El Ranchito Reviews

Love this place...great food, great service, and great atmosphere! This is quickly becoming of one of my faves!

El Ranchito serves authentic Mexican cuisine and of course some Tex-Mexico dishes as well. Juan (the owner/manager) is very nice and he brings in entertainment every month. January and August are Elvis months where he has Elvis tribute artists or contests on each Wednesday during each month. Juan is a huge Elvis fan. You can't go wrong at El Ranchito!

The service and food were both flawless. The mariachi band is really loud but amazing. Definitely a must eat in Dallas!

El Ranchito is a Mexican restaurant that has a delightful mix of authentic Mexican Dishes and live music. The location off of Jefferson Blvd isn't the most desirable but it doesn't stop me from frequenting this establishment. During peak hours, parking can be very difficult to find. There have been times that I have had to park across the street. The food here is always on point. If you love Mexican food then you will love El Ranchito. From the fajitas to Mole to just about anything that you could desire, they offer it. The authenticity of the food is evident from the first bite. The tortillas here are made at the restaurant might be a minor detail yet important part of the experience here. This particular visit I ordered the grill plate which has steak, chicken, Shrimp and sausage. It is served on a warming skillet that is heated throughout your meal which is great. The beans and rice that accompany this dish are top notch. On the weekends they have a Mariachi band that plays throughout the restaurant. In my opinion this adds to the experience of being immersed in the Mexican tradition and culture. They walk around and play from table to table. Eating here is a pleasure and I can't say enough about how much I enjoy this restaurant. It is always full of patrons which is a good sign that they are doing many things right. The drinks are strong, the people are friendly and the food is awesome!

The food was delicious and very liberal portions--I took over half of mine home and had 2 more meals. Margaritas are the best I've ever tasted! The waitstaff were friendly, attentive and accurate. Great atmosphere and talented mariachis (although a bit loud for conversation). We were there during Day of the Dead celebrations and the place was full, but we didn't have to wait long at all for our food and they had a table ready for us thanks to a family member making reservations ahead of time.

Traditional TexMex restaurant near downtown. Has a full menu of food and beverages you’d expect to find. Ambiance is what you would expect for old school TexMex place, including a mariachi band. Service was quick, efficient and attentive. We went for early dinner before catching a flight and the food came in a matter of minutes after ordering. The size of the steak and chicken portions for the combo fajitas for one was enormous. The meat was cooked perfectly, steak was tender. Overall it could have used a little more salt and lacked some heat (spice) we expected, but still tasted great. The rice had great flavor. Plenty of food for two of us. Were TexMex snobs and this place didn’t disappoint us.

Over all service was good, food was decent but pricey. We order -Mar y Tierra- this is a plate with 3 pcs of sirloin 3 regular size shrimp mixed with vegetable rice and beans. -tacos de Cabrito- it's goat meat marinated with spices. ( really good taste ) also we had chicken tacos nothing special. Tortillas are hand made. For drink we had 1 margarita 1 Victoria 1 carta blanca, orchata, tamarindo, and one coke. We spend over $100 plus tip, atmosphere it's good, but no mariachi, that alone would have made the visit more worth it to me. That's all...

Nice place to eat. Very friendly staff. Good quality food. Excellent chicken dishes on the lunch special. Very authentic with exception of the queso, don't waste time on the queso. Save your appetite for the meal. I have been satisfied from my 3 visits here during lunch break.

Food is not good,I only go there for the mariachis. They really need to put attention in the kitchen.

Unfortunately, El Ranchito's food was overshadowed by dueling Mariachi bands on the Saturday night we visited. That's right, two bands! One started about 7pm which we found made it impossible to talk. It was noisy before. Then about 7:30pm the second band began playing on the opposite side of the dining room - and not the same song. My wife said the chile relleno was very good. My grilled meats combination was OK.

I was in Dallas last month for a vacation and made it a point to get authentic Mexican Cuisine. Went to one place and they didn't have horchata......needless to say I walked out. Then I came across El Ranchito. Great service, my server was there to answer any questions I had about the menu. I got a chimichanga that was the best ever. Instead of salsa they give you this homemade chili sauce that was awesome. Even tried some rice pudding for the first time....very good. Oh... they even had horchata and kept my cup full. Will be going there again if I go back to Dallas.

