(4)China F.
I love their mole. Everything is great. My favorite Mexican restaurant in Omaha Nebraska.
(5)Joan W.
If you love authentic Mexican food, this place will will not disappoint you. Every meal my husband and I have ordered has been delicious with a mouth watering presentation. Watch out - some of their dishes are very spicy; all dinners are marked on the menu their heat index for that meal so there are no surprises.
(5)Anna R.
The guacamole, all types of enchiladas, and the salsa are amazing! I've never had anything I didn't love. You might have to wait a bit for a table, but it is worth it! Delicious food and good service too!
(5)Dave B.
Like the re-design of the place. We hadn't been there in over a year. Its very busy on a Saturday night. 6pm arrival means 45 minutes for a table. All food was good. Carne Asada was two large pieces of the meat. Tacos Nortenos were super and the Fire Pork"wrap" was more of a smothered burrito that was huge. Lots of different flavors you don't get a most other places in town. Service for our visit was very good and the food came out in an appropriate amount time. Only one free chips and salsa.
(5)Mike C.
Don't miss out on best flavor, spiced Mexican food! I have been eating here for almost five years. Travel here for biz. Can't miss when in town. They get busy, but the wait is worth it! Try many things. I've found my favorite is anything with the green sauce...somewhat hot, but I love it. Salsa/Chips, brands, Guac, soups are phenomenal! Everything is from scratch. See you there soon!
(5)Jason L.
Authentic, inexpensive, and delicious! Not fancy by any means but I'd you want a great torta for lunch or amazing carne asada for dinner. Check this place out!
(5)Christine S.
Great homemade salsa and well worth the wait. We will be adding this authentic spot to our rotation.
(4)Lauren P.
Some of the best Mexican food I've ever had. I got the spinach enchiladas (vegetarian dish) with guacamole dip and a margarita (which was potent, by the way). The enchiladas were stuffed with loads of fresh spinach and cheese. Their spicy sauce also complimented the dish well. The guac was spicy with fresh avocados and jalepenos. The downside: 30 minute wait and it's about $12-18 a dish. But that doesn't stop me from going back often!!
(5)Chris C.
Absolutely the best Mexican food in town. Awesome carne asada; actually everything on the menu is very good. Excellent margaritas with a definite kick....drink more than one and you'll feel it! Our group of friends go every Friday night. No reservations, so get there early.
(5)Bill K.
Good food. Horrible, horrible rude service. Food not THAT good to make up for the bad service and attitude that the owner of this establishment has. Won't be back.
(1)Audrey C.
Very dissapointed in my most recent visit to Rivera's. The Al Pastor tacos were floating oil, and the rice was obviously made with a stale seasoning packet giving it a lumpy consistency and horrible flavor. The beans were off as well, too much sage or something. My husband had the "Bo" Pork Enchiladas. No joke these were smothered in Cheez Whiz, ick! Both pork dishes had such a strong, 'gamey' flavor, this pig must have been 50 years old in order to achieve that kind of stank. Really the only thing good was the chips and salsa. I have always enjoyed the food in the past here. It has gone downhill in my opinion. Oh well, good thing there are thousands of other Mexican places in Omaha because I won't be back to Rivera's unless I have to.
(2)Ema N.
My husband and I have been to Rivera's on multiple occasions and always have had a great experience. The margaritas are always delicious and the food is excellent. They don't take reservations so expect a bit of a wait depending on the day of the week. The atmosphere is great too. It will be worth the wait.
(5)Chris B.
Food was good. Service was terrible. Owners wife is a waitress and has a terrible attitude. I have eaten there 20 times and have never been treated this poorly. The owner knew we were upset and tried to comp our meal. I chose to pay and never return.
(1)Stewart W.
Tried Rivera's for the first time. Timing was perfect, arriving at 12:30 p.m. for lunch. It was crowded but a table was available, with several other tables opening up soon afterwards. Service was fine. Chile rillenos is my standard dish to judge Mexican restaurants by, and I was not taken by Rivera's, which had cinnamon overtones that did not complement the chiles to me. But I didn't care about that, as my lunch partner and I shared an order of shrimp alambres, which was absolutely delicious -- one of my favorite dishes in all of Omaha restaurant-dom. I will be headed back to Rivera's specifically to order them, perhaps as a main dish all to myself instead of an appetizer. Would also like to go back at dinnertime to try a margarita and flan.
(4)Melissa P.
The food was awesome! Love their Carne asada! no compalints, the waitress was friendly and tended to our needs.
(4)Josh H.
Finally got a chance to stop in for lunch after a number of reccomendations. As I walked in I must say I was a little shocked at the size... I mean this place is SMALL and that's an understatement but quite cozy if you're on a date I guess. I can only imagine how many people they must have to turn away on the weekends due to lack of seating.. With that being said the food was delicious and fresh. I had the steak fajitas with rice and beans and enjoyed all of it. Also the chips and salsa were quite unique in fact the salsa had more of a yellow color to it and I mistakenly thought it was cheese at first none the less it was delicious.. The service was adequate and very friendly. Can't wait to try some of their other dishes..
(4)Natalie E.
RIvera's is pretty good, and you can definitely find a good meal here, but not as good as they used to be. When they first opened the menu was more authentic, but (as I'm sure was necessary financially) to cater to the gringo population in West O, the food was Americanized. The free chips and salsa are good and the drink selection is actually impressive for the place they run. Seating is limited, the dining room is small. On happy hour nights expect to wait at least 30 minutes. Service, though occasionally slow, is always friendly. Never a problem with the wrong food or a mistake on an order.
(3)Stefanie N.
Perhaps it was because I went with a person who loves this place, or perhaps it was because my first time here...but whatever the case, I liked what I ordered and I will be coming back. The chips and salsa weren't terrible but they weren't something to write home about. I ordered the al pastor tacos and unlike the other reviews, mine wasn't drenched in oil. In fact, it was well seasoned and tender and all sorts of deliciousness al pastor tacos should be. I kind of compared it to Robo Taco in Portland, OR and while Robo Taco had the better tortilla, Rivera's had just as good seasoned meat.
(4)Francisco F.
The food is still awesome, but the service is getting so bad I will not be going back. The last time I went for dinner there were only 3 other tables full and it took an hour to get my food, without so much as an apology or a (good) reason. When I asked the waitress her response was that the cook is slow today.
(2)Chad D.
Here's the deal. We had a party of 9. Maybe that's the reason the service was HORRIBLE. The food, however was AMAZING. I'd give the food more than 5 stars if I could, and give the service less than 1. We arrived and were told 20-25 minutes for a table. We waited nearly an hour, and were finally seated. It took the waitress almost 10 minutes to come say hello and get a drink order. She brought back half the drinks, then was gone another 5 minutes getting the others. It took 15 minutes before she came back to take our orders. So now we've been here an hour and a half, and just got our order taken. Chips and salsa were good, though not incredible. They stated that we would only get 1 basket of chips and salsa despite having 9 people. We asked why and they said it was because one of our party ordered Nachos which they consider an appetizer and their policy is that if you order an appetizer you don't get chips. Huh? I'm not sure what their logic is. Chips are WAY cheap, and most Mexican restaurants in the area provide them free of charge. Anyway, we had 3 kids with us, and they were HUNGRY since everything was taking so long. Another woman came over and explained the "chip" situation. She asked if we were ordering the Nachos as an appetizer or as a meal. We explained as a meal, and then she said "Sorry for the misunderstanding, we'll bring you 2 baskets of chips." Not sure why it mattered but it did. Food took about 20-25 minutes, and it was AMAZING. Here's where another issue arises though. 2 of the kids meals weren't brought out. 1 order of fish tacos wasn't brought out. We told her we were missing some food, and she told us it would be right out. 10 minutes later, 1 order of chicken fingers came out. ONLY 1. We told her we were still missing 1 order of chicken fingers and an order of fish tacos. "He hasn't gotten his fish tacos yet? " she asked. We told her no, and she brought them out almost immediately. But they were COLD. Not cool, not lukewarm, but COLD. They had sat there awhile it was obvious. Then, another 10 minutes later, as everyone who had received their food was finishing up, the last kids meal arrives. To top it all off, they added 18% gratuity automatically for the service we got. I had real heartburn with that, and brought it to her attention. She told me I could change it if I wanted to, but it was actually an item on the bill, and not like where you add it on your credit card slip. I paid it anyway, told her that her service was bad though. Overall, the food is AMAZING, and the service was HORRIBLE. I would recommend this place, though with some caution. It was a tough review to write because it truly was a tale of good vs. evil. LOL
(2)Rudy W.
some of the seafood plates are awesome. went there for 3 weeks straight every day. pick every single item on the menu. the good part of being regular, i guess they know what you like in regards to spiciness. so they always give me the habenero sauce on the side and use less salt. good food. and come early, otherwise expect to wait. the only thing I don't like ( I always asked them to hold on the sauce), is they use a lot of sauces.
(4)Tessa W.
I had the Chicken Pibl and it was DELICIOUS!!! Took awhile to figure out what we wanted because it was kind of a strange menu - but I was so happy with my choice. My husband had some kind of seafood plate and his only complaint was that he asked for it a little too spicy so it was difficult for him to eat. Looking forward to going there again!
(4)Megan P.
Don't let the size and location of this restaurant fool you. Their food is incredible with intense flavors and unique combinations. It is one of the best Mexican restaurants in town. There is often a wait but it is worth it!!! My husband loved the Cazuela Al Horno and I had the fajitas, both were delicious. This is a "must try" for all Mexican food lovers.
(5)Ali L.
I actually wasn't too impressed. At all. I ordered the Enchiladas Poblanas on recommendation of the waiter, and even though the food was semi-tasty, I wasn't really a big fan. Wish I would've tried fish tacos or the lobster enchiladas. But at $10 for what I ordered, not impressed. My friend wanted a simple burrito, but there aren't any on the menu, so went with the Spicy Chicken Wrap instead. He said it was pretty good, but then found a TOOTHPICK inside his food. I told a waitress next to our table about this, she just shrugged and said "oh well" and walked over to another table. Annoyed, I told our our waiter when he came back, he apologized profusely and gave us the chicken wrap for free. He offered to make something else, but we were short on time and not in the mood to wait another half hour for something else we weren't thrilled with. This place was packed at 12:30 for lunch, and tables are closely seated together which was inconvenient since my friend has his back being jabbed in by someone else's chair. The chips were fresh and homemade, but I wasn't a big fan of the salsa. It was good, but the spice of it just didn't make me want to devour it like I normally do with most things left on a table pre-meal. I may go back some other time, but for the price of $9-12 a plate for lunch, I have other places I would like to investigate.
(2)Michelle H.
placed my order and it came out wrong three times. I ordered sea bass and they must have thought that chicken or pork was the same. after 45 mins of this bs I complained that if it came out wrong we would be leaving. The owner came out of the kitchen and told us to get the F-out if we didn't like the service. this happened two years ago I still won't give them the time of day. I also make it a point to tell everyone about this experience.
(1)Sarah A.
