El Torito

4.1 (2.1k reviews)

ModerateMexican, Bars, Breakfast & Brunch

Closed • 9:00 am - 10:00 pm

Updated over 3 months ago

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El Torito - HH mini 3 Sopes grilled chicken - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - $10 Margarita flight - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - Sunday Brunch Waffles - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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El Torito - Happy Hour Carne Asada Fries - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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EL TORITO ATMOSPHERE

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Casual

Classy

Moderate noise

Happy hour specials

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Nids A.

Unfortunately, I would not return to this El Torito location. We waited approximately 35 minutes for our food, which is far too long--especially when you're on a lunch break. Our server was amazing and provided great service, so this review is not a reflection of her. However, no one acknowledged the delay or let us know the kitchen was running behind. I eventually had to ask about our food. My mom ordered the crunchy tacos, and I ordered the sizzling enchiladas. My enchiladas barely had any meat, and when I tried one of my mom's tacos, the shell was stale and extremely hard with almost no meat or filling. After waiting so long, the food tasted as though it had been rushed out only because I asked about it. The long wait, lack of communication, and poor food quality made the experience very disappointing. I would not recommend this Riverside location.

Chicken NACHOS SUPREMOS - SHREDDED CHICKEN

Chuck W.

I like it here. I like the chicken nachos supremos. it's a nice lunch . I like the Riverside plaza it's in.

Juanda S.

Anyone who knows me absolutely knows that I am an El Toritoes die hard lover! I am consistent and I have been getting the same dish for over 20 years! All of restaurants that were near me have closed ! So when I went Riverside to visit my best friend, who is also a die hard, we didn't even turn off the engine. We went straight to El Toritoes! Very nice location and the restaurant itself was beautiful. NOW LETS GET TO IT! Our beautiful waitress"s were great but when they told us they did not have salsa I was floored! I ordered my famous Sizzling Enchiladas and bestie ordered her usual Vegetarian Fajitas. My famous dish was no longer famous and besties Vegetarian Fajitas were flat as a pancake with hardly any vegetables . Sooo disappointed ! Will I be back? That is a definite NO!

Always Great Food and Service! I've been going to this location for years and years, and weekly since the Pandemic! The employees there have become like Family to me! Lorenzo and sisters Jasmine and Litzy! Always personable and Happy hardworking Friends!

Sy M.

Came for Sunday brunch with a friend. We made reservations through OpenTable and paid using the inKind app, which offers cashback. While brunch is on the pricier side, it was absolutely worth it. The selection was excellent, and everything we tried was delicious. Despite arriving a few minutes late, we were seated right away. Our server was friendly, attentive to keeping the table clean, and respectful of our conversation. The only minor downside was a delay in getting the check, but overall it was a great experience. I'll definitely be returning.

Juan P.

Great happy hour daily from 3-9pm. Great options for their happy hour. The food was great, the servers were very attentive. It was a bit busy but the staff managed it well. Recommend coming here for their happy hour, had a great time. Despite being busy, the restaurant was clean throughout the visit.

Tina G.

A group of us came for breakfast on a Saturday with a reservation. Now they have a breakfast buffet on Saturday and it looked really good!! A couple of our group tried it and were pleased. I got the Breakfast Burrito with ham and the beans inside and it was delicious. My hubby had the Breakfast Combo with bacon and he said it was good. Everyone else liked the Monterey Omelette & Huevos Rancheros. The staff was friendly and let us stay to chat for quite a while.

My love, chicken pozole, cilantro pepita salad, BEEF BIRRIA TACOS polo

Sunday Brunch on game day for the win!! Excellent flavorful food and amazing drinks served by thee best server Jeanette! She kept us topped off with the bottomless mimosas, and made sure we were happy! 10/10 would recommend!

"Tableside Guacamole" and rancid chips! Yuck!

B H.