The restaurant on W. Jefferson serves the best Mexican food in Dallas. The service is great and at night and on the weekends there are mariaches. This restaurant can accomodate large groups for parties. They have fresh hot chips and good salsa. They also serve cabrito and carne asada that is terrific. This is one of the few restaurants where you can get homemade corn tortillas. The lunch special is inexpensive and wonderful.

Visited on 7/12/13 with a European guest so they could experience the rich flavors of Texas and El Ranchito did not disappoint, for either the guest or the locals. Greeted and seated promptly, fresh chips and salsa quickly delivered, salsa had slight kick, could have used a bit more and been slightly thicker, but good overall flavor. Surprisingly empty on a Friday afternoon around 1PM. Our party opted for 3 plates of Guiso Norteño, a Enchiladas Suisas plate and a Chicken Tacos al Carbon plate, plus sides of freshly made flour and corn tortillas. The Guiso Norteño was excellent, steak was tender, the sauce and melted cheese blended perfectly with the meat and the accompanying refried beans were some of the best I have ever had, all three people said a recommended dish! The Tacos al Carbon plate was very large, 3 huge tacos, rice and al charro beans, plus Pico de Gallo and fresh guac, a lot of food for one person. The rice had an overabundance of peas to my taste, but was not bad. The Enchiladas Suisas were large as well, shredded chicken with strong red tomato flavoring that didn't quite mix as well with the tomatillo sauce and Crema Mexicana as expected. Our group thought the corn tortillas were much better than the flour tortillas, as the flour were more burned than nicely scorched, resulting in a too tough tortilla. Overall, a solid 4 stars, would not hesitate in taking out of town guests to sample great regional dishes again or making the local drive for the rich flavor of El Ranchito

Want a great meal, with very loud "live" Mexican music played by a Mariachi Band, then this is definitely the place to go. Just check the times for the live music, and it's better to wait to eat there when the band is playing. Or else you will not get the true Mexican atmosphere. I love to eat at this place with friends or family when in town. It is loud, but Mariachi Bands usually are. Did you ever hear a quite trumpet? Just make sure you speak to the people at your table quickly between songs and the 15 minute breaks the band usually takes throughout the evening. If you don't like loud music don't go when the band is playing or bring ear plugs to cut the noise in half. This place is not for cry babies. I mean adults that want want a romantic experience to talk on a first date or something like that. You will not hear while the band is playing. Plus not talking while you eat is better for you, and will help you digest all of that filling Mexican cuisine.

The hype is overrated this visit was alright. We got the parrillada mexicana which the beef and the beans charros were good but the chicken was dry and the rice seemed undercooked, I've had better. I would say the guava margarita was very good and the mariachis do a great job.

While in town for a conference two other girls and I set out for "real tex-mex" and this place came up on a couple searches - one uber ride later and we felt like we were not where we thought we'd be going - but it was great! Totally out of our comfort zone, we ordered some drinks (had to add my own shots to my margarita, a first for me!) and ordered some food. My queso was lit on fire at the table and my friends enjoyed their meals as well. We loved the real mariachi band playing around at tables but we finished before they made it to ours. It was a quiet Wednesday night and there weren't many tables, but we had great service and made it out with a reasonable bill. Would visit again if in the area!

Great food. Tortillas are good. I recommend you try both the corn and flour tortillas. First time we went to this place we were looking for good Cabrito. We were not disappointed. Since then we have been back several times and tried several different dishes all of which we enjoyed.

This restaurant is in the heart of a Mexican neighborhood in Dallas to the south. Local vibe and quite active. Salsa was excellent and the flaming cheese the best I have had. Main courses were good solid hits, but not special. Found it a bit overpriced. Would not venture down to dinner, but if in city center at lunch is worth the 10 minute drive.

Our family met here for dinner. We had reservations and were seated right away. Some of our party were late but we weren’t rushed and had drinks and starters. The food was enjoyed by most everyone. The waiter was very nice and helpful.