I'm originally from Texas, so I have very strong opinions about mexican food. My previous experiences with mexican food in Nebraska have been extremely disappointing. I stopped by Rivera's for lunch one Sunday after being told repeatedly by a friend that Rivera's was the best place in Omaha for Mexican food. I've gotten recommendations before and was expecting an equivalent to Carlos O'Kelly's or Romeo's. Boy was I pleasantly surprised! The food was great! Authentic and flavorful! In no way did I feel like i was eating bland, chain restaurant food. I always recommend it to friends and coworkers. The service wasn't the speediest, but I had my chips and salsa so that kept me company! Definitely try it out!
(4)Katrina O.
Best fish tacos in town!! I try fish tacos everywhere they're served...and I've never had better. First of all they use Mahi (most places use Tilapia) & second, the chipotle sauce is enough to dream about. Amazing. FOOD In addition to the amazing fish tacos, Rivera's has really good seafood enchiladas; however, I've heard mixed reviews about the rest of their food from people I've dined with. Rivera's also won't do special orders - a downfall for us picky eaters. My friend ordered steak tacos without onion. When they wouldn't take off the onions we assumed they were mixed in with the steak, but nope...they were simply sprinkled on top. Still not quite sure why they couldn't just leave them off. They're homemade salsa is really good - it's got a good kick to it, but you only get one free basket of chips (after you order food). It's a cheap move considering the average ticket price. SERVICE The place is always packed, which makes me wonder why they are ALWAYS understaffed. We waited 10 minutes last night before giving our drink order....which is not uncommon. It's definitely not a place to take a group larger than 4 (if you have 5 they'll squeeze you all around one table) as the dining room is very small & you'll wait awhile. It's also not a place to go if you're in a hurry. PRICE Average prices, but you do get a lot of food (dinners in the $10-$15 range). The house margaritas are $8 - a little high I think. The good news is that they're pretty strong! KID FRIENDLY The chicken fingers are made with chicken breast (which is hard to find) & they cut them up before serving to help them cool faster. As a mom, that was awesome! They do not have ground beef though for tacos - only shreaded chicken (which had some spice to it) & steak. All in all - if you want to try out Rivera's, expect to be there awhile & try the fish tacos!
(3)Alexis A.
I've been to Rivera's at least three times, and every meal has been stellar. The experience is always the same on a Friday or Saturday night... complete chaos. I actually enjoy the atmosphere; you know that the food is good if the restaurant is always this busy. When you arrive, make sure to write your own name on the register. If you forget this vital step, you may be waiting longer than you'd like. While you wait, enjoy one of the margaritas or a Mexican beer. So far I've enjoyed the camarones a la diabla: shrimp, peppers and onions in a spicy chipotle sauce served with rice, beans and tortillas; the tierra y mar combo with lobster enchiladas enchiladas rancheras and... something else which I'm sure was also delicious. This last time my husband had the chile colorado with beef and wow... that's definitely one I will order in the future. Usually forgettable and mundane at most restaurants, the rice and beans are delicious, as is the complimentary (after you place your order) chips and salsa. This time we ordered sopapillas, which I hadn't eaten for nearly 20 years and they were just as delicious as I remembered--perfect light clouds of fried dough drizzled with honey! The food is always fresh and very flavorful. Not sure how authentic it is, but it's definitely a notch above most Mexican restaurants in creativity and quality. Tip: Go to their website to print some coupons for $5 off your meal of $30 or more.
(5)D O.
Entire dinner ruined by obnoxious service. Went to eat at Rivera's with a party of 9. We went early because we know it can be busy and wanted to make it easy to accommodate us. We drove in separate cars and one arrived before the other and they refused to seat us until the whole party was present (6 of us were there too!), even though the restaurant was essentially empty and I told them the other car would be there within a couple minutes. That was annoying and unnecessary. Then to seat us they just put two tiny tables together - not enough for space for 9 people by any means. Sigh. When ordering I requested two a la carte enchiladas and was told by the server (with a sharp tone of voice) "We don't do that, you can only buy the platter." I started to reply but she just ignored me and stepped to take the order of the next person (and I probably would have even ended up ordering another platter if she'd kept talking to me...). Another person in our party requested sauteed onions with her meal and the server responded "That wouldn't be good, you wouldn't like that" and then, again, just stepped to the next person without anything further. Wow. According to the menu the first round of chips and salsa is on the house and further rounds are charged. We only got two baskets of chips (again, 9 people) and we'd even gotten as appetizer two orders of guacamole ($8), yet they still charged us when we asked for more chips (how would two baskets have been enough for even a first round for 9, particularly with 2x guacamole?). Weak. We'd asked up front about splitting the bill and were told that no, they don't do that, but that we could work it out ourselves and they would ring it up on different credit cards. So we figured out the amounts and asked our server to ring it up. But then nope, what she'd meant to say was that they will ONLY evenly divide the check into equal amounts, and at most they will take two cards and cash. What the...?!? So we had to roll with that nonsense and then work out a cash exchange amongst ourselves to sort it out. Lovely. Of course, for the pleasure of being treated like we were a nuissance, we were automatically charged an 18% gratuity. Totally undeserved. Was the food good? Who cares? We were so annoyed the whole time we couldn't enjoy it. One positive point I will make is this - the bus people were absolutely super. In all, I would never consider going back.
(1)Matthew B.
We love Rivera's. We've been there a dozen times or more and love it more each time. Last night I had the Carne Asada. Oh My God. Best Carne Asada I've had. It rivals the Asada I was served by some Hispanic cooks I managed in Phoenix years back. Wow. My wife had her stand by Enchilada and my daughter had chicken tacos. All of us had left overs. We had the Spicy Cheese Dip. It was hot last night, but oh so good. Yes - they have some weird policies....but the food is so worth it. We'll be back!!
(5)J P.
Rumor is there is always a wait. I echo other people--it is worth it! Great food, fast service and.... great food. We stopped in with a party of 8, 5 of which were kids. This after driving for 13 hours--everyone was starving. The servers got us in fast, we were almost immediately greeted with water, chips and salsa. Server had good recommendations and catered to the picky eaters. Not well known by the locals I spoke to. Make this a stop!
(4)Sarah W.
Bitchy reviews tend to annoy me, but I guess it's my turn...... Have always liked the food here, and the service is colorful and fun. Last night was no exception. Wonderful server and decent food. The problem was the owner. He will be called Milo Minderbinder for the remainder of this review. My friend and I were sat around 8:30. We ordered, ate, drank, chatted and our togo boxes were dropped with the check around 9:20. As I am boxing my food, and my friend is still eating, Milo steps out of the kitchen and yells from the opposite side of the dining room, "ladies, I'm going home". My friend responds, "have a great night?" Milo responds, "No, we are leaving, I am locking the door." We abandoned our leftover food, left a 30% tip and shall never return. Milo's posted hours for his establishment are 5:00 p.m.-Close(?) To Milo: I recommend you retire from the service industry and move on to smuggling tobacco.
(1)Randy C.
After reading some of the reviews, I figured that I needed to add my two cents, since I know this restaurant well. I've been going to Rivera's since shortly after it opened, literally eaten there over 100 times, and tried almost everything on the menu. I give it 5 stars for value. It's not Topolobampo or the Frontrera Grill, but the food is excellent and the wait staff friendly and efficient. I see that many complain about the service, but they're so freakin' busy most of the time, it's not surprising that it is slow at times. Chips and salsa are homemade, usually pretty decent. Several of the dishes are excellent: Chicken Laredo, the Pibil dishes (fish or Chicken), Carne Asada, and the Mole is good as well. I can't think of anything that disappointed me, except perhaps the Bo Enchiladas. The flan and sopapillas are nice deserts (if they have the habanero flan, give it a try). I've tried the South O restaurants, and Rivera's is definitely better. Probably the best value for a Mexican restaurant in Omaha. Agave has better sauces, but is far too limited in what they do.
(5)John M.
Love this place!! I had been living on the East Coast for six years and I crave this place. I eat here whenever I come back. Now I live here. I'm a big Mexican food fan from East Coast to West Coast I've been in all the Mexican places and all of Omaha. Best Mexican in West Omaha hands down. Only one place came close in Washington but it was all about the trend. I love that this is family owned and super friendly with generous portions. Their mole is great and authentic. The guacamole is awesome. It's a small place. So plan accordingly. Don't recommend large groups. The last time I was there they sat a big group. They dominated our dinner. It was noisy. Have a margarita while you wait. Everything on the menu is great. The diablo is memorable in more ways than one. Salsa is fresh authentic and just like I remember my "abuelita" friend inLA used to make me!
(5)Mary Q.
Amazing Mexican food for those of us who don't get down to South O very often. Service is very friendly, but they don't split checks so bring cash if you're with friends. Try the Fish Tacos!
(5)Cory B.
I tell everyone about riveras, I always explain it as highly flavorful Mexican food that tips the scale towards the gourmet side of Mexican food. Also if you order something spicy here they mean it. The secret is getting out about this place.
(4)Jonathan H.
I finally stopped for lunch the other day after hearing so many good things about Rivera's from coworkers (and yelpers.) I was not disappointed. Me being a fan of tex-mex, I was unsure of what I would think. Wow is my thought. How have I worked so close to Rivera's and not stopped. Soo good. Really. A coworker and I stopped in just after 11 and the place was empty. An empty restaurant for a person who has never been there is an ominous sign if you ask me, but we went ahead and sat down and ordered. By the time our food arrived every single table in the place was filled (11:25.) Everyone from suit wearing lawyers to salty construction workers filled up the place. That is a good sign. I enjoyed the enchiladas rancheras and my coworker had the Chile Colorado. Both were obviously made from scratch and were fantastic. Filed with flavor (and not for the diet conscious.) I can't wait to go back during dinner so I can sample their AMAZING tequila selection that has to topping 50+. If you work around the area, stop by (and if you don't want to wait, do it before 11:30.) Cheers!
(4)Carly K.
Best Mexican Food Ever! My favorite is the enchaladas de mole. The food tastes homemade. This is real Mexican food; not the microwaved, over cheesed, greasy, unflavored stuff you get at some of the so called Mexican restaurants.
(5)David W.
We have been there a few times now. They have removed some of the items on the the menu that were wonderful and unique. The food is usually very good. The main issue is that its a poorly run business. The noise can definitely be an issue. They do nickel and dime you. I'm surprised they don't charge you for the napkins! The wait staff at times can be a little sketchy. If you ever have to deal with the owners, you'll discover they really have no class at all and shouldn't be business owners. He should just be a cook/chef (his food is good), and she should be a dishwasher at best. They should stay away from customers instead of driving them away.
(3)TL C.
