El Torito

401

188

4 years ago

This restaurant is in serious need of an update. It's dark with old furniture and not intentionally old. It's one thing to give the ambiance of old Mexico and then there was what they have going in this establishment. The food was mediocre and drinks were just okay. I kept passing this place on the way to my hotel and wished I had just kept driving past it. read more

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5995 Katella Ave
Cypress, CA 90630
Directions
(714) 761-8155
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.eltorito.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does El Torito open?

El Torito opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.El Torito opens at 9:00 AM on Saturday and Sunday.

What time does El Torito close?

El Torito closes at 10:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.El Torito closes at 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu 11:00 AM - 10:00 PMFri 11:00 AM - 11:00 PMSat 9:00 AM - 11:00 PMSun 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Payment methods

Does El Torito take credit cards?

Yes, El Torito takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does El Torito have catering options?

Yes, El Torito does have catering options.

Does El Torito have a drive thru?

No, El Torito does not have a drive thru.

Does El Torito have a happy hour?

Yes, El Torito has a happy hour.

Does El Torito serve alcohol?

Yes, El Torito serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does El Torito allow dogs?

No, El Torito does not allow dogs.

Does El Torito have TVs?

Yes, El Torito has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does El Torito have bike parking?

Yes, El Torito has bike parking.

Does El Torito have outdoor seating?

Yes, El Torito has outdoor seating options.

Does El Torito have parking?

Yes, El Torito has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Other Amenities

Does El Torito allow outdoor smoking?

No, El Torito does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does El Torito have free WiFi?

Yes, El Torito has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

The authority in great Mexican food for more than 65 years. Offering a memorable experience to make each guest feel like family.

History

Established in 1954.

It was in 1954 that Real Mex Restaurants first introduced Mexican casual dining to SoCal with the opening of El Torito. Half a century later, Mexican fare has become an integral part of the American dining experience. El Torito is a truly authentic & traditional Mexican concept. A festive & approachable restaurant rich in heritage, focusing on offering a memorable experience to each and every guest. Food quality, refreshing drinks, welcoming service, vibrant music selections showcased in a traditional/timeless Mexican hacienda, creates a warm & comfortable environment for our guests. Today, El Torito continues to honor the flavorful history of Mexican cuisine, leading the way through culinary innovation, superior hospitality and rich and infused flavors.

More Info

Health Score

El Torito Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - El Torito

How much is the all you can eat brunch?

40$

How much is all you can eat Sunday brunch now? It doesn't show on the website.

The Sunday brunch is 36$ per adult and 12& per child I don't know why they won't say the price online

Do they have happy hour?

Yes 3:00 to 9:00 daily and on drinks and appetizers.

Today for Mother's day the brunch cost $31 per person. I just asked my husband. May 9,2021. How come it differs? Is it because of Mother's Day?

I called them today and they said the price for brunch is now $31 so they may have just increased prices.

Are they doing the Sunday brunch on Valentine's Day to?

Yes

Will you guys be staying open or closing due to restaurants closing in LA?

They are open for indoor and outdoor dining as of today Feb 15 2021

View All 9 Questions

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Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

1,301 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Jake Angelo I.

3 years ago

Dining at El Torito transcends mere eating; it's an experience, largely thanks to the impeccable service provided by Mario. From the moment you step through the doors, the warm ambiance and inviting decor promise an unforgettable meal, and Mario ensures that promise is kept. His attention to detail, deep knowledge of the menu, and genuine enthusiasm for the cuisine elevate the dining experience to new heights. The food at El Torito, rich in flavor and authentically prepared, offers a culinary journey through the heart of Mexico. Each dish, from the tangy ceviche appetizers to the sumptuously spiced main courses, is a testament to the chefs' expertise and dedication to their craft. However, it's Mario's recommendations that truly make the meal special. His ability to gauge diners' preferences and suggest dishes that delight the palate is unmatched. Whether guiding you through the complexities of regional specialties or pairing the perfect beverage with your meal, Mario's expertise enhances every bite. Moreover, Mario's attentive but unobtrusive service ensures that every need is met with a smile, making diners feel valued and well cared for. His timing is impeccable, with dishes arriving at just the right moment, and his knack for making guests feel at ease turns a simple meal into a memorable event. El Torito's vibrant flavors and Mario's exceptional service combine to create not just a meal, but an experience that lingers long after the last bite is savored. It's a place where food and hospitality intersect to celebrate the joy of dining. For anyone seeking an authentic taste of Mexico accompanied by stellar service, El Torito, under Mario's watchful eye, is a destination that truly stands out. read more

