Since its opening in the beginning of summer 2018, Dos Rios Cantina has been bringing a new vibe to the dining experience in Downtown Binghamton.
The name “Dos Rios” stems from the meaning “two rivers,” which gives reverence to the two rivers that meet in Confluence Park in Downtown Binghamton. Jordan Rindgen, owner and general manager of Dos Rios, decided he wanted to do something different while bringing the feel of a larger city to the community.
“The reason for the layout of the restaurant is to be able to have a bar crowd, an intimate dinner for two, and to also be able to host larger parties all at the same time,” wrote Rindgen in an email. “As for the artwork, it was a collaboration between our partners as well as artists Bruce Greg and Damien Mitchel.”
Rindgen said Dos Rios sets itself apart from its competition with its intriguing decor, extensive tequila and mezcal selection with over 120 choices and its Mega Margarita, large enough for any party to share. Rindgen expresses he is happy with the turnout and atmosphere Dos Rios creates for the area.
“Our goal was to create something unique that can produce awesome brunch vibes, fun dinner parties and a cool bar scene,” Rindgen wrote. “But at the same time it’s intimate enough for a couple to have a nice date.”
According to Rindgen, you shouldn’t skip on its extensive guac and queso selection on your next dine-in experience, and be sure to try the garlic mojo habanero shrimp. Also, you can’t forget about the tequila and mezcal.
“We have an awesome selection of appetizers, tacos and entrees,” wrote Rindgen. “Some house favorites include plantain boats or buffalo shrimp for our appetizers, [Dos Rios] Lobster taco or the [Dos Rios] fish tacos. House favorite entrees include the blackened snapper, chili rellenos and of course our burritos. We have a prep crew in every day of the week preparing the food so everything is made fresh in-house daily.”
Dos Rios also has specials going on throughout the week to keep your college budget in check, with $5 street tacos and $3 Dos Equis on Tuesdays, $5 margaritas and bingo at 9 p.m. on Wednesdays, with $3 Dos Equis and half-off the Mega Margarita once bingo is over. On the weekends, bottomless mimosas are available at brunch from 11 a.m to 4 p.m.
Rindgen said that he doesn’t see the bustling dining experience Downtown as a threat to the business part of things at all.
“We thrive off one another, it’s a win-win situation for all downtown establishments,” Rindgen wrote. “The more outstanding places that are Downtown, the more people it will attract.”
Rindgen looks for Dos Rios to serve all walks of life with its accommodating space that can suit how any guest may be feeling that night.
“We are looking to serve students, young professionals, families, doctors, lawyers, in a nutshell, anyone who is looking to come out for a great drinking and dining experience,” Rindgen wrote.
Dos Rios is located at 60 Court St. and is open Tuesday to Thursday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., Friday from 4 p.m. to 3 a.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.