Pizza is probably the single most popular comfort food in the US. And why not? Fresh dough — chewy, thick, thin, or however you like it — topped with (usually) tomato sauce, cheese, and pretty much any other topping you can think of. There are so many pizza restaurants across the state; however, if you are looking for the little hole-in-the-wall restaurant that serves the absolute best pizza in the Land of Enchantment, look no further than Café Rio.

Cafe Rio opened in 1993 and has received numerous “Best of Ruidoso” awards since.

Mely B/Yelp

There are definitely some unique pies on the menu, such as this kimchi and fried Andouille sausage pizza.

Cafe Rio Pizza/Facebook

The homemade, hand-tossed crust is thin, crispy, and simply to die for, and the toppings are all very fresh and delicious.

Cbad4ever /TripAdvisor

How about the Heart’s Delight? Topped with Swiss cheese, capers, red onions, and artichoke hearts, you’ll taste buds will explode with this gem.

Cafe Rio Pizza/Facebook

A huge crowd favorite is the Kitchen Sink with, literally, everything you can think of including jalapenos, anchovies, and green olives — seriously, every possible topping known to man.

Ronald W./Yelp

And, of course, there are the good-ole standards like pepperoni, sausage, Hawaiian (shown), and the veggie.

Glen F./Yelp

Café Rio has other menu items such as calzones, sandwiches, salads, soups, breadsticks, and specials.

Cafe Rio Pizza/Facebook

They have a luscious assortment of fresh desserts too, but it’s the pizza that keeps both locals and visitors coming back time and again.

Cafe Rio Pizza/Facebook

Café Rio is located at 2547 Sudderth Drive in Ruidoso.

Rex S./Yelp

This eatery is closed on Wednesday during the “slow season” and only accepts cash and checks. For directions or more information, please call (575) 257-7746.

Mely B/Yelp

Cafe Rio Pizza/Facebook

Cbad4ever /TripAdvisor

Ronald W./Yelp

Glen F./Yelp

Rex S./Yelp

Have you eaten at this quaint little hole-in-the-wall with the absolute best pizza in the state? Please share your thoughts and experiences below.

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