10/10 for service! Everyone who works here is incredibly friendly and helpful. The manager, Heather, is especially wonderful. You can tell it's a really well-run place. We had a great time and enjoyed our meals. A bonus if you have little ones: they have a cute outdoor play area for kids! We'll definitely be back. read more

Came here for lunch on a summer Monday. Not busy at all. We sat outside to get some sun but the seating options are great. The vibe inside near the bar is classic & the other inside area was lovely and gave patio vibes while being enclosed and shaded. Lunch specials were fabulous! Worth the price and the flavors did not disappoint. On our way out we noticed Taco Tuesday & Happy Hour menus. Pics attached. Small parking lot in the back as well as paid street parking. They also have a kids play area on the patio with lots of toys. I believe it was partly shaded. read more

Avila's El Ranchito - Taco Tuesday 6/8/26 - Mexican Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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The food is delicious! Their salsa kind of reminds me of like a shrimp less ceviche. The crispy taco was packed with meat and the rice and beans were cooked just the way I like it, their drinks are nice too. Came here on 4th of July and it was crazy packed inside but nonetheless the service was great read more

Avila's El Ranchito - The drinks and salsa are great! - Mexican Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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We came here to watch the Mexico World Cup game for lunch. We made reservations and accidentally drove to the wrong location, host was nice enough to hold our table until we got there. We got a great spot to watch the games near the bar. We got their tacos, some beer and their margarita flight. Food was good! The coconut margarita was the best by far! Parking is terrible here, like most places in Newport. So plan ahead. read more

Avila's El Ranchito - Margarita flight - Mexican Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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We have been coming here for years. It's a mainstay when we are in Newport. One of my favorites is the chicken tortilla soup. It's so flavorful, I miss the Huntington Beach location and having access to it. The tortilla chips at the Newport location are the BEST! They are thin and crispy compared to other El Ranchitos. Of course the salsa is 5/5 too. My husband had the mahi veggie bowl which didn't have enough seasoning. It was a hearty size but lacked flavor. The service is always good, they check in with us repeatedly during our dining. The restaurant is kept very clean and has an old charm to it. It's definitely our go to as a sit down Mexican restaurant. There's something to be said that it has been around for 50 years. read more

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Family stopped by here for lunch, before heading to the marina to do some kayaking. The food here is incredible. Straight up. It's so damn good. Staff was so friendly when we came in, and thankfully it wasn't too busy on a weekday afternoon, so we were sat immediately. We were loving our waitress, she was so happy and pleasant to interact with. She brought over some chips and salsa, made some recommendations, and already had our drink orders being delivered within the first 5 min. I am happy to say that the entire menu, healthy or more indulgent, is fantastic. I had to eat a little lighter this particular day, so I went with the Baja Bowl with chicken and no rice. Healthy? Check! Absolutely delicious? Check! Possibly one of the best taco bowls ive ever had? CHECK CHECK! So much flavor for being on the lighter end of the dining spectrum. For the record, the day added to the experience too, because this restaurant is open air. Especially if you're sitting right by one of the open windows, you get that refreshing, ocean air coming through, the entire experience makes you feel like you're on vacation. Great spot, highly recommend, we need one of these out in Arizona. It would be the best Mexican Food spot in all of Phoenix valley!! read more

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Hella gringo-styles but the food itself delivered surely. The spicy shrimp dishes were good, and the surprise was asados on tortillas or by itself with the salsa pica - straight up the Califa de Leon tacos. Prompt and friendly service that comes natural with great Mexican restos. read more

Stopped in for a late lunch on Monday before we returned to reality. Bartender acknowledged us immediately and offered any seat in the house. Gracias Victor. Plenty of televisions for World Cup watching. We were between games but I could imagine it getting loud and lively in here. Chips and salsa were immediate and free to our table. We ordered from the lunch menu, regular menu and children's menu. Chicken fingers ($12) were large for child's portion and came with two side. Rice and curly fries were the choice. Chicken quesadilla ($18) was filling but kind of soggy. The appetizer platter of tacos, cheese quesadilla, flautas and taquitos ($26) were fine but slightly overcooked. My wife and I split the platter. Generous portions. A skinny margarita ($15) and XX amber draft ($9) inflated our bill. Good, attentive service, nice clean place. Airy and spacious. I'm sure a proper spot to cheer your favorite nation in the World Cup! read more

