I used to love to go to Rancho’s for Mexican food. I went so often that I was on a first-name basis with all the servers. When Rancho’s closed it was a sad day, but that sadness quickly dissipated when I realized that one of the best server’s – Hugo – was going to take over the running of the establishment.

It is just about a year now since it changed hands. The menu has changed slightly; prices are a little higher, but with the advent of higher minimum wage it seems that all prices are higher. And the food is as good, if not better than it was when it was Rancho’s.

On Tuesday one of my former Japanese students – Shun – met me for lunch. We decided to go to Hugo’s because it was “Taco Tuesday” and it was nearby. We both looked at the Tuesday menu, but both decided to order from the regular menu instead.

Shun wanted a burrito, and I suggested that he try the shrimp burrito. He didn’t want beans, but wanted a side order of rice. I had the shrimp enchilada, and while we waited for our order we gorged on some of the best salsa and chips north of the border – the Mexican border!

We ordered lemonades and then later into our meal Shun ordered a draft of Pacifico.

The food was so good. I seldom finish a meal because I usually take some of it home to make into a snack for my students. Not this time. I finished the whole enchilada, and Shun also finished all of the huge burrito. How they are so consistent with their food is a mystery to me. I have never had a bad meal there, either as Hugo’s or as Rancho’s.

The service was great, like it always is.

One of the nice things about Hugo’s is that everyone can eat there – vegans, gluten-free eaters, carnivores, etc. They have some nice appetizers, soups and salads, combination plates, etc. They have a true Mexican menu, including breakfast. They even have sandwiches and tortas, sides, and a kids menu.

Their regular menu is many pages long, with a true eclectic offering. I am looking forward to my return.

Hugo’s Cocina

1830 Sunset Cliffs Blvd.

619-892-7882