El Torito used to be one of my favorite restaurants, but this last visit was so bad I will never go back to this location again. The service was rude, the food was unsafe, and honestly the whole experience made me question their kitchen practices. First problem: the chips they served were STALE and RANCID. Rancid oil is not just gross, it can actually make people sick. We told our waitress politely and she acted like we were annoying her. She said she would bring another basket and if those were bad too, she would ask the kitchen for a fresh batch. When she FINALLY brought the second basket, it was even worse. The oil still tasted spoiled and old. That means they are either reusing oil way too long or storing chips in a disgusting way. Then she drops off our so-called "table side guacamole" which was already mixed, and tasted like straight lime juice. Not fresh at all and definitely not worth $17.50. When we tried to tell her about the chips again, she snapped at us and said she was "still handing out food" at another table. She could have just said she'd be back. Instead she chose attitude... acting like we're inconveniencing her. She came back five minutes later, we repeated the issue again, and she reluctantly said she would "see if the kitchen will make a fresh batch." So why didn't she do that the first time? But, we gave her the benefit of the doubt. "Big mistake....BIG. HUGE." Finally we get a basket of fresh chips that were actually good. Then a second waitress comes over, asks us if we needed boxes (yes). And I ask for more of the fresh chips so I take it to go. I told her they made us fresh chips because our first chips were stale. She hesitates, like I asked for my meal for free. So, she brings back a basket and guess what? It was the original nasty chips we had sent back!!!!! The broken basket and the tips of the chips being gone (as I was trying to see if they were all stale) gave it away. This means they are reusing chips that were already on someone else's table. That is disgusting and a major food safety issue. I was livid and was ready to leave...they didn't care. One more thing. When my husband asked the first waitress if she had tasted the chips, she said, "I don't even like our chips." So she knew they were bad but served them anyway. That says everything. The soup was bland and the only good thing we had was the salad. The salad was REALLY good and the crispy tortilla shell it comes with was fresh. But none of that matters when you are dealing with rude staff, rancid food, and possible cross-contamination. We did not leave a tip because bad service does not deserve a reward. They charge a 4% service fee without letting you know anyways.... I should have asked for a manager but honestly I do not trust this place anymore. People deserve to know how they run this location. Reusing chips and serving rancid oil is not just lazy, it is a health risk. Eat at your own risk!!!

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Genese M.

13 years ago

I would go to El Torito for their Sunday brunch again it was good. I loved the fact that it was all you can drink Champagne and they had orange juice at the buffet if you wanted to make it a mimosa. Their homemade tacos are great especially with the homemade tortillas. I went their for a friends birthday and it was alright. I got the Grilled Steak & Chicken Breast Fajitas Combo, not as flavorful or good as everyone claims it to be. The tortilla soup was delicious though. Me and a friend went their for happy hour and it was worth it. We got the wings sampler and they were alright. They had a wing that was too hot. i like their buffalo style wing but that was it. I would go only more for their brunch and I want to try the taco Tuesdays on Happy Hour, their tacos are good. read more

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Angelina M.

7 years ago

We went Sunday for brunch and everything was great. We sat outside it was a cold day but their heaters kept us warm. Our waitress was wonderful. She was fast and always had our cups filled. She was friendly out going and anything we needed she got it. Thank you myriam you made our morning so much better. read more

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Janelle O.

Hello Angeline, Thank you very much for your great comments specially…

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Dave C.

7 years ago

El Torito is one our favorites. I tried the tableside fajita salad for the first time and loved it. Chips and salsa are always perfect.

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Maria H.

5 years ago

Victor Perez is such a great waiter, he offered a great suggestion for drinks which me and my friend were forward looking for. Overall great experience. He is also bilingual in Spanish and English. read more

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Nhan P.

405

16 years ago

The one and only reason why I would go to El Torito... TACO TUES. Went to this location with my oldest bro to have a guys night out along with his buddies Sonny R. his bro Tee Jay R. and sister and mom. It was a chill night. I wasn't exactly having a good week, but my bro treated me out, and just got me out hanging with friends. El Toritos is the perfect remedy. Environment/atmosphere: This location is perfect for business, i mean its only right next to the 3 story Forever 21, and Killarneys. Being that its in the Riverside Plaza, it makes for a nice place to have dinner, or if you're trying to find a lil night life. When it gets busy it can make it really hard to move around here especially by the bar.. But very nice, and clean. Food/Drinks: Of course, taco Tues, the usual beef taco, and a beer. This particular night my bro got me jack and coke. Everything was just amazingly taste. Service: Luckily we had a friend that was there already, so we didn't have to wait in the ridiculous line just to get seated. Our waitress was very quick with our orders, and brought our drinks, and bottomless chips and salsa. She hung out with us for a lil and joked with us. That night was fun. Overall, El toritos is just awesome. So this location doesn't make any different. Great place, great food, taco tues is the shiz! read more

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Macy V.

12 years ago

This place is decent for Mexican food. We come here for lunch specials, and the service is always slow. I gave it two stars because they have a full bar, and taco tuesdays are good. I do find that the service is little faster at happy hour, but not much better. read more

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Elliot M.

