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Toro
Category: Restaurants Tapas Bars Tapas Bars [Edit]
1704 Washington St(between Springfield St & Worcester St)
Boston, MA 02118
Neighborhood: South End
(617) 536-4300
- Nearest Transit:
-
Washington St @ Worcester St (170, 191, SL4, SL5)
Washington St @ Worcester St (10, 191, 8, SL4, SL5)
Massachusetts Ave @ Washington St (1, 10, CT1)
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 12 pm - 2 pm
Mon-Thu, Sun 4:30 pm - 12 am
Fri-Sat 4:30 pm - 1 am
Sun 10:30 am - 2:30 pm
- Parking:
- Street
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Ambience:
- Trendy
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
692 reviews for Toro
Review Highlights
"Try the grilled corn of course and the pork belly."
(in 122 reviews)
"Patatas Bravas is a must, delicious and simple."
(in 61 reviews)
"The foie gras - Seared to perfection on a bite of toast."
(in 66 reviews)
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692 reviews in English
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Review from Clare F.
Boston, MA
1/29/2012
Toro is a magical place.
We went at peak time on a Friday night. I was told the wait would be 40-50 minutes, which was not unexpected. 20 minutes later, we were seated. Well done, hostess staff. One hears horror stories of 1.5 - 2 hour waits at this place. I suppose we came on the right Friday night (mid-January, bitter cold).
The highlights were the potatoes bravas and the razor clams. Of course anyone can cook a potato. But these were crispy without being fried, in some spicy tomato concoction, and a sour cream to keep your lips from feeling too burned. No self-respecting tapas place leaves potatoes bravas off the menu, and Toro does it very, very well.
Razor clams, you ask? Those long flat shells that you find on the beach that you throw back because they don't look pretty? You can eat what's inside them? YES, friends. You can eat them. And eat them you will at Toro. I'm not sure how they cook these things, but they arrive still in the shells with a red pepper garnish of some sort. SO GOOD. I never thought that one of my favorite seafood dishes would be razor clams.
Other standouts are the grilled corn (we forgot about it during this visit but I've had it once before). I love the idea of grilling corn on the cob and covering it with cheese, and I wish it were done more. The fiance loved the bone marrow and Serrano ham as well. The mahon cheese was pretty good - we got a TON of it, and it paired very well with the never-ending bread baskets.
But readers. Friends. Yelpers. Leave room for dessert. Leave room for those churros. Warm fried dough sticks covered in cinnamon and sugar, with a chocolate dipping sauce. I wanted to dive into the chocolate sauce. I wanted to bring home the pastry chef to make me churros every day of the week.
You know a place is good when you start composing the Yelp review in your brain during the cab ride home. -
Review from Brittany H.
New York, NY
2/3/2012 2 Check-ins Here
dear toro....
i didn't like you at first...maybe it was our rendezvous during the daytime....everything tasted unoriginal and felt stale. but with all dates.. i believe in second chances.... so we meet again,but on one condition... we push to evening and infuse ourselves with more cocktails and food.
and then i nearly fell in love. my heart warmed up to the sweet sounds of foie gras, paella, tender spare ribs, croquettes, pork belly.... ah, what a night and day difference. NOW you are talking my language.
i can't wait for the next time i come to visit again. Remarkable restaurant with phenomenal food. -
Review from Yvonne Y.
Boston, MA
2/1/2012
CORN ON THE COB. yep. that's all i have to say about this place.
how good is the corn on the cob? it was so good and we were so full, that we HAD to take it home as leftovers. i don't think i can think of any restaurants that could ever make me want to pack a $1 worth of corn to go home, but yes, it is THAT good.
foie gras, pork belly and escargot are all really good as well.
we didn't get to try the paella, but by looking at the couple seating next to us - how they literally scrap the bottom off the pan like dogs do, i can be sure that it must have been excellent. -
Review from Cat S.
Boston, MA
1/24/2012
I liked this but it didn't blow me away as I was expecting. Liked the ambiance, was able to find parking directly outside and had no wait for a table (the benefit of going on a Monday night). Service was good, they refilled water glasses regularly and table was refreshed with new bread/clean plates as needed.
atun crudo
- really liked this. great balance of flavors, very fresh
patatas bravas
- standard, but i really enjoyed the smoky red sauce
escalivada catalana
- really yummy eggplant dip
valenciana paella (half order)
- lost me here, too salty and rice was undercooked - way below al dente
meatballs with mint/yogurt sauce (special)
- these were good, i only had a bite but i enjoyed it. tasted very mediterranean
panza de cerdo
- pork belly was tasty (obv), snails were snails, and the pumpkin was good.
maiz asado con alioli y queso cotija
- i had HUGE expectations for this and it was delicious, but it was just too heavy for me (no fault of the restaurant) however, my friend said it was the best corn he'd ever eaten in his life, so to each his own!
bottle of house red "laya" - $25 bucks and tasty!
all of that came to approx $110 before tip (and this was a ton of food).