I went today for early lunch to beat the crowd. This is small and nice restaurant. For my taste there are too many tables for such a small place, but if you go early or during the off times then you will be OK, but if you don't mind the crowd and sitting too close to the people at the next table then go for dinner or right at lunch time. They have mariachi at night during the weekends, I am not sure if they have the mariachi on the weekdays. Service was good and I sat right at the entrance on the first table and I did not go to the restroom so I can't really tell if the restroom is clean. also I failed to take a picture of my dish. When I got there the waiter was very nice and he immediately brought me the menu and asked what I wanted to drink. I asked him for a suggestion and he recommended " enchiladas suizas " they were super good! they were filled with mozzarella cheese ( or you can have them with chicken too) and topped with green salsa, shredded lettuce and "queso fresco" , I devoured them! they came with beans and rice. When you go to El Ranchito" ask for Alex Gaytan,he was my waiter, he gave me excellent service.

We have dined here multifple times. The food is great and the atmosphere is awesome. The have Mariachi Bands that play there on weekends, and I would highly recommend trying this place out if you have never been!

There was a great atmosphere in this restaurant. It wasn't the best Mexican food I've had, but it was good. Portions were large and prices were reasonable. The margaritas were great and our server was amazing, even though the restaurant was fairly busy while we were there. The mariachi band was a nice touch too. Although we didn't pay for them to play a song at our table, the table next to us paid them for about 10 songs, so it was still just as good!

We were invited to join friends at this restaurant which we last visited 25 years ago. It is in a part of Dallas that we do not normally frequent. It has been around for years and is quite popular. However, be ready to wait on weekends and once inside to contend with a loud mariachi band complete with trumpet. The band wanders from table to table and if you request a song be prepared to pay $20 per song. The prices seem a bit high for Mexican food but apparently they can get it. The Saturday night we were there it was very crowded inside with a good size crowd waiting to get in. Parking is very limited. If you park across the street, be aware there are towing signs posted. Also, be aware that patrons are speaking in various languages, primarily Spanish and competing with the band. Conversations are difficult. The menu is extensive with a lot of options. Depending upon your taste in restaurants, you will either love or not love this restaurant. It seems to be best for large groups.

Had an annual "Cousin Dinner" here Saturday night. 16 cousins. This place is wonderful. Fun, mariachi band all over the p,ace. Great food.... Wonderful authentic feeling atmosphere. I would recommend anyone give this place a try.

This is an older place with a lot of decorations and a very loud mariachi band, but the food is not as good as other Mexican restaurants in the area and the prices are a bit higher so we cannot recommend it.

This is a neat find on Jefferson Boulevard in what once considered a "bad" part of town, but is evolving into hipness. Went on a Friday night and it was packed, but we managed to snag a booth in the bar. We got margaritas and ordered food from there, which was great. The parillada, a mixed grill of meat, was delicious. The mariachi band was amazing and so much fun. While in the area, be sure to check out all the amazing Mexican party dresses in the shops nearby.

We had the opportunity to enjoy a late lunch at Ranchitos. The service was great. Our server was great anticipating our needs. The food was hot and tasty. The home made tortillas are a must. Make sure to get there early enough to try the atole. Great way to wrap up a great meal at Ranchitos!

This is the best authentic Mexican food in Dallas. If your looking for Tex-Mex you're better off going to El Fenix. The beef fajitas are their best dish, and there homemade corn tortillas compliment the food very well. Best Flan in Dallas!

This is NOT a low cost restaurant as Google shows. But, the food and service make it very much worth what you pay. I would say a good average plate price would be around $16. That's an average. Some as low as $10, while others around $20. Plates are large, and filled with full portions. Some of these entrees come on a flaming mini type grill that actually is still cooking the food with open flame right on the table. They don't skimp. Very cozy while yet formal atmosphere. Mariachis are available for $20 per song. Although it looks small outside, it's very large inside. I would recommend reservations, especially if you have a large crowd. This place has been pretty much full since arrival. And I can see why.

