Week 14 - Ranchos Cocina

Ranchos Cocina
Ocean Beach on Sunset Cliffs

Eater #1 Civiche tostada, beans, Negra Modelo

I was suprised at how big the place was on the inside. The place looked killer, There was a section of the wall dedicated to "Fridas". The salsa that came with the chips was a little scooby, but I ate it anyways. Once the waiter brought the tray with all of our food I knew that I was in the right place (actually after I got my beer I was in the right place) from the smell. The civiche was damn good - the fish was nice and firm, after a splash of tapatio it was so good. Lots of lemon juice. The beans at Rancho Cocina are the real deal - I know that they specialize in vegitarian dishes, but these tasted like there was lard in them (the right way to make re-frys).

Eater #2 - Huevos rancheros

Vegans cook good meat

Huevos rancheros muy bueno

Next time sit on deck.

Eater #3 - MIA, somewhere in a book

Eater #4 - Potato rolled tacos

One word? Yum. This taco shop seemed quaint with the burlap ceiling tiles and vine stenciled archways. Yet it opened into a massive dining area with covered patio, all wonderfully decorated. The space allowed diners to eat without being bumped by other guests or over hearing needless conversations. Something that is hard to avoid in OB. The menu is expansive and we've decided to give this place more attention as the year continues. I ate the potato taquitos, and LOVED them. Three taquitos covered in guacamole, sour cream, cheese, tomatoes, and lettuce. We all know size matters, and you won't be disappointed here. The tacos and burritos were huge and yummy, especially for the price. The staff was gracious, attentive, and courteous. I can't wait for our next visit here!

Eater #5 - MIA (pending?)

Eater #6 - Vegan Burrito

Decor and environment was nice. Lots to look at. There is a lot on the menu to choose from. I had the vegan burrito, which had black beans, rice, guac, and lettuce on a wheat tortilla. It was huge. I only ate 1/4 of it. It came with some sort of shredded veggies on the side. I think they were more for looks though. I didn't eat them. The chips were good, but the salsa was too hot for me. It took too long to get our food and to pay the bill, but maybe that was because they had to do 6 separate bills. I would go there again.

Eater #7 - Pineapple tamale and eggplant enchilada

Atmosphere: It's decor consisted of a mix-match of everything from mirrors, to chairs, to their bowls, to the wall color. The decorator knew it wasn't going to match but this is way it's supposed to be. Laid back, fun colors, polite and attentive staff, and there's a hint of Mexican culture mixed with everything in their very large dining area.

Food: The chips were crisp and the salsa delicious. Spicy, chunks of tomato, taste of hot pepper ... lots of flavor. The menu contained an abundance of choices. Starting with your basic taco ... all the way to the vegan enchilada. It truly is a vegetarian's Mexican food restaurant dream. I ordered the pineapple tamale and eggplant enchilada. Portions sizes are large, so you're getting your money's worth here. The pineapple tamale contained the sweetness of pineapple juice mixed with masa and topped with warm pineapple. Add a little salsa ... and the mixture of flavors was a perfect combination. The vegan enchilada contained diced up chunks of flavorful seasoned eggplant all wrapped up in a wheat tortilla, topped with melted white cheese. Pure Yumminess!!!

When are we going back???

Pictures: http://picasaweb.google.com/TacoFriday/Week14#