Definitely worth the trip, but not sure how soon I'll be rushing back to try everything else on the menu. -
Review from Sara S.
Boston, MA
1/15/2012
I have some game-changing news.
TORO WILL CUT THE DELICIOUS CORN OFF THE COB!
Are you like me who hates to eat corn on the cob? It makes a mess, gets in your teeth, and gets all over your hands and clothes? Well, Toro will cut the corn off the cob for you. That's right, a mound of garlicky, cheese, corn-goodness served to you in a bowl. Just when you thought the corn couldn't get any better.
OH yeah, and the cauliflower was the best cauliflower ever. Roasted, with olive oil, pine nuts, and raisins? Simple yet delicious.
One simple and skip-it offering is the brussels sprouts. They were delicious, but not worth the money. You can make just as yummy ones at home pretty effortlessly.
Finally, the paella. Half serving is more than enough for two people.
I effing love Toro. -
Review from Andrea B.
Let me tell you, Toro's tapas are indeed small plates of food, but I can't remember the last time I have left a restaurant feeling so full. David C and I have TravelZoo vouchers to all six of Ken Oringer's Boston restaurants, and Toro was our third and best stop so far. Here's what we had:
Datiles con Jamon: The combination of flavors in this tapa was definitely interesting. Dates stuffed with blue cheese and almonds, wrapped in ham? Definitely not my first choice off the menu, but it left me feeling pleasantly surprised.
Pan con Tomate: The garlic flavor in this tapa was a little too overpowering.
Jamon Serrano Redondo Iglesias: Premium cured Spanish ham. Easily the least exciting tapa of the night.
Tortilla Espanola: An egg, potato, and onion omelet served with alioli. Doesn't seem like it'd be all that interesting, but I found it to be very tasty.
Panza de Cerdo: This was my second favorite tapa of the night. Regardless of how you feel about pork (it's certainly not my favorite meat, not by a long shot), I still highly recommend this dish. The pork belly was so fatty and juicy and tender, how can you not gobble it up? The snails are something I could live without, but the sweetness of the pumpkin puree and the pickled apples complemented the pork perfectly.
Paella Valenciana: This plate was absolutely gigantic, as it should be with its $38 price tag. And when I say gigantic, I literally mean it covered almost our entire table. Everything about it - the shrimp, the mussels, the clams, even the Calasparra rice that i scraped off the bottom of the pan - was perfection. It was so much food that even between the both of us, we weren't able to finish it (but it made for an excellent lunch at work the next day, believe me).
Costilla a la Cazadora: This tapa was served at the same time as the paella, and I was too engrossed in devouring the latter to give much attention to this plate of braised beef short ribs.
Maiz Asado con Alioli y Queso Cotija - Boy did they save the best for last! On the one hand, this was wonderful because it ended the meal on a high note. On the other hand, I think I would have enjoyed Toro's famous grilled corn more if I wasn't already feeling like I was ready to burst. Covered in globs of butter and delicious alioli, this tapa was positively orgasmic.
Take-home message of this lengthy review - If you go to Toro and get nothing else, get the corn, the paella, and the pork belly! You won't be sorry. -
Review from David C.
1/9/2012
Tapas--big flavor, big money, tiiiiiiiiny portions.
Truly though, you won't even care about the price tag when you sink your teeth into one of Toro's scrumptious little treats. Try the corn that everyone raves about (you won't be disappointed), but save room for the panza de cerdo--a pork belly concoction with snails, pickled apples, and pumpkin puree--and the Costilla a la Cazadora--delicious braised beef short ribs--and I promise you will have yourself one spectacular meal.
You can probably skip the pan con tomate, tortilla espanola, and the Jamon Serrano Redondo Iglesias (all of which were rather forgettable), but you would be missing out on something truly special if you passed on the paella. Thanks to our TravelZoo tasting vouchers, my friend and I got to sample all these tapas (and more), and an entire Paella Valenciana to boot. I can't remember everything that our server said was in it, but I was literally slack-jawed when it was delivered to our table. That sucker is big, and more than worth the $38 asking price. Check out Andrea B.'s photo for proof.
I can't wait to go back and try the dishes I missed out on the first time (the uni bocadillo being chief among them), but you better believe I will be ordering another helping of that paella.Listed in: The Real "Best of Boston"
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Review from Elaine T.
1/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
Yes I was impressed. Good job Jamie Bissonnette, winner of Chopped! And you can't help but love the restaurant because they are a green restaurant (they filter and carbonate their own water and recycle their deep frying oil into biodiesel).
Let me warn you, the wait was 2 1/2 hours on a Saturday night. I came in at 7:15pm and was seated close to 9:45pm. But I didn't mind as I was hanging out at the bar the entire time. Their house red wine is a steal for $5 and their sangria and mojitos were strong and delicious.