Over hyped by my friends which called it "best Mexican food in Texas." My chicken was dry and not much flavor on the rice. The tortillas were probably their best item and their margarita was like a slushy from Sonic with a little tequila. We also waited a while for a table on a Wednesday at 5 p.m. and after seating down we waited another while for menus. My friend had arrachera and my other friend had chicken fajitas like meself we were there a total of 2 hours for just dinner and some drinks but left disappointed, then again this was just my experience and I grew up in Monterrey so my expectations were pretty high.

We have been eating at El Ranchito for years. Very good traditional Texas/Mexican (not TxMex with lots of processed & cheddar cheese). You can get traditional meals like tacos & enchiladas also guiso, cabrito, caldio etc. The tortillas are made at the restaurant and very good. My only real complaint is that they do not have much for a near veterinarian like me, I usually have to order off menu and they try to accommodate. They are opening a 2nd location in Arlington (S. Cooper St.) soon. Can't wait.

We had not been here in a while, so returned to the familiar restaurant. I ordered something different this time and am glad I did. I had a combination plate that had a chicken taco and guacamole tostado with beans (not refried - the other kind whose name I can't remember). I was pleasantly surprised by the taco - it was tasty. Their guacamole is usually good. Service was excellent.

We were invited to have late Dinner with friends and they took us to this wonderfully hidden gem of a Restaurant. Live Mariachis were awesome, great appetizers and of course the main course we had was awesome. the drinks were good and prices were definitely within our budget. Only thing that was not to our satisfaction was parking. Very little space to park. We had to circle a few time and wait for someone to leave before we were able to park our vehicle. Experience we had was great. We certainly recommend to all.

As always, chile relenos, fajitas and margaritas very good. However, Mariachi Band is way too loud and overpowering. We sat down in the smaller room and ordered drinks. After drinks were brought, we placed our order. Shortly afterward, the mariachi band, including trumpet, proceeded to start in this small room at the table next to us. They played 5 or 6 songs at that table with the small boy at that table, along with my daughter, sitting with fingers in ears. They then went to the next table and played at least 6 songs. We could not talk/have any kind of discussion at our table due to how loud the music and trumpet were playing. We finished eating and left, communicating with server via sign language. The reason I speculated at least 6 songs at second table is because they were still playing. Walked out with ringing in my ears. Too bad because I really enjoy their food but probably won't be returning.

THE MARGARITAS ARE STRONG! I already don't like margaritas, but the amount of tequila in these just made me run away from them forever lol. I traded it in for a Malibu with pineapple and it was delicious. I ordered "Enchiladas Sucias" and it was sooooo good. I don't think I've had any better enchiladas. My daughter had the "kids" taco plate which was really made for an adult. She's four and she could not eat it all. The mariachi music was wonderful. The server was fast and friendly. I only don't like how small the restaurant is. There was not an extra chair for my daughter so she had to sit on my lap. *Tip* Be prepared to spend...

This place is too notch. The food is really good, and some of the best salsa I've ever had. The staff is also exceptionally friendly and takes the time to make you feel welcomes and make sure everything is done 100% correct. Would recommend to anyone looking for a good time and authentic food.

but a bit "off" this last visit. The chips were not fresh or hot and were too salty. Same with the cheese enchiladas...the rice was fine but the beans only so-so. Still a "go to" Mexican place for me in Oak Cliff but was not thrilled this last visit.

I had read some of the reviews online and was not disappointed. This place is really like being in Mexico, with Authentic cuisine. There is an attendant in the parking lot, and the mariachis will delight from the moment you open the door, and the service is great. The food is Authentic Mexican Food, not the typical Dallas, Tex-Mex. Everything is fresh and you can tell by looking at it, and verify it by the taste. Make sure to save room for dessert :-) It's worth the trip to Oak Cliff, I'll be going back

Consistently good food and service...lots of regulars at El Ranchito...friendly service and managerial staff. The only thing I can't recommend are the salads, but one shouldn't order a salad at a Mexican restaurant! My favorite is the cheese enchilada lunch, but fajitas and tacos and quesadillas are good too...lemonade is tasty!

