Amazing soups, signature Margaritas... best ever! Very friendly, family run and a great place

The chicken strips are bussin! Also love the the free chips!!! You gotta try this place! When I first tried it I was like "sheeeeeshh!" I would've taken a pic of the chicken strips but they were gone before I could reach my iPhone. read more

I'm vegetarian and it's hard to come across a good burrito but omg Hands all the way down The best I have ever had. read more

I really wish I didn't have stopped here. Service was ok, but the food was horrible. Chips were stale, salsa was poorly made. As for the main entrees, they lacked so much flavor, I was curious why this place was so packed. The bar, they have good drinks, and that's where all the action was. They need to close this place down and make it a bar, because boy o boy, the food sucked big time. Please, if you read this, hire a professional chef and take some lessons and notes. read more

El Ranchito always has wonderful staff who are quick and ready to serve you a fine Mexican dining experience. Beer is always ice cold too so that's definitely a plus. read more

My husband and I had dinner here and it was mediocre to say the least. Not worth the $17 I paid for my enchiladas. The shredded chicken was so bare and bland. At least my Margarita was okay. That was only the saving grace. The taco truck near our house probably serves better Mexican food. I expected more since a friend raved about this place. Im going to try and give this place another chance. But right now, thumbs down. read more

Ehhhhh... I'm not very impressed with this place -- I've tried to come here several times, but it was always closed. Finally today it was open I was so excited! The place is loud AF! The food came and looked alright... and it was OK but very bland. Super spicy salsa was the highlight of the evening... however the chips were super stale read more

One of my local favorites. Order "The House" or "rancheritas."Food and service is always on point. Andddddd the margs will getcha lol

I haven't been to this restaurant in about eight years, it used to be one of the best Mexican in the Greater Modesto area. In fact I used to eat here quite a bit years ago. It seems to me that the food I ate today, the chili Verde, was a canned imitation of what they used to serve. It tasted like the beans and the rice were also canned or prepackaged, this is definitely not the scratch made food that they used to serve. If scratch made, authentic Mexican food is what you're after, EL Ranchito is a shadow of its former self and I would recommend looking elsewhere. read more

I hate giving a bad review to a family-owned place. The menu is very small and mine had a few chunks of dried food on it. That's a pet peeve of mine. They're a plastic menu so there's no excuse for not having them completely wiped down. I selected a marguerita, 2 choice combo of chicken taco, chili relleno and the mandatory rice and beans. This came with soup and a salad. No choice in soup - they only have one choice. Waitress said no choice in salad dressing...salad comes with Thousand Island and that's it. Ok, I'm starting to get a little irritated but I can recover with some good food. First off, the marguerita tasted EXACTLY like one of those instant pouch drinks. It was served in a narrow mouth pilsner style glass. I don't know how many ounces this glass held but I felt cheated the second it landed on the table. There was no salt as requested. The entire point of a large mouth glass with a salted marguerita is to have sufficient salt to go with the drink. With a glass measuring approx. 3" across, this was disappointing even if they had remembered the salt. I traded this in for a beer. The beer was served in the bottle and no glass was offered. Was the beer cold? Meh. It came from somewhere cold but it wasn't nearly as cold as it should have been. Now I'm starting to get angry at this place. Salad and soup came. It was a small plate of iceberg mix that's the cheapest you'd find in a store. No tomato, no nothing extra added. There was no added effort at all. Soup was good. Is it homemade? I didn't ask but I compare it to Campbell's Homestyle. Here comes dinner! Wow, how unimaginative. No shredded lettuce anywhere, no sour cream, no garnish of any kind. It was one pile of brown food. What irritated me was that the taco was right next to the relleno and was completely soggy from the relleno sauce that had spread on the plate. I was expecting some authenticity to the taco but someone here compared it to Jack in the Box and that's exactly what it looked like. Shredded chicken portion in the taco was on the bottom in a very thin layer and was totally drenched in the rellano liquid. The taco was actually dripping and the shell was hard as rock on top (fell apart on first bite) and then graduated to a stretchy pully soggy mess on the bottom. Chili Relleno was not scraped before cooking so guess what my sensitive taste buds were attacked by? Hot seeds! and membrane I could not believe they left the seeds in place and it ruined the relleno by making it flaming hot. Beans = typical. They were a refried mash that spread onto the plate like overly smooth mashed potatoes. Rice was off white in color and unremarkable. Wish I could give a better review as the owners were there and seemed to have a good rapport with a set of regulars. They didn't bother to come say hi to us though. Icing on the cake was standing at the register waiting for someone to take our money. Our waitress finally came over and then got a mild scolding right in front of us from the owner on how to run the card. Don't EVER scold your staff in front of a customer. Not going back. read more