I was with a party of 3 and we ordered about 10 dishes. As many have mentioned, the portion sizes are small (tapa size). However, the flavor sure makes up for it-the food was very rich and decadent. All of us at the end of the night were full and satisfied. The prices were not as steep as I would have expected. I believe we paid $42 each with tax and tip for 10 dishes and 1 dessert. If I come back, these are the plates I'd recommend:
-corn
-fois gras
-uni sandwich
-griddled garlic shrimp
The two guys I came with were smitten by the pork belly (it's very fatty though) and the strip steak. I may want to try the paella next time (it comes out in a huge portion).
Tip: If you want to come in here without a wait, I'd come around 10:30pm and sit at the bar. -
Review from Angel C.
Boston, MA
Updated - 1/6/2012
Man, I love this place. I went on a Tuesday when it was 15 degrees outside - boom! No wait. But we took the last two seats available.
My gf hadn't been, so I ordered my favorites from last time: the corn (they MUST put crack in this), the bone marrow with oxtail (succulent), and the eggplant dish (delicious). We also ordered the pork belly and the fried oysters, and both were amazing. For some reason, I wasn't a huge fan of the churros last time, but, this time, I converted! Fried dough covered in cinnamon and sugar, and dipped in melted dark chocolate - what more can you ask for! My gf was very happy at the end of the meal.
I promise, next time I'll try some of the tuna dishes. I keep putting that off. And I'm still looking for a more adventurous eater who will go with me and try the beef tongue, the uni, and the pork heart. Hopefully next time...
Oh, and they now have Jamon Iberico de Bellota (ham from acorn-fed Spanish pigs that is a delicacy). It'll cost you $35/plate, though. Maybe you can tell me if you try it.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/5/2011
TORO TORO TORO!!!!! Call it tapas with flair.
My visit actually started on a low note. My friends… Read more »
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Review from Barry B.
Somerville, MA
1/9/2012
My guess is that someone mentioned Torro to you, and you haven't been there before, and you're looking them up on Yelp to see what people are saying about the place.
Well, put away your fancy smart phone and just go eat there. I assure you, you will not have a better and more reasonably priced dining experience in Boston (except for maybe Coppa, but they're owned by the same folks, so they've got a pretty similar menu and feel).
If you're going with a friend for brunch, make sure you don't order a serving of the bone marrow or the sliders... get TWO orders, because your friend will want to eat half of yours, and you will want more of the magical deliciousness.
Oh, and make sure you get the corn!
As both a restaurant industry person and a food snob, I just can't find anything to complain about with this place. The food and service are always top notch, regardless of how busy they are (an impressive feat!), and the staff is always personable and attentive (and quite attractive!) -
Review from Ryan W.
Updated - 12/17/2011
This place just keeps getting better and better, and is a must-visit whenever I take Boston newbies around town. They make the best damn Bloody Mary in the city, and their famous parmesan corn is still one of the best small plates I've ever had.
Plus, chef Jamie Bissonette was just named the People's Best New Chef by Food & Wine Magazine, and had a nice spot on "Chopped" as well: http://www.youtube.com...
According to local food writer MC Slim JB, Bissonette "refused to let its producers goad him into trash-talking his fellow contestants" on the show, and "used his $10K prize to buy his wife the engagement ring he couldn't afford when they got married." Awwwwww. (I can't hyperlink MC's full review, so I guess I'll just post it here so he gets the credit for that gem -- http://mcslimjb.blogsp...)Listed in: Good Libations, Five Stars for Atmosphere, Big Love for Small Plates, Sure Things, Boston Must-Sees
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/4/2006
While the delicious house specialty of parmesan corn and the mysterious ability to accomodate large… Read more »
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Review from nicole g.
Boston, MA
1/2/2012
Amazing food. Even MORE amazing drinks. Very creative menu, with lots of options for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Staff is attentive and friendly and knows what they're talking about.
It's a little strange to sit elbow-to-elbow with people you don't know, and the fact that they don't take reservations is a bummer for those of us who live outside of the city and would like to plan our dinner ahead of time.
BUT- it's still awesome. And we'll still go back, and we'll wait for a table. Because it's totally worth it. -
Review from Bethany G.
Beverly, MA
2/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
My absolute favorite restaurant of the moment. I've been twice. The first time my husband and I got 10 dishes and 2 drinks, and left full and incredibly satisfied for under $110. We brought back another couple and went a little crazy on the ordering, but it was worth it. I like the wood fireplace, but it can get a little smokey. Doesn't bother me, but I wouldn't take my mother in law. Get the corn, bone marrow (sliced the long way and taken from buffalo), and the white anchovies. So simple but so good. Its easy to do gluten free and to eat paleo here. They have a separate menu and are very clear when they bring dishes, who at the table can eat it. We went with a gluten allergy, and a separate person with a ginger allergy and they made it easy. Get there early unless you're just going with one other person. Its worth the wait, but its easier to skip lunch and show up when they open the doors at 5:30.
