Mi Ranchito — Restaurant in Providence

June 1, 2024—After a few exhausting hours of apartment hunting with my friend, we decided to take a break and try a new restaurant. The saga of finding a place to live continues, with everything outrageously expensive even in the less desirable areas.

The food at the restaurant was good, although I wasn’t particularly fond of the rice. I prefer my chicken soup with white rice only, but I decided to go with the experience. I also sampled my friend’s dish—the meat was fantastic, tender, and delicious. The music was at a pleasant volume, not too loud, which made the atmosphere enjoyable.

The bar had an interesting look to it. Having visited El Salvador before, I was reminded of how much I loved the food and the people there. I didn’t try the coffee this time, but I noticed someone else enjoying a cup, and it definitely wasn’t instant coffee.

Parking was available, but I chose to park across the street by the library due to the heavy traffic. Figuring out the entry and exit from the restaurant seemed too complicated at the time. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable, which amazed me considering how expensive everything is nowadays. It’s impressive that they can afford to sell at those prices and still make a profit.

These are the kinds of restaurants I wouldn’t typically think to stop by and enjoy a meal, but I’ve been taking my friend to try new places as a break from our apartment hunting. Like the saying goes “Apartment hunting: where you pay to tour tiny spaces and pretend you're excited about the 'charming' view of the dumpster.

To top it off, just as we were navigating the labyrinth of apartment hunting, the rearview mirror in my car decided to make a dramatic exit. There I was, driving down the street, when suddenly, the mirror just fell off and dangled precariously. It was as if my car had decided to undress in public, leaving its undergarments flapping...

First time here and was very impressed! My favorite Mexican place was closed (la Lupita) so i decided to go across the street to check out mi Ranchito! The service was awesome, two very sweet girls walked me through the menu. The bartender was clearly very well loved by staff and customers. Seemed like she knew the place like the back of her hand. She praised the soft tacos (which were delicious). I got one shrimp, beef, and chicken. Came with a salad and side of rice — the rice was phenomenal! But the star of the show was the Chicken soup. You can only do a large size for take out, but I was given the choice of having my chicken grilled… I said, why not? And I am so glad I did. The chefs put the stewed chicken, still on the bone, and crisp it up over heat. The chicken of the soup was then boxed separately from the broth, and I was shocked about how much delicious chicken they gave us! Falling off the bone, tender, but with a bit of a crust from the grilling at the end. So so good. Also came with a quarter of avocado and rice. A really good deal. I got a Modelo waiting for my food, and the total came out to $36 (and then i tipped $8,...

Rather a small space and modest decorations in the interior. While I was dining, I could see the regulars come in with families and enjoy food, which is a good sign.

Service was pleasant and food came out quite fast on a Monday evening when I went. My friend and I ordered the platter (pork, beef, shrimp). Nothing too fancy, nothing mind blowing -- overall just a good hearty meal.

Portion was plenty for both of us to take leftovers. Meat was dry like the others reviews said, so next time I'll ask them not to cook meat so well done.

Loud music and TV were a little distracting, but I'd like to come back and enjoy the food and be laid back a little at this cozy restaurant.

(I didn't see a designated parking area but street...