The Mexican food scene in the Eastern Panhandle is extremely competitive, with so many different options. One of the best in the area is the Ranson location of El Ranchero. Just a personal anecdote about why this spot has a special place in my heart – El Ranchero was the first restaurant that we dined at after COVID turned the world upside down, as they offered outdoor patio seating that spring. Ever since, they have been pumping out traditional Mexican flavors, all accompanied by a fun and friendly staff.
Price 💲💲💲out of 5
I have seen a trend where Mexican restaurants are seeing prices increase, and that is to be expected. El Ranchero comes in just a tad bit higher than others in the area, but they are also offering favorable portions, unique dishes you can’t find everywhere, and quality ingredients, whether it is a simple taco or a sizzling molcajete. Most dishes are between $15 and $30.
Ambience 🧑🍳🧑🍳🧑🍳🧑🍳🧑🍳 out of 5
Mexican restaurants in our area absolutely crush the decor game. It is so vibrant inside of El Ranchero, with colorful paintings, a massive bar, and plenty of Mexican decorations. What really puts El Ranchero on top is the fantastic servers and staff. Everyone is so friendly and were genuinely excited to be there with the Foodies team. When you go to El Ranchero, know you are going to have a fun time.
Food 🥩🥩🥩🥩🥩 out of 5
What it all comes down to … here are the items we got to sample:
Guacamole and Queso – we got to sample their homemade guac, which was so flavorful and creamy, and their queso, which was the perfect consistency. Both went so well with tortilla chips.
Texas Fajitas – this sizzling plate was stuffed with chicken, steak, shrimp, and veggies. They provided us with some homemade hotsauce, and it had an incredible kick. Just a very solid plate of fajitas.
Molcajete – the star of the show at any Mexican restaurant if done right, this dish did not disappoint. I love the flavorful steak, chicken, shrimp, and chorizo, but the ingredient that set this dish apart from others was the sticks of queso fresca. So indulgent!
Tilapia and Shrimp – if you are a seafood fan, get this dish. The shrimp and tilapia were both so tender, and they were absolutely drenched in an amazing cream sauce. Served with rice and broccoli, this is a lighter, healthier alternative.
Burrito Jalisco – this massive burrito is stuffed with grilled steak, shrimp, chicken, and chorizo, and topped with cheese sauce and salsa verde. Enough to feed at least two people, I highly recommend this dish if you are starving.
Chocolate Chimichanga – we also got treated to a couple of desserts, and a chocolate chimichanga was something I had personally never tried. Now I can say that it is one of my favorite desserts of all time. Decadently sweet and crispy.
Fried Ice Cream – usually I’m not a huge fan of fried ice cream, but El Ranchero did it the right way. It was so creamy without tasting over-fried.
Experience ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ out of 5
El Ranchero is doing things the right way. They have so many amazing dishes where they only use quality ingredients, and they have built up a really solid community of regulars. With friendly staff and unique dishes, I can understand why. If you are looking for a night out with the girls, with your family, or even to treat yourself, I’d highly suggest El Ranchero in Ranson as your next stop.