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Decent Mexican food! They certainly have really big portions and lots of options on their menu. Chips and salsa come with the table as well which is always nice. They have indoor and outdoor seating so it was dog friendly which was important as we brought our fur child with us. I went with the California chicken plate. It came with grilled chicken served over a bed of onions and green chiles. Came with tortillas and your choice or of rice & beans or veggies. The chicken was a bit bland and did not taste like the highest quality chicken. It had a more shredd-y texture which I was not expecting. It was topped with a green salsa and overall had a tangy flavor that might've needed something else to counterbalance it, maybe a creamy component or slightly sweet flavor would have helped. I enjoyed the chips and salsa and they refilled them for us. They also refilled our drinks without us asking so the service was great. Our waiter was very friendly and attentive. The restaurant has a very casual atmosphere. The prices were also reasonable especially considering the good portion sizes. Next time I would probably considering getting one of their combination platters. read more

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Compared to other restaurants in this area, the service I've received here is lackluster. Not impressed for the caliber of clientele that frequents here. Maybe one has to be a local to be given a friendly service. I came in for takeout a few times now and I'm never greeted- maybe they're busy. Who knows. But the service hasn't impressed me yet. On the first visit back here I remember I stood at the host/hostess stand several minutes -oh it was just before Super Bowl weekend- not one table occupied to my left and the bar area was a a small crowd. I do believe this is a popular restaurant due to its location two blocks from the beach and just around the corner from all the yachts and group boat excursions. I remember I used them for a catering service on one of our yacht events and they were accommodating for large groups. The food has been decent. It's not the best Mexican restaurant I've visited, but the ambiance and menu selections seem nice enough. I've only tried their enchiladas and my family enjoys their red sauce, but it's not one of my favorites. I'll venture to try something else another visit I am sure if I revisit. Maybe the fine-in experience is very different. I did order a cup of tortilla soup and a deep fried ice cream that came to about $30 after tip (shown in photos). I hate to say it, but I've made the tortilla soup better at home in my opinion. It was bland (like it was watered down???) on this particular visit. I later learned I do not get the whip cream and chocolate syrup unless I remind them or ask for it as I had on the last visit ordering the deep fried ice cream to go. Is that customary? For me to ask for these toppings on their deep fried ice cream? For the area, I just expected better attention to details as I've experienced at neighboring restaurants. ie a sushi restaurant I get takeout every couple nights and the utensils and sauces I get every visit I never have to check their bags or ask for. I had to ask for utensils when I checked my takeout bag. read more

Avila's El Ranchito - 3/2025 about $30 with tip for a cup of soup and deep fried ice cream- no whip cream/no chocolate sauce??? - Mexican Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Service was so kind and attentive. Food was also amazing for a decent price! Right by the water and a fun interior.

I cannot believe this place does not have 5 stars!?! It's so good. The food is excellent and the service is fantastic. I love being served by Manny, Gustavo and Victor. I frequent happy hour but also love their Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Definitely give it a try. read more

Avila's El Ranchito - Love the sunset from here - Mexican Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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The food was good and so was the service. Since we had dined there several times before I didn't bother to check the price for a Cadillac Margarita we ended up ordering 4 drinks (two people)! I was blown away when I got the bill and they charged $19 each. I couldn't believe my eyes. $76 for 4 drinks!!! Margaritas are not expensive drinks to make. Never in my life did I expect to be charged $19 each. This is very disappointing to us and needless to say they have lost two loyal customers!! I could get a very nice bottle of anejo tequila for $76 dollars. read more

The food is HORRIBLE. The only redeeming factor is the location. I make better food than old lady "Avila".