In our family birthdays are celebrated with dinner & a movie (selected by bday person) so for my son's 19th bday he wanted enchiladas. I set out on a quest to find the best Mexican restaurant w/good enchiladas. The reviews on Trip Advisor for El Ranchito were really good. We headed over on a Sunday after church, when we arrived we found the parking to be scarce. We circled around once and THANK GOD we found a good parking spot in the front of the building. We were greeted & seated immediately upon entering. The decor had a serious Mexico flare, even had a Mariachi band playing at a table. Our waiter came and took our drink order--delivered the drinks and then vanished. Literally disappeared, we had to wave down another waitress to get us some tea. When I read the reviews several people stated service was not good and I was starting to believe it was true. Our waiter finally reappeared with my margarita and took our food order. My husband ordered the chicken, and beef fajitas, my son ordered 3 tacos w/rice and I ordered the shrimp & spinach enchiladas. Within 20 minutes our food was out which isn't bad for a Sunday crowd. My husbands fajitas came out sizzling on a cast iron plate over a flame. The meat was dried out mostly due to they were still cooking over that flame. I told my husband to blow the flame out so the meat won't turn to a crisp. He asked for cheese & sour cream which usually comes standard w/fajitas but once we received the bill we saw a $2 charge for the condiments. My shrimp & spinach enchiladas were amazingly delicious! ! My son said his tacos were ok....nothing to special. Again our waiter disappeared-- I asked the hostess to please see if she could find our waiter and inform him of my son's bday. I wanted a special dessert for him. Another 15-20 minutes later our waiter reappeared without the dessert. I asked the hostess again if she had told the waiter about my request and she said yes but she'll go remind him. He came back with a sopapilla which had a lit candle on it. We all joined in to sing happy birthday to my son. By the way my son said the bday dessert was delicious. Our bill was $70 which was so very worth it. We will definitely be going back. SOON! Maybe today!

I've been going to this place for years, and I still enjoy going here. On my last visit, I brought a friend from Mexico City, and she thought the place was legit. El Ranchito is a great place for birthday parties and other celebrations since there are always mariachi bands (damn good ones in the evening. The food is also great, and make sure you get a margarona!

We eat at Ranchito on a regular basis, the food, service and surroundings are always excellent. It is family owned place that is usually filled with families sharing a meal and good times together. The Marachis are very good as well. Even though many times we are the only Anglos in the place the atmosphere is always warm and inviting. The Tex Mex is very good, but the more traditional offerings such as Enchilas Suiza, Mole, Cabrito, Alalmbres really shine along with fresh homemade corn and flour tortillas.

In Dallas to visit family, my brother-in-law took us here for dinner one night, claiming it was the best Mexican food in Dallas. I can't vouch for that as it was the only Mexican food we tried in Dallas, but it was really, really tasty! The atmosphere is mad. The place was absolutely heaving when we visited, but the staff quickly found us a table for eight, and were very efficient in taking our orders. There were not one but two Mariachi bands playing - and yes, each was playing na different tune - so it was very loud but infectiously cheerful. The Margaritas were really good, with loads of crushed ice so very cold and thirst-quenching. We got complimentary tortilla chips with a spicy salsa, both of which tasted freshly made. Between us we had a mix of burritos, tacos and the like. Portion sizes were very generous and again the food was nicely cooked and tasted great. Prices were average for the type of meal, and the staff were attentive and efficient throughout. Good choice, Kevin!

El Ranchita was a favorite destination for my friends and I for years. RESTAURANT took a nose dive during Covid … seriously… even the salsa and margaritas were in digestible! Today was our last try…the food improved to edible…but the margaritas were way too sweet and unenjoyable! Sadly…we won’t be coming back

Authentic spot with local flavor and happy crowds, food is exceptional and comes very fast, maybe too fast. Our server mistook our orders and brought different dishes, the restaurant was very busy and service was hectic. Once we realized they made a mistake, we thought about sending our dish back but it was so delicious that we decided to finish it. I guess everything here tastes great, as compensation we got an extra desert which was the best tres leches I ever had. Yummy

