Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant has signed a 6,720-square-foot lease for a new restaurant in Loveland. This will be the chain’s first location in the city.
“Since our first visit to Loveland, everyone has welcomed us with open arms,” said Steve Richter, COO of Rio Grande. “We are very excited to join this friendly, vibrant community. We will work hard to bring the people of Loveland some delicious food and FUN!”
Melissa Moran, Alexander Schultz, and Jon Rue of CBRE represented both Rio Grande and the landlord, Actian, Inc. The restaurant is planned to open in Q1 2027.
“Rio Grande’s arrival in Loveland signifies the continued evolution of a vibrant downtown area that attracts both residents and visitors alike,” said CBRE’s Moran. “This addition will spur new business and commerce within the community and positions 4th St. at the heart of Downtown Loveland once again.”
Located at 225 E. 4th St., the historic building was constructed in 1893 and has seen many iterations over its 133-year history. The building sits on Loveland’s main street in the downtown area and is directly across from the Rialto Theater.
“We’re excited to see the Rio coming to downtown Loveland,” said Eli Scott, managing director of Actian, Inc. “They are a highly respected operator, and we believe they will add to the energy and continued growth of our downtown. We’re proud to be part of that progress and to partner with them on this project. I’m looking forward to raising a margarita here when they open.”
Northern Colorado’s retail market reached a positive 161,000 square feet of net absorption in the second half of 2025, according to CBRE Research. This was more than double the net absorption in H1 2025 (63,000 sq. ft.) and a major increase from the full year of 2024 (35,000 sq. ft.).