6th time I've ate at Rivera's.... 1st... Worst service period! 2nd.. Guaca Maya is way way better. 3rd.. tonight I ordered a dish that had chicken and shrimp in it which was all the menu said were in the dish meat wise. I found some type of red meat in my dish and the waitress then said oh yeah it has sausage in it. First off I told her I don't eat pig or cow when i order the dish and she said then you will love this. Then after I found out that the dish had pig in it the waitress said and sorry took the dish back... They never offered me another dish or said sorry you ate pig.. she just put our ticket on the table with my dish included on the tab..... I manage a great restaurant in the old market and we would offer another dish if you you not happy with what you received.Plus we list everything that is in everyone of our dishes. I have tried to enjoy Rivera's now for years and this is my take on what they're trying to do. It looks like Romeo's, They have a horrible wait every night, I will say they have great drinks.... Bad service.. and the food is nothing more than tacobell meet Michaels in the old market... save yourself the wait and go downtown to Guacamaya or any real Mexican restaurant down on 24th... It's not great or even worth the wait.... I'd pass on this place... and by the way worst Guacc in town... my grade D- ...... go to tacobell then go there for drinks if you can get to the tiny bar... Booooooo!!!!
(1)Tyson B.
After reading the previous reviews about this place we decided to check it out. Walking in, I must say I was skeptical at first. The place is new and clean but it is tiny! Unless you are sitting around the booths you are pretty much next to other parties in the middle of the restaurant. The size factor is the only thing that kept me from giving a 5 star review. That aside, the food and service was incredible! I agree with the others that this is by far the best Mexican food I have had in Nebraska so far. I took up Derek E.'s suggestion by getting the Enchiladas Racheras ($10 on dinner menu I think) and it was amazing (it's spicy though, watch out!). It was a lot of food too so I ended up taking some home. Others in my group got the Enchiladas Vera Cruz (seafood) and the shrimp inside were high quality and the Mole Platter I believe it was, which he was very impressed with. At a glance: Pros: - Food!! - Taste it and it speaks for itself - Service - Fast and friendly - Location - 120th and Blondo Cons: - Size/atmosphere - Too small and cluttered If you love Mexican food you at least need to go here once. Enjoy!
(4)Anthony K.
All of the food is flavorful, and the ambiance is okay. Had the green chile pork, and it was deliciously spicy. The portion sizes are huge. Upon request, they substituted really tasty black beans for my refried beans, which I appreciate. Selection of Mexican beer was excellent, although there is nothing on tap and it wasn't as cold as I hoped. If you're into Tequila, they have over 60 types from which to choose. The restaurant is small but very open, so it gets loud in a hurry. A few booths line the walls and table fill the middle. Service was solid. Keep you expectations low for the atmosphere and high for the food, and you will leave Rivera's jolly and full.
(4)Meredith R.
Food sucked! Guess being from Texas I'm a little spoiled. Service was bad and who doesn't serve SIZZLING fajitas???
(1)Guillermo L.
Smallish in a good way (limited seating but cozy). Love the nachos! (best in Omaha). Very low key, with plenty of choices.
(4)Lou M.
I drive down Blondo all the time and just noticed this place earlier this week. Kinda funny we ended up going there tonight with some friends. I got the combo rancheros enchilades with the shrimp enchiladas and it was good. One thing about that dish I have seen mentioned is that it is spicy. I liked it but it was at my tolerent for spicy-ness. If you think the tinyest thing is spicy, you probably will think this is super hot. Like I said, it was good. Wife had the mahi mahi tacos and liked them. We'll go back there for sure. We ate here on a Friday night at 6pm, got seated immediatly, and had great service. Only downfall abut this place i think is that it was certianly loud in there the whole time. Probably due to it being so small....guessing maybe 20-25 tables total. In all, a very enjoyable meal.
(4)Laura B.
Things I like: -Strong margaritas---yes! -Place was packed with a line -Great shredded chicken and carne asada -Excellent service! -Delicious beans and rice! -Great for a family Things not sure about: -I liked and disliked the salsa at the same time -My chicken enchiladas had a lot of crushed red pepper seeds in them--and felt chewy..not in a good way -Vinyl booth seats
(3)Marc A.
Best Mexican food in town, hands down!!! My wife and I have been coming here for years, and I have literally probably eaten here over 40 times. I like to try different things when I go and have tried most things on the menu (except I don't like seafood in general). Every thing I have is always different and delicious, the food is authentic, spicy, flavorful, and far from the usual ground hamburger taco's at your typical mexican restaurant. Their wraps, fajitas, enchiladas bravas, enchiladas rancheras, chile colorado, and chipotle enchilada are my favorites. The place is small...they owner said they did consider expanding to a larger restaurant, but evidently it was gonna cost about triple their rent of what they paying now. My only advise is I don't recommend going here if you have a party bigger than six because you'll wait for a while, and if you don't like (very) loud, fun atmospheres this isn't for you either. They have been understaffed in the past, but I think this is much better now, they are always so busy because everyone goes there because it is so good. The marg's are a bit expensive ($8) but considering how strong they are, you can consider it as getting 2 for $4. Sum it up, this is the best Mexican food I've ever had and worth going at least once.
(5)Ali M.
Amazing! Authentic! Always super busy, be prepared to wait... but well worth it. Strong margaritas at times... beware.. they can sneak up on you! ;) Staff are extremely friendly and really hard working. We've got 2 favorite Mexican places in town.. this is one.
(5)Lisa G.
Absolutely delicious. Great Mexican food (I got the outrageous wrap), great margaritas, so crowded. They don't split bills, which is a bit frustrating, and service is a bit slow. Overall, food is so great that it doesn't even really matter.
(5)Cody P.
Amazing food! I get the Chiles En Nogada, it is a pepper stuffed with cheese and topped with a walnut sauce and a pomegranate reduction. So amazing! I just wish there was more seating because it is packed on the weekends!
(5)Carol P.
Love their shrimp appetizer! Very small, loud, and crowded. Not a place for large groups or conversation but good Mexican food!
(4)Rob B.
I visited Rivera's for lunch, and loved it. The salsa is different from the regular, and the chips are fresh and crispy. I had a rock shrimp enchilada, the Veracruz. It was amazing. The seasoning, the obvious freshness of the seafood, it was perfect. The service was really good. I am a big water drinker, and will go through four glasses during a typical dinner, and my glass was never empty for very long. The only thing that keeps Rivera's from getting a 5 star is the prices. I think that is probably just because of the size of the place....less sqf means more $ per sqf :-) for overhead, and this place is small. Even there though, they have a nice lunch menu with appropriate pricing, so it is not all bad.
(4)Derek E.
I actually didn't like Rivera's when I first tried it. The menu was very interesting, but I didn't get the impression that it was completely authentic. To be fair, I've never been to Mexico, so the closest I've come to authentic Mexican food is Howard's on 13th, and even that impression might based solely on the fact that I've found few other places that serve tamales (which I don't even like). Then I went back and I decided to just order what ever was my waiter's favorite dish. That was the right choice. He recommended the Enchiladas Ranchera's which had a lot more flavor complexity than I've ever had from Mexican dish before. It was diced skirt steak mixed with chorizo, sauted with green onions, finished with a spicy green sauce and cheese ($8.25). Still not in awe of Mexican cuisine, but this was certainly tasty. They seem a little on the pricey side for Mexican food and their sides kind of suck, so I only give them 4 stars. Read more Mexican Restaurants in Omaha Reviews: gastronomicfightclub.com…
(4)Theo H.
The chicken tacos tasted so good after two patron and sodas. The queso was a bit runny for my preference, but the guacamole was right on.
(4)Melissa W.
First and foremost I would like to state that the food here is wonderful. It's always fresh and flavorful, as well as authenic. But I do have a few problems with this place, like many people have said before the customer service is lacking and it seems like they're doing you have favor when you come to eat at their place, not the other way around. First off, they don't give you chips and salsa until after you order and then there are no free refills, if you want more than one basket, you have to pay. Also, I've ordered food to go twice from there and both times they got my order wrong and I ended up getting home and then realizing they only gave me half my food or they gave me something I didn't order at all. Once I called and ordered the tacos de pollo (my favorite!) and the diablo steak enchiladas for my husband. I got all the way home before I realize they only have me the tacos but charged me for both meals. The second time I ordered tacos de pollo on my lunch break, when I got back to work with my food I noticed that they had give me some sort of chicken wrap. Another peeve of mine with their take out is that they never include utensils or napkins in the bag. Things that are very important to me when I order take-out and things that should be included. I feel as if Rivera's food is fabulous but their management needs to change or they're going to start driving people away.
(3)lorne h.
Menu lists fish tacos and fish entrees, however there was no fish. Shrimp tastes like it is out of a can. Food was dry and over cooked. Owners don't smile at their customers. Service is poor. This mexican restaurant is not recommended.
(1)Russ C.
Consistently a great place to eat. I've only had one bad meal here-the dish I ordered was fried, and it was extremely greasy, like the fryer wasn't turned up high enough. Other than that I've loved this place, especially because when he says spicy, he means it. The chicken nachos are the the best in town and so are the margaritas. A few words of caution: they are very strong, always stop at two, and spend the extra buck for the supreme. The tequila list is very impressive as well.
(4)Scott N.
The menu is huge; there are LOTS of options. If you want beer, your choices are limited, but if you want tequila... well then look out!!! Okay... I'm not a tequila drinker, but I will admit their tequila menu is crazy! Friends from Omaha recommended Rivera's. They told me it had recently been renovated. I thought, "Really?!?" I asked if there was straw on the floor before the renovation! Okay, okay... it's not that bad. It's a few steps up from a typical fast food restaurant, but I learned quickly enough that people don't come here for the ambience. We arrived relatively early - 5:15, I believe. The crowd was thin, but in less than 1/2 an hour the place was packed! These guys are obviously doing something right! I am not sure traditional mexican food comes with a seafood twist. I could be wrong because I am by no means a mexican food aficionado, but I was excited to see seafood options and opted for the Enchiladas Acapulco with shrimp and lobster meat sautéed in cilantro butter rolled in flour tortilla with diced onions covered in a wine lobster sauce, garnished with lettuce, radishes and a sour cream sauce served with rice and beans. Seriously, doesn't that sound good? Well............ it was!!!! While I think it relied heavily on the sauces for flavor, I think that flavor was fantastic! The rice was very nondescript... same with the beans, but the enchiladas were bursting with flavor. The meal starts off with chips and salsa. The salsa is unique and tasted like chili. I don't know if it was cumin or chili powder... I just don't know what's in it, but it's quite good and not like the typical salsa one finds in a mexican restaurant. I was a bit annoyed to read that additional chips came with a charge, but as it turns out the three of us didn't finish the chips so more weren't required. In general, I think chips and salsa should be on the house no matter what. Perhaps the restaurant has seen people take advantage; that is certainly a possibility, but charging for a second serving of chips, while not completely unheard of, seems like bad PR to me. But the chip thing is minor. I really enjoyed the food and with so many options it seems like a no brainer that we'll be back to try some other delectable dishes. Thanks Rivera's!
(4)William T.
