The Best Authentic Mexican Food in Orange County
La Cocina de Ricardo
The Taste and Spirit of Mixtlán Jalisco, México in Beautiful Lake Forest, California.
Friends, Family Food & Drink
Come,Relax and Enjoy.
Everything tastes better fresh from the kitchen, so join us and experience dining in our cozy little corner of the world! You can even order right from your table- scan the QR code at your table, order, and enjoy!
Friends, Family Food & Drink
A Tradition of Excellence
La Cocina de Ricardo is dedicated to the family tradition of excellence that began with Grandma Juana in Mixtlán Jalisco, México. She was the main chef of her town and would prepare the food for small and large events, from parties to weddings, making every occasion memorable. This tradition of thoughtfully prepared recipes was passed to Mamacita Alicia, who brought all this knowledge to Southern California decades ago.
Ricardo, a San Clemente High School graduate, with his enterprising spirit inspired by his Grandpa Arnulfo, convinced Mamacita to share her recipes with the Orange County people and so she did, opening their first restaurant in the middle 1980’s. Ricardo, Alicia, Guillermo & Mario as well as the rest of the family, are dedicated to maintain a clean establishment and serve the best, healthiest and most affordable Mexican food around.
We thank you for your business and consider you an important part of our family tradition. We look forward to bringing a smile to you and your family when you enjoy our signature dishes!