149

118

11 years ago

The service was really slow! I was there with two friends, it took the server so long to get to us that we all had decided what we wanted to eat before they took our drink order. After two baskets of chips they finally brought drinks to my friends but not me, and I didn't order anything fancy. They brought us a third basket of chips for waiting so long for our food. Finally they brought us our appetizer, and eventually my drink and then when they brought out our food they gave me the wrong food. I ordered a chicken taco salad and they brought me two chicken soft tacos. I told the waiter who apologized and brought me my salad. He let us keep the tacos. The food was just okay. The salad had tortilla chips that were too soggy for me. My friends enjoyed their food. The over all experience was just mediocre. That's what I've come to expect from chain restaurants now. read more

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Trina U.

Kate, thank you for sharing your review with us. We will forward this…

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Vanessa R.

11 years ago

Visited on March 16th: This was my first time eating at this El Torito location. I was blown away by the exceptional service I received. Right away we were given a table to sit at and the waiter arrived promptly to take our beverage order. Afterwards he came back with the drinks and 2 baskets of chips and 5 salsa bowls. Keep in mind this was me, my mom and 3 younger sisters. We ordered right away- Me and mom share the Ignited 1800 Fajitas with flour tortillas. 2 sisters had a children's hamburger 1 sister had 2 a la carte carne asada tacos The most amazing part about the experience was how the waiter was constantly bringing us more chips and salsa. I absolutely love the whole unlimited chips and salsa deal so it was meeting my standards. Our food arrived nice and hot and it was absolutely delicious. I always make sure to ask my waiter to bring lemon wedges and extra napkins before I eat. At this point I wanted more salsa to add to my fajitas and was promptly brought 3+ bowls. I was in shock! Never have I experienced such amazing service! We all left completely satisfied and have made this our spot to eat whenever we're craving flame grilled fajitas and unlimited chips and salsa! read more

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Jesus B.

7 years ago

It was my first time at their Sunday brunch and all I have to say is that their food was amazing but what really stood out was the amazing and sincere service that Victor Perez offered us .... it was so great I had to leave a yelp review 10/10 service . My boy better get a raise . read more

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Ana L.

5 years ago

Excellent service. Thanks Kuko for checking on us so often even though it was extra busy. You'll see us back soon!

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Janelle O.

Hello Ana, Thank you very much for your great comments we appreciate…

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Maura B.

5 years ago

Víctor P. was our server and we had a great time! He always made sure our drinks were refilled quickly as well as anything else we needed. He was very attentive and funny! Would definitely return! read more

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Janelle O.

Hello Maura, thank you very much for your great comments specially…

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Miguel C.

11 years ago

I haven't been here for a while for Sunday Brunch and I have to say it is even better since the last time I was here. Having our 1st annual Xmas Party here and The best part of this Sunday Funday is our server who is the best. ZEEK who is very attentive and has been accommodating our needs. 100% great customer service. Very friendly, funny, and considerate!!! read more

El Torito - Xmas party on a Sunday Funday with mariachi playing live. Great way to start my Sunday. Best server #Zeek - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Trina U.

Hi Miguel,…

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Ken H.

11 years ago

Came here for their Sunday brunch.. Never been before.. Gotta say I'm really impressed.. The food's good.. The service is spectacular.. Everyone from the hostess to the girl that's in charge of the mobile Bloody Mary cart was grade AAAA+++++... I was not expecting such a good experience.. Highly recommend.. read more

El Torito - Sunday brunch - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Alan T.

11 years ago

Went in for taco Tuesday not too long ago and the tacos were flat out disgusting. The meat had more fat and skin than anything else. We immediately let management know and told them we would not pay for such a horrible meal. read more

El Torito - Taco Tuesday tacos that had more fat than meat on them. - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Trina U.

Hi Alan,…

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Justin K.

127

8 years ago

Casual hang out place for a drink or two with friends. They have really convenient happy hours ideal for swinging by after work, unlike other places that have very short and limited time frames for their happy hours. While the happy hour menu is nothing fancy or extravagant, it does have all the bare necessities to cover those cravings for an amazing price. 4$ for their draft beer selection along with a complementary side of chips and salsa, food that won't make you feel to bloated and nothing too heavy. Never been here for anything other than their happy hour, but that's really all you need. Servers do consistently check up on you and you won't have to wait 20 minutes to get your check. read more

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Angel F.

7 years ago

Just came today for brunch, food was great. However, service was terrible. Our waiter looked lost and appalled when we would ask for refills. I understand that they're busy, so we wouldn't be constantly bombarding them. But after the second time he walked past us without a refill after 10 minutes, we would have to yell out for our server to notice us. I'd like to think that it was just our sever because the other hosts were really accommodating. read more

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Freddy H.