I finally made it to this place I've heard quite a lot about. I'm sure glad I came here. Real nice and packed inside. The rumors were right. We were greeted happily and seated quick. Our server Freddy came over and told us a little history of how long the restaurant been around. 11 years. I can't believe I haven't already tried this restaurant. Wonderful decor on all walls. Real comfortable setting. Loud, but a cheerful loud. I looked over the menu and everything looked great but the word venomous popped out. Seasoned pork over white rice, Pico and guacamole. Sour cream with a habanero cheese sauce. All wrapped up in a tortilla. No refunds LOL. I had to take the challenge. It sounded great but I knew how hot it would be. I finished about 3/4 before saying I was to full to finish. Freddy the server had a hilarious attitude, bringing beverage napkins to wipe the sweat away. Best dang server I've ever had. That guy should be nominated. Ask for Freddy! He new the struggle of eating spicy food. Wife and kids were happy as well!!! Glad I finally made it. Won't be my last. In my top 5 for authentic Mexican.
(5)Brandon A.
Riveras is hands down the most authentic and best Mexican food in town. The Enchiladas Rancheras is phenomenal and packs some flavor that you would not believe. I can also speak highly of the Carne Asada, Shrimp Alambres, and Chicken Nachos. The supreme margarita is fantastic, along with the complimentary chips and salsa. If you would like to purchase another appetizer, I enjoy both the queso and guacamole. Riveras is not Tex Mex, so don't expect that from this restaurant. Some of the flavors of the food in this place will blow your mind. I see a lot of regulars which is nice. If you are new and service seems slow and shaky, just give it a chance and wait for your food. It's worth it. Brat
(5)Susan P.
This has quickly become our new favorite Mexican restaurant! Go early or be prepared to wait. Everything I have had has been delicious. Service is good and fast. I have had better margaritas, but not better Mexican food in a long time. Portions are huge. I eat about 1/2 and then enjoy the rest at home later!
(4)Eric N.
Great food. Great service. Chile Colorado and Shrimp Alambra!
(5)Bob A.
My office moved so this place fell out of my regular rotation. Stopped by for lunch today and saw that they had remodeled. Basically the same but larger and brighter (black ceiling tile to white). This will definitely help drop the wait times during busy times. One think I noticed was that the acoustics are still bad. Place echos. This is very common with places today with the design function that is popular. On to the food. On of my favorite Mexican places... hands down. Ordered the enchiladas pontisitas (spelling). Awesome... hot with a hint of sweet. Loved it. Lunch mates ordered their favorites... shrimp enchiladas and steak taco's and everybody was satisfied. Service was great. Read other reviews and not sure what happens but I am assuming that when they get really busy.... and they do get really busy... that service suffers. We will continue to make the...now long dive... to this place to cure our Mexican cravings.
(4)Rich E.
Terrible service and food on my last visit, plus I left my Oakley sunglasses at the table and they "told me" I didn't leave them there... In a nutshell: terrible food and dishonest staff! Rich
(1)Staci D.
First experience was good! I would have given 4 stars but it's very loud in there. Lunch was served fairly quickly and service was friendly. Prices are fair. Excellent "fairly authentic" Mexican food! I would go back.
(3)Holly H.
The food had been going downhill so we stopped going for a while but heard that they had remodeled so we returned to give it another chance. On our visit back, I was told that since my daughter had not arrived yet that they would not seat me even though there were 12 open tables. I asked since I knew what she wanted to order if I could please put our order in but was told VERY rudely by the OWNER no less that the rules are the rules. I have no problem with the need to have rules, but I do have a problem with the rude way I was treated and the owner's complete lack of any customer service skills at all. If you want good Mexican food and excellent service, go to Hectors or La Mesa where your business will be appreciated and your taste buds treated!
(1)J P.
Rumor is there is always a wait. I echo other people--it is worth it! Great food, fast service and.... great food. We stopped in with a party of 8, 5 of which were kids. This after driving for 13 hours--everyone was starving. The servers got us in fast, we were almost immediately greeted with water, chips and salsa. Server had good recommendations and catered to the picky eaters. Not well known by the locals I spoke to. Make this a stop!
(4)Brandon A.
Riveras is hands down the most authentic and best Mexican food in town. The Enchiladas Rancheras is phenomenal and packs some flavor that you would not believe. I can also speak highly of the Carne Asada, Shrimp Alambres, and Chicken Nachos. The supreme margarita is fantastic, along with the complimentary chips and salsa. If you would like to purchase another appetizer, I enjoy both the queso and guacamole. Riveras is not Tex Mex, so don't expect that from this restaurant. Some of the flavors of the food in this place will blow your mind. I see a lot of regulars which is nice. If you are new and service seems slow and shaky, just give it a chance and wait for your food. It's worth it. Brat
(5)Scott N.
The menu is huge; there are LOTS of options. If you want beer, your choices are limited, but if you want tequila... well then look out!!! Okay... I'm not a tequila drinker, but I will admit their tequila menu is crazy! Friends from Omaha recommended Rivera's. They told me it had recently been renovated. I thought, "Really?!?" I asked if there was straw on the floor before the renovation! Okay, okay... it's not that bad. It's a few steps up from a typical fast food restaurant, but I learned quickly enough that people don't come here for the ambience. We arrived relatively early - 5:15, I believe. The crowd was thin, but in less than 1/2 an hour the place was packed! These guys are obviously doing something right! I am not sure traditional mexican food comes with a seafood twist. I could be wrong because I am by no means a mexican food aficionado, but I was excited to see seafood options and opted for the Enchiladas Acapulco with shrimp and lobster meat sautéed in cilantro butter rolled in flour tortilla with diced onions covered in a wine lobster sauce, garnished with lettuce, radishes and a sour cream sauce served with rice and beans. Seriously, doesn't that sound good? Well............ it was!!!! While I think it relied heavily on the sauces for flavor, I think that flavor was fantastic! The rice was very nondescript... same with the beans, but the enchiladas were bursting with flavor. The meal starts off with chips and salsa. The salsa is unique and tasted like chili. I don't know if it was cumin or chili powder... I just don't know what's in it, but it's quite good and not like the typical salsa one finds in a mexican restaurant. I was a bit annoyed to read that additional chips came with a charge, but as it turns out the three of us didn't finish the chips so more weren't required. In general, I think chips and salsa should be on the house no matter what. Perhaps the restaurant has seen people take advantage; that is certainly a possibility, but charging for a second serving of chips, while not completely unheard of, seems like bad PR to me. But the chip thing is minor. I really enjoyed the food and with so many options it seems like a no brainer that we'll be back to try some other delectable dishes. Thanks Rivera's!
(4)William T.
I finally made it to this place I've heard quite a lot about. I'm sure glad I came here. Real nice and packed inside. The rumors were right. We were greeted happily and seated quick. Our server Freddy came over and told us a little history of how long the restaurant been around. 11 years. I can't believe I haven't already tried this restaurant. Wonderful decor on all walls. Real comfortable setting. Loud, but a cheerful loud. I looked over the menu and everything looked great but the word venomous popped out. Seasoned pork over white rice, Pico and guacamole. Sour cream with a habanero cheese sauce. All wrapped up in a tortilla. No refunds LOL. I had to take the challenge. It sounded great but I knew how hot it would be. I finished about 3/4 before saying I was to full to finish. Freddy the server had a hilarious attitude, bringing beverage napkins to wipe the sweat away. Best dang server I've ever had. That guy should be nominated. Ask for Freddy! He new the struggle of eating spicy food. Wife and kids were happy as well!!! Glad I finally made it. Won't be my last. In my top 5 for authentic Mexican.
(5)Susan P.
This has quickly become our new favorite Mexican restaurant! Go early or be prepared to wait. Everything I have had has been delicious. Service is good and fast. I have had better margaritas, but not better Mexican food in a long time. Portions are huge. I eat about 1/2 and then enjoy the rest at home later!
(4)Eric N.
Great food. Great service. Chile Colorado and Shrimp Alambra!
(5)Bob A.
My office moved so this place fell out of my regular rotation. Stopped by for lunch today and saw that they had remodeled. Basically the same but larger and brighter (black ceiling tile to white). This will definitely help drop the wait times during busy times. One think I noticed was that the acoustics are still bad. Place echos. This is very common with places today with the design function that is popular. On to the food. On of my favorite Mexican places... hands down. Ordered the enchiladas pontisitas (spelling). Awesome... hot with a hint of sweet. Loved it. Lunch mates ordered their favorites... shrimp enchiladas and steak taco's and everybody was satisfied. Service was great. Read other reviews and not sure what happens but I am assuming that when they get really busy.... and they do get really busy... that service suffers. We will continue to make the...now long dive... to this place to cure our Mexican cravings.
(4)Rich E.
Terrible service and food on my last visit, plus I left my Oakley sunglasses at the table and they "told me" I didn't leave them there... In a nutshell: terrible food and dishonest staff! Rich
(1)Staci D.
First experience was good! I would have given 4 stars but it's very loud in there. Lunch was served fairly quickly and service was friendly. Prices are fair. Excellent "fairly authentic" Mexican food! I would go back.
(3)Holly H.
The food had been going downhill so we stopped going for a while but heard that they had remodeled so we returned to give it another chance. On our visit back, I was told that since my daughter had not arrived yet that they would not seat me even though there were 12 open tables. I asked since I knew what she wanted to order if I could please put our order in but was told VERY rudely by the OWNER no less that the rules are the rules. I have no problem with the need to have rules, but I do have a problem with the rude way I was treated and the owner's complete lack of any customer service skills at all. If you want good Mexican food and excellent service, go to Hectors or La Mesa where your business will be appreciated and your taste buds treated!
(1)Paul C.
First of all, I am a Mexican food snob so take my review with a grain of salt. That said, this wasn't all that bad and I will be back at some point. I started with the chorizo fundido - nice taste and seasonings despite what tasted like a generic packaged cheese that you wouldn't normally find in fundido (wasn't the Oaxaca that I prefer). For the main course I went with the Tacos Pastor. These were as well seasoned and flavorful as any of the dozens of taquerias I have been to in many markets. There is enough of the menu to not classify it as "Tex-Mex" and making it worth more visits.
(4)Eric N.
Truly"GOOD" Mexican is hard to find. Rivera's hits the bullseye. Keep in mind, it's not a big place and you'll wait a bit, don't worry. Thus place is doing it right. Great service, great food. They mistakenly made the wrong entree for my wife. Not only food they remake the correct item for her, they let her keep the wrong one and didn't charge us for either one!! And, Yummers. Just get in your car and go there NOW!
(5)Michael G.
One of the best Mexican Resturants in Omaha. Great food! Great service!
(5)Sarah G.
Wow, this place drives me crazy. I don't think I'll be back again. While I've been totally thrilled (fish tacos), I've also been really disappointed by cold, undersalted and stale chips, terrible acoustice, excessive waits, and lackluster service. And I don't know why they feel the need to nickle-and-dime you for everything. (No chips until you order entrees, $1 for an extra basket of chips, $0.50 for extra hot sauce, etc). Why can't they just build this into the price of the food? Finally, no splitting checks - which our server was apologetic about - but it's the manager or owner's rule. So the best you can do is split the check between 2 credit cards. SOL if you have more than 2 people dining and don't have cash. I'd rather eat somewhere where I don't feel like I'm being treated like some kind of food criminal. Honestly the quality of the meal is only worth 3 stars to begin with - at least these days. I wouldn't be suprised if there were some cost-saving methodologies going on in the kitchen as well.
