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Toro Loco
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
36 reviews for Toro Loco
Review Highlights
"...this place, great sangria, and my fajitas were wonderful."
(in 6 reviews)
"Their burritos are great."
(in 3 reviews)
"I like the decor and the service is great."
(in 3 reviews)
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36 reviews in English
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Review from Sheila S.
Springfield, NJ
9/16/2011
I love this place, great sangria, and my fajitas were wonderful. Their combination appetizer was filling (we split it) but had room for more. I'm a huge Mexican fan and I haven't eaten out in a long time so this was a great treat.
Can't wait to go back and we aren't so far away :) -
Review from Katelyn F.
Neshanic Station, NJ
10/18/2011
Meh. I'm from Texas where the Mexican food is amazing.
My boyfriend and I came here on a Saturday night. The service was good, but the food was blah. The nachos, are just cheese on tortilla chips and there's only about 6 of them. TGIFriday's have one on the menu - more for your money and their much tastier (Nachos Grande). My tortilla soup wasn't the best. More than half the soup was tortilla strips. Wish it was filled more with chicken and cheese. Also had a side of tortilla's and I was extremely excited, but they were such a let down. They like nothing and were gritty, and since they were flour tortilla's ... i don't know how that happens. -
Review from David R.
Maplewood, NJ
1/25/2012 1 Check-in Here
Friendly, casual, atmosphere; good service and Margaritas; food's good too!
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Review from Rachel K.
South Orange, NJ
1/29/2012
didnt even stay long enough to eat the food. waiters and host were very very rude. food was overpriced from what i could see from the two other people that were in the place eating 9 dollar cheese and beef burritos. also, they do not accept out of state IDs.... so if you are a tourist and want a margarita, this is not the place for you
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Review from Claudia G.
West Orange, NJ
11/22/2011
Eh ok tex mex food. Borderline bland. Won't return.
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Review from Chelsea B.
South Orange, NJ
Updated - 9/21/2011
I don't know what happened to Toro. It used to be an average restaurant. Since our last order, my friends and I have vowed to never go back. :(
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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5/25/2011
So that avocado salad that I love from here... came here on Sunday around lunch and HATED it, but… Read more »
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Review from Felicia K.
Bloomfield, NJ
Updated - 4/5/2011
Unfortunately I have to downgrade my review of this place. Went back a second time, and was even less impressed with the food. It's not that it's so bad, but it's not good either. It's mediocre at best. I had a combo platter, and the chile relleno came out almost frozen inside. I sent it back, and it seemed that the whole plate had been microwaved. Pretty much everything seemed like it was of leftover quality while I was still at the restaurant...
Especially at these prices (most entrees are $12 and up, with many over $20), I really expect better.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/23/2010
Pretty average first impression. Two things did sway me towards 4 stars - the cool atmosphere, and… Read more »
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Review from Anita C.
1/25/2011 1 photo
When my friend and I were trying to decide on a place to eat, this wasn't exactly my first choice. See, I was born and raised in the great state of Texas, where Mexican/Tex Mex restaurants are plentiful and satisfying, so I didn't exactly have high hopes for this place.
Queso? No, Queso Fundido is "cassarole of melted cheese with chorizo" or basically cheese that was put in the microwave for a few minutes, resulting in a "queso" or one big chunk of cheese that you need to pull apart to place on top of your chip.
We also ordered the Toro Loco Special, which is a mix of quesadillas, chimichangas, and nachos. Also known as "we tried to put as much cheese and fat on one plate to make this taste good." The quesadillas and nachos were loaded with cheese, but the chimichangas were good. I guess a large amount of cheese is expected when ordering Mexican food, but this dish was very heavy, filling (in a bad way) and simple without creativity.
This was the first time I had Sangria (we got red), and I thought it was pretty good. My more knowledgeable friend said it tasted all right but not the best. And for the record, a pitcher ($19 each) gives a party of two more than 3 glasses each. We found that out the hard way.
So, I guess I'm back to not trusting Mexican food in NJ?
But wait! I would come back for one thing: fried ice cream. Mmm vanilla ice cream in a fried bowl and with whipped cream piled on top...*drool* It was so delicious that it bumps up my rating a whole star! -
Review from allison o.
Glen Ridge, NJ
12/3/2010
I've been trying every Mexican place I can find in NJ... and this place is the best place I've found so far.
The best part is that not only is the food great but the atmosphere is nice, the service is good, and the margaritas are GREAT!
Even though it's quite a schlep to get there for us, we will be going again! -
Review from Kurtis P.