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Review from Stephen W.
Aliso Viejo, CA
12/4/2011
Probably one of the best 5 restaurants I have ever been to. Ambiance: Amazing, Drink selection: get the pitcher of Sangria (So Good), and Food: every dish was better than the last. (must tries: corn on the cob, and the dates)
I was on vacation in Boston and we were told we had to try this place. I am SO happy we did. It's one of those experiences where you start to wonder if 5 stars is enough. It makes you readjust your barometer for ratings. If this is 5 stars, then other restaurants I have given 5 stars shouldn't have them.
I could go on and on, but simple is better. If you ever have a chance to go here, do it. The wait might be long, but it is worth it. -
Review from The C.
Boston, MA
1/4/2012
Love this place. We showed up at 5:30 got a table, and within 15 minutes all the other tables filled up! Get here early.
No drinks this time, just tapas! We spent about $100 ...for two people ordering a great spread. Just a few highlights:
- I'm a carnivore, but I think I could feast on their veggie options alone. Of course, order the corn! But, don't forget about ordering the cauliflower. Yes, cauliflower - - it's amazing!!!
- The only dish that disappointed was the braised short ribs.. It used to be better?? The meat tasted a bit "firmer" almost making me wonder if they used a cheaper cut of meat.
Nevertheless, I will be back. Toro is a solid place. -
Review from Jin Z.
Boston, MA
1/4/2012
I have been to this place several times and really do not get what all the hype is all about! First time I came for restaurant week and the food was just so so, service was not memorable. Second time I was here with a few friends on a weekend night at around 10pm, the place was super packed with people elbowing each other. We were told that it would be a 1 hour wait for a table for 3. So we decided to go over to the bar to get a drink. It took us 20 mins to order the drink because we couldn't get the attention of the waiter. Overall, food might be ok, but in my opinion service is horrible.
Tasca on commonwealth definitely have better food and way better service. They are accessible by T and also have cheap valet parking. I highly recommend going to Tascas instead if you want great tapas without the stress of being bumped by someone every 5 seconds -
Review from Jun W.
Alhambra, CA
12/2/2011
Probably the best tapas I've ever had. We ordered practically everything on the menu and not one dish disappoint. The one item that stood out the most was the foie gras...rich, fatty, and so damn good. The paella is also excellent, though you must order it in advance since it takes a good 30 min to make.
They don't take reservations, so be prepared to wait. -
Review from Nicole R.
Boston, MA
1/22/2012
It's almost silly to review such an institution, but I've just got to show the love. If you don't get the corn, you just may have missed out on one of the most delicious culinary experiences of your life. It's pretty much fat on fat, but whatever. Definitely recommend asking for a knife so you can cut it off the cob -- it is extremely messy. Also strongly recommend the pan con tomate -- so simple, so delicious. There's also a salad i love...i forget what it's called. It involves avocados, olives, and red onions. Yeah, its just a salad but it is a DAMN good salad. What i really love here is the BRUNCH. Oh godddd the brunch!! Amazing bloodies, and the huevos rancheros are to die for. They also have a grilled avocado, which sounds boring but i assure you, dear reader, it is genius. Go asap. And get there early, otherwise you may be without hope.
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Review from Jennifer D.
Boston, MA
1/26/2012
This place was so good and the people who work there are super nice. We really enjoyed our meal and our drinks. They were really considerate of vegetarians and the paella was the really great.
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Review from Wendy L.
Boston, MA
12/18/2011
Toro is one of the best tapas places in Boston. They don't take reservations and the tables fill up quickly for dinner so get there early! Try the bar if the wait is too long as the service is usually pretty fast there.
Every dish is extremely flavorful especially their signature grilled corn with cheese which I order every time I am back. Their menu changes once in a while so there are always new things to try when I go back. Here are my favorite tapas from the last few times I was there:
1. Maíz Asado con Alioli y Queso - A
2. Gambas al Ajillo - A
3. Costilla de Bourguignon - B+
4. Tuna Tartare - B+
5. Duck confit - B
6. Empanadas - B+
The atmosphere is loud so it may not be the best place for a date but definitely a fun place to go with friends for drinks and some delicious tapas! -
Review from Jane Y.
Manhattan, NY
12/7/2011
Waited an hour on a Tuesday night. They don't take reservations.
Try the foie gras, roasted corn, beef tongue. Finish with churros in chocolate sauce - delicious. -
Review from Kelsey R.
Boston, MA
1/20/2012
This place is amazing. Tasty, and trendy. Totally worth the wait, because there always is one!
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Review from Jennifer B.
Manhattan, NY
1/13/2012
Really nice vibe and really tasty tapas. The sangria was also well made.
