Lunch At Avila’s El Ranchito

While touring Laguna Niguel, we stopped for lunch at Avila’s El Ranchito. This is a family owned Mexican restaurant started over 40 years ago when Salvador Avila came to the United States from Guanajuato, Mexico with his wife and children. Like many immigrants, Avila came with hope and the American dream in his heart. Four decades later, Mr. Avila and his children own and operate one of the most well known and highly successful groups of Mexican restaurants in California. There are now 11 El Ranchito restaurants in Orange and Los Angeles Counties.

The Laguna Niguel El Ranchito was established in 2006. This is the first restaurant solely owned by a third-generation Avila family member, Marcus. All 11 restaurants are under the personal care and management of a family member, guaranteeing the reputation the family has earned for treating the customers “like part of the family.” Avila must have one big family!

I did feel like part of the family when dining at Avila’s El Ranchito. The wait staff was extremely friendly, and the server called me amigo. I refrained from calling him peng you (friend in Chinese).

The food at Avila’s El Ranchito was pretty damn good. The recipes may be more than 40 years old but noting was lost in the passing from generation to generation. Our lunch consisted of shrimp tacos, sizzling fajitas, and the grilled fiesta platter. All were expertly prepared and delicious. If you’re a Mexican food lover, you’ll enjoy Avila’s El Ranchito.

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