La Jolla Favorite Since 1945

Home-Style Mexican × Regionally Influenced

Located in the Barber Tract neighborhood of La Jolla, Verdes El Ranchero features authentic and traditional Mexican dishes drawn from family recipes.

Opened in 1945 by Buzzy Martinez and lovingly nicknamed "The Ranch" by La Jolla residents, Verdes El Ranchero is one of the select restaurants to have outlasted La Jolla's ever changing tide from quaint beach community, to one of international fame. Since 2009 it is has been owned and operated by the Green family who have called the Barber Tract home for 30 years. Together Gloria and her daughter Megan work to maintain the warmth and hospitality that keep "The Ranch" a place where it is not uncommon to see four generations of families together enjoying the best Mexican cuisine La Jolla has to offer.

Verdes El Ranchero offers a full bar featuring a wide array of Tequilas, handmade Margaritas, and Mexican beers. The menu offers a range of Mexican dishes from Chile Rellenos, Carnitas, Enchiladas, Burritos, and Tamales. As well as fresh Salads, Tostadas, and Soups. Plus much more.

Patrons of Verdes El Ranchero will find themselves surrounded by the bright colors of Mexico that radiate warmth, and relaxation, rich wood accents and hand painted murals, some dating back the early 1960's, as well as local artwork for sale.

Photos by RJ Saler Photography & Megan MURPHY