If you come in without reservations (I'm not sure if they take them or not), the wait can be quite long. My husband and I waited for about an hour and a half to get the outdoor seating area, which ended up being fine for us since the food made up for having to sit around that long. Later in the night it gets especially crowded, so be aware of that. -
Review from Steven M.
Boston, MA
1/5/2012
A great assortment of foods that are packed with sodium and does not elicit much more comment from me. Noise level can reach astronomical levels (as well as your bill) and the wait to be seated does not offer much relief. I've reluctantly visted this spot several times with a group of humans and have left with disappointment ensuing every memorable visit. I do particularly enjoy my meal while hovering over strangers and being bumped by staff/customers. Your patience will be tested--try it yourself and tell me otherwise.
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Review from Sara B.
Boston, MA
11/3/2011
Service: 4.5/5 The service is excellent. A waiter or waitress refills your water glass before you realize it is low, so who cares if you don't get a heart-warming smile every time he or she stops by your table? Unfortunately, due to the small size of the restaurant Toro is unable to accommodate reservations for dinner. There is a first-come, first serve policy and the wait can often be 45 minutes. You can order from the full menu at the bar (if you're lucky enough to nab a seat) or just grab a drink while waiting for a table to open up. Toro takes reservations for lunch and brunch for parties of six or more.
Food: 5/5 Ken Oringer's Spanish-inspired cuisine is local and uses sustainable ingredients to create a large variety of remarkably fresh food. My advice would be to grab a few plates to share with a group. There are plenty of options for carnivores, vegetarians and vegans. But if you don't like churros you may not be inclined to order dessert as it is the only option. Toro puts its liquor license to use. There is an extensive drink menu that features cocktails, like the Calimocho (red wine and coke),the Cava (grapefruit bitters, sugar, yellow Chartruese), the Cabana Boy (Sailor Jerry spiced rum, canton ginger, pineapple), the Pisco Sour (Pisco Capel brandy, freshly squeezed sour mix), the Southender (Reyka vodka, mint, lemon, cava). Other drinks include sherry, bottled beer, wine by the glass or bottle and Marine Root Soada.
Atmosphere: 5/5 The high-ceiling, brick-and-beam interior with large mirrors, fireplace and dark wood tables set the mood for the boisterous, relaxed restaurant goers who fill the cozy space. The roomy, stainless steel-clad kitchen provides a cool vibe for the chic environment and connects the customers to his or her food. Various seating options accommodate every occasion. Nab the long communal table for a birthday get-together, relax at smaller table with a date or grab a drink and tapas at the bar solo.
Price: 5/5 The "Pinchos" are the least expensive, costing you an average of $5.00 for each small plate. The "Tapas" range from $5.00-15.00, and supply enough bites for a few people as long as you are ordering additional similar-sized dishes. The options under the "For Two" and "Quesos" categories serve 2-4 people and cost about $30.00 each. For the quality of the food, the price is definitely doable.
Parking: 4.5/5 Unless you have a South End parking permit, it may be difficult to find a spot. There is metered parking on Washington Street and on certain days you can valet at Toro. If it's a nice weather and, or you don't mind walking, you will most likely find parking on nearby streets.
Recommendations:
-Pimientos Del Padron {hot green peppers with sea salt}
-Annas Empanadas {chicken and potato empanadas, aji roja and alioli}
-Maiz Asado Con Aioli Y Queso Cotja {grilled corn with alioli, lime, pepper and aged cheese}
-Escalivada Catalana {marinated wood roasted eggplant with onions, peppers and tomatoes}
-Costilla De Buey {braised short rib of beef}
-Potatas Bravas {fried potatoes with alioli and spicy tomato sauce}
-'07 Celler de Capcanes "Mas Donis Barrica" Syrah Blend, Montsant {rich baked fruit with cocoa and toasty notes}
-Estrella Damm Lager, Barcelona
For more Boston restaurant reviews, visit my blog: http://MyEstablishment... -
Review from Brittany M.
San Jose, CA
1/14/2012
Brunch on the patio was lovely (in September - maybe not so much in January). The huevos rancheros and grilled avocado were the best I've ever had. Add a couple of mimosas to that and you've got yourself a great day. A little bit off the beaten path for tourists, but well worth the trip.
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Review from Cindy W.
Foie gras on toast and uni sandwich... need I say more?! Oh yeah 2 more things... grilled corn with alioli & lime AND roasted bone marrow w/ a oxtail marmalade.
I can't rave enough about this place. Each plate made my body tremble as I exploded in an orgasm each time I took a bite. I wanted more and more!!!!!!!!!!!Listed in: Food that Makes me HAPPY!
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Review from Theresa C.
Henderson, NV
11/2/2011
It's time to pay my dues to Yelp, since it has led me to many amazing restaurants. Be gentle...this is my first yelp review.
