If you love authentic Mexican cuisine, you may think you need to hop on a plane or head to a big city to get your fix. Well, think again, because some of Alberta’s best Mexican food is hidden in the prairies, and you simply can’t miss the opportunity to try it yourself.
This place is spectacular. From the décor to the dishes, and everything in between, everything blends together to recreate not just the taste of Mexico, but even the vibe. The scent of grilled chorizo, warm tortillas, hand-made chips, and citrus-laced guacamole draws your attention. In the heart of High River’s charming downtown sits a small, unassuming restaurant that delivers big, bold flavours you’d expect to find far closer to Mexico than the Alberta prairies.
Welcome to Rio Alto Authentic Mexican Cuisine. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why locals and visitors are raving about it and even calling it the best Mexican food for miles.
Freshly Made From Scratch
At Rio Alto, it’s not just about serving food, it’s about delivering legit Mexican eats. In a province better known for cattle farms than burritos, everything on the menu is made from scratch, from hand-pressed tortillas to rich, complex sauces like their house-made mole. They stay true to traditional recipes, showcasing flavours without shortcuts or compromise. You’ll find dishes that highlight the diversity of Mexican cuisine far beyond the usual standards.
Adding to their charm is their accommodating approach. Whether vegan, gluten-free, or adventurous, the kitchen will happily adjust many dishes to suit your dietary needs, including cactus tacos, veggie flautas, and fresh salads.
Rio Alto’s commitment to authenticity has built a loyal following. Visitors drive for miles just for a taste, and first-timers quickly become regulars.
A Menu Bursting with Flavour
The starters at Rio Alto are a perfect way to kick off your meal, offering a delicious preview of what's to come. The empanadas feature tender corn dough filled with savoury chicken tinga and cheese, finished with fresh pico de gallo, cabbage, and crema for a bright, satisfying bite. If you're sharing, the five-layer nacho dip is a crowd favourite, house-made chips piled high with beans, pico, cheddar, crema, and fresh guacamole. For something rich and indulgent, the chorizo queso fundido delivers perfectly melted cheese blended with just the right amount of spicy chorizo.
When it comes to mains, the options are equally hard-hitting. The Amigas Enchiladas let you customize your plate with chicken tinga, beef brisket, pork, or veggie fillings, paired with fresh and delicious salsas. The Carne Asada offers a rustic combination of grilled steak with sautéed nopales, chorizo, rice, pico, and warm tortillas. For something a little different, the Azteca Lasagna puts a fun Mexican twist on a classic, layering corn tortillas with beef, spinach, cheeses, and a creamy poblano sauce.
Of course, you can’t leave without sampling something sweet, from crispy churros served with ice cream to the legendary Tres Leches Cake. The dessert list is irresistible.
It’s rare, maybe unheard of, to find authentic Mexican dishes where wheat fields meet open skies. Rio Alto does just that. It dared to introduce mole to cattle country and empanadas to farm folk, and it succeeded. Now, visitors drive from all over the province just to get a taste.
What truly elevates Rio Alto beyond its food is the people behind it. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, with the staff treating every guest like family. The owner often makes personal recommendations, ensuring you always get the best possible experience. As one happy customer put it, “Ask the owner what he recommends, and he won’t steer you wrong. The Chorizo nachos, it’s a great vibe as well.”
So next time you're on the hunt for unforgettable tacos and warm hospitality, take the detour to High River. There, amid prairie charm, Rio Alto Authentic Mexican Cuisine awaits, ready to surprise, delight, and transport you south of the border without leaving Alberta.
In a region known for cattle and grain elevators, Rio Alto stands out with bold flavours, excellent service, and genuine authenticity, making it the best Mexican restaurant on the prairies. It’s a true taste of small-town Alberta charm with the best Mexican twist, and you can count on it being delicious.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for Great West Media's Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
