For Casa Ranchero, we envision families, couples and friends gathering for a fun, relaxed social dining experience. They come across a vibrant authentic Mexican restaurant and cantina with adobe characteristics. The hostess greets them with a warm smile. The smell of the fresh tortillas cooked to order, stimulate the senses. Start off your evening with a hand shaken ice cold margarita, with dozens of tequilas to choose from, paired with complimentary homemade chips and fresh salsa. While you are waiting for your table, enjoy the outside patio, sitting around the fireplace on oversized couches. Or maybe wander up to the outside bar and catch a glimpse of the game enjoyed by a company of friends. The oversized plates filled with mouth watering Mexican cuisine using only choice meats and poultry, fresh fish and produce, and authentic rice and beans will satisfy anyone’s appetite.

Claire and Lonnie Shepard are a husband and wife team. Their business experience, knowledgeable customer service and culinary expertise are why you want to visit their establishment. It has been a significant inclusion in their business plans to own and operate personal quality restaurant and continue to grow. New customers feel welcome and regulars are encouraged with a warmth respect while enjoying special cuisine.

Lonnie Shepard has perfected his talents over 25 years. He has cooked for Chanteclair in Irvine and Pacific Club in Newport Beach, and was the opening Executive Chef for Dove Canyon Country Club and the Dana Point Yacht Club. Currently, Lonnie is the Executive Chef of Infusion. Always willing to accept an entertainment challenge, Lonnie and Claire Shepard now plan to continue to grow their skills in the new venture Casa Ranchero.

Claire graduated from San Diego State University and holds a degree in Business Management. Claire started her career over 17 years ago in the food and beverage industry. As Director of Catering, she created Pacific Blue Catering in 1998 at the Dana Point Yacht Club. Her personal people skills, charismatic personality and sound knowledge of the restaurant business have earned her loyal repeat business and endless compliments from satisfied clients. As the owner of Infusion, Claire has been an asset to Ladera Ranch. Her multiple volunteer positions include Chief Administrative Officer of the Ladera Rancho Chamber of Commerce, Director and Secretary on the Mercantile West Business Association and participated on many non-profit organization boards raising over $100,000.