About Avila’s El Ranchito
Beyond their size, small businesses are defined by their spirit. And at the helm are their intrepid founders—scrappy, ambitious, and resilient. They invent and build things despite uncertainty, because it’s what drives them. Their risks lead to innovation that moves the world forward. And we need them.
During a recent trip to San Clemente, I discovered this fantastic local gem. The restaurant strikes the perfect balance of a fun, welcoming atmosphere and top-tier service. The staff ensured our experience was seamless, and the food was exceptional. I highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area.
We were having a last-minute birthday party for a 94 year-old man and we were thinking about a taco bar and then I realized that I had gone to this restaurant many times cause I live in San Clemente and it was a great experience. The minute I called set up to get two family size Platters which served about 30 people. Everyone at the party there was about 22 people, and they thought it was fabulous. They were generous. The food was delicious and everyone was ecstatic and wanted to know what restaurant did the catering I will definitely recommend this place the other to either to dying out or to even have a nice party. They don’t deliver, but it was OK and easy to pick up and then lay out the platters for everyone to enjoy two thumbs up five star rating thank you OLD DUDE
Great food and lovely decor. We got the table right next to the fire. But today is February and it was a cold day (relatively speaking) and windy. After my request someone closed ONE of the front doors, but one remained open plus the side door kept getting propped open. We were miserably cold, which made it impossible to enjoy the excellent food. We were told that the door had to be propped open because the servers had to go back and forth outside carrying plates. Yes, I've seen this phenomenon before - like at every single restaurant with an outside patio. Somehow it was managed without facilitating the cold wind blowing on customers. We were told to move if we didn't like it. Every seat was either near the front open door or side open door so that was not a helpful suggestion. So they did not care that their customers were uncomfortable. Very disappointed because as I said, the food was fantastic. Will not return.
Wonderful food with great portion. For Asians, it may take 2 persons to finish one. The people there are friendly and they kept feeding you with free nachos.
Amazing Mexican Restaurant in San Clemente – Avila's El Ranchito Avila’s El Ranchito in San Clemente is absolutely amazing! The service was excellent—everyone was so friendly and smiling. The food? Oh wow, it was so good I was honestly speechless. Everything tasted fresh and full of flavor. I highly recommend this place, and I’ll definitely be coming back!