Very good service from Salvador and Yolanda felt very welcomed for our very first time here!!!

Great first time experience at Avilas - Costa Mesa. From the moment I pulled in to the driveway, Salvador was waving hello. At first I thought he confused me with someone else, but nope, he was just being nice and welcoming. The experience: I came with my mom on a Sunday and it was pretty busy; however, the wait time wasn't bad. We were seated fairly promptly and began with chips and salsa. We shared: Camarones à la diabla, menudo, and chingolingas. The camarones were 10/10! I've tried this dish at numerous restaurants and this is by far the second best tasting camarones à la diabla I've ever had. First place is a restaurant in NorCal from years back. The red salsa is delicious! The shrimps are a nice size and they have the shell on so it retains all the flavor. Even the beans and rice were delicious. The menudo was delicious as well! I'll definitely be back for this too. It's only served on weekends, and we were lucky they still had some available. The chingolingas are almost like flautas de pollo, it came with guac and sour cream. They were delicious too, however, I'll probably order this as an appetizer or to share with others. Rocky was our server and he was amazing! Super friendly and attentive. We talked about the food, other locations, and even their anniversary event coming up on October. From the moment I drove in until we left, it was a great experience. Not only was the food delicious but the service was superb. All the workers seemed happy and it looks like a nice environment to work at, I think this adds to the experience for people who come eat here. It's nice to see everyone working together, smiles, and being to attentive. I almost hesitated coming here because I thought it was going to be Acapulco style "Mexican food" but I was wrong. Definitely real Mexican food. read more

Fernando was our Server/Waiting Staff, he was excellent. First time visitors from Menifee, visiting OC Fair for Happy Together Tour at Amphitheater. I had chicken Fajitas with HOME MADE CORN TORTILLAS (oh my Gosh just like when I was young) Husband had combo meal taco & enchilada. Beans & rice where perfect. But for us the salsa was beyound yum, chunky fresh with chunks if green onion mixed in. We even took a pint home. :P read more

This was my first time here, I came with my boyfriend for his graduation dinner and it was so great! All the servers were super hands on and always had chips and salsa refills. They also had tortillas which you could eat with butter that was my first time trying that. The salsa was super fresh and not spicy at all which is usually my main concern haha. The burrito was super delicious. the carnitas were cooked really well and not overdone, I added rice, sour cream, and pico de gallo to mine. I liked how you could modify it to your preference. I have to commend our server Rocky!!!! He is the best, he was super communicative to our table and always made sure to refill our water and come by with napkins without us even having to flag him down! He works super hard, was attentive to not only our table but to everyone! I saw him at every table making sure they were all being taken care of to the highest regard. To Rocky: Thank you so much, this dinner would not have been the same without you as our server. Overall super fantastic restaurant, food came out all together in a timely manner, super well made and lots of love put into their restaurant! I know lots of places in Costa Mesa have limited parking space but this restaurant had a really big lot and we were able to easily find parking. They also play sports on the TV if you want to keep up with the latest events, Everything was super clean and comfortable! I will definitely be coming back soon when I have the chance :) read more

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We were immediately greeted by a nice gentleman at the front entrance. Had a small wait on a Friday night, but the place was festive and inviting! Glad we stopped in, great food, great drinks, fun vibes. All around great dinner experience. read more

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The workers here are very nice and provided great service, we were recommended good options on the menu. They start you off with complimentary chips and salsa, the salsa is a little spicy but not unbearable. The food was classic Mexican food and decently portioned, the price wasn't too bad as well. They have lots of indoor and outdoor seating, the restaurant is pretty big. There's a free parking lot in the back and street parking. ig: @cravingswithcat read more

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Very warm greeting from hostess and we were seated immediately. I had a delicious classic margarita and my guests went with the watermelon margarita; there are ongoing discussions about who had the most refreshing and delicious margarita, but something's will never be resolved. The three of us shared two orders of fajitas - one steak and one chicken. These come with wonderful little flour tortillas and a side of guacamole. I felt the portion of guacamole on each could have been more generous, but it was satisfying nonetheless. Hector took good care of us and we will be bank! read more