South Orange, NJ
7/21/2011
I've been coming here for years and continue to do so, so I figured why not toss my hat in the ring of reviews. I have to say one thing first off about the food, it has gone down hill a bit in the past few years. However, even after saying that it's still pretty good. Like I said I've been coming here for years having grown up in the area and still think it's one of the best Mexican options in the area. Their margaritas will knock you for a loop and the atmosphere (while in need of a little updating and cleaning) is still one of the best around. Their food is pretty decent. The service is usually pretty good. They've always been very attentive and accomodating, no matter how big of a party or what time we showed up. The food has been well above average, even now. Their burritos are great. The menu is filled with a lot of great options (and believe me, over the years I've had many of them) which you really can't go wrong with. The location is perfect. Even now that I live across the water in NYC I love the fact that its right by the train station.
Why four stars? Because you have to take into account where it is. It's in an area not known for its Mexican cuisine so it really shines. You definitely get your money's worth here. -
Review from Brigid F.
Brick Township, NJ
4/9/2011
We had reservations for 4 at 8:30 and arrived exactly on time. The wait staff seemed confused by our appearance and there didn't appear to be a designated hostess. We were seated 10 minutes later. Service at first was very prompt: My 3 companions ordered various burritos and I ordered the chicken fajitas. 15 minutes later, their dinners arrived and mine didn't. After an additional 5 minutes, we were told they were simply plating my dinner. 5 minutes AFTER that, my dinner finally arrived--sans cheese & sour cream. Another 5 minute wait for that.
The food itself was mediocre and not worth the hassle or wait. The dish my fajita mix (chicken, peppers, onion...and ?mushrooms?) came in was greasy, the tortillas were obviously microwaved, and the shredded cheese definitely store-bought. After dinner was served, we were virtually ignored for an hour, having to practically tackle a waiter to bring us the check. While walking out, we saw a table with 3 complete meals, a bite taken out of each, completely deserted. Apparently, the diners had more sense than we and fled for better food elsewhere.
Overall experience: Overpriced for the meh food. Seriously, I've had MUCH better at chain restaurants. Avoid at all costs. -
Review from Andrew D.
7/16/2010
I have been killing people and dumping their bodies in the Passaic left and right, looking for decent Mexican food in Jersey. I have found it.
It's in a nondescript building off the main drag in South Orange. It is THE CRAZY BULL! El Toro Loco. I walked by it at first, until I heard the mariachi music and saw people with empty margarita glasses. Then I knew I'd found it.
Nevermind the "NO T-SHIRTS" sign on the main entrance. The guys who run the place are embarrassed that they haven't found a way to get that damnable thing off the window. They are friendly, open the door for you, and tell you, "Come in! Come in!"
My wife and I were directed to a dark corner out of the way, and were promptly served fresh chips and salsa. Margaritas were forthcoming. The salsa was mildly spicy, with a great onion/cilantro taste. All very well balanced... they just don't give you enough in that little cup.
Luckily for us, the food took almost no time to arrive. I got a rack of burritos filled with the most tender shredded beef I've ever set my coyote mouth upon. They must simmer the stuff for a week, it's that tender. The wife had a sampling of tamales, chile relleno, and enchiladas, and just purred with delight through the whole meal. I barely spoke except to exclaim my praise for the food, and compare it to the other good Mexcian food I've found in other states.
I have a feeling that I will be back here for lunch next week, and dinner the week after. Yes. -
Review from Al S.
Union, NJ
Party of 10 without a reservation seated promptly. Healthy sized menu with all your standard mexican dishes and then some. TERRIBLE service, food took FOREVER to come out, water glasses werent even refilled like come the F*CK ON, the kids sized portions were SMALL and left the kids just as hungry as we walked in. All those dishes and my significant others quesadilla looked as tho they were just thrown in the microwave, they were gross and limp. Fajita was sizzling and looked delicious, my enchilada was STANDARD, the adult sized burrito, not the california style burrito, was SMALL.the only saving grace are there Margaritas. Im not going back here. if you want a good delicious authentic mexican restaurant try Picante in Springfield. PASS on Toro Loco.
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Review from Amelia S.
Maplewood, NJ
8/19/2011
Caveat: I moved here from Chicago where the Mexican food is out of this world.
I really wanted to like this place, since it looks like a fun local joint...however the food is so bad I won't be going back. We had the chorizo empanadas, which were like deep fried mexican dumplings with HOT DOGS inside. I have had many types of empanadas before, and never have I been so disappointed. And I have no idea what kind of chorizo this was (I'm used to the crumbled kind) but this was like a sliced up hot dog. Terrible. My main was chicken enchiladas with verde sauce. Since they had so many types of enchiladas on the menu, I thought this might be a specialty of the house. Not so. The tortillas were hard. The chicken was boring. The verde sauce was like something out of a can. Nothing special about the rice & beans on the side. Hubby had Tacos al Pastor, which were passable, but certainly not worth $16.
