Cafe Rio Launches Utah Handheld Burrito

Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican just dropped a burrito flavor bomb on the Beehive State – entering Utah’s iconic Fry Sauce debate with serious swagger. The beloved fast-casual Mexican brand launched the Utah Handheld Burrito, a Utah-exclusive limited-time offering that delivers bold local flavor in a craveable handheld format. Wrapped in a scratch-made tortilla, the Utah Burrito features new seasoned ground beef, new pickled pico de gallo, new chili-lime fries, a secret burger sauce, blend of cheeses and fresh lettuce, all served with a side of Cafe Rio’s signature take on Fry Sauce.

Available for a limited time exclusively at Cafe Rio restaurants across Utah, the Utah Handheld Burrito is priced under $10. While the Utah Burrito may be stealing the spotlight, it also showcases Cafe Rio’s new entree option – the handheld burrito, now available at all locations. Portable, customizable and packed with Cafe Rio’s signature made-from-scratch flavors, handheld burritos offer guests a convenient on-the-go option and are also available for catering. As part of Cafe Rio’s Real Value Menu, handheld burritos start at under $10, with pricing varying by location.

“The best burger in Utah is now a burrito, and that’s exactly the kind of unexpected, craveable innovation we’re bringing to Cafe Rio,” said Mike Burns, Chief Executive Officer of Cafe Rio. “Sauce isn’t just a side at Cafe Rio, it’s part of our DNA and we’ve built our reputation on bold flavors, so when we decided to take on Utah’s beloved Fry Sauce, we knew we had to do it our way. We know we are better than what we’ve been, and our guests can immediately expect more.

We’re focused on bringing innovation, energy and value back to the brand, and the Utah Handheld Burrito is proof of that commitment. It’s bold, unexpected and uniquely Cafe Rio – and it’s just the beginning. We’re psyched about it and know our guests will love it.”

Burns was announced as CEO in June, brought in to lead a turnaround and restore the brand back to its roots. Changes have been immediate, with a renewed focus on the guest experience, enhancing operations and dialing in on the quality service guests have been vocal about. The introduction of Fry Sauce, the Utah Burrito and handheld burritos are the first significant steps forward under Burns’ leadership, but not the only menu changes guests can find in restaurants.

Paying close attention to guest feedback, many expressed dissatisfaction when favorites like Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette and Habanero and Medium Hatch Green Chile sauces were removed. Good news – they’re back!

“We quickly realized just how much these sauces mean to our guests,” added Burns. “The decision to simplify the menu was made with the intention of improving the experience, but we know we missed the mark. We’re committed to this turnaround, and that starts with listening. So, know that we hear your feedback, we’ll continue to learn from it and you can expect more improvements to come.”

Timed to coincide with Utah’s Pioneer Day celebrations on July 24, Cafe Rio is joining in the festivities all weekend long. For the first time in the brand’s history, Cafe Rio will participate in the Days of ‘47 Parade with its own float, celebrating the home state where the company was founded nearly three decades ago. The celebration continues in restaurants on July 25 and 26, when guests who arrive dressed as pioneers can receive a buy one, get one free handheld burrito offer, giving Utahns another reason to celebrate the holiday with a little Cafe Rio flair.

Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Salt Lake City, Cafe Rio’s menu is inspired by the authentic flavors of Mexico’s Northern Rio Grande region, southern Texas and New Mexico. Over the past three decades, the brand has built a passionate following and earned a legendary status thanks to its fresh ingredients and iconic must-haves like its Sweet Pork Barbacoa and Creamy Tomatillo dressing, which guests can’t stop talking about and competitors can’t stop chasing. From its enchilada style burritos, towering salads, bowls, tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas, and a lineup of other proteins such as Beef Barbacoa, Fire Gilled Steak, Fire Grilled Chicken, Slow Braised Chicken and Pollo Asado, guests are in full control when it comes to customization.

Cafe Rio’s Famous Tres Leches and new Churro Cookies pair perfectly with scratch made Horchata or Mint Limeade for a sweet and refreshing finish.