Hubby and I LOVE Mexican food. I would say it is a staple of our diet. We also love the Galaxy Theatre so it gives us a reason to be in Riverbank. After reading some great reviews about this place, I would rate it among the poorest of Mexican restaurants in the area. The menu is very small. The food was bland and the salsa mediocre. The service wasn't even that great. Why then, did I give it 2 stars? The Soup was DELISH! the only part of our dinner worth talking about. Out of all the restaurants we have enjoyed with Mexican cuisine this was definitely a thumbs down! read more

El Ranchito has been around forever, a family owned restaurant in a hidden spot near the railroad tracks and the overpass on highway 108 that has been prized by locals for as long as I can remember. I have eaten there more times then I can count. You can expect no less but some of the best Mexican food around with generous portions. Their chile verde is delightful, their chile colorado has some kick, and oh those fresh flour tortilla chips. Yumm. Be forewarned: the place is busy (and rightfully so!). I've never eaten there when the house hasn't been full, but the service never disappoints. read more

I spent a childhood enjoying their food. It was always a very happy experience. After an almost two decade gap, I am happy to find the exact same food. The staff is truly a blessing. It is great to see their smiling faces. With the service provided and the amazing food it is no wonder this place is still a main attraction in Riverbank. Cheers to many happy memories at El Ranchito! Enjoy =-) P.S. I think I have a friend hooked on their chicken enchiladas :-) Too Yummy! read more

It's not my taste, it's seems more tex-mex style I guess. I occasionally go in for a drink (good drinks) and have been going occasionally since before their big remodel ,I think in the early 90s. But in Riverbank there are many Mexican places,one about every 100 yards. El Rosal, La Parilla are better restaurants in my opinion,and that doesn't include the 3 or 4 better taquerias. read more

Judging by my many other reviews, one can see that I adore Mexican food. I have been coming to El Ranchito since I was a kid. I grew up going to the Catholic church right around the corner from it, and my family spent many, many afternoons and evenings eating at this restaurant. It is run by an entire family, the brothers look like twins, and the authentic family flair really shows in their food. Years ago, I'd say late 80's the restaurant was a tiny hole in the wall barely a quarter of its current size. The place was torn down and completely rebuilt in the mid 90's, expanding for their ever growing customer base, and Riverbanks ever growing population, no doubt. The first reason you would want to give this place a try is their margarita's. Ask any Riverbank native and you will hear the same thing...they have the best, most authentic tasting rita's anywhere! They are strong and usually two is enough. The second reason I personally can't stay away is their Quesadilla's. This might sound weird and some might see this as a negative but, they are the greasiest food item I have ever eaten...and it's the grease that seems to trap the wonderful flavor! I LOVE it! Also, I love the 1000 Island salad dressing that they serve on their salads. The perfect El Ranchito entree: 1 cheese Quesadilla 1 beef or chicken taco side salad (which comes with the combo's anyway) 1 or 2 Margarita's You will not be disappointed! I have had one bad experience there (out of hundreds), but as you can see it did not deter me from giving them 5 stars so I won't even write about it. Also note, they have strange hours. They take vacation to Mexico for about a month from Christmas through January and are closed on Mondays I think. Call ahead if you're not sure. read more

Not impressed with this place. Food was microwaved and had no flavor. Our waitress was spending more time talking to some regulars at a table than attending to the few other customers there. Not going back! read more

