Food, drinks, music, and a waterfront view—what could be better at the 3rd Annual Taste of Rio is back at Rio Lakefront in Gaithersburg on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This annual lakeside celebration is quickly becoming one of Montgomery County, Maryland’s popular fall events, bringing together local restaurants, craft cocktails, and live entertainment for an afternoon full of flavor and fun.
Event Details:
- When: Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Where: rio Lakefront, Gaithersburg, Maryland
- Tickets: On sale now (General & VIP options available)
Tickets & VIP Packages
General Admission
Tickets are sold in $5 increments and can be redeemed for food and beverage selections throughout the festival. Buy ahead of time to skip the lines or purchase on-site at ticketing tents near Copper Canyon Grill and Charley Prime Foods. (Credit card preferred; Cash, Venmo, and PayPal accepted.)
VIP Ticket Package + MoCo Eats VIP Lounge
Take your festival experience up a notch with the VIP package, which includes:
- Three (3) tasting/drink tickets
- A limited-edition insulated RIO tumbler
- Exclusive MoCo Eats gift from Visit Montgomery
- Access to the MoCo Eats VIP Lounge from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm
- Early entry with a complimentary signature cocktail & tasting from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
- Dedicated VIP ticket line
- Charging station inside the lounge
A Taste of What’s in Store
Part of the fun of Taste of Rio is discovering (or rediscovering!) the incredible dining options along the lakefront. Here’s a look at the restaurants and eateries that will be serving up their best bites:
Auntie Anne’s & Cinnabon – Nothing says comfort like warm pretzels and cinnamon rolls—perfect for a sweet (or salty) pick-me-up as you stroll the boardwalk.
BurgerFi – Craving a juicy burger? BurgerFi’s all-natural Angus beef patties and crispy fries will hit the spot.
California Pizza Kitchen – Known for their creative pizzas (don’t miss the BBQ Chicken Pizza), this spot brings a taste of California flair to every bite.
Charley Prime Foods – A local favorite for steak lovers, Charley’s will wow you with elevated American flavors and prime cuts.
Donutchew – A bakery that serves up Mochi donuts with unique flavors and special spins on a regular donut. Made with rice flour, people consider their donuts to be “bouncy”.
Fantasticks – Cool off with a frozen gelato pop dipped and topped just the way you like—
these customizable treats are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.
Guapo’s Cantina & Grill – Bring the fiesta to the lakefront with sizzling fajitas, tacos, and margaritas bursting with flavor.
Han Spot – Warm up with authentic Asian comfort food that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Nando’s Peri-Peri – Famous worldwide for its flame-grilled chicken and zesty peri-peri sauce, this stop brings bold global flavor to Gaithersburg.
Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen – Southern hospitality meets soul food classics—think fried chicken, seafood, and hearty sides that taste like home.
Silver Diner – A local favorite, Silver Diner puts a fresh, locally sourced spin on classic comfort food dishes.
Sportrock – Refuel with wholesome, protein-packed snacks designed to keep adventurers energized.
True Food Kitchen – Fresh, seasonal, and packed with flavor—this health-conscious favorite proves good-for-you food can taste amazing.
Yard House – With one of the largest selections of draft beer plus globally inspired bites, Yard House is the ultimate hangout spot for foodies and beer lovers alike.
Make a Day of It at Rio Lakefront
The best part about the Taste of Rio? You’re not just coming for the food festival—you’re spending the day at rio Lakefront, one of Gaithersburg’s premier shopping destinations. Before or after you eat your way through the festival, here are a few things you can enjoy around the lake:
- Take a paddleboat ride across the water for a different view of the lakefront.
- Shop and stroll through Rio’s mix of stores and boutiques.
- Catch a movie at the theater right by the boardwalk.
- Get creative at Muse Paintbar, where you can paint your own masterpiece with a glass in hand.
- Enjoy the carousel or explore the playground and greenery beside the lake.
- Test your skills at Red Door Escape Room, where you and your friends can play puzzles and games to escape from themed rooms.
Why You’ll Love It
The Taste of Rio gives guests and visitors a chance to spend the day enjoying one of Montgomery County’s most scenic spots while sampling bestselling dishes. Between the food, music, shopping, and lake views, it’s a great way to spend an afternoon in Gaithersburg.