My partner & I were welcomed when entering and the staff was kind to find a spot for us in the sun, as requested! We got seated right away & I noticed there was plenty seating inside and outside along with a play area for kids to freely engage with toys and other kids. There was also a banquet area where there seemed to be a business party or gathering occurring. Our table did have a toy and crayons underneath it but we didn't mind. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves & the vibes of the patio were easing going & social. The food arrived fast & was pretty good! I also got the pineapple margitini & it had good ratio of coconut and pineapple & tequila. Our server was friendly but often didn't check in with us and forgot some of our requests for more water, chips, etc. The bathrooms were clean as well. Overall, we had a great experience & would stop by this place again after a beach day! read more

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Dear Jodie, Thank you for being so attentive, efficient, & caring, your hospitality is what draws me back! Thank you for recommending the special. The "Mama Avila's soup" is always very comforting, and delicious. It's very soothing for a nice beautiful day off. It's exactly how my Mother would make it growing up so the nostalgia is real here... Thank you for recommending the half green/half red enchilada sauce mix, it was absolutely banging! This has got to be my absolute favorite location and spot. Perfect service, great for walking the Newport Pier afterwards, burning off those Skinny margarita Calories. Jodie, don't stop being you. Simply amazing. Ooh, and screw the bad reviews because shredded chicken quality is top notch. Who cares if food isn't loaded with grease, it's good for a cheat day. The only slight complaint is less salt on the Chips, but they're still fresh. Sincerely, Previous "Elite Squad" chick but got booted off. So need to get back on my Review game. Paulina Garibay read more

Avila's El Ranchito - The special. Delicious & comforting for the gloomy beach day! - Mexican Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Love Mama Avila's in Newport for outdoor and indoor dining. The staff is attentive and always wearing warm smiles. Lee...Irvine read more

On 4th of July I ordered the Shrimp platter it came with Rice and Beans in Laguna Beach (sister Avila) had such a great experiene location.Ordered it at Newport Beach advised when the extras did not arrive you have to pay additional $7.95 Above $28.00 entree. The manager attempted to tell me she was insulted when I nicely told her lack of consistency. I have no time to argue over 2 dollops of rice and four dollops of beans. I paid for my meal and left.Would it have been better to make a wrong a right instead I was insulted.Really tired of dealing with upset stomach over sickening dining experience. I stiffed the server No Tip! Dine with Avila's in Laguna or San Clemente. read more

Before I start, I want to say that the staff was kind, welcoming, and friendly throughout our visit. Unfortunately, that's where the positives ended. The salsa was extremely watered down and lacked any flavor. When we ordered our drinks, my friend ordered a margarita and I ordered a surside, but the server brought us two surfsides instead, and my friend never received her margarita. My friend is vegetarian, so she specifically ordered the half-serving tostada with no meat. When her food arrived, it was topped with shredded beef. To the server's credit, they quickly brought her a replacement without meat, but unfortunately the food itself was very disappointing. Her reaction was simply, "It tastes like nothing." As for my meal, I honestly had to stop eating because I felt sick. I ordered the one item combination plate with a shredded beef crispy taco, rice, and beans. The rice and beans tasted like they came straight from a can and were heated in the microwave. The shredded beef in the taco wasn't terrible, but it was bland and lacked any real flavor. I may have high standards when it comes to Mexican food because I'm Mexican and grew up eating authentic Mexican cuisine. This wasn't authentic, and it wasn't enjoyable. Both of us ended up leaving most of our meals because we simply couldn't stomach them. If you're looking for quality Mexican food, I would not recommend this restaurant. Honestly, you'd be better off going down the street to Chipotle. To whoever is responsible for the menu and recipes, I'd encourage you to invest in higher quality ingredients and better recipes. The friendly staff deserved better food to serve. read more

Avila's El Ranchito - Left: Half order of tostada Middle: chips and salsa Right: one time combination plate crispy shredded beef taco with rice and beans - Mexican Near Me - Newport Beach, California

I have been ordering the same thing from this place for over 20 years and this last time I had the shrimp botanas it was almost $40 which was ridiculous and it was horrible. I would not recommend this place. I will not be going back. Sad to say because it was my favorite thing to eat down in Newport and a good place to go read more