(1)Dianne M.
Still the best Mexican food in Omaha!! They remodeled, which helps with the wait time. They also put up the sound deadening ceiling tiles, which really helps everyone to be able to have a nice conversation with their amazing dinner. Rivera's serves superior food than Hectors and La Mesa serves. Don't waste your time going anywhere else!!
(5)Amy O.
I love love Riveras!! I had the sonora wrap!! Shrimp, spinach, and loads of cheese! The atmosphere was a bit loud and overcrowded, but the food is always great!
(4)Sharawn T.
This place is awesome! I am a California native so I know good Mexican food! Everything was great and tasted to authentic like it was straight from scratch! Nothing out of a can here! The bartender was very attentive and friendly..great service and great food! Just moving here from cali and have found my spot! :-D
(5)Nick S.
The low ranks given by others are more reflection on Omahans poor taste in Mexican food rather than Riveras food quality. It probably isn't fried enough or not cheesy enough to satisfy most. This place is great, some of their rules are annoying but that quickly fades when you get served straight up deliciousness.
(5)Robyn R.
When they say spicy.. they mean it. We went on a Friday night... there was a short wait.... cute environment, but loud. The salsa is different then most places. You can taste the cilantro. The service and portions were good. They have plenty of vegetarian options. Overall: very good.
(4)Laura B.
By far the best and most authentic Mexican food you can get anywhere outside of south Omaha. They have a lot of "rules" which has put off some people I know; won't seat you til your party is all present, no free chips and salsa, no split checks. But if you can get past that, and you should, you are in for a delightful meal. The service is friendly despite the somewhat foreboding rule list. Margaritas are strong and good, and they offer tequila flights with all ranges of price and quality. My go to dish is the mole enchiladas. Mole takes a long time to make right and they hit the nail on the head. Also check out the Veracruz enchiladas (seafood). Get there early. It is always packed.
(5)Christine B.
The last time I visited Rivera's was years ago and I vowed never to return - primarily as a result of the atrocious customer service. Fast forward a few years. We find ourselves in the area on a Saturday afternoon, too lazy to drive across town to our fav places for our mexi-fix. My vow is easily broken by promises of chips and salsa. Five tables. Two servers. Service was significantly better. The Enchilada Rancheras with steak ($8.55) is a large portion that was more than filling and pretty tasty, albeit a bit higher in sodium by the size of my fingers the next day. The Chile Colorado ($8.65) was an equally large portion, but the steak was tough and chewy, so would not recommend that particular protein choice with this dish. If you're not a fan of chipotle, stay away from this option because you can definitely taste the smoke flavor. While the lunch prices were decent, I agree with Sarah G. that charging for extra chips and sauce is lame. The place is super small, so can see how the dinner hour gets ridiculously busy. The bar area is equally small, so waiting for a table probably means standing in the airlock area between the two front doors. In a city that lacks decent Mexican options with table service the further west you go, Rivera's is a decent option.
(3)Neal K.
Best mexican food in Omaha without a doubt. The shrimp Alambre appetizer may be one of the best things I have ever had. The margaritas are also incredible. Just expanded the dining room which is great. Still a little loud in the restaurant but definitely worth it.
(5)Ron C.
Waitress served something other than what I asked for. She Offered to take it back and cook the correct entree. I refused because my husband would be eating alone while they cooked the correct entree so kept what was served and nibbled at it. Told her we would not pay for the incorrect entree. She insisted that because she offered to provide the correct dish that she would not take it off the bill The manager came and repeated the same but finally removed it after a nasty exchange Will not return
(2)Kyle L.
God damn. God damn. This place is tasty. Pork shanks awesome. Fire House Albondingas awesome. Enchiladas awesome. Fish tacos awesome. You literally can not go wrong. Get there early.
(5)Robert B.
Like lambs to the slaughter, we keep going back... That ends right now. No more Rivera's for us for quite a while. 1. If you are waiting for more guests, don't dare tell them! They won't seat you until everyone is there. If you are first to arrive, just tell them you are the only one in your party and be seated. When your friends arrive, act surprised and invite them to sit with you. 2. No chips until you order food. No, you can't get them if you order drinks. You must order food first. The chips are no longer served warm as in Rivera's days of glory. No, the chips are now cold, stale, and bland. 3. If you want another handful of chips, pony up another $2. 4. Food quality has fallen off the map. Completely. What used to be excellent, reasonably authentic south of the border fare now borders on Tex-Mex cliche. Black beans and lime rice have made way for canned re-fried beans and "Spanish-style" rice. That's all I can say. It's really sad what has happened to Rivera's.
(1)Kayla A.
The food was alright, however the service was horrible!!! The server took for ever to come take our drink order, I asked for chips and salsa and he rudely told me we had to place our food order first. We placed our food order and waited 5 mins for him to come back and say he forgot what we ordered could we tell him again. At that point I had forgotten and asked to see the menu again so I could point it out, he rolled his eyes at me. It just went down hill from there..... he kept filling my sprite with water, spilled the chips and salsa on me ( after I asked 3 times for it), brought us the wrong food, and took 10 mins to bring us our check. Again the food was wasn't, bad. I think the rude service just made this a horrible experience however we will not be returning.
(1)Rybin V.
Great food on hot plates the outrageous wrap is awesome! Beans are great and hot full of flavor just like the rice.I have been in 8 times and the give me the executive treatment like I am part of the family.Your food is awesome and keep it up !!!
(5)Liz A.
Now that marriage equality is really picking up steam across the USA, and given that my significant other and I do not actually desire to marry, I wonder if now is my chance to achieve my newly ( last night) thunk up dream: to marry the spinach enchiladas at Rivera's. I LOVE THEM. They understand everything about me. They intrigue me and fulfill me. HOW CAN SOMETHING THAT TASTES SO RIGHT BE CONSIDERED WRONG? In all seriousness, the Veggie Combo that included my fiancee, the margaritas, the shrimp alambres appetizer -- best Mexican food I've had at LEAST since my family lived in SoCal.
(4)Justine R.
Good but did not have a lot of vegetarian options which is too bad as most Mexican places have a variety of things that is why I don't go more often. Good chips and salsa. I went back and they modified an entree to make it vegetarian while it originally contained meat.
(3)Lou T.
You can't go wrong with Enchiladas Rancheras, Mayan Pork, or Enchiladas Acapulco. Also, don't miss the supreme margaritas or queso!!
(5)Joel D.
Food was excellent, service was good to , I would have gave it 5 stars if it wasn't so loud and overcrowded . Its time for a bigger building.
(4)Ellen B.
Disappointing! So much hype for an expensive, crappy meal. For a four year old to eat and have a drink it was 8.25. The enchiladas suizas were disgusting with the mix of white and dark meat chicken. The beans had some weird taste too. The enchiladas rancheros were okay according to spouse. Also, the waitress offered habanero sauce but charged us $1 for it. Shouldn't you at least say I will bring you a sample for a $2? Next time will stick to good old tex-mex where the price and taste are good. Heck Taco Bell is better.
(1)SheAndHim E.
Best Mexican food ever!! Smaller atmosphere with limited hours, but well worth the while.
(5)Michael R.
This place is great. Crab Enchiladas are awesome. Friendly service and very accommodating even with two little kids when it's crowded. This is our go to spot for a good meal out.
(5)Rc D.
CLOSED with a dumpster in front of the restaurant. Website shows they are open for business.
(1)Oscar G.
Admittedly, I am partial to Azteca, La Mesa, El Rey and Abelardo's. I've heard lots of good things about Rivera's, so DW and I ate here this evening (Friday dinner). This place is very small, and the wait times can get long. We waited a hair over 45 minutes for a table. Yes, like others have mentioned, the interior of the place is cramped and pretty loud. The service was very good. I was a little deflated that only the first round of chips/salsa was gratis. I can see that a lot of chips probably go to waste, but it's kinda tacky to charge. We stuck to being satisfied with what was served. I wanted to like the salsa, but I felt that there was too much cumin in it. I felt the same way about the salsa at Cilantro's, too. We ordered the Jalapeno popper appetizer. We're used to the store-bought variety with cream cheese, but these were huge, and boy were they spicy hot. I'm all for spicy stuff, but these were overbearingly so. The ranch-style dip for the poppers was very good. We wouldn't order them again. I had the fajitas matador. These were very tasty and tender, but I detected more of the gratuitous use of cumin, although it wasn't enough that it completely killed the fajitas for me. The rice and beans were decent as well. DW had the enchiladas suizas and was completely satisfied with them. They're made with corn tortillas, which is much more authentic than using flour tortillas. Their prices are as expected for a casual, sit-down restaurant at dinner time. Overall, a solid three stars is appropriate for Rivera's. We live much closer to Azteca and one of the La Mesa locations, so I'm not sure when/if we'll go back to Rivera's.
(3)G. R.
Well, our appetizer was excellent, the entrees were only average, but having to scream at each other to be understood just turns me right off. I'll leave this one to people with better lungs and ears than I have.
(2)Elizabeth H.
Five ladies went to lunch yesterday and we were all so pleased with the food and service! We had fajitas, enchilada suiza, carne asada... you could have shared the portions, they are that big. We also had chips and salsa and they make the salsa to your taste. We asked for mild and it was perfect. Our server was beyond great; he spent time with us answering questions, checking back with us, keeping our drinks full. Even better - the food reheats nicely and has the same great taste. This will be my go to Mexican restaurant!
(5)Matt M.
If you sit down at a "Mexican" restaurant and you see the word "wrap" or the phrase "covered in nacho cheese sauce" you are not in a real Mexican restaurant. Get back in your car immediately and head for South Omaha. After seeing all the positive reviews I had to at least give it a shot. Absolutely disappointed from the chips & salsa on. Food was bad, service was weird & the whole vibe of the place is just off.
(1)Heidi V.
Love this place! It is definitely a hole in the wall, but there is literally always a wait, which I think is a sign of a good find. I always get the Sparky's nachos and the carne asada. Although I have also tried the pollo alas brasas and that was also delicious. The margaritas aren't bad either. As a warning, everything is a little spicy, so be careful if that's not your thing. Overall, one of my favorite places in Omaha!
(5)KR H.
A different kind of authentic Mexican restaurant. Some traditional choices and some house specials. The refried beans are too salty for me but my family loves them and the fried rice. There's usually a crowd and a wait but tonight we got right in. This is a small place and it's loud not intimate. The salsa is yellow and spicy but good. MOST of the choices here are spicy so if they mark it spicy expect heat. Everything we've had here has been great. The service is not fast but is efficient and never rude. The flan is some of the best in town. The sopapillas are excellent and is a very large serving. We've always come away with extra food for tomorrow and laughing. This place is unique and may not be for everyone, especially if you normally eat at chains.
(4)A J.
Best Mexican food in Omaha. Period. Been going since first few months open and have tried half the menu. Everything is always great. Great service. Great tequila selection.
(5)Mark E.