On the positive side, the service was fast and friendly, and they were accomodating of our rowdy little one. -
Review from Stefanie Z.
Short Hills, NJ
I couldn't tell the difference between one dish and another...it was flavorable true...mediocre food...definitely a once in a blue moon type of place...I'd rather have Taco Bell! haha
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Review from Aja A.
Arlington, VA
7/8/2009
Some of the best Mexican I've had north of the border.
Again, it blows my mind that I found such great food in dirty jerz but I guess since it is close to NYC and a college town it is not that surprising.
The wait here on weekend evenings can be a pain if you're jonesing for a margarita. Speaking of, they're delicious. My sister and I got a pitcher and by the time we saw the bottom of it we were totes 3 sheets to the wind. It made watching Wolverine afterward so much better.
We got a combination fajita platter and split it. It was steak, chicken, and shrimp, and we had to work to finish it, both because of the generous portion and the fact that we were full of marg.
I can't wait for her to go back to school so I can visit and get some more! -
Review from Liz F.
South Orange, NJ
8/6/2010
Delicious! That's pretty much all there is to say. The service was great and the food came out fast. But I would have waited hours for the Carnitas Estilo Michoacan ($14.95).
It's a bit pricey but definitely worth the few extra bucks.
Decent Sangria too. -
Review from Jessica G.
Brooklyn, NY
2/25/2010
I used to come here regularly when I lived in the area. Their food is great; I don't think I have ever had a bad meal or experience here. The staff is excellent and attentive. Their pricing isn't too bad; me and my roommate would often split the bill and it rarely rose above $17 each including tip.
The only reason I take away a star is some of their seating in the back room has the most uncomfortable chairs I've ever sat on. They look like what a child's drawing of a chair would be; an exact 90 degree angle build made of wicker. I purposely ask them not to seat us there, because you will have back problems.
Oh and the decor is awesome! That's all :) -
Review from Matt K.
Millburn, NJ
6/13/2011
This place isn't bad, but it's a bit dirty. Food is OK for a quick Tex-Mex meal. Since I reviewed Margaritas I figured I would post a review of it's closest competitor. It doesn't really come close. Now that Margaritas is open I likely won't be coming back too often....
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Review from Amy L.
Brooklyn, NY
1/1/2010
I am starting off 2010 with a positive review. Toro Loco is inviting and a local favorite. A very vibrant atmosphere during New Years Eve and attentive service throughout the night. Toco Loco hits a high mark for service and it's worth mentioning the festive and elaborate décor.
The food is reliable and standard Mexican fare. Quesadillas ($7.95) these three flour tortillas stuffed with cheese and Spanish sausage, chicken or beef were disappointing in many levels. The stuffing was beyond meek and barely there. For an app. of $8, I was expecting more stuffing and flavor. Skip this appetizer and jump to the entrees.
The portions on the entrées are usually generous served with sides of rice and beans. Fajitas Toro Loco ($18.95), a combination of Shrimp, Skirt Steak and Chicken served on a sizzling cast iron skillet was promising. Personally I'm not a big fan of meat combos but the presentation of the dish was impressive. FYI the steak was slightly over-cooked and dry. Carne al Carbon ($15.95), a charbroiled shell steak served with peppers, onions, and mushrooms hit the right spot. This dish was satisfying and definitely made up for the lack of quesadillas. The steak was cooked exactly specified: medium rare and nicely charred. A liberal portion of shell steak that was more than enough and the rest had to be packed.
I was very happy with the Carne al Carbon and I will order it again.
Keep in mind, these are not take-out prices but you get what you pay for. It's a place for some strong margaritas at the bar and/or to settle down for a meal in the dining room. That said, anyone who's in the neighborhood and seeking for a filling and trusted meal with solid service, Toro Loco has got you covered.
Happy 2010 -
Review from k r.
Glen Ridge, NJ
1/21/2011
I ate here based on the reviews I read here and let me just say "I've been duped!" Seriously, this place is pretty gross. It's dirty, cramped and the food is pretty mediocre. The sangria was your typical low-end overly sweet sangria. Their guacamole tostada was just awful. Bland guacamole topped with watery iceberg lettuce. Boring refried beans. Get drunk on crap drinks and maybe this stuff will taste good. I'm still looking for a good Mexican place in NJ. If you find one, let me know. Otherwise I'll just head into Manhattan and Brooklyn.
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Review from Esther J.
San Francisco, CA
3/22/2010
This place is just okay. Nothing to rave about.