Food was good but the service was only okay and they include 20% gratuity for their service without mentioning it prior. They charged $140 tip for our order after refusing to let us have separate checks for 5 different tables. Then they lied to us about why they charged so much gratuity. They didnt even have it itemized on the receipt. They stamped it on there after the fact. Almost as if they're are trying to hide the tips they make from the IRS. overall very disappointed in this restaraunt and hope no one else comes here to get ripped off like my family did. read more

We've eaten here several times and usually have a good meal, but yesterday that wasn't the case. I had the Mahi Mahi bowl off the lunch menu specials and had a horrific case of food poisoning that lasted several hours. I hadn't eaten anything else so their food was the culprit. So disheartening. No one else in my party ate what I did and they didn't get sick but their food was not great and one order was incorrect. Service was slow and my husband's drink wasn't made very well. Just not worth it. read more

From the moment you arrive, you are greeted by two very nice host who would rather talk and get to know you then let you start dinner - which was very nice. There smile was a great welcome. The other staff were also excellent. Went on Father's Day - gave all the Dad's a little gift which was a great touch. First timers here, so the dessert was free - another great bonus. Food was well above average, but the overall experience was fantastic. Will add this to our list of restaurants we will return to. Pricing was $20 for most large entrees. Margaritas were 7/10. read more

I needed to pick the perfect enchiladas as they were my sons favorite. For his celebration of life I knew it had to get them from Avilas, as they are the best. Everyone loved them they never disappoint, thank you for making our day perfect read more

really bad service. the only good location in OC is in the orange circle. this, and the one in laguna are SERIOUSLY disappointing. extremely slow service (with only a couple people in the restaurant) and waaaayyyyyyyyy overpriced. why is a quesadilla 15 dollars???? read more

El Ranchito has the yummiest Mexican food & the best vibe! It was the most enjoyable meal we have had out in a long time with our young kids thanks to the play area! read more

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My Grandma and I went here for lunch and the food was good! It's very airy in the restaurant which is nice and feels spacious. Chanel was our server and she is so sweet and answered all of our questions. The non alcoholic beverage made with fresh watermelon is very refreshing. read more

Wow such a great place. Originally going to crab place up the street. My wife and I decided to pick this establishment. A young host staff seated us to see the Newport foot traffic, a beautiful warm Saturday as my wife celebrated our marriage and friendship of 31 years The menu was well set with so many temping dishes. Chips and salsa served and the salsa was mild and tasty. I ordered a watermelon cooler(great job liz) and my wife ice tea. This establishment was very clean as it being a semi indoor outdoor restaurant. Christina the manager giving shout out to you on good ethics with your host staff as well as wait staff and runners. You keep your staff content and busy with necessary projects for the function of the restaurant no one twiddling thumbs. I chose a platter with carnitas side of rice of beans the patter was filled with fresh tomato's, peppers, onions and Pico de Gallo had a side of rice and beans. Like mom would make so good beans ans rice puffy. Carnitas we crisp well cooked chunks of meat. My wife had carne asada with shrimp great plate. Our wait staff was also a bartender she was help out with the wait staff. Thank you Liz for your great customer service you made us feel welcome. A nice little gem in Newport Balboa just a little distance from the Newport pier I will return and maybe try there Costa mesa location Thanks for helping us celebrate our anniversary read more

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We just had brunch here today..came in from las vegas for two days and the food was very authentic and delicious! Best Mexican we have had in a long time!! We will be back soon..fyi Karla was our server and she was wonderful! read more

Great spot in Newport! Perfect mix of semi trendy semi authentic California Mexican cuisine. Excellent hard tacos and great steak quesadillas. Service was good and ambience was really nice on a beautiful summer day in the OC. One less star because the Cadillac margaritas were super weak with the flavor of a basic margarita/sour mix and Also, they didn't have any spicy salsa. Otherwise still good overall read more