Upon moving to Omaha, I've been disappointed with what passed for Mexican food. I was thrilled to find Rivera's authentic Pueblan cuisine. Go for their carne asada! Amazing!
(4)Allison M.
The white chickn chili is a must try! Oerfect amount of heat, texture fabulous and tons of white meat chicken!
(5)Lauren S.
I absolutely love this place. It is authentic and reasonably priced for what you get. They usually have a cheap special that includes two authentic tacos (delish) and two seafood enchiladas which are great also. The only reason I did not give five stars is because my dad orders the Mahi Mahi every time which is fabulous but it takes forever so usually everybody else's dish is lukewarm or cold. However, their guacamole is the BEST I've ever tasted and would go there just for that! The atmosphere can be loud but I love it. Been there twice where tables next to us gave some of their appetizers because they ordered too much, and they were always great. Just understand that when their is a jalapeño next to a menu item it IS going to be spicy. The long wait and ordering/paying rules don't bother me at all when I dine at this Non-chain restaurant! I haven't tried the sopapillas yet because I'm always so full, but I need to because it is a great Mexican desert.
(4)Brig A.
This is one place when they say something is spicy they are not kidding. I got the enchiladas al diablo. HOLY COW! Those things cleared out my sinuses immediately. The overall flavor was very good, but they did not disappoint in the spiciness. The big disappointment of this place was for some reason it is CRAZY loud. The other thing is that the salsas are not good. The chips and salsa were really bizarre tasting. I don't understand how you mess that up, but what can I say. I will say, if the restaurant hadn't been so loud it would be a four star experience.
(3)Kyle T.
The food is absolutely transcendent -- we've been going for years and have never had so much as an "okay" dish. If you're looking for an enchilada combo plate you'll be disappointed, but if you have an open mind, a moderate heat tolerance that (sadly) matches your tolerance for fellow diners with loud/unsupervised children you will find a lot to like here. First, the food is uniformly superb. If that's your sole criteria, this place deserves a solid 7 on a 5 point scale. They routinely exceed expectations. Second, the employment of hard surfaces only compounds and amplifies the problem of unattended/ignored children, which ranges from "tolerable" to "cacophony" depending on the number of children present. Don't say you weren't warned.
(4)China F.
I love their mole. Everything is great. My favorite Mexican restaurant in Omaha Nebraska.
(5)Joan W.
If you love authentic Mexican food, this place will will not disappoint you. Every meal my husband and I have ordered has been delicious with a mouth watering presentation. Watch out - some of their dishes are very spicy; all dinners are marked on the menu their heat index for that meal so there are no surprises.
(5)Anna R.
The guacamole, all types of enchiladas, and the salsa are amazing! I've never had anything I didn't love. You might have to wait a bit for a table, but it is worth it! Delicious food and good service too!
(5)Dave B.
Like the re-design of the place. We hadn't been there in over a year. Its very busy on a Saturday night. 6pm arrival means 45 minutes for a table. All food was good. Carne Asada was two large pieces of the meat. Tacos Nortenos were super and the Fire Pork"wrap" was more of a smothered burrito that was huge. Lots of different flavors you don't get a most other places in town. Service for our visit was very good and the food came out in an appropriate amount time. Only one free chips and salsa.
(5)Mike C.
Don't miss out on best flavor, spiced Mexican food! I have been eating here for almost five years. Travel here for biz. Can't miss when in town. They get busy, but the wait is worth it! Try many things. I've found my favorite is anything with the green sauce...somewhat hot, but I love it. Salsa/Chips, brands, Guac, soups are phenomenal! Everything is from scratch. See you there soon!
(5)Jason L.
Authentic, inexpensive, and delicious! Not fancy by any means but I'd you want a great torta for lunch or amazing carne asada for dinner. Check this place out!
(5)Christine S.
Great homemade salsa and well worth the wait. We will be adding this authentic spot to our rotation.
(4)Lauren P.
Some of the best Mexican food I've ever had. I got the spinach enchiladas (vegetarian dish) with guacamole dip and a margarita (which was potent, by the way). The enchiladas were stuffed with loads of fresh spinach and cheese. Their spicy sauce also complimented the dish well. The guac was spicy with fresh avocados and jalepenos. The downside: 30 minute wait and it's about $12-18 a dish. But that doesn't stop me from going back often!!
(5)Dianna K.
Good food. Horrible management. Long wait at the bar. We waited for over an hour for a table even though our entire party was there and waiting. You are not allowed to be seated unless your entire party is present. When we asked why others were getting seated before us who had arrived after us, their answer was that they did not have a table large enough to accommadate us. There was ten of us. The owner was not apologetic for the long wait and basically appeared arrogant and noncaring. Very poor costomer service skills. We came at 7:30 and at 8:50 we still had no table. We left at that time. We had always been loyal long time costomers Not any more. .My friends, family and I will not be back.
(1)Chris C.
Absolutely the best Mexican food in town. Awesome carne asada; actually everything on the menu is very good. Excellent margaritas with a definite kick....drink more than one and you'll feel it! Our group of friends go every Friday night. No reservations, so get there early.
(5)Bill K.
Good food. Horrible, horrible rude service. Food not THAT good to make up for the bad service and attitude that the owner of this establishment has. Won't be back.
(1)Audrey C.
Very dissapointed in my most recent visit to Rivera's. The Al Pastor tacos were floating oil, and the rice was obviously made with a stale seasoning packet giving it a lumpy consistency and horrible flavor. The beans were off as well, too much sage or something. My husband had the "Bo" Pork Enchiladas. No joke these were smothered in Cheez Whiz, ick! Both pork dishes had such a strong, 'gamey' flavor, this pig must have been 50 years old in order to achieve that kind of stank. Really the only thing good was the chips and salsa. I have always enjoyed the food in the past here. It has gone downhill in my opinion. Oh well, good thing there are thousands of other Mexican places in Omaha because I won't be back to Rivera's unless I have to.
(2)Ema N.
My husband and I have been to Rivera's on multiple occasions and always have had a great experience. The margaritas are always delicious and the food is excellent. They don't take reservations so expect a bit of a wait depending on the day of the week. The atmosphere is great too. It will be worth the wait.
(5)Chris B.
Food was good. Service was terrible. Owners wife is a waitress and has a terrible attitude. I have eaten there 20 times and have never been treated this poorly. The owner knew we were upset and tried to comp our meal. I chose to pay and never return.
(1)Stewart W.
Tried Rivera's for the first time. Timing was perfect, arriving at 12:30 p.m. for lunch. It was crowded but a table was available, with several other tables opening up soon afterwards. Service was fine. Chile rillenos is my standard dish to judge Mexican restaurants by, and I was not taken by Rivera's, which had cinnamon overtones that did not complement the chiles to me. But I didn't care about that, as my lunch partner and I shared an order of shrimp alambres, which was absolutely delicious -- one of my favorite dishes in all of Omaha restaurant-dom. I will be headed back to Rivera's specifically to order them, perhaps as a main dish all to myself instead of an appetizer. Would also like to go back at dinnertime to try a margarita and flan.
(4)Melissa P.
The food was awesome! Love their Carne asada! no compalints, the waitress was friendly and tended to our needs.
(4)Josh H.
Finally got a chance to stop in for lunch after a number of reccomendations. As I walked in I must say I was a little shocked at the size... I mean this place is SMALL and that's an understatement but quite cozy if you're on a date I guess. I can only imagine how many people they must have to turn away on the weekends due to lack of seating.. With that being said the food was delicious and fresh. I had the steak fajitas with rice and beans and enjoyed all of it. Also the chips and salsa were quite unique in fact the salsa had more of a yellow color to it and I mistakenly thought it was cheese at first none the less it was delicious.. The service was adequate and very friendly. Can't wait to try some of their other dishes..
(4)Natalie E.
RIvera's is pretty good, and you can definitely find a good meal here, but not as good as they used to be. When they first opened the menu was more authentic, but (as I'm sure was necessary financially) to cater to the gringo population in West O, the food was Americanized. The free chips and salsa are good and the drink selection is actually impressive for the place they run. Seating is limited, the dining room is small. On happy hour nights expect to wait at least 30 minutes. Service, though occasionally slow, is always friendly. Never a problem with the wrong food or a mistake on an order.
(3)Stefanie N.
Perhaps it was because I went with a person who loves this place, or perhaps it was because my first time here...but whatever the case, I liked what I ordered and I will be coming back. The chips and salsa weren't terrible but they weren't something to write home about. I ordered the al pastor tacos and unlike the other reviews, mine wasn't drenched in oil. In fact, it was well seasoned and tender and all sorts of deliciousness al pastor tacos should be. I kind of compared it to Robo Taco in Portland, OR and while Robo Taco had the better tortilla, Rivera's had just as good seasoned meat.
(4)Francisco F.
The food is still awesome, but the service is getting so bad I will not be going back. The last time I went for dinner there were only 3 other tables full and it took an hour to get my food, without so much as an apology or a (good) reason. When I asked the waitress her response was that the cook is slow today.
(2)Chad D.
Here's the deal. We had a party of 9. Maybe that's the reason the service was HORRIBLE. The food, however was AMAZING. I'd give the food more than 5 stars if I could, and give the service less than 1. We arrived and were told 20-25 minutes for a table. We waited nearly an hour, and were finally seated. It took the waitress almost 10 minutes to come say hello and get a drink order. She brought back half the drinks, then was gone another 5 minutes getting the others. It took 15 minutes before she came back to take our orders. So now we've been here an hour and a half, and just got our order taken. Chips and salsa were good, though not incredible. They stated that we would only get 1 basket of chips and salsa despite having 9 people. We asked why and they said it was because one of our party ordered Nachos which they consider an appetizer and their policy is that if you order an appetizer you don't get chips. Huh? I'm not sure what their logic is. Chips are WAY cheap, and most Mexican restaurants in the area provide them free of charge. Anyway, we had 3 kids with us, and they were HUNGRY since everything was taking so long. Another woman came over and explained the "chip" situation. She asked if we were ordering the Nachos as an appetizer or as a meal. We explained as a meal, and then she said "Sorry for the misunderstanding, we'll bring you 2 baskets of chips." Not sure why it mattered but it did. Food took about 20-25 minutes, and it was AMAZING. Here's where another issue arises though. 2 of the kids meals weren't brought out. 1 order of fish tacos wasn't brought out. We told her we were missing some food, and she told us it would be right out. 10 minutes later, 1 order of chicken fingers came out. ONLY 1. We told her we were still missing 1 order of chicken fingers and an order of fish tacos. "He hasn't gotten his fish tacos yet? " she asked. We told her no, and she brought them out almost immediately. But they were COLD. Not cool, not lukewarm, but COLD. They had sat there awhile it was obvious. Then, another 10 minutes later, as everyone who had received their food was finishing up, the last kids meal arrives. To top it all off, they added 18% gratuity automatically for the service we got. I had real heartburn with that, and brought it to her attention. She told me I could change it if I wanted to, but it was actually an item on the bill, and not like where you add it on your credit card slip. I paid it anyway, told her that her service was bad though. Overall, the food is AMAZING, and the service was HORRIBLE. I would recommend this place, though with some caution. It was a tough review to write because it truly was a tale of good vs. evil. LOL
(2)Rudy W.
some of the seafood plates are awesome. went there for 3 weeks straight every day. pick every single item on the menu. the good part of being regular, i guess they know what you like in regards to spiciness. so they always give me the habenero sauce on the side and use less salt. good food. and come early, otherwise expect to wait. the only thing I don't like ( I always asked them to hold on the sauce), is they use a lot of sauces.