William B.

400

130

541

16 days ago

El Torito continues to be one of our family's favorite places to eat, and there's a reason we keep coming back! Every visit reminds us why we love this restaurant so much. The food is consistently exceptional, the atmosphere is inviting, and it's a fantastic place to enjoy a great meal with the whole family. On this visit, we ordered the seafood tacos and burrito tacos, and both were absolutely delicious! Everything was packed with flavor, perfectly prepared, and incredibly satisfying. You can tell there's attention to detail in the food, and the quality keeps us coming back. Our kids ordered the cheese pizza, which was also a hit! It's always nice finding a restaurant where the adults can enjoy fantastic Mexican food while the kids have something they genuinely love eating. And of course, we couldn't pass up the Cadillac margaritas! Absolutely fantastic and the perfect complement to an already incredible meal. If you enjoy a great margarita, you definitely need to try one here! What really makes El Torito special is its consistency. We've eaten here countless times, and it continues to deliver the kind of experience that makes us excited to return. Whether you're coming for a family dinner, a casual night out, or just some delicious Mexican food and margaritas, this place is an excellent choice. Five stars all around! Great food, fantastic drinks, a family-friendly atmosphere, and an experience that keeps us coming back again and again. Highly recommend El Torito, and we're already looking forward to our next visit! read more

Nicklaus Y.

Elite 24

444

3 years ago

My recent visit to El Torito left me with mixed feelings as I indulged in some delicious tacos but encountered significant drawbacks in the service department. Here's a breakdown of the items I ordered: 1. Al Pastor Taco: 4/5 The Al Pastor Taco was a savory delight, bursting with flavor. While it didn't quite reach perfection, it was a satisfying choice that showcased the restaurant's effort in delivering quality tacos. 2. Steak Taco: 4/5 The Steak Taco mirrored the Al Pastor in terms of taste and quality. The steak was well-cooked, and the overall presentation and flavor earned it a solid four stars. Additional Notes: - I visited El Torito on Taco Tuesday, lured in by the promise of delectable deals. The tacos did not disappoint, and the freshness of the tortillas added an extra layer of authenticity to the experience. However, the shining moments of the meal were unfortunately overshadowed by a glaring issue with the service. I found myself waiting for an excruciating 40 minutes just to receive the check, process it, and cash out my gift card balance. This extended wait time greatly diminished the overall dining experience, leaving me frustrated and dissatisfied. While the food at El Torito deserves commendation, the service aspect, particularly on the day of my visit, was subpar. I hope the management takes note of such lapses and works towards improving the efficiency of their service to ensure that patrons can enjoy both delicious meals and a seamless dining experience. read more

Steven T.

220

2 years ago

Had a great time at El Torito for a friend's birthday brunch! We came with a big group of about 20, and even though we were definitely on the rowdy side, the staff was super nice and didn't say anything about it. Arturo was awesome--he kept the bottomless mimosa refills coming and checked in often to make sure we were good. The vibe here is really lively, especially for birthdays. There were a bunch of other birthday celebrations going on too, which made it feel even more festive. Definitely a fun spot if you're looking to celebrate with bottomless mimosas. As for the food, there were a lot of solid options. My favorite was the seafood station which had aguachile, shrimp pasta, ceviche, but and the chicken tamale was good too. The stewed meats were tasty but a little on the salty side. They also have made-to-order tacos, but I thought the meats were a bit too salty and greasy as well. They have a standard omlette station which is always nice, with bacon, ham, and chorizo as meat options. The dessert station was a highlight for me--the waffles and churros with whipped cream and vanilla ice cream were great. They also had pancakes that looked fluffy, though I didn't try them, as well as arroz con leche, bread pudding, and a few others. Overall, a fun experience with friendly service and good food. The only thing is the $40 price feels just a little high--I think $35 would be the sweet spot. But still, if you're looking for a lively brunch with endless mimosas, this is a great option. read more

Art R.