Some people take pictures with athletes and movie stars...but I personally prefer Food Network stars being the foodie I am...so we walk in and the first thing we do is pull Jamie Bissonette (from Chopped) out of the kitchen and take a picture with him =)
But I digress...onto the food:
Teaser: prize for being a groupie...the chef sends out clam chowder over pork belly...it may be more delicious in my mind since we were so flattered by the free dish
1. Maiz Asado con Aliolo y Queso Cotija translates into corn-gasm.....my first thought was how good can a piece of corn be? Well the only description is it's the BOMB DIGGITY! Perfect mixture of blackened grilled corn with mayonnaise/garlic/cotija cheese heaven! Attempts to replicate this at home have been quite successful.....=)
2. Valenciana Paella (Seafood /Meat Rice): perfect blend of seasonings/broth that infuses into this delicious rice...served sizzling hot in a clay pot
3. Panza de Cerdo (Pork Belly): being asian and having had my fair share of amazing pork belly, this was just okay, tender but not as flavorful as I would have liked
4. Costilla de Bourguignon (Beef short ribs): very well flavored and tender and who doesn't like something with bacon on top of it
5. Pato con membrillo (Smoked duck drumettes): again had better, and being smoked duck the meat was a little on the tougher side
6. Lengua con Ltenjas y Salsa Verde (Beef Tongue): The lentils over power this dish a little bit and I've had more tender beef tongue at other places
7. Razor Clams (special): AVOID...rubbery and tasted like the sea...not a bonus =(
8. Sweet Bread...not a dessert for those scared of intestinal dishes....thymus glands....definitely a taste I have not acquired over time....but surprisngly not as gamey as I would have expected.
Overall ambiance.....lounge/bar atmosphere....you may end up sitting with strangers at some of their large bar tables....and by 6:00pm....there may be people standing right behind or next to you enjoying a drink as they stare you down for your seats.....a definite must try for anyone in the Boston area! -
Review from Meems L.
Boston, MA
1/15/2012
Here are the dishes I recommend:
1. Jamon Serrano Redondo Iglesias (Premium cured Spanish ham) - tasty, salty and buttery perfection; I liked this more than the Iowa raised acorn ham, which is less salty. The dish came on a wooden board as 13 generous, thin-cut slices.
2. Yellowfin tuna with white soy, spicy cucumbers, citrus and avocado - make sure you ask if this is the sliced one served sashimi style because I once accidentally ordered one of the other tuna dishes and was disappointed to get ceviche (it was good too, but not the same level). There are four slices. It's so refreshing and so delicious that I actually resent the fact I have to share, and I am always secretly wishing the table would order more.
3. Medjool dates filled with Marcona almonds and Cabrales blue cheese, wrapped in Jamon Serrano - this small dish comes with two big dates. Yes, this is one of those dishes where you can easily eat it entirely by yourself and still crave more.
4. Grilled corn with alioli - this is excellent and a favorite of the crowd. We definitely enjoyed it more after we asked them to cut the corn off the cob for us.
These were ok, but I wouldn't order again without trying the rest of the menu first:
Hunter's style braised beef short ribs - this was like a beef stew. I thought this was bland.
Brussel sprouts - roasted and well-prepared without any bitterness; but you have to like brussel sprouts. They were not different from any other restaurant that knows how to prepare these well.
I learned I am not a big fan of paella. We had the special with pig and bone marrow. It tasted ok and the half-portion was good for four people, but for the price, I think I would have preferred to order other dishes.
They only have one dessert which are churros with chocolate for $7. They give you 3 medium pieces. They are the highest quality churros I've ever had. I like eating with a group, but if it was just me and my partner, we would probably skip it.
We got there around 5pm on a Sunday night and were seated fairly quickly. It got very crowded fast though and I don't think they take reservations. -
Review from Stephanie G.
Brookline, MA
10/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
Heck Yes.
Toro it teetering on the border between four and five stars.
I came in on a Friday evening for dinner at 6 for four people. Wanting to sit inside on a chilly night, the wait was only about 20 minutes. I guess the best advice is to get there early, since they don't take reservations.
We hung out at the bar for a little while waiting on a table, so I ordered a verdad y amor. Highly recommended. The boy got a honey badger, and shockingly it was not utterly horrible for someone who hates the taste of whiskey.
Once seated, we split the following:
-uni bocadillo: very good, but messy.
-half paella valenciana - a classic, but they did quite a good job with it.
-maiz asado con aioli - one of my favorites of the night. i have never enjoyed corn anywhere near that much! amazing!
-panza de cerdo - yuuuuum! apart from the corn, this is the other one that I'd definitely order again.
-one of the specials that was basically a pate of sweetbreads - meh... I wasn't in love.
That amount of food was definitely enough (and almost more than enough) for the two of us.
