Finally, Ladera gets a great Mexican restaurant! Hands down the best Happy Hour in town. Taco Tuesday Specials run all day with $3 crispy tacos (chix, shredded or ground beef, potato) which are a deal as they're full size and not mini like other places sell at HH. $5 Ensenada Tacos (battered fish or shrimp), are amazing. Guacamole is always fresh and makes a great side to chips and salsa. Margaritas (house or cadillac) are very satisfying and not watered down. Service is always on point and if ur lucky, you might see Franco in action. (yes, he's a real person) So glad Franco's Famous opened a location in Ladera. Check out their other locations in Laguna Hills and San Clemente. read more

Franco's Famous - Crispy Tacos ($3 ea) - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

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There's something about flautas that's both nostalgic and satisfying in a way that other Mexican dishes are not. They remind me of my time with DeAnn and her local fast food joint that featured both burgers and Mexican dishes. Their flautas are what I compare all flautas to. For only $8 they give you a s-ton of flautas, like 5-6, beans, and rice. It was amazing. The flautas at Franco's are good, but obviously not the same value. I think they nailed the slightly crispy, but still chewy, shell. The beef was tender and juicy inside. And I liked the rice and beans I ordered separately to accompany the flautas. Aside from that, I got to try the chicken version, a bit of the elote, and the chicken quesadilla. They were all fine but I've never been a big appetizers guy. The service was great. They forgot my beans to my beans & rice, but made up for it with a giant pot of it brought to the table. All the drinks and refills were brought to the table quickly. Everyone was just so attentive and courteous. The ambiance obviously was great. This was another outdoor dining area that was suited to a larger party and a bit of evening dining. The place was busy but not overly packed. And lastly the dub was noticeable but not overwhelming. I think I could see myself hanging out here just on a random Tuesday. Overall, this was a great dinner and the flautas made me happy. That's all you can ask from a food joint, even if it made me miss the $8 version with my ex back in the good 'ole days. read more

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We have been here two times now for tacos and salads. The tostada salad is so so fresh and yummy. For some reason the meat is on the bottom, so don't be deterred if it arrives looking like too much lettuce. The chips and salsa are so good and the keep refilling them so you will have to be careful to save some room for your tasty main. The chips are those thick and freshly fried kind that you can't stop eating. The salsa freshly made and just the right amount of spicy. The outside patio is small, but nice on a good weather day and there are shade umbrellas. Inside is clean and spacious and good alternative if outside is already full. The service is prompt and friendly. We will keep going back. read more

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The is the newest Franco's Famous in the area. If you're looking for authentic Mexican food this is not it. That being said it's good enough for a quick diner. Tried the potato fried taco and I'm obsessed. Could've eaten four! The Cucumber jalapeño margarita with Tajín rim is delicious. Not too spicy but really refreshing. read more

Franco's Famous - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

We have been eating out so much this past week but kept on going to the same places we've been to before, so tonight decided to find a new location. We all agreed to visit this Franco's Famous. The restaurant was packed inside out when we arrived around dinner time. We were glad we came here because the foods was so good. The salsa for the chips was perfectly spicy. For dinner, I had the shredded chicken enchiladas, hubby had the chicken and ground beef enchiladas, and both dishes were delicious. My daughter had the shredded beef soft tacos and her husband had the two smash tacos and a grilled shrimp taco and they loved everything they ordered. We had a great meal tonight. We had America as our server and service was good. We will return. read more

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Food is good. We go to Franco's in Aliso so we know the menu well. Service is terrible. Maybe it's just poor management because it's new. But compared to the Aliso location, the service at Ladera is awful. Walked in at 5 pm on Thursday. Half the dining room was empty, and most of tables were piled up with dirty dishes. Many tables had food and rice scattered on them and on the floors. Did they just finish feeding some livestock? Chips and salsa came quick, but no waiter for a good FIFTEEN minutes. We asked bus boys and the chip girl to get us a waitress but they ignored us. There was a young waitress gabbing with her friends next to our table. Despite our efforts to flag her down she would not leave the conversation with her friends. Maybe she was on break? Turns out that chatty girl was indeed our waitress. Not good. Our food came but she never checked on us. I had to flag down the chip girl to pay my bill. I can't place all the blame on this one poorly trained waitress. She was the only one we saw in the dining room. No manager. Just overall poor management. 3 stars for the food , but 1 failure star for horrible service. I live in Ladera and want all local businesses to survive. But I'm not coming back. I give the over/under of failure of this location at one year. Sorry. But I'll keep going back to the Aliso one. read more

