As part of our SoCal Social, we headed to Avila’s El Ranchito Mexican restaurant for dinner.  Avila’s is located within walking distance of Old Town Orange, which is itself beautiful.  Really, the area is perfect for lazy Saturdays, Sundays, and any day in between!  I was not sure what to expect of the restaurant, and I was immediately in love with the exterior of the building!

Apparently, it was converted from a church, which you definitely noticed from the stained-glass windows inside.  I really have a soft-spot for buildings with historical significance, and this one does not disappoint (despite the so-so picture).

We had a chance to catch some drinks at the bar before the private dining room was set up.  It was quiet at first, but when I passed by later that night, it was hopping!

When we got to the table, there was an EMORMOUS mountain of guacamole, which we immediately attacked.  I am not always a fan of the texture of guacamole, but this was the perfect combination of smooth and chunky.  We were only able to make a dent in half of it, but we tried our hardest!

For dinner, it was provided by the event, so we had a sampling of different entrees: enchiladas and fajitas.  I was famished, and it was delicious, so I made the mistake of diving in immediately before snapping a photo.  Oops!

Luckily, there were more than a few other bloggers who Instagram-ed their plates.  🙂

We had sooo much food that a few lucky bloggers’ significant others got some pretty delicious doggy bags!  I found out later that there are a few other locations around Southern California, including a couple that are really close to where I live.  Yessss!

As for dessert, it was provided by Creative Cakes, but I did spy some Empanadillas on the menu that I would love to try…

182 South Orange Street
Orange, CA 92866
(714) 516-1000
avilaselranchito.com