259

3 years ago

Unforgettable Rotary Club Gathering at El Torito in Cypress! Our recent Los Alamitos, Cypress & Seal Beach Rotary Club event at El Torito in Cypress, CA, was an absolute delight from start to finish. As a group of 23, we were warmly welcomed and accommodated in a designated area, setting the perfect tone for the evening. From the get-go, the attentive wait staff astounded us with their professionalism and friendliness. They promptly served us refreshing drinks and a delectable assortment of chips and salsa as we settled in. The seamless coordination and attention to detail immediately stood out. What truly wowed us was the swiftness with which our food orders were not only prepared but also served. Despite our large group, each dish arrived at the table piping hot and full of flavor. The efficiency did not compromise the quality in the slightest. The level of service we received was beyond exceptional. The staff's dedication to ensuring our comfort and enjoyment was evident in every interaction. They truly went above and beyond, showcasing great hospitality and a genuine desire to make our experience memorable. As a Rotary Club, we unanimously agreed that El Torito in Cypress exceeded our expectations. The seamless blend of efficient service, delectable food, and warm hospitality left an indelible mark on our evening. We're already looking forward to returning to this fantastic venue for future gatherings. A heartfelt thank you to the entire team for an outstanding evening! read more

Luana W.

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8 months ago

Last night, my wonderful husband treated me to a beautiful Valentine's dinner at El Torito in Cypress -- and let me just say, it was an experience. We're regulars here (Sunday brunch is our thing, and we pop in for dinner from time to time), so we know what to expect. Typically, our visits land somewhere between 3.5 and 4.5 stars. But Valentine's Day? They earned a solid . The restaurant was fully decorated for Lover's Day -- romantic, festive, and thoughtfully done without feeling over the top. Even after 28 years of marriage, my husband and I still make it a point to celebrate our love, and the ambiance truly supported that moment for us. Now let me talk about our server -- Mario. Top notch doesn't even begin to describe him. The restaurant was packed. Every table was full. He was clearly busy. And yet... he made us feel like we were the only two people in the room. I'm a picky eater (and yes, I had special requests ), but Mario took our order to the letter. Not one detail was missed. Everything came out exactly right. He was attentive, timely, professional, and warm without being intrusive. That balance is rare -- especially on one of the busiest dining nights of the year. Service like that makes all the difference. So on this particular Valentine's evening, El Torito in Cypress gets a full five stars from us -- and a special shout-out to Mario for making our night feel special, personal, and memorable. We had a wonderful time, and we'll absolutely be back. read more

Mervyn S.

2 years ago

Let me just say this: if you're going to El Torito in Cypress, ask for Marleni. Trust me, you'll thank me later. I've been dining out for years, and Marleni is, hands down, one of the most phenomenal servers I've ever encountered. She doesn't just serve food--she creates an experience. From the moment we were seated, Marleni's warm smile and genuine enthusiasm set the tone for our evening. She welcomed us like we were old friends and immediately made us feel at home. You could tell she truly loves what she does, and that energy is contagious. She greeted us with a cheerful "How's everyone doing tonight?" and somehow managed to remember all of our names within the first five minutes. Who does that? What truly blew me away was Marleni's attentiveness. My glass of water? Never empty. Chips and salsa running low? She had a fresh batch on our table in seconds. And she did all of this without hovering or interrupting our conversation. It's like she had a sixth sense for exactly what we needed and when. And let's talk about her personality. Marleni has a way of making you feel like you're the most important table in the restaurant. She's funny, charming, and so down-to-earth. At one point, she cracked a joke about how many plates she could carry at once. Did I also mention that she's hot? ;) El Torito is lucky to have someone like Marleni on their team. Her customer service is nothing short of legendary. read more

Joshua C.