Overall, I really enjoyed the experience. This is the perfect place to come and try out somewhat exotic food options, but not make it your entire meal! Of course tapas restaurants are always a bit pricey, but I think this is one of the ones that is actually worth the price. If you've been to one of Jose Andres' Jaleo restaurants in D.C., I think Toro definitely far surpasses Jaleo in overall experience and taste. -
Review from Calvin Y.
10/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
After watching Toro on so many of the Food Network / Cooking Channel shows, I knew Toro was a must. (See: http://www.youtube.com... )
We got in a little bit earlier before the restaurant opened, so we chilled in the bar and easily got seated for 3. While we were seated, it wasn't the most comfortable as we were put into a table barely with enough room for 2.
Chef Jamie Bissonnette was on deck and we saw him running around while were at the bar.
I recommend the Sweet Breads and Grilled Corn. One of the signature dishes, the Uni Boccadillo, was a little too ocean-y for me. I thought the Paella was nice, but not a must order.
I did leave a bit frustrated with Toro -- as I have a food allergy, I alerted the waiter right away. He didn't stop us from ordering any of the tapas. They started letting me know about food allergies, right as they brought the food to our table. I end up finding that 70% of the food we ordered would not be safe to eat (including food that you wouldn't think would be an issue, but they deep fried in the same vat of frying oil).
I would appreciate having the allergy warning as we were ordering, as opposed to when the dish comes out.Listed in: Lost in Boston
-
Review from Christina Z.
Winthrop, MA
10/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
Friends started a monthly restaurant club, and Toro was first on the list. I rarely venture to the South End, but I will always make an exception for tapas. We arrived at 7, and waited an hour and fifteen for a high table. The place was packed with a young, artsy crowd, and we slurped delicious cocktails to occupy our time. I adored the Pink Poodle (I'm a classic cocktail girl, so anything with sherry and eggwhites, sign me up), La Granada (pomegranate), and the Cabana Boy. My friend Josh ordered the girliest thing on the menu, and the Cabana Boy did not disappoint.
Fresh bread at the table, no olive oil or butter? The eggplant was roasted and yummy - they should serve that with the bread! The roasted corn with cheese rocked as well. Love the little burgers, too.
I ordered the pork belly (tapa caliente) and three of us split the seafood, chorizo, and chicken paella. For $40, there was more than enough paella. Takes 30 minutes to make, and wow did they lay on the seafood - it was chockfull of mussels, shrimp, chicken breast (boneless), clams, and spicy chorizo. The rice and peas were flavorful and tasty, and we feel as though we actually got our moneys worth. Meat:rice ratio was 2:1. Excellent.
The pork belly. Wow. The only way I can explain it is black magic. It's delicious, decorated with pumpkin, apple, and snails! For $13. The pork belly was fatty and crispy, sweet and salty. Bourdain would be proud.
Go - under $50/person! -
Review from Robyn R.
Boston, MA
10/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
Certainly one of my favorite restaurants in the city. The atmosphere, the drinks, the food, the ambiance....ahhh, Toro is an adventure in itself. Be prepared to wait for a table, they do not take reservations, it's small and always busy - but get a drink, sit back and relax. It's worth it. And get there early if you can.
Their wine selection rocks - always changing special and they pour VERY full glasses. Their cocktails are amazing as well. Now everyone raves about the corn, it's just not my thing. I like corn, yes. But it's slathered in cheese and a mayo like sauce - it's good, but there are so many better things. One of my fav being so simple - is the pan con tomato and dates. Yum, yum and yum! I also always order the pork belly, beef heart, short ribs and acorn ham.
Do not miss the specials! Order them - they never disappoint. Love this place, I would be happy forever if I could sit at the bar and eat on a daily basis. -
Review from Shalin D.
10/27/2011
My best guess is that the rave reviews for Toro are more in deference to the fact that Toro is good for BOSTON and not good in GENERAL. Let's face it, Boston isn't a foodie town so when a trendy place like Toro opens up and serves up decent food, it's something to celebrate and tout.
But, if you re-calibrate and forget you're in Boston and REALLY taste the food, you start to realize Toro isn't as great as it's chalked up to be. First of all, there's the no reservations aspect. I went on a Wednesday night and stood up against the crowded bar (elbow to elbow) for an hour. The vinho tinto I ordered and the fact I was with a bunch of friends alleviated the aggravation but still...
Then the food. The menu reads like a basic tapas bar menu. And there's a lot that's good.The jamon serrano, the peppers, and the pork belly are excellent. But, I find it hard to rave about a tapas restaurants that mucks up the basics. The patatas bravas were charred. The sauce was cloying - not a good mix between the tangy, fiery, and sweet. And the tortilla was soggy (as if they served up something from the night before).
But despite my experience, if you're willing to wait in line for a while for good (not great) food, then go. -
Review from Meg W.
