PJ And B’s Rio Cafe

10 Reviews
2.49 => 14.29

Phone number: (575) 689-7305

Address: 711 Muscatel Ave Carlsbad, NM 88220


Hours of operation

Mon: 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Tue: 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Wed: 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Thu: 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Fri: 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Sat: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Sun: Closed


Walking into PJ And B’s Rio Cafe feels like stepping into a cherished local treasure where the aromas of sizzling fajitas and fresh coffee create an irresistible welcome. Nestled in the heart of Carlsbad at 711 Muscatel Ave, this beloved establishment has become a cornerstone of the community, serving up a delightful fusion of Mexican and American cuisine that keeps locals coming back and travelers discovering a hidden gem.

PJ And B’s Rio Cafe Photos

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About PJ And B’s Rio Cafe

The Story Behind PJ And B’s Rio Cafe Culinary Excellence

As a long-time patron turned food blogger, I've watched PJ And B’s Rio Cafe evolve while maintaining its commitment to authentic flavors and warm hospitality. The restaurant's early morning hours, opening at 4 AM on weekdays, make it a favorite among early birds and shift workers seeking a hearty start to their day. The dedication to serving both traditional American breakfast classics and Mexican morning specialties sets them apart in Carlsbad's dining scene. PJ And B’s Rio Cafe Serves Up Comfort Food with a Southwestern Twist

The menu at PJ And B’s Rio Cafe is a testament to culinary creativity, seamlessly blending American comfort food with Mexican favorites. Their breakfast burritos, stuffed with fluffy eggs, perfectly seasoned potatoes, and your choice of meat, have become legendary among locals. The homemade salsa, with its perfect balance of heat and flavor, elevates every dish it accompanies.

A Peek Inside PJ And B’s Rio Cafe Most Beloved Dishes

Having sampled nearly everything on the menu over my countless visits, I can confidently recommend their standout dishes. The Chile Rellenos are a masterpiece of traditional Mexican cooking, featuring fresh poblano peppers stuffed with melted cheese and topped with a rich ranchero sauce. For American cuisine lovers, their chicken-fried steak rivals any in New Mexico, served with creamy gravy that's worth every calorie.

The Welcoming Atmosphere at PJ And B’s Rio Cafe Creates Lasting Memories

What truly sets PJ And B’s Rio Cafe apart is its warm, inviting atmosphere. The friendly staff remembers regular customers' names and orders, making everyone feel like part of the family. The restaurant's cozy interior, with its southwestern decor and comfortable seating, creates the perfect setting for everything from quick business breakfasts to leisurely weekend brunches.

The Fresh Ingredients and Authentic Recipes Make PJ And B’s Rio Cafe Shine

From the first cup of their freshly brewed coffee to the last bite of their homemade desserts, quality ingredients and authentic recipes are at the heart of every dish. The kitchen team takes pride in preparing each meal from scratch, ensuring that whether you're craving American classics or Mexican specialties, you're getting the real deal

Pro tip: Try to arrive early for breakfast, especially on weekends, as the secret is out about their amazing morning menu. The restaurant fills up quickly with locals and visitors alike, all eager to start their day with PJ And B’s Rio Cafe exceptional food and service.