133

3 years ago

El Torito never fails to deliver an authentic Mexican dining experience, and my recent visit was no exception. Jose, our server for the evening, made it even more special. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with a warm welcome and seated promptly. The ambiance at El Torito is always inviting, with colorful decor and a lively atmosphere that immediately puts you in a festive mood. As for the food, it was exceptional. We started with the guacamole, which was fresh and deliciously creamy with just the right amount of kick. For our entrees, we had the ignited fajitas supremaa and the sizzling enchiladas, both of which were bursting with flavor. The portions were generous, and every bite was a taste of Mexico. Jose was attentive, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu. He recommended the perfect margarita to pair with our dishes and ensured our glasses were never empty. What stood out the most was his genuine passion for the cuisine and his dedication to making our dining experience memorable. The night concluded with a delectable dessert, and we left El Torito with full stomachs and satisfied taste buds. If you're looking for an authentic Mexican dining experience with exceptional service, I highly recommend El Torito, and I hope you're fortunate enough to have Jose as your server. This restaurant never disappoints, and it's a true gem in the world of Mexican cuisine. read more

Richard T.

2 years ago

It's been a while since I had dinner at El Torito, as I usually visit on Sundays for their awesome brunch. They offer a huge variety, and with bottomless mimosas, it's always a great experience that never disappoints! This time, I came in for dinner, and I was lucky enough to be served by Gloria, who was absolutely wonderful. Her service stood out, and I can't say enough about how attentive and friendly she was throughout the meal. It's always a bonus when the staff makes you feel so welcomed! As for the meal itself, it was solid. I opted for the "Create Your Own Combo," and it was more than enough food. The portions were generous and satisfying, just what I was hoping for. They also had some specials going on, and I'm always down for a good deal--my wife took full advantage of that, so no complaints here! One small thing, though-- I ordered the Horchata, which doesn't come with refills, and that's understandable. However, the glass was probably around 10 oz, and with the ice, it seemed closer to 8 oz. For $5.50, I wasn't blown away, and while I understand the no-refills policy, it didn't feel like the best value. Interestingly, my water refill came in a much larger glass--probably 16 oz--so I just thought the disparity was worth noting. Overall, it was still a good meal with great service, and I'll definitely be back for more. read more

Hilary G.

5 years ago

If you have time to kill, I recommend coming here. Our food took over an hour to come out. There was only about 4 tables in the whole restaurant when we came in. We asked the server several times how much longer all she could tell us was that they were working on our food. I got up to ask the host to check if our food was actually being made. The manager came to our table to apologize and let us know that she would be taking care of our food if we wanted to keep waiting for it. Which to me was very kind considering we were a party of 5. We came in around 9 our food didn't come out until almost 1030. Deysi and the manager both dropped off the food together, and again she apologized. The manager kept checking up on us throughout our meal. The food tasted okay. We did notice the manager going to other tables apologizing. We could see from our table the kitchen area and hear pans being slammed, we could tell it was a kitchen problem. After our experience I still give them 5 stars because of the management. The manager coming to our table and apologizing to us really helped the situation. She didn't have to take care of us but I appreciate that she did and will give El Torito another chance. Just one where I have no plans for the rest of the day. read more

Juanie B.

2 years ago

We frequent this location often, but today's experience was a bit different. There was a slight wait before we were seated, and once seated, we waited about 15 minutes before our order was taken. Fortunately, the host, Juan, was extremely attentive. Noticing that our waiter had not yet approached us, he took the initiative to take our drink order and brought us chips and salsa while we waited. After another 10 minutes with no sign of our waiter, Juan kindly came over again to take our food order. Another 20 minutes passed, and still, no waiter had come to check on us. At this point, Juan was consistently checking with the kitchen and providing us with updates on our food. Eventually, the waiter came over to remove the menus from the table but did not offer any further assistance. By this time, Juan had already taken care of our order. While we appreciate the waiter's eventual visit, it would have been nice for him to introduce himself and acknowledge that he would be servicing our table. I would like to express my sincere thanks to Juan for his exceptional customer service, attentiveness, and kindness. He truly went above and beyond, and his actions made a noticeable difference in our experience. read more

Robert R.