(4)Tessa W.
I had the Chicken Pibl and it was DELICIOUS!!! Took awhile to figure out what we wanted because it was kind of a strange menu - but I was so happy with my choice. My husband had some kind of seafood plate and his only complaint was that he asked for it a little too spicy so it was difficult for him to eat. Looking forward to going there again!
(4)Megan P.
Don't let the size and location of this restaurant fool you. Their food is incredible with intense flavors and unique combinations. It is one of the best Mexican restaurants in town. There is often a wait but it is worth it!!! My husband loved the Cazuela Al Horno and I had the fajitas, both were delicious. This is a "must try" for all Mexican food lovers.
(5)Ali L.
I actually wasn't too impressed. At all. I ordered the Enchiladas Poblanas on recommendation of the waiter, and even though the food was semi-tasty, I wasn't really a big fan. Wish I would've tried fish tacos or the lobster enchiladas. But at $10 for what I ordered, not impressed. My friend wanted a simple burrito, but there aren't any on the menu, so went with the Spicy Chicken Wrap instead. He said it was pretty good, but then found a TOOTHPICK inside his food. I told a waitress next to our table about this, she just shrugged and said "oh well" and walked over to another table. Annoyed, I told our our waiter when he came back, he apologized profusely and gave us the chicken wrap for free. He offered to make something else, but we were short on time and not in the mood to wait another half hour for something else we weren't thrilled with. This place was packed at 12:30 for lunch, and tables are closely seated together which was inconvenient since my friend has his back being jabbed in by someone else's chair. The chips were fresh and homemade, but I wasn't a big fan of the salsa. It was good, but the spice of it just didn't make me want to devour it like I normally do with most things left on a table pre-meal. I may go back some other time, but for the price of $9-12 a plate for lunch, I have other places I would like to investigate.
(2)Michelle H.
placed my order and it came out wrong three times. I ordered sea bass and they must have thought that chicken or pork was the same. after 45 mins of this bs I complained that if it came out wrong we would be leaving. The owner came out of the kitchen and told us to get the F-out if we didn't like the service. this happened two years ago I still won't give them the time of day. I also make it a point to tell everyone about this experience.
(1)Sarah A.
I'm originally from Texas, so I have very strong opinions about mexican food. My previous experiences with mexican food in Nebraska have been extremely disappointing. I stopped by Rivera's for lunch one Sunday after being told repeatedly by a friend that Rivera's was the best place in Omaha for Mexican food. I've gotten recommendations before and was expecting an equivalent to Carlos O'Kelly's or Romeo's. Boy was I pleasantly surprised! The food was great! Authentic and flavorful! In no way did I feel like i was eating bland, chain restaurant food. I always recommend it to friends and coworkers. The service wasn't the speediest, but I had my chips and salsa so that kept me company! Definitely try it out!
(4)Katrina O.
Best fish tacos in town!! I try fish tacos everywhere they're served...and I've never had better. First of all they use Mahi (most places use Tilapia) & second, the chipotle sauce is enough to dream about. Amazing. FOOD In addition to the amazing fish tacos, Rivera's has really good seafood enchiladas; however, I've heard mixed reviews about the rest of their food from people I've dined with. Rivera's also won't do special orders - a downfall for us picky eaters. My friend ordered steak tacos without onion. When they wouldn't take off the onions we assumed they were mixed in with the steak, but nope...they were simply sprinkled on top. Still not quite sure why they couldn't just leave them off. They're homemade salsa is really good - it's got a good kick to it, but you only get one free basket of chips (after you order food). It's a cheap move considering the average ticket price. SERVICE The place is always packed, which makes me wonder why they are ALWAYS understaffed. We waited 10 minutes last night before giving our drink order....which is not uncommon. It's definitely not a place to take a group larger than 4 (if you have 5 they'll squeeze you all around one table) as the dining room is very small & you'll wait awhile. It's also not a place to go if you're in a hurry. PRICE Average prices, but you do get a lot of food (dinners in the $10-$15 range). The house margaritas are $8 - a little high I think. The good news is that they're pretty strong! KID FRIENDLY The chicken fingers are made with chicken breast (which is hard to find) & they cut them up before serving to help them cool faster. As a mom, that was awesome! They do not have ground beef though for tacos - only shreaded chicken (which had some spice to it) & steak. All in all - if you want to try out Rivera's, expect to be there awhile & try the fish tacos!
(3)Alexis A.
I've been to Rivera's at least three times, and every meal has been stellar. The experience is always the same on a Friday or Saturday night... complete chaos. I actually enjoy the atmosphere; you know that the food is good if the restaurant is always this busy. When you arrive, make sure to write your own name on the register. If you forget this vital step, you may be waiting longer than you'd like. While you wait, enjoy one of the margaritas or a Mexican beer. So far I've enjoyed the camarones a la diabla: shrimp, peppers and onions in a spicy chipotle sauce served with rice, beans and tortillas; the tierra y mar combo with lobster enchiladas enchiladas rancheras and... something else which I'm sure was also delicious. This last time my husband had the chile colorado with beef and wow... that's definitely one I will order in the future. Usually forgettable and mundane at most restaurants, the rice and beans are delicious, as is the complimentary (after you place your order) chips and salsa. This time we ordered sopapillas, which I hadn't eaten for nearly 20 years and they were just as delicious as I remembered--perfect light clouds of fried dough drizzled with honey! The food is always fresh and very flavorful. Not sure how authentic it is, but it's definitely a notch above most Mexican restaurants in creativity and quality. Tip: Go to their website to print some coupons for $5 off your meal of $30 or more.
(5)D O.
Entire dinner ruined by obnoxious service. Went to eat at Rivera's with a party of 9. We went early because we know it can be busy and wanted to make it easy to accommodate us. We drove in separate cars and one arrived before the other and they refused to seat us until the whole party was present (6 of us were there too!), even though the restaurant was essentially empty and I told them the other car would be there within a couple minutes. That was annoying and unnecessary. Then to seat us they just put two tiny tables together - not enough for space for 9 people by any means. Sigh. When ordering I requested two a la carte enchiladas and was told by the server (with a sharp tone of voice) "We don't do that, you can only buy the platter." I started to reply but she just ignored me and stepped to take the order of the next person (and I probably would have even ended up ordering another platter if she'd kept talking to me...). Another person in our party requested sauteed onions with her meal and the server responded "That wouldn't be good, you wouldn't like that" and then, again, just stepped to the next person without anything further. Wow. According to the menu the first round of chips and salsa is on the house and further rounds are charged. We only got two baskets of chips (again, 9 people) and we'd even gotten as appetizer two orders of guacamole ($8), yet they still charged us when we asked for more chips (how would two baskets have been enough for even a first round for 9, particularly with 2x guacamole?). Weak. We'd asked up front about splitting the bill and were told that no, they don't do that, but that we could work it out ourselves and they would ring it up on different credit cards. So we figured out the amounts and asked our server to ring it up. But then nope, what she'd meant to say was that they will ONLY evenly divide the check into equal amounts, and at most they will take two cards and cash. What the...?!? So we had to roll with that nonsense and then work out a cash exchange amongst ourselves to sort it out. Lovely. Of course, for the pleasure of being treated like we were a nuissance, we were automatically charged an 18% gratuity. Totally undeserved. Was the food good? Who cares? We were so annoyed the whole time we couldn't enjoy it. One positive point I will make is this - the bus people were absolutely super. In all, I would never consider going back.
(1)Matthew B.
We love Rivera's. We've been there a dozen times or more and love it more each time. Last night I had the Carne Asada. Oh My God. Best Carne Asada I've had. It rivals the Asada I was served by some Hispanic cooks I managed in Phoenix years back. Wow. My wife had her stand by Enchilada and my daughter had chicken tacos. All of us had left overs. We had the Spicy Cheese Dip. It was hot last night, but oh so good. Yes - they have some weird policies....but the food is so worth it. We'll be back!!
(5)Mary Q.
Amazing Mexican food for those of us who don't get down to South O very often. Service is very friendly, but they don't split checks so bring cash if you're with friends. Try the Fish Tacos!
(5)Cory B.
I tell everyone about riveras, I always explain it as highly flavorful Mexican food that tips the scale towards the gourmet side of Mexican food. Also if you order something spicy here they mean it. The secret is getting out about this place.
(4)Sarah W.
Bitchy reviews tend to annoy me, but I guess it's my turn...... Have always liked the food here, and the service is colorful and fun. Last night was no exception. Wonderful server and decent food. The problem was the owner. He will be called Milo Minderbinder for the remainder of this review. My friend and I were sat around 8:30. We ordered, ate, drank, chatted and our togo boxes were dropped with the check around 9:20. As I am boxing my food, and my friend is still eating, Milo steps out of the kitchen and yells from the opposite side of the dining room, "ladies, I'm going home". My friend responds, "have a great night?" Milo responds, "No, we are leaving, I am locking the door." We abandoned our leftover food, left a 30% tip and shall never return. Milo's posted hours for his establishment are 5:00 p.m.-Close(?) To Milo: I recommend you retire from the service industry and move on to smuggling tobacco.
(1)Randy C.
After reading some of the reviews, I figured that I needed to add my two cents, since I know this restaurant well. I've been going to Rivera's since shortly after it opened, literally eaten there over 100 times, and tried almost everything on the menu. I give it 5 stars for value. It's not Topolobampo or the Frontrera Grill, but the food is excellent and the wait staff friendly and efficient. I see that many complain about the service, but they're so freakin' busy most of the time, it's not surprising that it is slow at times. Chips and salsa are homemade, usually pretty decent. Several of the dishes are excellent: Chicken Laredo, the Pibil dishes (fish or Chicken), Carne Asada, and the Mole is good as well. I can't think of anything that disappointed me, except perhaps the Bo Enchiladas. The flan and sopapillas are nice deserts (if they have the habanero flan, give it a try). I've tried the South O restaurants, and Rivera's is definitely better. Probably the best value for a Mexican restaurant in Omaha. Agave has better sauces, but is far too limited in what they do.
(5)John M.
Love this place!! I had been living on the East Coast for six years and I crave this place. I eat here whenever I come back. Now I live here. I'm a big Mexican food fan from East Coast to West Coast I've been in all the Mexican places and all of Omaha. Best Mexican in West Omaha hands down. Only one place came close in Washington but it was all about the trend. I love that this is family owned and super friendly with generous portions. Their mole is great and authentic. The guacamole is awesome. It's a small place. So plan accordingly. Don't recommend large groups. The last time I was there they sat a big group. They dominated our dinner. It was noisy. Have a margarita while you wait. Everything on the menu is great. The diablo is memorable in more ways than one. Salsa is fresh authentic and just like I remember my "abuelita" friend inLA used to make me!