Franco's Famous - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

We were stoked for a new Mexican restaurant in the neighborhood! We came here the first week or so it was open, ate on the patio, and the food was great. Even though it was a weekday, it was busy and the service was pretty slow, though. We came here again with my in-laws and had a rough experience. Came on a Sunday at 5:30, and it was busy, but we were told we could wait for a table outside and it would just be 15 minutes. After 20 minutes, they told us it would be "at least another 15 minutes because people are still eating". We decided to eat inside so we could get seated more quickly. The restaurant was really loud and the waiters bumped into our seats every single time they walked by because the tables were so close together. It took us over 30 minutes to get our drinks and over an hour to get our food. Our waitress explained several times that it was her first day and shared that they were told not to take food orders for a while because of how backed up the kitchen was. Looking around, several other tables were complaining about one thing or another. Honestly, the food and drinks are GREAT quality, but it seems like Franco's has some catching up to do when it comes to figuring out their processes. We're planning to get food to-go until all the bugs get worked out. read more

Franco's Famous - Chips and salsa are perfect! - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

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Great Taco Tuesday! $3 tacos for crunchy chicken, shredded beef, shredded chicken and potato. Margaritas and beer on special too! It was quite busy but staff were great and attentive. Upbeat atmosphere. Would love to come back and try off taco Tuesday specials. Rank of tacos: #1 being the best was shredded beef, #2 potato, #3 chicken, #4 ground beef. I'd typically be a chicken and ground beef fan but they had a spice in there that I didn't care for as much. Also, they don't have a super spicy salsa, only had El Yucateco hot sauce as an option. Super happy with that option but just to note! The "spice" was not due to spiciness, just particular spice in the seasoning. read more

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Salsa 4/5 Spice lingers, amazing flavor. Seems like a default recipe used across a lot of different chains Decor 3/5- Lacking decor inside restaurant, felt very dim inside at dinnertime, outdoor seating was great! Looked amazing outside, wish they did a better job with decor inside as it was cold today. Wait time 5/5 - food came fast - 12 minutes Food 3/5 - Shredded beef tacos bland, Nachos had too much on them very hard to eat, chips are minimal, toppings cover them a lot more than they should. Enchiladas good, Casadilla tasted weird. Plentiful supply of chips and salsa, Free ice waters with drink ordered. Guacamole GREAT. read more

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Came in a Friday night wasn't very busy not many servers were working. Ours was nice and we sat outside by the fireplace which was nice. Food was good I had the tostada and hubby had a few items but he raved over the Tijuana dog. Will be back and hope this restaurant lasts and continues to thrive! read more

Franco's Famous - Shrimp tostado - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

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We went for a special occasion on a Saturday afternoon. They took our drink order along with request of water. They served chips & salsa which was nice, however we had to keep asking (4 times) for our water because the salsa was pretty spicy. Finally I had to go to the bar to get my water. The bartender was our waitress which was tough because she was taking care of the whole restaurant's drinks. The food is good, however the manager runs a very light server schedule, so prepare yourself for Slow service. read more

This place was delicious. I loved their chips, salsa and guacamole. Their menu is reasonably priced and the drinks were tasty. We will for sure be coming back to this restaurant. read more

Franco's Famous in Ladera Ranch is a really solid spot for Mexican food. I ordered the chicken fajitas, and while they were a bit light on the chicken, the flavors were spot-on and the portion sizes overall were generous. Everyone in my group really enjoyed their meals. I especially loved the salsa, it's nice and spicy, and the chips were perfectly crunchy, crispy, and salted just right. The spicy and skinny margaritas were also delicious. Our server was very attentive and kind and was quick to bring our food and drinks and checked on us often to make sure that we had everything we needed! The place was clean and has a very open space, I loved the back patio for a summer day! Overall, a great place for tasty, satisfying Mexican food in Ladera Ranch! read more

Soup of the day: chicken tortilla Happy hour beer battered fish and grilled shrimp tacos Crispy taco dorados that are half off on taco Tuesday! read more

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We went for Taco Tuesday and ordered the meat, which required us to get a drink with the order. The chips weren't that good, though we liked the salsa. The fries were the worst fries I've ever had, and the tacos weren't good either! We did like the ambiance of the outdoor seating--especially the cute tiny mouse walking around. The service also wasn't bad. read more

