Taste the Legacy: Avila’s El Ranchito's Sizzling Success Story
By: Bethany Myers
Avila’s El Ranchito began within the confines of a kitchen back in 1966, when Mama Avila brought delectable recipes from Guanajuato, Mexico — culinary heirlooms passed down through generations of her family. Now, this legacy has flourished into a vibrant business, now encompassing an impressive 13 establishments spanning across Los Angeles and Orange County. Each restaurant remains under the attentive stewardship of a dedicated family member, guaranteeing the reputation the family has earned for treating their customers like part of the family.
Avila’s El Ranchito was first established in 1975 in the heart of Newport Beach. On the Balboa Peninsula stands the most famous of the restaurants. Sergio Avila is the owner of what is known as the “International El Ranchito” because so many out-of-towners frequent here. T-shirts sold at this restaurant have been seen all over the world! His daughter Maribel Avila Ley and Valerie Avila Gagnon manage this location along with Huntington Beach and Corona Del Mar
In 1975, Avila’s El Ranchito found its roots nestled in the heart of Newport Beach. Among the various establishments, one truly stands out amongst the rest - on the Balboa Peninsula. The renowned location owned by Sergio Avila is referred to as the "International El Ranchito," a favored destination for visitors from afar. The iconic T-shirts sold from this location have been seen all over the world! Sergio’s daughters, Maribel Avila Ley and Valerie Avila Gagnon manage this local spot along with the Huntington Beach and Corona Del Mar branches.
Milestones
Avila's El Ranchito has been voted “Best Mexican Restaurant in Orange County” for 5 years in a row by OC Register.
Fun Facts
1) Maribel, Valerie and sister Bianca Avila Small all were members of the Harbor View Swim Team in the Port Streets every summer. This was where the idea behind their famous mini burritos came to life. During their swim home meets on Saturdays, they would sell bean and cheese burritos and chicken and rice burritos for just $1. The homemade flavors were a hit, so Avila El Ranchito added the item to the kids menu and the catering menu. Now, anyone can experience these addictive, delicious mini burritos for themselves whenever a craving strikes.
2) Sergio created Chingolingas in the 70’s when he catered food for the famous Renaissance Fair in Riverside County. This crunchy, flaky twist on chicken taquitos is sure to surprise anyone’s taste buds. He recommends dipping them in sour cream and guacamole for the full experience next time you visit.
3) When she was alive, Mama Avila would serve her famous chicken soup once a week at The Avila’s home in Spyglass. The Avila family would stop by for lunch any time they needed their favorite comfort food and to spend time with their beloved Abuela and Abuelo.
4) Marybell and Sergio Avila live in Newport Beach. Their three daughters live close by in Costa Mesa with their families. They love meeting for brunch during football season, cheering on their favorite teams and enjoying Menudo with the entire family. Speaking of football, the Avila's El Ranchito located in the Newport Peninsula is the official watch party spot for OC Alumni of University of Colorado Boulder. Visit this location during the season to cheer on the Buffs!
Avila's El Ranchito
Newport Beach Peninsula
2800 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA, 92663
(949) 675-6855
Corona del Mar
2515 East Coast Hwy, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625
(949) 644-8226
www.avilaselranchito.com