Avila's El Ranchito - Inside - Mexican Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Hubby and I usually go to the Avila's in Lake Forest but we came to this location because we were in the area. When we walked in we were shown to a high top table without being asked if that was ok. I do not like high tops as they are not comfortable for me so I asked if a regular table was available. The host seated us at a more comfortable table and our orders were taken a short time after. Once we had ordered the waiter came back to confirm our selections. We thought he'd gotten it straight but when our meals came neither of us had the correct items. I had asked for a cheese enchilada and it ended up with some sort of dark meat in it. It was tough and I could just not eat it. My husband said that his items weren't what he'd ordered either. I just pulled the mystery meat out of my enchilada and soldiered on with my meal. When I got into my tamale there was something in it that didn't taste right and I spat it into my napkin. By this time I was so put off by my meal I pulled over the chips basket so I had something to eat as I enjoyed my margarita. We don't plan on returning to this location due to the poor quality of the food. I've eaten Mexican food since I was a youngster and know what is good and what isn't. This was just not palatable. Lastly, the waiters should write down the orders so they do not make mistakes. read more

Great food and an overall great experience. Will, our server was attentive. I ordered flautas and the chili relleno combo and it was delicious. ONLY disappointment was the Cadillac Margarita, TOO MUCH mix. Couldn't taste the alcohol. Great Chips and Salsa read more

My absolute favorite Mexican restaurant. I've been coming here since I was just 10 years old. I'm now 39 and I still see some of the same faces (always with a smile) working here! The food is stellar, the flavors off the charts, and the service is fantastic. My favorite are the chicken enchiladas with rice and beans. Plus the salsa is perfection. If you're craving great Mexican food, do not hesitate to stop in. read more

Avila's El Ranchito - Chips & Salsa - Mexican Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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I stopped for lunch and had taquitos and a small bowl of soup. What a great lunch. Everything was amazing and the soup was perfection! The only disappointment was being charged $2 extra for guacamole and $2 extra for sour cream to go with the taquitos. These two items are usually served with them and not as an "add on". That was my only complaint. Next time I would skip the taquitos just because of that. read more

Waitress was very pleasant and patient with us. Food was excellent and hardly had to wait at a busy lunch hour on a Friday. Food is excellent! Margaritas are some of them best we have had. Not too sweet..just right with quality tequila. Definitely recommend this restaurant! read more

The mama Avila's soup had chicken, rice, tomato, and a little avocado. It didn't have too much flavor, some added onions would be nice. At home, I added some dried onion flakes, and oregano to give it some spice. The description on InstaCart restaurants says that it comes with warm tortillas and I was really looking forward to that, however got tortillas chips instead :( The description also lists the soup has cilantro & lime, but mine didn't come with that, possibly lime but certainly not cilantro. Based on this item being their #1 most liked item & it not being that great in my opinion, my expectations are pretty low for any of their other food items. read more

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My friend and I came to Avila's El Ranchito for dinner and what a great experienced we had:) We sat at the bar and Victor the bartender made us delicious old fashion cocktails, they were so good, the busboy brought us some chips and salsa right away, for food my friend ordered the Wednesday's special, steak and chicken fajitas and I ordered the steak and shrimp Ala Diabla plate, OMG! My dinner steak and shrimp Ala Diabla was so good! The steak was perfect and the shrimp Ala Diabla was spicy but good spicy, the rice the beans were good too, my friend's Fajitas came out on a skillet nice and hot, we finished everything lol. The place was busy and everyone seems to have a good time:) I can't wait to come to this place soon, so if you go to Avila's I honestly recommend you to try the Steak and Shrimp plate, I'm still salivating from last night lol. read more

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First time here. Amazing service and food was delicious!! Best Guacamole! Thank you Maldonado.

The food was GOOD. I had a shrimp enchilada with green sauce, mixed veggies which were very tasty & rice. The service was consistent but nothing special.The energy great, the ambiance was busy & everyone was having a great time & enjoying their meal. If you like sports there's several TV's to watch.They make good fruit drinks & have a variety of beers & alcoholic drinks/liquor. A little pricey but the food is good & consistent. It's located in a place where you can walk over to the beach after your meal. I'll definitely go back & try some other dishes.Also their chips & salsa are FRESH & DELICIOUS:) ENJOY!!! read more

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Service was less than par! Waitress acted as though we, a party of 8, were a bother. Slow service and help was not welcoming or friendly. Food was just ok! Pricy for what you get. Ambiance was the best part of the experience. Not sure if I would give it a second chance! read more