We were recommended this place by Rocky and it was amazing. Great atmosphere, even better food. Our servers Rocky and Jenny were fantastic. They made us feel so welcomed. Thank you again! read more

We've been coming to Avila's for years, and it's become so much more than just our favorite restaurant--it feels like family. The food is always delicious, authentic, and consistently amazing, but what truly keeps us coming back is the incredible staff. Mercedes is the sweetest, most attentive waitress and always makes us feel so welcomed every time we visit. Estella, the wonderful tortilla lady, is just as special and always greets us with such warmth and kindness. Our 2 year loves all the staff and food and feels so loved here. The owner is also incredibly friendly, and you can truly feel the love and pride that goes into every part of the restaurant. It's rare to find a place where you're treated like family from the moment you walk in, and that's exactly why Avila's will always be our go-to spot. read more

Avilas El Ranchito - Our Friday night crew! - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Overall above average shrimp cocktail and home made chicken soup but in both cases I thought the average amount of shrimp and chicken kept it to a four star review Cadillac Margarita was six stars Good size parking lot and prompt, professional service read more

Avilas El Ranchito - Shrimp cocktail - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Yummy food. Fast service for a lunch. In town for a conference and we had a ton of people wanting to go to lunch so we decided on Avilas. We had a party of 11 and they were great. Seated us quickly and we were at one large table which was fun. They immediately asked if we wanted quacamole and we said yes. They brought it out without asking quantity or anything... while it was delicious they brought FOUR then charged us $48 for them. Bad on us for not clarifying and it was DELICIOUS. The flautas (cannot remember the name but it is in the pictures I posted) on the appetizer menu was plenty for myself and another to share. It was delicious and overall not that expensive. The location was clean and welcoming. The restroom was clean and appropriately stocked. Overall I would come back here. Everyone seemed to enjoy their food. read more

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The following were all amazing... Cadillac Margarita, Guacamole, Shrimp Fajitas. The fajitas had this incredible flavorful liquid at the bottom of the hot plate. read more

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We had a family dinner at Avila's tonight and we had a surprise for my younger daughter. Our older daughter came home from London and we set it up so she came from the back room and surprised my younger daughter when she arrived. It was such a wonderful night and Salvador and Raul helped us to plan it and make sure the surprise went off without a hitch. Salvador was wonderful and kind and our server Raul was fantastic as well. The food as usual is amazing. We had the best evening thanks to the wonderful employees at Avilas who make you feel like family/. This place is the best and well worth the drive for us. Thanks again Salvador and Raul, we will see you soon! read more

Avilas El Ranchito - My daughters with Salvador in the background!! - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AND EVEN BETTER FOOD! Rocky and Salvador were phenomenal! They were friendly, welcoming and really enhanced the overall experience. Was recommended the azteca burrito with chile verde and the Avila soup, both were delicious and tasted authentic. 10/10 recommend and we will definitely be back! read more

Very friendly staff! Amazing food and beautiful ambiance. Awesome restaurant for a family dinner or brunch with the ladies. The chicken mole was so delicious and so was the mariscos. Thank you read more

Avilas El Ranchito - Relaxing patio area - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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I've been 3 different locations, so far the Costa Mesa on placentia is the best! Excellent fast service, very tasty food, great ambiance!! nice drinks! I loved that place! read more

Had the lunch special. Enchiladas were perfection. Green sauce was so delicious with the shredded chicken. The soup is incredible. Very high quality chicken and other ingredients. What a find! read more

Great food and great service. Will definitely come back again!!!! Fajitas were the best and highly recommended!!!