We had always been curious about this place, as the parking lot always seems full, no matter the time of day. After trying out, we agreed that we wouldn't be back. -The rice tasted like chicken boullion powder, like Knorr or Maggi. -Tortillas for tacos were super greasy -Over salted food -Hardly any windows, very dark inside I will say that beans were quite good, and the sauce for their enchiladas was good. Also nice was the mix of flour and corn chips brought to the table. We ordered a couple of beers - that were HUGE and cheap. Looking at the rest of the people in the room, all drinking, I'm guessing this is the draw. The bar area was crowded, and and everyne at a table had either the large glasses like us, or pitchers. read more

I had issues with the waitress. She was very rude and didn't pay attention to our order. The manager was disrespectful. He thought he was funny but I didn't think so. The food was ok, but those two needs to be train. Roberto was the best server. We love him. read more

My favorite place for Mexican food! I bring lots of out of towners to this hidden gem and then once they begin to eat they immediately stop making fun of me for saying the best Mexican food is right here in Riverbank. My favorite dish? The crab enchiladas, the chicken soup, the steak a la parilla, the carne asada tacos, the tacos el pastor, basically 99% of the menu. I love that they give you both flour and corn chips cause I'm the only one in my family who likes flour chips and everybody else goes straight for the corn ones! Other than their super delicious food and awesome margaritas they service is wonderful. The family that owns and runs it couldn't be nicer. I've been going there for over 10 years and have never once had a bad experience. read more

Great service and delicious food. We were seated immediately. Non stop refills and constant service. Food was served in timely manner. Haven't experienced true customer service in a restaurant like this in years. I almost forget this is how it's done. Oh the flour chips are a hit! read more

Absolutely delicious! If you are in the area give it a go. It was very good authentic Mexican food. I had the lobster and the chicken soup. I shared lol. The beans and rice were killer too! I will go back as I felt like it was some of the best Mexican food I've ever had. read more

If you like taco bell bland Mexican food, you'll like this place. I had been told about this place for years and finally went. What a dissapointment! Bland food. I was actually getting mad eating the food. Are you kidding? My husband I went, so we did try two different dishes, carnitas and I had an enchilada. No good. There are other far better places with better food and better service. I also gave it an extra star for the chips. Big deal. read more

We took my father-in-law here for his birthday, based on yelp reviews. The service was good, no wait time for a table, and they give you tons of food. The soup was pretty good, the dressing on the salad was great. The flour tortilla chips were very very good, salsa was ok. I ordered the chicken en mole......sauce was typical, not special, pretty much the same as most places....but the chicken..... no where on the menu did it say 'bone in', I was not excepting to have to peel it off the bone, I almost never eat bone in chicken because it kind of grosses me out. The rice and beans didn't have much flavor. I don't think I will be going back anytime soon, unless it's just me and my husband and we are going for a margarita and chips. read more

Overpriced and not good Mexican food. I really don't know where to start. I ordered a combo plate with one tamale and one enchilada. Tamale was huge and had a tiny sliver of meat in it. I'm serious it had almost Zero meat in it. I thought it was a joke. $15 too. Also, on a $15 combo plate Asada wasn't even an option for a taco or any other dish. Seriously?? My wife got a ground beef taco and it was raw. She sent her whole plate back. I didn't even like the rice and beans. I'm from the Bay Area and have enjoyed good Mexican food all my life. This place is not good Mexican food. You've been warned. 2 stars for a good Margarita read more

The food was delicious, but the server had a bit of an attitude. It looked like she hated her job.

Excellent food but a bit slow on the wait staff. Our margarita was really good the waitress was kind of pre occupied with a certain table so she was slow to help us but the food was worth it all. read more

El Ranchito Restaurant - Bars Near Me - Riverbank, California

Our favorite place to eat Mexican food in Oakdale/Riverbank. The staff is always friendly and the food second to none in the area.