Went to El Ranchito early afternoon with a few friends. I'd definitely go back to El Ranchito again, and plan some extra time to explore the Oak Cliff neighborhood. The interior is a maze of eclectic, funky fun... murals, tri-color chairs, flags, banners, plants, tissue paper decorations, varied light fixtures, paper mache parrots, trinkets... lots-o playful kitsch! The frozen margaritas were very good and potent. Just a tad on the sweet side for me, but I was not complaining while drinking. Atmosphere was festive and bustling. Some people might find it too loud, especially with the mariachis, but the El Ranchito is obviously not meant to be a quiet, romantic experience. The service was a bit eratic, but they were super busy, so considering the crowd and pace of all that was going on, service was acceptable - the staff looked to be always hustling and trying to keep up.

A group of us where going to downtown Dallas to see a comedy show. One of the couples with us suggested eating here saying we would love it. When I found out it was in Oak Cliff I was a little scared since The Cliff is a scary place in general. I'm so glad I took the chance! It was very good & affordable. I had the shrimp & cheese enchiladas & a couple of huge margaritas. My mouth still waters thinking of how good everything was. I look forward to going back. We did have to wait almost an hour for a table, but it was around 7:30 on a Saturday night when we went, so that is to be expected.

I normally love this place, but today all the guests are wearing winter coats. I asked and they have no heat. Are you kidding? This is evidently the usual since the staff don't seem to mind.

Very good food.... different from the usual tex-mex... lovely ambience - they have created a feel of being in Mexico... have musicians around playing latino music... & quite reasonable priced.

What food I had was good. They had some great salsa. I would not classify this as the best Latin food that I have eaten but it was good and that is why I gave it an average.

I literally stumbled over this restaurant after a $20 cab ride to a BBQ restaurant that was closed due to hosting a private event and then walking a mile to another that was out of business. I saw this restaurant with a long line outside. I sat at the bar listening to a mariachi band. I may have been the only person who was not a native Spanish speaker. Nice people serving,great atmosphere, and excellent food.

I just don't know how they do it. Awesome fabulous food, un-ruffled and competent staff, and wonderful margaritas. We had a reservation for 18 that was made just a few hours before arrival. When we got to El Ranchito the line was long, heading down the street. We had been at a Volleyball tournament at the Convention Center. Our table was ready and they efficiently waited on us for the duration of the dinner. I had a wonderful meal of spinach and shrimp enchiladas. Best ever! Everyone in our party loved their meals and the service and of course the Marachi band. Very fun evening at El Ranchito!!!

and a rear atmosphere. The place is festive and fun with a live Mariachi band. You will find friends and family gather here so it can be a bit loud especially on Friday and Saturday nights. We have been regulars for years and finally took time to review it.

Very good food, not great; had the chicken mole dinner at $11.95. My plate was served lukewarm. Corn tortillas were excellent; best I've ever had; took a dozen home. Flan dessert was good but with a cheesecake texture and expensive at $5.95. Husband had the tres leches cake and it was dry. Service was plentiful all around with hosts, servers, and bussers dashing all about in such a crowded space, serving trays coming directly from the kitchen and traveling over my head literally, but service was still veeerrry slow. Crowded beyond my liking. Live mariachis. Noise level consistently very high. Been there and done that.

This is a great Mexican restaurant. I’ve never had anything here I didn’t like. The salsa is very good and the tortillas are awesome. The Milanese, fajitas, and meat dishes are excellent and very flavorful. The rice and beans are very good too. The portions are very ample and the prices are very reasonable.

Great food and truly authentic Tex-Mex. We discovered this place a couple of years ago and just keep coming back. So many great items on the menu and perfect for large groups. The service is always wonderful. Delicious!

The restaurant atmosphere doesn't get more authentic. A big mariachi band, painted walls and the overall decor manage to recreate the atmosphere south of the border. The food, however, is mediocre and the drinks (we tried several different margaritas) were sub-par. It could be a fun place for a birthday party or some other celebration, but I would stick to beer at dinner.

Terrible service. They don't honor the yelp coupon either... We were told they would, and then our server left the restaurant!! We waited a good 15 minutes before walking out. Save yourself a trip and find another place while in Dallas.