This is a great go to Mexican restaurant. The chips and salsa are exactly what I like at a Mexican restaurant. The salsa had onions and cilantro but not huge tomato chunks with a little kick to it. This is a great place for a group and as a date we had a party of 9 and they were very accommodating and kind with great service! read more

Avilas El Ranchito - Baja Bowl* - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

The interior design transports us straight to another tropical country. I love that Rocky and Salvador make us feel so welcomed and feel like we're coming over to dine at our friend's house. We got to learn how the franchise came about through friendly conversations with Salvador and Rocky. The flavors of the fajitas de camarones and the Botana de camarones were so good, my bf and I took a bite and just gave each other a surprised look and just laughed. The buttery garlic sauce with a deep shrimp flavor was so addicting. The view of the tropical garden outside the window just tops it all off. 10/10 recommended! read more

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This spot really nails the vibe of a perfect neighborhood Mexican restaurant. They have complimentary chips and salsa and they kept them coming throughout the meal, which everyone at the table appreciated. We came in about an hour before closing with a big group, and the staff couldn't have been more accommodating. They found space for us right away and never made us feel rushed. I ordered their famous soup--it was good, but I'll probably try something else next time. It just didn't quite pop for me flavor-wise, though it wasn't bad by any means. I'll likely order one of their combination plates next time. I love when a place offers those. Overall, I'd definitely come back and would recommend this place if you're looking for a casual, sit-down Mexican spot with solid food, great service, and a neighborhood feel. read more

Avilas El Ranchito - Our Famous Avila Soup - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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 a cute patio or ample seating inside. There's even a lady making fresh tortillas! read more

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My family visited Avila's in Costa Mesa to celebrate both Father's Day and my dad's birthday, and unfortunately our experience was overshadowed by the service. Throughout the meal, we felt repeatedly rushed. Plates were cleared quickly, and it seemed like we were being encouraged to leave before we had finished enjoying our celebration. The most disappointing part came when the bill arrived. Our server, Mercedes, told us that the tip was not included. After my mom paid and left an 18% tip, Mercedes again commented on the gratuity and stated that it wasn't the suggested amount. My mom had to explain that she had intentionally left the amount she felt was appropriate. We were genuinely surprised that a server would openly question a customer's gratuity, especially after receiving an 18% tip. Afterward, it also appeared that the situation was being discussed with coworkers within view of our table, which made us feel even more uncomfortable. I understand that restaurant work is demanding and everyone can have difficult days. However, no guest celebrating a special occasion should leave feeling rushed, criticized for the tip they chose to leave, or uncomfortable because of an interaction with their server. It's unfortunate because we were looking forward to celebrating a meaningful occasion as a family, and the service left a lasting negative impression. I hope management takes this feedback as an opportunity to coach staff so future guests have a better experience. read more

Absolutely amazing every time we come here, food and service is always on point!! We love Mercedes she's the best around so kind she makes the experience!! read more

So good and the servers were so sweet!! Loved the host Salvador he's the sweetest guy and will make ur experience the best! Good food and great specialty margs!! read more

We had a last minute change of plans. We needed a place to celebrate a mile stone birthday. El ranchito came through. We got a last minute reservation and the BEST server. Mercedes was lovely, thoughtful attentive and kind. She even brought over the crew to sing happy birthday and a birthday ice cream, we never mentioned we had a birthday. Our son and the whole table was surprised. Very grateful for Mercedes and her amazing service. Thank you read more

Avilas El Ranchito - Thank you Mercedes - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Besides the food being absolutely incredible. The experience we had here was even better. Atmosphere - cute classic Mexican style. Service - so beyond wonderful. Our waiter Rocky was so kind, warm, and friendly. He made us feel like family. He was also just exceptional at what he does. Quickly brought us out not one but two extra salsas. Chip refill. Soda refill. Extra napkins. All before we even had a chance to ask. 100% plan on becoming a regular here. Thanks Rocky! read more

Avilas El Ranchito - Carnita fajitas - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Excellent service from Raul & Salvador here for our family celebration. Love the food here as well, always yummy with fast service.