This is the worst Mexican food I have ever tried to eat. The chilies in the Chile Rellanos were under cooked, the rice was the consistency of piliaf and tasted like it had been frozen. The beans had no taste. The tortillas we're store bought and microwaved. read more

This is the type of Mexican restaurant that existed nearly alone in the 50s towns that were lucky enough to have immigrants to open restaurants. It's Ranchero food what we have in abundance here in the valley. But such a grateful historical and lovely example of all of it and how it was meant to be introduced to the white folks. I could go on about how I had been there when it was just a crooked house with lovely food, little has changed and if you're looking for that piece of the past from all ethnic cuisine's it is there you know it's shining beauty, I for one I'm so happy that it is there and hopefully Will remain until they have taken their successful venture the unique American dream the retirement long may you wave & thank you... for the people who enjoy chains and to be completely unsurprised by What will occur moveOn read more

Best Mexican food and margaritas around! Everytime I come I'm treated with the most respect from the whole staff. They always make you feel like family. Fajitas, chipotle steak and whatever on the special is the way to go! They have a different kind of soup each night, all of them are delicious. Best tomato soup I've ever had! Be sure to stop by if you're driving through town, I promise it's worth it! read more

Love coming to El Ranchito. I remember the tiny restaurant they had when I was a kid-my parents used to take us here for a wonderful dinner. Now, my husband and I come here for Enchiladas Verde and a pitcher of margaritas. The margaritas are amazing and definitely give me a good night's rest. El Ranchito is still family owned and run. It's a special treat in an area saturated with Mexican food. read more

This is the best Mexican restaurant.... ever! The shrimp is the best and don't let anyone tell you different! The service rocks. Good family owned atmosphere!! Love the red sauce and the margaritas, seriously are the best around! My absolute favorite meal is the chicken!! Full bar and great menus. Good bloody Mary's and good selection of beers on tap. They close from 2 to 430pm on weekday. Anyone that says anything negative, doesn't know what they are taking about. Great job ranch!!! read more

El Ranchito has the best veggie burrito in town I get it with green sauce and a side salad. Yummmmm! Highly recommended.

The shredded beef tacos are amazing, as are the chips, salsa, and soup. Don't forget the margaritas. Our waitress is so kind. I've been coming here since I was a little girl and the restaurant was a tiny house. It's my very favorite! read more

My wife and I kept hearing about how good this place was. One night we decided to try it out. Wow! The service was great and the food was hella good!!! We both had enchiladas. We been going back now for over two (2) months and it's now our to go spot. read more

Great food! This is homecooked Mexican food with the family recipe spin on it. Green Chicken enchiladas are the best along with their camarones. Super tasty beans, great homemade salsa and flavorful maragaritas. By family spin, there are some dishes that are prepared very well but don't highly appeal to me. They have great whole pepper chili rellenos but then put on them a light ranchero sauce that's just okay to me. Meat enchilada are ground beef but I prefer shredded beef. Chips are mostly fried flour tortillas but you can ask for corn. read more

Awesome local restaurant food is great margaritas are better. Family owned awesomeness

My family and I were regulars here for Many years when we lived closer. Hadn't been here in a couple years but came in for lunch today with coworkers , including one I hadn't seen in 3 years. Service today was terrible because of attitude of older waitress. Actually I remember her always being rude .why do they keep her? A relative? We were not yet ready to order. And she was irritated. What's the hurry? there are only 2 other tables with diners in the whole restaurant. And ok, we were mostly talking not eating our food. But we were not loud. There were never more than a couple other tables occupied. We are paying customers trying to enjoy a leisurely lunch. Why are you rushing us ? Mustached owner was Shaking something in a glass noisily as He walked past us in the dining room as if trying to scare off some alley cats. SO RUDE! Seriously I am embarrassed and regretful that I gave them so much of my money for so many years! You have not only just lost future revenue from the 4 of us. We have families and friends and neighbors all whom will never be giving you future business! read more

Went in on Aug 12 a little after 2pm ordered the chicken tacos dinner with beans and rice. The tacos were so bland and tastless, all that were on them was chicken, nothing else at all! Dell taco has more flavor. Service was exelent and friendly. I won't be back. read more

I don't come out to Riverbank often, but when I do... I go to El Ranchito. I recently went in and had dinner and drinks with friends. Our server Jonah was awesome! He was very personable and quick. He had a few more tables but it seemed like he had it all under control due to the fact he checked in on us all and even noticed that if he was busy, he'd ACTUALLY come back to see what the tables needed. He ensured our table's order and came back to see if all was up to our liking! We appreciated his service for sure! The food was fantastic and drinks were on point! No complaints here! read more