7 years ago

Great way to spend Easter! We love it! Janet is always amazing. No matter how busy it is she always makes us feel like we're her only customers. Great service. No complaints. Janet is a great help and a great personality. We'll be back... read more

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Hector S.

Hello Freddy, thank you very much for for your wonderful comments…

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Marco G.

7 years ago

Awesome service. Had so much fun at Easter brunch. I highly recommend Chantal. So nice and so sweet to us. Made us feel at home. Thanks!

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Hector S.

Hello Marco, thank you for your great feedback and comments specially…

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sam P.

15 years ago

Happy Hour specials are decent. Like many others mentioned already about the $3 deals; however you must sit on the side with the bar in order to get the happy hour special. Foods decent and happy hour tacos are not that bad at all. service was ok. love places that give chips and salsa unlimited. as far as a regular dining place? i would not choose this place to casually eat. read more

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Carol B.

13 years ago

I don't know why I keep giving this place a chance. The bartender sucks, I sent my drink back twice and she still couldn't get Sangria right! It took forever to track down our waitress. And, let's face it, the new menu blows. There us no one checking drink levels and it's not that busy here. I'm done with this place. read more

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Leon P.

12 years ago

We normally like El Torito but tonight was the worst. Half cold food delivered at different times with no silverware on the table until after the food finally made it, and then it was plastic to go ware. Really disappointed. read more

El Torito - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Stacie B.

7 years ago

Great atmosphere! The service is quick b we sat on the bar side. Melissa, our sever was on the ball. She waited on us immediately and kept us hydrated. From the time we placed our order to being seved was less than 20 minutes, on a friday night during happy hour. The only drawback was no Dodgers. I'll happily come again and sit in her section! read more

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Christopher S.

5 years ago

I've only eaten at El Torito once as a kid. Came today with my girl and had the build your own combo. My enchiladas were delicious. My sides of guacamole and sour cream were good size, not small wack sides. Our server Victor P. Was great and funny! We will definitely be back in the future! Thank you for a great lunch experience! read more

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Janelle O.

Hello Christopher, Thank you for your great comments and feedback

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Christina C.

11 years ago

The bartender Maria made the best Moscow Mule with tequila! It's a must try! She was so great & I'll definitely be back! read more

El Torito - My delicious Moscow Mule with tequila made by Maria. - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Trina U.

Hi Christina,…

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Emi T.

10 years ago

Went here for a birthday party and honestly, kind of a hastle. The place has a nice and friendly atmosphere and the food is delicious. However, the downside is that waiters are not assigned to tables so you have to flag them down for anything! I mean, if you wanted a refill of a cup of water or just to order any food, good luck waiting for some because the waiters walk really fast and can run past you. However, when you get service, it's really nice. For instance, another party was awaiting for our table because they had it on reserve for a time slot and so we were moved to another area. But, the manager felt bad and gave us all free ice cream on the house. Honestly, recommend dining here when there are less people (when there are less crowds and plan around that). read more

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Marlene S.

5 years ago

I got great service by my waiter Victor. Good food and drinks. He was very quick and friendly!

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Zuny Z.

8 years ago

Just horrible and Over priced. There food sucks, served old too us. Worst $60 ever spent read more

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Jen T.

11 years ago

My son I went to el Torrito on thanksgiving eve. The buffet looked amazing and tasted just as good as it looked. Here is the Terrible part ... The waiter added a twenty dollar tip to my bill. I called the bookkeeper at this location (Laura) twice without a phone call back regarding this incident. I have now called the corporate office to find resolution of an extra added tip... That I am having to prove my innocence to. We will see what the outcome is, and I will post to keep all of you Yelp reviewers abreast of the situation. I have filed a dispute with my bank.. But.. Will I frequent this restaurant .. Not sure :( I have spoken with Trina U. .. She handles the guest services issues so we will see. Keep looking for updates. Update ...three days after calling the corporate office.. I have been issued a full credit.. Yay!! Thank you for taking care of the situation ..Trina !! read more

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Trina U.

Hi Jen,…

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Desiree Q.

5 years ago

Victor Perez!!! great server, great service. Very attentive and funny, kept us laughing. Would definitely come back and request him as a server every time ! read more

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Janelle O.

Hello Desiree, Thank you for your great comments and feedback

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Kevin F.

7 years ago

This El Torito is amazing. The staff sets the example when it comes to service. I can't say enough about each and everyone of them, but I can say Bertha Alicia is the best of the best. Great smile, great service, great food, and an entire staff that treats you like family. Drive out of your way to really experience the staff at El Torito and ask for Bertha read more

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Hector S.