First time at this place. This restaurant is almost 2 months old, and I'm so glad we checked this place out! The service was super friendly and stellar! The food... I ordered their Jalapeño bacon wrap with cream cheese as an appetizer. It came with this raspberry sauce that totally balances out the heat and your tastebuds! Extremely spicy!!! I had their Chili Relleno, as an entree, and it certainly didn't disappoint! It was wonderful! And for the grand finale..... I couldn't pass up their churros! Delicious! EVERYTHING served came hot out of the oven. Super fresh tasting! Their simple decor was aesthetically pleasing. Do come and try this place out! And be sure to welcome them to your neighborhood! Overall, another fantastic dining experience! You bet, I'm returning! I LOVED it! Cheers and Enjoy!!! Highly highly recommended! read more

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Been waiting to try this place for a while. Pros Drinks are ok, I'd come back for maybe just drinks Cons Food is rough. My elote was watery and tasted like canned corn that wasn't drained poured into a bowl and sprinkled with Tahin. The shrimp taco was made with a stale tortilla and inedible. The kids menu is super limited so we ordered a Tijuana dog and just asked for them to leave everything off because it was for my two toddlers, but of course they had no problem leaving the spicy ketchup which made it in-edible. My husband had the chicken flautas and they were extremely dry. I'll be back for drinks, but definitely not food. read more

Franco's Famous - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

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First time here! The food was very fresh, savory, flavorful, and delicious. Also, the chips were super crunchy, crispy, and salty, and the salsa was perfectly served. Good service, and atmosphere with upbeat music, and I had an amazing wonderful first visit today. read more

Franco's Famous - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

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Went here for Taco Tuesday and Happy Hour with some friends. We ordered quesadillas, tacos and margaritas all around. We were greeted and seated promptly. Our server was polite and gregarious. The food and drinks were delicious and the atmosphere was upbeat and lively. We had a great time and would definitely go back. read more

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Listen Francos. I want to like you. I really do. You've got the food, the charm, the kind of rustic vibes that say, "We don't need the internet to survive." But guys. It's 2025. The world runs on AI, drones deliver my dog's probiotics, and my Tesla gets software updates in its sleep. Meanwhile, your restaurant's online presence is giving palm pilot. No website? No DoorDash? No visible menu ? Just get a $12 domain name and a DoorDash profile. Until then, I'll be emotionally supporting you from afar... on Yelp... because it's the only place I could find you. read more

Franco's Famous - Nothing - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

This place is amazing! Really great tasting food, yummy drinks and good service. Perfect for special occasions or just grabbing a drink with friends. Love the outdoor seating areas too with fireside seating and a side cute bar. They do happy hour Tuesday thru Friday and brunch on Sundays! The tacos dorado are perfectly crispy and flavorful, the best is the potato taco and the ground beef. The flautas equally delicious and their guacamole is fresh and delicious. Tijuana dog is a fun option with tasty creamy sauce. Cheese enchiladas and the vegetarian refried beans are the best in this area! That homemade red enchilada sauce is perfect. The cheese quesadilla trio with guacamole and sour cream is the perfect size to share. Their bartenders craft the most delicious margaritas and drinks! Overall such a great place! read more

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Went to Franco's for the first time yesterday and had such a great experience! The drinks were strong, the food portions were huge and the food was very tasty! I could easily have shared the fajitas and would have still had plenty. I am looking forward to next trip to Franco's! read more

Franco's Famous - Chicken Fajitas - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

Delicious! The food was amazing too, but I ate it so fast I forgot to take a picture of it. read more

Franco's Famous - Mango margarita - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

Visited first time for a Saturday evening birthday party. Patio was busy, it overly crowded, plenty of staff attending. Tried several dishes: carnitas burrito with extra rice - packed and moist,perfect blend of all ingredients wrapped in a soft, warm flour tortilla. flautas - flaky shells around seasoned chicken breast, not salty, very nice texture. guacamole was mildly spicy and creamy with just enough chunks of avocado. margaritas, cad and house were stronger than drinks at other bars and restaurants. We brought a cake, and paid the "corkage" fee, employees brought it out after dinner, sang a song to the celebrated and provided plates and silverware. Never once did we feel rushed and everyone helping at our table was very gracious and attentive. We will Devi it's,y be returning to try different menu items. read more