5 years ago

Came in on Sunday for dinner with my wife and kids. Restaurant did not seem busy as there was no wait time and a good amount of open tables. Service was OK mentioned it cause she got a couple things wrong on our order ( wrong tortillas , kids drinks not coming out till I reminded her) Our main problem was the food. It took a good 40 minutes to get our food. One burrito one steak plate and two kids pizza not during a rush. I got the advertised steak and shrimp plate. I asked for medium rare on the steak and it came it well done. The quality of the steak was bland and texture was very chewy. The rice and shrimp came out COLD. Not lukewarm, not kinda warm but cold as if it's been out for at least 15 minutes. Normally I would have alerted management and have gotten it refired but I noticed another table across the way had sent back both their entrees. So I decidedly box up my meal and just eat it at home. Wife had a chimichanga and it come out hot and was tasty. But was served without the guacamole as Advertised. Hope kitchen gets the help it needs as this was my local el Torito that I hadn't been back too in a couple years. read more

Robyn T.

13 years ago

Review for Sunday Brunch only. So I got a $10 off coupon the mail and decided to try out the El Torito Sunday brunch. Price was food and with this coupon it was even better! Went with my mother and the food was actually very good! I must say that the selection was kind of lacking, as many trays were completely empty and we thought maybe they would bring out more food and they never did. Mom tried the menudo which she said was fantastic. I tried a bunch of other stuff and the only thing I did not care for was the enchiladas they were kind of hard and taste was not good. Everything else was really good! Tamales, bread, tacos, flan, churros! Our server (an older gentlemen, super nice) informed us that brunch included Champagne (we had no idea) so if we wanted to make some mimosas he could bring some champagne. Greeeaaatt!!! Alcohol at 10AM is always a good deal damn it, I don't care what anyone says! Good food, nice service, and the price was very good. Will be back to brunch. Also, I was so full and a little drunk that I forgot about using the coupon. But that's ok, I can go next Sunday. read more

Kris M.

127

4 years ago

I was in the area for a wedding and recently visited El Torito and had a great experience overall. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted warmly and seated promptly. Our waitress, Marleni, was incredibly friendly and helpful with the menu. She recommended some of her favorite dishes and even helped us customize a few items to our liking. As for the food, everything we ordered was delicious. The fajitas were sizzling and full of flavor. The salsa and guacamole were both fresh and tasty. And the margaritas were some of the best I've ever had. The atmosphere was also great. The decor was festive and colorful, and the music added to the lively vibe of the restaurant. Despite being busy, the noise level was not overwhelming and we were still able to have a conversation. Overall, I would highly recommend El Torito to anyone looking for Mexican cuisine. And if you happen to be lucky enough to have Marleni as your server, you're in for a real treat. She went above and beyond to make our dining experience enjoyable and memorable. read more

Ry D.

151

115

2 years ago

This review is long overdue, and it's time to sing the praises of El Torito! Yes, it's part of a well-known chain, but what truly elevates this location is the exceptional staff and their unwavering commitment to customer service. Juan, Angel, Alfredo and today, Edwin, went above and beyond to make us feel genuinely welcomed and valued, as they always do. This El Torito has become our trusted go-to spot. The prices are fair, especially considering the generous portions and quality of the food. In a world where many restaurants seem to prioritize profit over people, El Torito stands out. We recently experienced the stark contrast at El Zarape, where we were completely ignored. It only reinforced our appreciation for the warm, family-like atmosphere we consistently find here. Thank you, El Torito, for being a pillar of our community and a shining example of what true customer service means. You've earned our loyalty, and we'll continue to return for the delicious food and the exceptional treatment read more

Liza M.

