J Cesar

Its pretty good food, simple and authentic just the way is supposed to be, they make their own flour tortillas, there's literally a lady makin them fresh, the orchata is very unique and not overly sweet like other places so thats good, salsa is perfect for the area but if you ask for them to make it a little more spicy they will fix it for you, i just didnt like that they didn't have Menudo, that kinda upset me but Rocky our server turned it around for us, he gave us top quality service, very professional and his recommendations were on point, also the fried icecream was delicious.. so will definitely come back. Before i forget, this was sunday it was very busy and we got sat right away and the food came out quick. Thats a big plus for us. 🙌🙏🏻

Moe Farshchi

Avila’s El Ranchito is one of those rare family-owned Mexican restaurants that immediately makes you feel at home the moment you walk through the door. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and filled with the kind of authentic charm that only decades of true family tradition can create. The décor, the music, and the inviting smell of fresh tortillas all work together to create an unforgettable dining experience. What truly sets this restaurant apart is its rich history. The Avila family has been serving their homemade recipes since the 1960s, and you can taste that heritage in every dish. This is not generic or commercial Mexican food — this is real, home-style cooking passed down through generations. From their handmade tortillas to the famous Avila Soup, everything tastes fresh, authentic, and prepared with care. The food quality is consistently outstanding. Their enchiladas with the red sauce are packed with flavor, the carne asada is tender and perfectly seasoned, and even the chips and salsa — served the second you sit down — show the attention to detail that defines the entire menu. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of soup, seafood, breakfast plates, or classic Mexican entrées, every item tastes like it was made in a family kitchen. Another highlight of Avila’s El Ranchito is the service. The owner and all the staff treat you like family. They are incredibly kind, attentive, and genuinely care about giving every guest a great experience. You can always feel the positive energy — from the warm greetings to the quick, friendly service. It’s the kind of hospitality that keeps people coming back year after year. Overall, Avila’s El Ranchito is more than just a restaurant — it’s a piece of local history and a true Southern California favorite. If you want high-quality, authentic Mexican food served with heart and tradition, this is the place to go. Highly recommended.

Kris Mockevicius

Beautiful place to get dinner. Walked in and were kindly greeted and sat right away. Dodgers game was on and they won! Blood orange margarita was awesome! My quesadilla was delicious and the rice was amazing. Can't wait to come back and try more. I highly recommend it, great place for friends and families!

Kenny Garcia

Came here for my Dad's 90th birthday party. The food was excellent. The waitresses were fantastic they make homemade tortillas in house. These were so delicious with fajitas. If I come back to California definitely will come to this mexican food restaurant. Highly Recommend 10 🌟

D S

Hector our server was very nice, it was busy and he was still able to keep our drinks full and made time to laugh with us. If your looking for the family owned feeling, this is it. Food was so good. :)

Sierrah Halley

Such a great spot! The food was delicious, the place was clean and inviting. The staff is super friendly. The food is handmade and beautiful. Jaida was super sweet by recommending some of her favorite dishes, which we ordered and loved. Oh and the fried ice cream is worth saving some room!

+2

Lynnann - Sid’s Mum

This brand, regardless of location delivers! That said, truly enjoyed trying out the Costa Mesa location. It’s beautiful inside and thoroughly enjoyed their outside patio dining. The service was outstanding. Jaine was delightful, as was the bus boy and manager. Had the two item combo and left stuffed. For sure, I’ll be back and of course brought their epic salsa home!

+2

Elizabeth

I've been told I'm a tough critic as it's HARD to get a 5 star review from me. But... everything we ate was delicious! *Chef's Kiss* My boyfriend and I loved the authentic and fresh chips and salsa (free), wonderfully ripe and chunky guacamole, and the AMAZING chicken fajitas with perfectly seasoned meat, caramelized veggies, rice & beans, and piping hot, handmade tortillas. It was $36 for everything mentioned, plus 2 waters. This gave us a bit of sticker shock, but they're worth it! We will definitely be back.

Sheri Dozal

Where to start.. we were met by the owner Salvatore.. such a friendly and inviting man, he made us feel so welcomed. Then our server Rocky, what exceptional service he gave. So attentive to our needs and friendly,and made us feel like family, along with Alfonso who was also serving us, really great service. Now the food was amazing, just so delish. We had the Pepe’s special and the Shrimp in garlic sauce. Can’t say enough good about the whole experience, such good food and the restaurant is beautiful. Would give 10 stars if possible. It’s a must try!

The food was delicious, the enchiladas de mole were a 10/10 but what really made this restaurant a five star was our waiter Rocky. He was super attentive and kind to my family and especially my kids.…

The food was delicious, the enchiladas de mole were a 10/10 but what really made this restaurant a five star was our waiter Rocky. He was super attentive and kind to my family and especially my kid…

The food was delicious, the enchiladas de mole were a 10/10 but what really made this restaurant a five star was our waiter Rocky. He was super attentive and kind to my family and especially my kid…

Rocky was the best and the food was amazing my fiance and I really enjoyed our dining experience there

Rocky was the best and the food was amazing my fiance and I really enjoyed our dining experience there

While visiting OC, we were in search of a good Mexican restaurant, and stumbled upon Avilas. Immediately as we walked in we were greeted with very friendly staff. The food was fresh and delicious. …

While visiting OC, we were in search of a good mexican restaurant, and stumbled upon Avilas. Immediately as we walked in we were greeted with very friendly staff. The food was fresh and delicious. …