Admittedly, this location has had Its problems. That being said, we were delighted with this new addition to our area's culinary choices. Margaritas are top notch...and tequila was generous. We had the 4 street tacos and an extra fish taco. Every flavor was spot on and the fish taco was HUGE! The ambience rocks especially if you enjoy sports. What a great spot to watch a game. My partner is Mexican and a damn good chef and she enjoyed every flavor presented. Almost dropped a star since our server forget one drink but hey...whatever... we need you in the neighborhood. Perhaps overpriced but you get what you pay for...it's not Din Jose's. read more

I went with my mom for the first time and I'm glad to see more businesses choose Ladera ranch. The margaritas were good, the chips and salsa was good, the food was decent as are the prices and the patio area was very nice. The indoor area looks a little bare and plain and could use with some decorative improvements. Overall a good place to eat and we will be returning. read more

Franco's Famous - Blended mango margarita - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

We go to the one in Laguna Hills all the time. Sure the new one has some kinks but as a new locations give them grace. The food is aways amazing and the Marguerites Love them!!!! Sunday brunch... live music endless mimosas , I am in!! Try the shrimp enchiladas with the green sauce , so yummy !! Love Franco's they do a great job and the staff is amazing read more

Franco's always is great service Good food and staff that is genuine and will make you come back. read more

Just left Franco's Famous and I'm still smiling. It's one of those spots that feels alive--patio lights, live music drifting through, and people genuinely enjoying themselves. The food knocked it out of the park. The vibe felt welcoming, warm, and authentic. & the service matched the setting--friendly, relaxed, and present without being over the top. They've put together a place that feels both festive and comfortable. 5 stars all the way through. --Rick read more

We went to Franco's for the second time this week. Taco Tuesday was great, the tacos were good and priced nicely. Second visit was Friday as Happy Hour was ending and the place was packed. The service was great and the food was good typical Mexican food and the Sangria was refreshing and not too sweet. I hope they do great here in LR. I found the price of the food was what was expected and the serving size was enough to take home leftovers... then again I don't eat much! Lol read more

Went for happy hour during the week. Had a wonderful meal and drink! It was clean and the staff were very kind. read more

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Excited that the new Famous Francois opened in Ladera Ranch. I love love love the Bacon Wrapped Jalapeños with Raspberry Preserves. Soooo good. Everyone was friendly, fun and polite. I usually go to the San Clemente location. Looking forward to many more local LR visits. read more

Franco's Famous - Bacon Wrapped Jalapeños - Wine Bars Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

Always a blast at Franco's. Came in last night and was served by our regular server Payton. She always makes us leave with smiles and completely made my friends birthday dinner. Service is always awesome, foods always good, and drinks are a hit. read more

Maxing spiciest margaritas they are so tasty and the tacos are the bomd, sundays are the best brunch ever

Our group had mixed reviews. The one that had the chili rellano said it was delicious. The one that had the chicken crispy taco loved it. She also had the corn elote. Said it wasn't worth $15. The third person had the fish tacos. Said that the fish was excellent but the Chipotle sauce was way too hot, it burned her throat. I had the chicken tostada. On a scale of 1 to 10, I rate it a 7. Forgot to take pictures of the food. read more

The food is always great! We come every Tuesday for their amazing Taco Tuesday special. Tonight, Alyssa was our server and she was absolutely incredible -- the best service we've ever had! Thank you again, Alyssa. We can't wait to come back next Tuesday! read more

The patio has a nice ambiance and all the food we tried was good! The chips and salsa are great, and the other items we tried (Pollo Asada tacos, Carne Asade plate, and kids' steak taco, lavender dreams drink) were all really good too. We will definitely be back! read more

We go to Taco Tuesday quite often!! Their tacos are huge and absolutely delicious and the prices are great!! Their chips and salsa are the best in town!!! read more

Enjoyed Sunday Brunch for two on the sunny patio today. Seating and service were prompt, competent, and friendly. We were served fresh tortilla chips and mild salsa upon seating. We ordered two Aperol Spritzes. They were well presented and tasty. My companion ordered two smash tacos. I ordered two Ensenada tacos, one with beer-battered fish, one with grilled shrimp. They all arrived promptly with a smile from the runner. The food was very good. Overall a pleasant experience. One quibble, though: the grilled shrimp really need a rough chop before serving. I bit into my taco and pulled out a whole shrimp. Chewy! Nevertheless, we'll be back. read more

Love Franco's! They are consistently delicious at all their locations. One of my favorites and consistent go tos is their chicken enchiladas with green sauce - the best! Their happy hour is also always a good option, lots of food choices and delicious drinks. read more