Boston, MA
1/10/2012
I have nothing but great things to say about Toro. I have been here for brunch many times. The corn on the cob and huevos rancheros are both favorites of mine but it is hard to really go wrong here. It is a smaller restaurant so the wait can be long at times but the food is really worth it.
I have also been here for just drinks, dinner, and even attended their NYE party this past year. Everything has been great. The restaurant has a great crowd of people and the staff seem generally happy to be at work. It is a great night out with friends or for a date.
Highly recommend anytime. -
Review from Michael J.
Salem, MA
11/20/2011
The four stars indeed go to the food. We'll get to that. The service was a mixed bag. We went with some friends on a Wednesday night and the place was wall-to-wall, due to its popularity with South Enders. The cheap Rioja at the bar did help take the edge off the eternal wait - around an hour all said - and (as noted below) they don't take reservations. A table opened up, but the staff said it was being held for a "charity event." Said persons never showed. We demanded a free round and - fair play -they gave it to us, so that made up substantially for the issue. They then sat us at the empty table.
The tapas, when they arrived, were excellent: the jamon plate was approaching ones I had in Barcelona, and the bacon wrapped dates with blue cheese stuffing are a must. The fresh anchovies were excellent, a tuna on toast plate left a little to be desired, but the pate plate was also excellent. I'd certainly go back. -
Review from Adam A.
Boston, MA
10/13/2011
Definitely worth most of the hype. A bit noisy/crowded for my liking but the food is interesting and delicious.
One dispute with the other reviews: The Corn. It is just grilled corn with an amazing aioli spread on it. Yes it is the best corn you will ever eat...but is that really saying much? There are plenty of other more interesting things on the menu that deserve equal, if not more attention.
Dates stuffed with blue cheese and wrapped in jamon serrano were ridiculous. Sweet and sooo rich.
Also loved the beef heart and the eggplant spread dish.
Definitely give this place a try and be more adventurous than just the corn! -
Review from Rachel D.
Brookline, MA
10/30/2011
The flavors are fantastic. If you're more of a quality over quantity type of person and you're a big fan of delicious cocktails definitely make it a point to head over to Toro. A couple of the items on the menu are sought after favorites and then there are a few that aren't as amazing, but luckily there's Yelp so now you can find out what's the best bang for your buck!
The Patatas Bravas (red potatoes in a spicy tomato sauce) are a definite must have. The spicy sauce isn't crazy spicy it's sort of smokey, and also out of the world delicious. We split the order of potatoes and it was just the right amount of starch for the night.
I also love the Cranberry Mule, one of their signature cocktails. It comes in a big copper mug and it has cranberries, Russian Standard vodka, and ginger.
The Honey Badger is also an amazing cocktail, if you're looking for something sweet, orange, and in a fancy martini glass.
The Maiz Asado is amazing, Toro's take on Elote - lots of butter and cream though so be prepared. However it's definitely worth getting one or two orders of.
Also I've had shortribs cooked a few different ways at Toro but definitely if there's shortribs on the menu I'd definitely recommend splurging on them.
The menu is huge so it's definitely easy to order completely different dishes each time you go! -
Review from Taylor C.
Boston, MA
11/14/2011
Toro is simply amazing as the 650+ current reviews already indicate.
Saturday night dinner for 4 - I knew we were going to have to get there early. We arrived at 4:45 and were promptly seated at the best table in the house at 5.
This is what made it fortunate, by 5:30 they had an hour wait and by 6:15, when we left, they had a two hour wait. Basically I felt like a baller for having a good table.
"I'm on the verge of tears by the time we arrive at Espace, since I'm positive we won't have a decent table. But we do, and relief washes over me in an awesome wave." - Patrick Bateman.
Their vegetable dishes and garlic shrimp were my favorite paired with $5 house wine. -
Review from Taylor W.
9/16/2011
Awesome tapas bar in the South End! This place is really popular, so be sure to put your name in early. We had to wait about an hour for a table....
We ordered:
Escalivada Catalana $8 - which was a smoked eggplant with pepper, onion, tomatoes and olive oil .... so good!
Panza de Cerdo $13 - which was pork belly served on top of corn, tomatoes and zucchini - the pork was perfectly crisp on the outside and succulent on the inside
Cabeza $8 - which was a pork head terrine with pickled turnips on top, and an apple butter underneath.
Pork head terrine - with pickled heirloom turnips and crabapple butter
Maíz Asado con Alioli y Queso Cotija $8 - grilled corn with alioli, lime, and cheese - THIS WAS TO DIE FOR! Ohhhh my gosh, the cheese, the lime.... the combo was killer. This is hands down, the best corn I've ever had in my life.
The restaurant has outside seating too, and since it was a beautiful night, we were able to sit outside and enjoy.
Overall, the food was awesome, the service was good, and we had a really fun time here. I would definitely recommend this spot for tapas - and if you come, be sure to order the corn!!