5 years ago

Gloria is amazing! She was attentive, friendly but professional, knows the menu forward and backward, pleasant and nice to deal with. I appreciate her so much. We even sang together "happy birthday" to my friend and she even took our picture. I felt like at home with her, like she's our friend, helping us celebrate my friend's birthday. I love Gloria! She makes you feel like family but still she maintains professionalism, giving the best service, making sure we are happy with our meal ! I just want to add, that hopefully El Torito (Katella Ave., Cypress Ca) will improve the lighting in the dining area, it wasn't festive, it looked like going to an office building where not all the lights were on, it looked dim, but not the "restaurant ambience" feeling. It felt like the dining area was an office, saving on electricity where only half of the lights are on. Pls improve the lighting, it doesn't give justice to the reputation of "el torito" as having a nice restaurant ambience/atmosphere. read more

John N.

2 years ago

Fantastic Sunday Brunch with Exceptional Service! I recently visited the Cypress El Torito for their Sunday brunch, and I must say, it was an incredible experience! The food selection was diverse and delicious, with everything from classic Mexican dishes to breakfast favorites. The taco station was the definite highlight! What really stood out was the exceptional service. The staff was very attentive and friendly, ensuring that our drinks were always full and that we had everything we needed. I want to give a special shout-out to the manager, Jose, who went above and beyond to make our experience memorable. He was genuinely welcoming and checked in with us multiple times to ensure we were enjoying our meal. His dedication to customer satisfaction really made a difference. If you're looking for a great Sunday brunch spot, I highly recommend El Torito in Cypress. The food is excellent, and the service, especially from Jose and his team, is top-notch! read more

Sue H.

9 years ago

Wow ! Kudos to Anagely and her team. We stopped coming to el Torito a while back, and today we decided to give it an other try. We were impressed with the quality of service we received. Since the minute we walked in, the hostess had a big smile and guided us to our table. The dinning room seem very clean and well managed. Our server was very professional and knowledgeable. We had fajitas because those are our favor although we were not sure if there were going to be sizzling or cold like our last experience, we went for it . Yummy yummy! There were soooooo good , the manager visited our table and we shared our past experience. She was very happy that this experience was wonderful . Anagely was very professional and made us feel like we were family. All employees seemed to be working very harmoniously. Thanks again, Anagely and your team for a great dinning experience . For sure we will be back !! read more

Jason L.

3 months ago

I've been here a handful of times, and without a doubt I'd give this place 5/5 every single time! They have a great variety of authentic Mexican dishes, and the ambiance is perfect. The warm lighting creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere, especially at night. On top of that, the restaurant is always spotless and very well maintained. Gloria was our server for my girlfriend and me, and she was absolutely amazing. She was incredibly welcoming, kind, and attentive throughout our entire visit. She constantly checked in on us, offered more chips and salsa, made sure our drinks were always topped off, and greeted us with "amigos" while speaking Spanish. Those little personal touches made us feel genuinely welcomed and at home. Excellent food, outstanding service, and a wonderful atmosphere. We'll definitely be coming back again! Muchas Gracias Gloria, bar staff, back of house/ cooks. read more

Leah D.

1 year ago

Amazing Brunch Experience at El Torito! We had such a fantastic brunch at El Torito, and a big part of that was thanks to our incredible server, Jorge! From the moment we sat down, Jorge made us feel welcome and taken care of. He kept our table stocked and not once did our drinks run empty--he was always one step ahead! Jorge was not only attentive but also super friendly and entertaining, which really made the whole experience more enjoyable. He brought great energy to the table, checked in regularly without being intrusive, and made sure we had everything we needed. It's rare to find service this good. Jorge truly went above and beyond, and we'll definitely be back--partly for the food, but mostly for the awesome service! Highly recommend brunch here, and if you're lucky enough to have Jorge as your server, you're in for a treat! read more

El Torito - mexican - Updated October 2026

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