The restaurant is located in a Latino area. We came there for lunch on "Cinco di Mayo". The place was packed full, and with a great atmosphere. We thought we ordered a light lunch for two. Two starters and a single main couorse (steak), but we were literally inundated with food. Our waitress was enthusiastic, but rather unqualified. She didn't know much about the food or drinks, but it was "all great". The steak was a Ribeye. We ordered it done to medium, but when it came it was close to well done. We decided not to complaint, but when we got the cheque it even had written on it "Ribeye - well done". We asked the waitress how that could be..., and she claimed that all receipts say that.................. we then decided to not overtip. We still loved the place due to its atmosphere. But do order light, unless you want to take a few doggie bags home with you.

Food is really good and the service was spot on. The Mariachis, while fun, are just too loud and make talking difficult.

I've come to El Ranchito periodically, as I find myself in Dallas, for over 20 years and the place never disappoints. They serve Mexican and Texas/Mexican food, but not necessarily the heavily over-cheese laden stuff that Tex-Mex has become. Their tortillas, which are made in house, are excellent. I've had the cabrito and the sweetbreads, among other dishes, but the sweetbreads are my favorite, and I can't say that I've ever had better. My entire family looks forward to eating here, both adventurous and picky eaters alike and I highly recommend it.

This was my second visit to El Ranchito, the first being in 2005 when we were evacuated to Dallas after Hurricane Katrina. I loved it both times, both for the food and the wonderful mariachis!

Man. Was that great for the first time I was blown away, service a little edgy only because I don't know Spanish. Overall very good. Joe Parsons

Great food! We went with a large group, they accommodated us well and service was good. No complaints. We can't wait to go again.

So we come back and ordered amazing beef fajitas - much - much tender than mi cocina. Margaritas on the rocks and their corn chips were fresh we are going back - yum

Had a good time with family. It was Beatles night and place was packed. Service and food are good. Prices are a little high.

Mariachis came by our table and played 2 songs and I gave them $5. They said it was $20 a song...ouch. Asked to speak with manager and they said there was a sign when you entered...the "mariachis" did not mention it. Manager sided with them. No bueno!

I went there with some friends...and the first thing that really strucks you is the Mariachi band that plays at some tables (you have to ask them to play for you). I ordered a margarita on the rocks (very nice) and a seafood plate (camarones a la oscar). The serving was quite small in my opinion and if I'd go there next time I'll probably try one of the meat plates. The lamb stewed looked good and satosfactory! Price is quite high both for the food and the area the place is. Go if you pass by...but I wouldn't advise you to go there just for that.

This used to be one of our favorite eatery and watering hole. Tried it right after Dallas allowed restaurants to reopen and it just was not good. Waited until today 1/16/22 and while it was better, our group drives about 20 miles to get there and we will not be back. It was mediocre at best and the drinks where below my standards

It´s a great place to eat and drink a beer, like in Mexico. They have a perfect flavour in their foods. I recommended fully.

I'm a quesadilla kind of girl, but my guy was determined to get some good Mexican food...menudo in particular. We drove all over the place trying to find his menudo & we found it, at El Ranchito. This restaurant has a very fun & welcoming atmosphere. A great place for large families or for couples looking for a date night.I recommend this place to anyone. If the food doesn't sweep you off your feet, the mariachi band will!

This place provides a truly authentic experience. We had the famed Cabrito and it lived up to all expectations. Their guacamole is so fresh and so is the salsa. The night we were there they had the most fabulous mariachi band, we stayed after our meal just to listen to them longer. I highly recommend making a reservation if you plan to go on the weekends as it appeared "zoo like" during our mid-week visit!

Great authentic Mexican food. They serve great TexMex too. Always quick and friendly service. We visit almost every week for lunch.

Went there with friends to eat a delicacy (cabrito) which is young goat. The waiters bring the food on a mini grill at your table and it stays warm while you eat. Margaritas had my wife singing with the mariachis. Is packed so I recommend reservations. For an authentic Mexican cuisine and live entertainment is a must to visit. The grocery store across the street lets you park there if you are going to the restaurant.