Complimentary chips & salsa: chips are good but salsa tastes a bit like ketchup or tomato sauce. Not a big fan.
I ordered the sausage and cheese quesadillas and was disappointed. It was 3 small tortillas filled with lots of cheese and only a few pieces of meat. Not alot of flavor. Definitely skip this.
I've tried the steak fajitas which were very good. They give you 3 tortillas and charge you if you'd like extra--a bit annoying. And you definitely need more than 3.
We sat outside and service was pretty slow.
All in all, this place isn't bad. I don't know of other Mexican restaurants in the area except Tinga and Toro Loco is definitely better than that. -
Review from Hlynur G.
Jersey City, NJ
4/9/2011
Bad takeout experence on early sunday evening, pickup only. Bland and fatty. No good.
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Review from Maria M.
Roselle Park, NJ
12/5/2010 1 Check-in Here
Excellent food!! Ceviche de pulpo/ crabmeat was delish, steak entree was awesome and so was the service.
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Review from Karen S.
Apex, NC
7/3/2009
Great local mexican restaraunt with basic mexican fare served by attentive staff. I have yet to have a dish there that was not to my liking. Atmosphere is relaxing where you can jsut chill out whether you are on a date, with friends or family. I have never been there and not feel comfortable.
They find a way to add flavor, even in the simplest dish, like quesadilla. (try the quesadill with chorizo)
Fajitas are served piping hot and smoking, Tortillas served warm in a napkin. Portion big enough for 2 (who have normal appetites)
Sangria is sweet. I've had better, but I won't complain. Margaritas are good.
Don't order high end tequilla shots, they come in thimble sized shot glasses.
Staff always recognizes regulars. -
Review from AJ- L.
New York, NY
12/13/2010
Moving from NYC I was happy to find that I could still get better than decent Mexican food - the service was great, food delicious (portions are huge!) and the sangria gone almost as soon as they put it on the table.
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Review from MARY L.
Chatham, NJ
7/30/2009
The food is consistently good. They serve basic Mexican fare--nothing fancy and the staff is outstanding. Sangria and chips with hot and mild salsa make for a relaxing evening. You can bring your kids there and it is even good for date night too. The place is always bustling so no one seems to take notice if it is a romantic night for two or a night with tired kids after school. They have a pretty nice bar area and they also serve food outdoors on warm evenings.
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Review from Richard B.
Maplewood, NJ
12/8/2009
Very cozy environment, with pleasant help. Excellent margueritas! Solid, not exceptional food. Always enjoyable.
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Review from Peter C.
Maplewood, NJ
12/15/2009
Went there with the wife and kid this past Saturday. Service was prompt and the food we had was very good. The Sopa de Tortilla was very good and the Enchalada Rancheras was very good as well. Portions were a decent size and would definitely go back again.
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Review from Alexander S.
West Orange, NJ
6/6/2010
Very good food, good service - what's not to like!
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Review from Dee T.
Millburn, NJ
1/7/2010
I have been here twice, and I am definitely a fan. The margaritas and sangria are delicious. The Steak Tampiquena is a very good entree. For New Year's Eve, I tried a vegetarian Chayote dish, and it was very tasty. We enjoyed the chicken nachos - they were good. I like the decor and the service is great. We always have a good time and a good meal at this restaurant.
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Review from Alistar d.
East Rutherford, NJ
11/25/2010
Good but not great I've been here on many occasions .itss good for a basic mexie food experience stick to the changas tacos etc ...do not order the steak unless u like gristle and fat
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Review from Y. S.
Short Hills, NJ
7/11/2008
Decent grilled fish & shrimp, sangria, margaritas, outdoor dining in the summertime (patio with fountains & Xmas lights).
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Review from Jill K.
Cranford, NJ
3/14/2008
Great Mexican Place. Family owned and operated and has been in South Orange for a long time. Has a bar with a bunch of TV's and a nice two room dining room. The bartender is great- you should introduce yourself to him as he always remembers and takes care of regulars. On weekends this place can get crowded but you won't wait more then 20 minutes or so for a table. They have great red sangria (blue too, but that's not on the menu - but if you ask for it they'll make it). Chicken Fajita's are great but very large and can be split between two very easily.
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Review from Brigitte b.
Boston, MA
8/19/2009
Toro Loco!!!! Oh man do I miss this place!!! the food is excellent!!! I can't really comment further b/c it's been about 9 years, but I remember always loving this place!
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Review from Candi R.
South Orange, NJ
12/5/2009
Have been going there for years and love it!! Try the chicken Mole dinner or the fajitas are very good. The closest to authentic mexican food around and the wait staff is very attentive and polite.