PJ And B’s Rio Cafe Reviews

Ethan R.
Ethan R.
I used to frequent this restaurant regularly for their delicious American-style breakfast burritos, but my last visit left me disappointed. When I called to place a to-go order, the person who took my order was quite rude and seemed dismissive. Despite the lack of other customers, my burrito took a while to be prepared, and when I finally got it, the potatoes were undercooked and crunchy. The ratio of ingredients was off, with too much raw potato and not enough eggs, sausage, and bacon. This experience, coupled with a disappointing lunch at their river location, has deterred me from returning. It's a shame, as previous visits had always been enjoyable. The high prices coupled with the lack of quality and customer service make it hard for me to justify returning.
Emma D.
Emma D.
While passing through Carlsbad, I decided to stop by this place and try their PJs eye opener burrito to-go. It did not disappoint - the burrito was massive and incredibly satisfying, especially when paired with their flavorful green salsa. The menu had a great selection of burrito options, which made it a bit challenging to choose, but the service was quick and efficient. I enjoyed my meal outside with my furry companion by the water, making it a pleasant dining experience. I would definitely suggest this spot to anyone traveling through or staying in Carlsbad.
Jeff A.
Jeff A.
During my recent trip to Carlsbad on April 8th, 2024, my friends and I decided to grab breakfast at PJ&B's. To our delight, we found that the prices were very reasonable for the delicious and generously portioned burritos and coffee lattes. The staff was incredibly friendly, and we enjoyed the scenic view of the river and the lively birds in the nearby trees. We are already looking forward to returning for another visit soon!
Brian O.
Brian O.
This morning, a group of seven of us headed to PJ's & J's Rio Cafe for breakfast. We enjoyed a diverse selection of breakfast items, including pancakes, French toast, omelets, breakfast potatoes, and refried beans. While the food was tasty, it didn't particularly stand out. The cafe's location near the Pecos River beach, water park, playground, and river walk made it a convenient stop. The service we received was excellent, although one downside was that all our meals and beverages were served in styrofoam containers.
John D.
John D.
After exploring Carlsbad Caverns all morning, we were in the mood for a quick and easy meal at PJ&B's for linner. Since opening in 2019, this local spot has become a favorite among residents for breakfast, coffee, and no-frills lunches. The menu is quite extensive, offering a variety of New Mexican, Mexican, and American dishes to choose from. The Green Chile Pork had excellent flavor, though slightly salty, while the BBQ Beef Brisket on the nachos was truly outstanding. The service provided by Brandy was exceptional, as she was knowledgeable and patient with our orders. While the prices may seem inexpensive to us coming from California, the location near the Pecos River, marina, and parks is a definite plus. On the downside, the extensive burrito selection can be overwhelming, and some dishes tended to be on the salty side. Additionally, all dishes are served in disposable plates and utensils, which may not be the most eco-friendly option. Overall, PJ&B's is a laid-back spot with friendly service and delicious food, perfect for a quick and tasty bite in a great location.
Travis M.
Travis M.
The cost of the food here definitely did not match the quality. I've had tastier meals at IHOP, which says a lot. My order of eggs, hash browns, bacon, and sausage ended up being eggs, bacon, potatoes, and old beans - not what I was expecting for $18. On top of that, the swarm of flies in the restaurant seemed to enjoy the leftovers more than I did.
Marie A.
Marie A.
Tucked away like a hidden gem, this restaurant may be tricky to locate at first. Don't rely solely on navigation, as it may lead you astray towards the golf course. Instead, drive past the restaurant for a moment and turn into the next parking area. Follow the lot until you reach the cozy and well-spaced seating area. The parking situation may be a bit unconventional, but the delicious food and excellent service make it all worthwhile. We enjoyed a lovely lunch on our first visit and decided to return for breakfast the following day when other places were closed. The staff was friendly and accommodating on both occasions, making our dining experience truly enjoyable.
Jane N.
Jane N.
The dining experience at this place was exceptional! A true hidden gem that exceeded my expectations. I indulged in the delicious French toast, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked over easy egg. The portion was generous, so I shared with a friend who raved about the light and fluffy French toast and enjoyed his burrito as well. I appreciated the fact that it is family-owned and operated. One of the staff members shared the history of the restored building, which used to be part of an amusement park. Despite plans to demolish it, a dedicated group managed to save and restore it. The location right off the canal offered a breathtaking view that added to the overall charm of the experience.
Lonnie S.
Lonnie S.
After waiting for 20 minutes in a bustling environment, I finally inquired about my lemonade and meal. The food was decent for its type, but the service fell short of expectations. It felt like a step above a fast-food chain in a busy city area.
Hannah M.
Hannah M.
What a delightful dining experience! The service was efficient despite the crowd, and we were seated quickly. I opted for the breakfast bowl and an iced white mocha, both of which were delicious. The coffee was perfectly sweet, a refreshing change from the usual bitter brews. They also offered a variety of creamer options to suit everyone's taste. The breakfast bowl was filled with tasty toppings that left me wanting more. The atmosphere was lively with charming decorations and beautiful architecture, including stain glass windows and exposed brick. I highly recommend this place for a fun breakfast date or a brunch with friends.

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Phone number: (575) 689-7305

Address: 711 Muscatel Ave Carlsbad, NM 88220


Hours of operation

Mon: 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Tue: 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Wed: 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Thu: 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Fri: 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Sat: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Sun: Closed