Just wanted to share the amazing experience we had at this restaurant. Our server rocky made us feel so at home, it was like long lost friend hosting us for dinner! \n\n\nThe food is amazing, we co…

As soon as we sat down, iced water, chips and salsa were being placed down on our table. Our server Rocky was exceptionally good and friendly. Being from Vegas we expect good service and this met a…

As soon as we sat down, iced water, chips and salsa were being placed down on our table. Our server Rocky was exceptionally good and friendly. Being from Vegas we expect good service and this met a…

Thank you Salvatore for the amazing service and hospitality. The flautas and signature soup are a must try- and the margaritas are delicious. We always feel at home here :)

Had an impromptu dinner with a dear friend! We ordered guacamole for appetizer (always a must at Avila's), a Paloma and jalapeño margarita. Our server Yolanda offered quick and great service! We or…

I enjoyed the ambiance upon entering. We were greeted right away with a welcoming hello and seated right away. We started with the guacamole and chips. A good sign was the chips were nice and war…

I've been going to El Ranchito for years but this location is awesome. The people working here are so nice and friendly. The chips and salsa is delicious and so are the entrees! The restaurant has …

The food is delicious here as well as the drinks! The ambiance is immaculate even sitting outside the fire pit will keep you warm. Also the service was spectacular, Salvador is one of the best to d…

Love this place! Their chicken soup is the best! Salvadore provided an amazing service and went above & beyond! Chicken fajitas is bomb.com

Took a chance at a Mexican restaurant & ordered from lite menu options - DELICIOUS! Mahi mahi grilled tacos, frijoles fresco w/fresh lettuce, tomatoes, carrot salad.\nJaide was a wonderful server w…

I tried El Rancito in Costa Mesa for the first time last week end and it will be my go to place from now on. Salvador the Matre 'd is the best. Friendly and courteous. He made us feel like celebritie…

Scott Reinholt

Well, that didn't last long.... And in a good way (as you can see 🙈)! I got the chicken burrito with the guacamole. The flavors were all there as any fantastic Mexican dish would have. The salsa is what really got me though!!! Just the right amount of heat and freshness with chips that were crisp and begging to be dipped, then torn apart. Overall the restaurant is great and recommend you give it a try when you are in Costa Mesa, it at one of their other locations in the area.

Stan Dela Cruz

Fresh & Flavorful – A Must-Try Baja Bowl at Avila’s El Ranchito - Costa Mesa I had an amazing dining experience at Avila’s El Ranchito in Costa Mesa! This family-owned gem truly delivers when it comes to authentic Mexican flavors, fresh ingredients, and warm hospitality. I ordered the Baja Bowl, and it was absolutely delicious. The ingredients were fresh, vibrant, and perfectly balanced. The grilled beef was tender and flavorful, the rice and black beans complemented it beautifully, and the avocado added the perfect creamy touch. The portion size was generous, making it both a satisfying and healthy choice. Beyond the food, the service was excellent—attentive, friendly, and efficient. The atmosphere was welcoming, with a cozy and traditional Mexican feel that made the experience even more enjoyable. If you’re in Costa Mesa and looking for a great spot for authentic Mexican food, Avila’s El Ranchito is a must-visit. Whether you're craving a hearty Baja Bowl or their signature enchiladas and tacos, you won’t be disappointed!

+10

As someone who isn't to keen to choosing mexican food, no place could ever get me excited like this place. While yes it still has its ups and downs on the food side which I struggle to choose, I st…

Great service! We were seated quickly, the booth was comfortable. And while the vegetarian menu was small, the potato tacos were very good.

mahdieh mazloumi

We visited Avila’s El Ranchito as a group. The atmosphere was nice and the staff was friendly, but the overall experience was mixed. The service was a bit slow, which everyone in our group noticed. Here’s a quick look at what we tried: Chimi Changa – 2/5 The flavor was okay, but it could use more cheese and beans inside for extra richness. Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos – 5/5 Very crispy and flavorful, definitely a highlight. Veggie Enchilada – 5/5 Fresh and tasty, especially with the veggies. Burrito – 2/5 The wrap wasn’t great, though the filling tasted good. Baja Bowl (Chicken) – 3/5 Chicken was flavorful, but the bowl could use better balance. Overall, some dishes were excellent, while others were just okay. The service delay was noticeable. A decent spot if you’re nearby, but not all items meet expectations.

+6

Food here for the most part was pretty solid (camarones botana, and the chile relleno w enchiladas de tomatillo were really good MINUS the agua de Jamaica and fish tacos that lacked flavor) \n\nT…

The food was okay. The best part was the rice and beans. The Albondigas soup could use more flavor, the broth was clear with a hint of tomato. Service was good.

Our special out-of-COUNTRY guests had never had mexican food. I chose this restaurant for its ambiance in the dining room and excellent food reviews. I made the reservation about a week in advance,…

Pam Chavez

Our special out-of-COUNTRY guests had never had Mexican food. I chose this restaurant for its ambiance in the dining room and excellent food reviews. I made the reservation about a week in advance, explaining that it was a special dinner and I would like to have as nice a table as possible for 7 people. Instead, we were seated at a long table shoved together in the BAR AREA, close to the front door, not the dining room. The food was only OK. Typically, fajitas are served steaming and sizzling, creating a dramatic tableside presentation. Ours looked like they came out of a 350 oven. Very disappointing. I think it was our waiters’ first time. Despite lots of errors, he tried very hard and quickly got us anything we asked for. I give him 5 stars for effort.