El Ranchito Taco Shop, a longtime staple on Mission Trail, was recognized as Lake Elsinore’s Business in Action Monthly Spotlight for April 2026 at the City Council meeting on April 28.
The Business in Action Spotlight is a monthly recognition that highlights Lake Elsinore businesses that contribute to the economy and community. El Ranchito was selected for its years in business and involvement in the city.
“This family-owned restaurant has been serving our Lake Elsinore community for over 35 years,” Economic Development Director Gina Gonzalez said. “Built on generations of traditional recipes, the restaurant continues to reflect the family’s commitment to authentic Mexican food made fresh daily.”
This restaurant has remained in the same family for decades. Today, it is operated by Raymond Moon Jr., who grew up in the business and eventually took it over. He expanded it into a larger restaurant and sports bar.
“My mom had me taking orders probably as young as 7, 8 years old on the register and memorizing how to give cash back without using calculators,” Moon said. “I did everything from cleaning the drains to eventually learning how to do all the cooking.”
City officials highlighted the restaurant’s role beyond food, describing it as a gathering spot for residents and families. Gonzalez noted that El Ranchito has become a place for everything from after-school meals to outings after a day on the lake.
“It offers more than just a meal,” Gonzalez said. “It creates a space for connection and shared experiences… Ranchito Taco Shop represents the kind of small business that helps define Lake Elsinore, bringing people together through culture, tradition, community.”
Council members also praised the Moon family’s persistence in a challenging industry.
“The restaurant business is not for the faint of heart,” said Mayor Bob Magee, a former neighbor of the Moon family. “This is a very, very tough business, and he has stayed with it, he has grown with it, and he has an excellent reputation.”
For Moon, the recognition reflects both the restaurant’s history and its connection to the city.
“Growing up in Lake Elsinore, I’m very proud of running the business,” he said. “We are very proud of being in Lake Elsinore and being in business for 37 years.”
Moon said the recognition is meaningful, even though giving back to the community has always been part of the restaurant’s goal.
“We don’t do it for the recognition, but when someone does see it, we really appreciate it,” he said.