(5)Jonathan H.
I finally stopped for lunch the other day after hearing so many good things about Rivera's from coworkers (and yelpers.) I was not disappointed. Me being a fan of tex-mex, I was unsure of what I would think. Wow is my thought. How have I worked so close to Rivera's and not stopped. Soo good. Really. A coworker and I stopped in just after 11 and the place was empty. An empty restaurant for a person who has never been there is an ominous sign if you ask me, but we went ahead and sat down and ordered. By the time our food arrived every single table in the place was filled (11:25.) Everyone from suit wearing lawyers to salty construction workers filled up the place. That is a good sign. I enjoyed the enchiladas rancheras and my coworker had the Chile Colorado. Both were obviously made from scratch and were fantastic. Filed with flavor (and not for the diet conscious.) I can't wait to go back during dinner so I can sample their AMAZING tequila selection that has to topping 50+. If you work around the area, stop by (and if you don't want to wait, do it before 11:30.) Cheers!
(4)Carly K.
Best Mexican Food Ever! My favorite is the enchaladas de mole. The food tastes homemade. This is real Mexican food; not the microwaved, over cheesed, greasy, unflavored stuff you get at some of the so called Mexican restaurants.
(5)David W.
We have been there a few times now. They have removed some of the items on the the menu that were wonderful and unique. The food is usually very good. The main issue is that its a poorly run business. The noise can definitely be an issue. They do nickel and dime you. I'm surprised they don't charge you for the napkins! The wait staff at times can be a little sketchy. If you ever have to deal with the owners, you'll discover they really have no class at all and shouldn't be business owners. He should just be a cook/chef (his food is good), and she should be a dishwasher at best. They should stay away from customers instead of driving them away.
(3)TL C.
6th time I've ate at Rivera's.... 1st... Worst service period! 2nd.. Guaca Maya is way way better. 3rd.. tonight I ordered a dish that had chicken and shrimp in it which was all the menu said were in the dish meat wise. I found some type of red meat in my dish and the waitress then said oh yeah it has sausage in it. First off I told her I don't eat pig or cow when i order the dish and she said then you will love this. Then after I found out that the dish had pig in it the waitress said and sorry took the dish back... They never offered me another dish or said sorry you ate pig.. she just put our ticket on the table with my dish included on the tab..... I manage a great restaurant in the old market and we would offer another dish if you you not happy with what you received.Plus we list everything that is in everyone of our dishes. I have tried to enjoy Rivera's now for years and this is my take on what they're trying to do. It looks like Romeo's, They have a horrible wait every night, I will say they have great drinks.... Bad service.. and the food is nothing more than tacobell meet Michaels in the old market... save yourself the wait and go downtown to Guacamaya or any real Mexican restaurant down on 24th... It's not great or even worth the wait.... I'd pass on this place... and by the way worst Guacc in town... my grade D- ...... go to tacobell then go there for drinks if you can get to the tiny bar... Booooooo!!!!
(1)Tyson B.
After reading the previous reviews about this place we decided to check it out. Walking in, I must say I was skeptical at first. The place is new and clean but it is tiny! Unless you are sitting around the booths you are pretty much next to other parties in the middle of the restaurant. The size factor is the only thing that kept me from giving a 5 star review. That aside, the food and service was incredible! I agree with the others that this is by far the best Mexican food I have had in Nebraska so far. I took up Derek E.'s suggestion by getting the Enchiladas Racheras ($10 on dinner menu I think) and it was amazing (it's spicy though, watch out!). It was a lot of food too so I ended up taking some home. Others in my group got the Enchiladas Vera Cruz (seafood) and the shrimp inside were high quality and the Mole Platter I believe it was, which he was very impressed with. At a glance: Pros: - Food!! - Taste it and it speaks for itself - Service - Fast and friendly - Location - 120th and Blondo Cons: - Size/atmosphere - Too small and cluttered If you love Mexican food you at least need to go here once. Enjoy!
(4)Anthony K.
All of the food is flavorful, and the ambiance is okay. Had the green chile pork, and it was deliciously spicy. The portion sizes are huge. Upon request, they substituted really tasty black beans for my refried beans, which I appreciate. Selection of Mexican beer was excellent, although there is nothing on tap and it wasn't as cold as I hoped. If you're into Tequila, they have over 60 types from which to choose. The restaurant is small but very open, so it gets loud in a hurry. A few booths line the walls and table fill the middle. Service was solid. Keep you expectations low for the atmosphere and high for the food, and you will leave Rivera's jolly and full.
(4)Meredith R.
Food sucked! Guess being from Texas I'm a little spoiled. Service was bad and who doesn't serve SIZZLING fajitas???
(1)Guillermo L.
Smallish in a good way (limited seating but cozy). Love the nachos! (best in Omaha). Very low key, with plenty of choices.
(4)Lou M.
I drive down Blondo all the time and just noticed this place earlier this week. Kinda funny we ended up going there tonight with some friends. I got the combo rancheros enchilades with the shrimp enchiladas and it was good. One thing about that dish I have seen mentioned is that it is spicy. I liked it but it was at my tolerent for spicy-ness. If you think the tinyest thing is spicy, you probably will think this is super hot. Like I said, it was good. Wife had the mahi mahi tacos and liked them. We'll go back there for sure. We ate here on a Friday night at 6pm, got seated immediatly, and had great service. Only downfall abut this place i think is that it was certianly loud in there the whole time. Probably due to it being so small....guessing maybe 20-25 tables total. In all, a very enjoyable meal.
(4)Laura B.
Things I like: -Strong margaritas---yes! -Place was packed with a line -Great shredded chicken and carne asada -Excellent service! -Delicious beans and rice! -Great for a family Things not sure about: -I liked and disliked the salsa at the same time -My chicken enchiladas had a lot of crushed red pepper seeds in them--and felt chewy..not in a good way -Vinyl booth seats
(3)Marc A.
Best Mexican food in town, hands down!!! My wife and I have been coming here for years, and I have literally probably eaten here over 40 times. I like to try different things when I go and have tried most things on the menu (except I don't like seafood in general). Every thing I have is always different and delicious, the food is authentic, spicy, flavorful, and far from the usual ground hamburger taco's at your typical mexican restaurant. Their wraps, fajitas, enchiladas bravas, enchiladas rancheras, chile colorado, and chipotle enchilada are my favorites. The place is small...they owner said they did consider expanding to a larger restaurant, but evidently it was gonna cost about triple their rent of what they paying now. My only advise is I don't recommend going here if you have a party bigger than six because you'll wait for a while, and if you don't like (very) loud, fun atmospheres this isn't for you either. They have been understaffed in the past, but I think this is much better now, they are always so busy because everyone goes there because it is so good. The marg's are a bit expensive ($8) but considering how strong they are, you can consider it as getting 2 for $4. Sum it up, this is the best Mexican food I've ever had and worth going at least once.
(5)Ali M.
Amazing! Authentic! Always super busy, be prepared to wait... but well worth it. Strong margaritas at times... beware.. they can sneak up on you! ;) Staff are extremely friendly and really hard working. We've got 2 favorite Mexican places in town.. this is one.
(5)Lisa G.
Absolutely delicious. Great Mexican food (I got the outrageous wrap), great margaritas, so crowded. They don't split bills, which is a bit frustrating, and service is a bit slow. Overall, food is so great that it doesn't even really matter.
(5)Cody P.
Amazing food! I get the Chiles En Nogada, it is a pepper stuffed with cheese and topped with a walnut sauce and a pomegranate reduction. So amazing! I just wish there was more seating because it is packed on the weekends!
(5)Carol P.
Love their shrimp appetizer! Very small, loud, and crowded. Not a place for large groups or conversation but good Mexican food!
(4)Rob B.
I visited Rivera's for lunch, and loved it. The salsa is different from the regular, and the chips are fresh and crispy. I had a rock shrimp enchilada, the Veracruz. It was amazing. The seasoning, the obvious freshness of the seafood, it was perfect. The service was really good. I am a big water drinker, and will go through four glasses during a typical dinner, and my glass was never empty for very long. The only thing that keeps Rivera's from getting a 5 star is the prices. I think that is probably just because of the size of the place....less sqf means more $ per sqf :-) for overhead, and this place is small. Even there though, they have a nice lunch menu with appropriate pricing, so it is not all bad.
(4)Derek E.
I actually didn't like Rivera's when I first tried it. The menu was very interesting, but I didn't get the impression that it was completely authentic. To be fair, I've never been to Mexico, so the closest I've come to authentic Mexican food is Howard's on 13th, and even that impression might based solely on the fact that I've found few other places that serve tamales (which I don't even like). Then I went back and I decided to just order what ever was my waiter's favorite dish. That was the right choice. He recommended the Enchiladas Ranchera's which had a lot more flavor complexity than I've ever had from Mexican dish before. It was diced skirt steak mixed with chorizo, sauted with green onions, finished with a spicy green sauce and cheese ($8.25). Still not in awe of Mexican cuisine, but this was certainly tasty. They seem a little on the pricey side for Mexican food and their sides kind of suck, so I only give them 4 stars. Read more Mexican Restaurants in Omaha Reviews: gastronomicfightclub.com…
(4)Theo H.
The chicken tacos tasted so good after two patron and sodas. The queso was a bit runny for my preference, but the guacamole was right on.
(4)Melissa W.
First and foremost I would like to state that the food here is wonderful. It's always fresh and flavorful, as well as authenic. But I do have a few problems with this place, like many people have said before the customer service is lacking and it seems like they're doing you have favor when you come to eat at their place, not the other way around. First off, they don't give you chips and salsa until after you order and then there are no free refills, if you want more than one basket, you have to pay. Also, I've ordered food to go twice from there and both times they got my order wrong and I ended up getting home and then realizing they only gave me half my food or they gave me something I didn't order at all. Once I called and ordered the tacos de pollo (my favorite!) and the diablo steak enchiladas for my husband. I got all the way home before I realize they only have me the tacos but charged me for both meals. The second time I ordered tacos de pollo on my lunch break, when I got back to work with my food I noticed that they had give me some sort of chicken wrap. Another peeve of mine with their take out is that they never include utensils or napkins in the bag. Things that are very important to me when I order take-out and things that should be included. I feel as if Rivera's food is fabulous but their management needs to change or they're going to start driving people away.
(3)lorne h.
Menu lists fish tacos and fish entrees, however there was no fish. Shrimp tastes like it is out of a can. Food was dry and over cooked. Owners don't smile at their customers. Service is poor. This mexican restaurant is not recommended.
(1)Russ C.
Consistently a great place to eat. I've only had one bad meal here-the dish I ordered was fried, and it was extremely greasy, like the fryer wasn't turned up high enough. Other than that I've loved this place, especially because when he says spicy, he means it. The chicken nachos are the the best in town and so are the margaritas. A few words of caution: they are very strong, always stop at two, and spend the extra buck for the supreme. The tequila list is very impressive as well.
(4)