So delicious! Food and service were amazing! Rocky was so helpful, service was extremely fast, attentive, and friendly to our whole group! Everything was very clean and cute. Worth the drive for friendly, welcoming staff and amazing food/drinks. Can't recommend enough read more

Avilas El Ranchito - Appetizer Special - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Love this place. My son introduced me to this a few months back and it's been in our weekly menu ever since. The Chicken tacos -- pretty good!!! A+ read more

Guacamole was $14. When they ask if you want guacamole, keep that in mind The one item combo (taco) was good. Nice shredded beef, crispy shell, a lot of rice and beans. But not that much flavor. The fajitas were also sizzling hot, good flavor, and the corn tortillas were nice and fresh. Tostada, however, was ok. Beans soaked into it too much and not a lot of meat. Do not get the fried ice cream. The coating tastes bad, since it tastes like they fried it and put it in the freezer. Service was nice though although a little rushed and the decor and lighting was also nice. read more

First time at El Ranchito in Costa Mesa me and my wife had the Best experience with all the amazing people who work there specially our waiter Rocky who went out of his way for us to have this experience! Now the food was the best Mexican food we've had ever eaten in a restaurant! To top it all off The fried Ice Cream my first ever and I loved it!!! Cherry on top did I mention Tortillas are hand made on site wow no wonder people were all having a great time!!! read more

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I haven't been back to this restaurant in over a year because I noticed they started adding small extra charges that weren't clearly disclosed. And the place is nothing special except for the patio. Today I gave it another chance since my Sister in law was in the area. Usually, I am one that do not check the bill and i am sure many people do the same especially when you are having fun and drinking. So today, my Sister in law asked for a Carne Asada burrito and I ordered the carnitas with green salsa. These were the server's recommendation. When the bill came, we noticed that they charged us $2 more for the carne asada and they charged almost $6 for the green salsa on the carnitas. I am retired and I make sure I check every penny. I wasn't going to say anything but now it's the principle. I called the server and asked what the extra Charges were for because the check just says ITEM. I told him that I would return my order, get a plain burrito and I can just use my green salsa that I have at home. He did take it off the bill but we didn't appreciate that he wasn't transparent about it. We decided not to go back there again. read more

We've been coming to this restaurant for years, and it never disappoints. The food is consistently amazing! Fresh, flavorful, and made with so much care. You can really tell it's a family-owned business because of the way they treat their customers. They truly make you feel like part of the family every time you walk in. The service is just as incredible as the food. Everyone is so welcoming and attentive, and this last visit our server Rocky went above and beyond. He was friendly and attentive! If you're looking for authentic Mexican food with exceptional service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, this is the spot. Highly recommend! read more

The place is dirty and old. There were bones in two of our people's chicken burritos. The fries were cooked in old oil and contaminated the rest of my food. They don't have queso. Instead, they bring you shredded cheese. Service was fine but will not return. read more

Avilas is always a favorite and one of the first stops back in Orange County. The salsa is perfection with a hint of heat. I got the two items with chicken taco and enchilada. The beans stood out and are my favorite and all the food was great. We sat outside under the palm trees and it was perfect area. The whole team were very welcoming and friendly! read more

LOVE LOVE LOVE the food at Avila's! They never disappoint and their hospitality is top tier. Huge shout out to Stephanie who was extremely polite. She took care of my to go order and made sure to double check everything, which isn't seen often or everywhere! So thank you so much for that girly! And Salvador! What a gentle and kind manager!!! He welcomed me into Avila's as if I was family and had known him for years :') If you love amazing and AUTHENTIC Mexican food, want to support a family owned business, and be treated like family, Avila's El Ranchito in Costa Mesa is the place to be read more

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 still chose the Tamale with the appetizer course of the Nachos. Both tasted incredible. The tamale was great but a little too dry but still enjoyable to eat! The interior of this building is really nice and well made, I see why people love this place so much. Our waitress too was very sweet and kind, my girlfriend and I were there for not too long and got out to enjoy the rest of our evening. read more

Avilas El Ranchito - Tamale - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Love the family style and the awesome food here. Have been here twice and the food never disappoint me read more

Avilas El Ranchito - Botanas De Camarones. The chili oil is so good - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

When the hubby is craving enchiladas we go to a tried and true Mexican restaurant. Dishes are flavorful and it's always a vibe in here. Nothing more comforting than a cup of albondigas and homemade tortilla. Also ordered the Pepe's Special (Asada Encebollada) with chile negro. So good The chamaquita ordered the kids' hamburger meal because she hasn't developed her Latina tongue yet . read more