From the moment we arrived at El Ranchito I felt as if I was on vacation in Mexico! Even the clientele there lends to the feeling that you are south of the border! Be sure you experience them the first time on the weekend. There was a fantastic mariachi band playing as I walked in the door and a friendly face welcoming us at the door We were soon seated (maybe not in the best spot, but it worked out as you will see) and while we were waiting for our drinks the nice woman behind us making homemade tortillas handed us a dozen of mixed tortillas and butter.....mmmmm mmmm! After a while the drinks arrived, we got the margaritas on the rocks and they were in huge glasses and were sufficiently strong in order to brighten the experience! Next came the food. Generous portions and it felt like someone's mom was in the kitchen. Barely finished my meal and was stuffed but satisfied. And no better way to leave than being serenaded with My Way in Spanish as you walk out the door!

Great restaurant! Tasty food. Service was a bit "unfriendly" but I wouldn't quite say "rude". Where the service lacked, the beef fajitas were worth it! First-timers beware the Mariachi Bands charge to play music at your table ;)

Great service, great salsa, food was superb. Will be back soon. Carlos was a great server. Thank you

This place looks old, real old but you will be totally amazed at how good the good is. Everything I tried on the menu was awesome. Friendly staff, reasonable food prices. It gets packed on Saturdays so get there early. Some of the best tex mex I've ever had.

This tex-mex restaurant was recommended by a local shop owner. Great authentic food and amazing marguerita's. A little challenging as a non-Spanish-speaking person, but that's to be expected in a spot like this. Loved it!

Tex Mex immersion. One of the best places to find it in Dallas, the Cabrito is tender and served sizzling. Get there early or be prepared to wait and come with a full wallet. Prices for Tax Mex are on the high side. Polishing up on your Spanish is also a plus when it comes to speaking with the staff. Margaritas and Beers are frosty and pair perfectly with the food. An absolute must order, besides the Cabrito is the elote.

We stopped by for lunch and this is an excellent authentic Mexican Restaurant. Food and service were both excellent. Fresh tortillas, flautas, chili releno, fajitas, cabrito tacos, cat fish were the dishes we had and none of them disappointed. Oh, forgot the Sopapillas for desert, also very tasty. Will definitely return.

My wife and I went for date night after checking out the good reviews on tripadvisor. The reviews are accurate. The food, service, and atmosphere were spot on. Ask for Carlos for your server. He was attentive and friendly without being intrusive. We arrived in time for happy hour. The margaritas were excellent, potent, and very large (be careful if you are driving - they sneak up on you). We had a fajita-like platter with steak, chicken, and sausage that was tasty. The portions were large and we had leftovers for the next day's lunch. Most patrons appeared to be locals. We had meal for two and 3 large margaritas for less than $50. Good value.

Popular restaurant. My go to place when I have guest from out of town visiting. Good food. Live entertainment. Homemade tortillas are the BEST. I always take some to go!

This restaurant is located in the heart of Oak Cliff, a suburb right outside downtown Dallas. The outward appearance of the place is not up-scale but don't let that stop you....the food and drinks are very good! We went for an early dinner on a Friday afternoon so we were promptly seated and waited on. As we were leaving it did start to fill up.

I love the atmosphere here! It's my pick for Birthday dinner with family and friends. The neighborhood maybe a little rough but there is security around usually a Dallas police officer! Drive by the famous Texas Theater while your down in this pet of town!

I went there and all I could say that their margaronas and burrito a la Tex Mex was excellent. Great atmosphere, great food and drinks. Even though the location of the restaurant is not the greatest I enjoyed it. Will be back very soon!

My wife and I had an early dinner at This small Peavy Rd location and found it to be quite good. The chips are fairly thick and a little too greasy but the salsa (neither free) was served warm and had a good flavor with some heat. We both opted for the chicken enchilada plate with green sauce, served with rice and beans, a tomato slice and some lettuce. The rice and beans are above average. The white cheese on the enchiladas was a nice touch and they were delicious. They placed both a red and a green sauce on the table and we liked the green much better. We will go back.