Hi Kevin, thank you very much for the great feedback, we are very…

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Delaynie K.

Elite 25

742

387

108

11 years ago

3.5 rounded to 4 because Mexican food and I are in love. Taco Tuesday is my favorite holiday, which I support ardently each week. This location of El Torito is pretty hit-or-miss with service. You could luck out and get refilled drinks, extra napkins, the works...or you could barely even get one soda and your chips are slammed down on the table in a hurry. It gets poppin' on Tuesdays, so make sure to time your visit well! Minus stars because getting the check here is consistently slow, and the non-Taco Tuesday food tends to be more bland than usual at this location. But overall, a safe bet for dining with a big group, since you know what to expect. read more

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Trina U.

Delaynie, thank you for the review. We hope to host you again soon.…

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Nancy C.

6 years ago

Victor perez was such a great help! I was so happy with his service, did not need to ask for additional help he was very attentive!! Thank you for this great stay! Definitely asking for him next time!! read more

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Ralph P.

8 years ago

I met up my friends for brunch Sunday. I was late so I had to catch up on my drinks. Our server Destiny was on it ! Very attentive polite and with a smile every time she stopped in to check on us. Great service and great attitude! read more

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Jeff H.

139

15 years ago

Decent food, nothing out of the ordinary. I always liked their chips and salsa. For the same food and price, I would rather go to Don Jose off La Sierra though. Their food is slightly better. Would come back though. read more

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Autumn M.

7 years ago

Just had apps and drinks for happy hour in the bar. Melissa was the best server ever! We had a great time and the drinks and food were great! Thank you Melissa! read more

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Henry G.

13 years ago

Great happy hour. Great place to sit in the patio and have some drinks andappetizers. Sometimes over crowded and service not the best, but good place to go with the flow and drink with some friends party/good times atmosphere. read more

El Torito - Mango margarita in happy hour having a good time with friends and family. - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Tanya H.

3 years ago

great environment! thank you Victor Perez for a relaxing time. you are so kind and attentive. have a wonderful day!

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Adrian C.

9 years ago

Im a little late on this review but after dining here four times since December 2017 ( maria was our waitress in early december), this young ladie is the definition of excellent service to Eltoritos customers .... our food and drinks got to us in a timely manner an we never had to look around to find her for a refill etc. Everytime we have dined here it has been shady with service from guys who were down right rude an ladies we only seen for any service when orders were taken an ticket/chevk was given. So all this to say the best waitress Eltorito has is MARIA FERNANDA Eltorito need to have her teach the other waitors a thing or two. read more

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Adriana B.

8 years ago

Grilled chicken ceasar salad and all you can eat soup and salad are my fav! Great service by Rocio I, she's courteous and fast.

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Rafael L.

8 years ago

The food pretty good. My main reason for visiting is one of the bartenders, Maria (weekdays). She makes the best margaritas in town! She's friendly and ready to help with meal suggestions if not sure what you're in the mood for. read more

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Hector S.

Hi Rafael, thank you very much for your great feedback and wonderful…

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Page 37 of 54

3639 Riverside Plaza Dr
Ste 526
Riverside, CA 92506
Directions
(951) 684-6816
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

Spanish
7 Reviews

Ask the Community - El Torito

Is there still a happy hour and what times?

Happy hour is everyday from 3-7pm and on Tuesdays, 3-close !

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How much is the Sunday brunch? Does it include mimosas?

It's $35 per person and unlimited mimosas

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Does el torito have bottomless mimosas on Saturdays?

Yes. Breakfast is $8.00. But you can add bottomless mimosas.

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Do you take reservations?

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

Do they have misters on their patio? ?m

yes

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Do they have misters on their patio?

They do not have misters on the patio.

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Do they have mariachi ? If so what days?

No not that I have ever seen / heard . Been there quite a few times and no mariachi .

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How much is Sunday brunch?

$26.99 per Adult, $9.99 per Child. Prices may vary on major holidays.

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Do they have bottomless mimosas during brunch?

They sure do!!!!

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What time do the mariachis play?

Sunday Brunch only 9am-2pm

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At what time does happy hour end?

9 pm...in the bar

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What are prices for three people?

Depends on what you order. Minimum $15 per dinner entree. Big combos or fajitas are almost $20. *More $$ if you order Appetizers .* Tableside guacamole about $10. Non alcoholic Beverages range about $3. Not sure price of alcoholic beverages,…

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Review Highlights - El Torito

“You cannot ask for better service than that and we will definitely be back for the Sunday brunch!”

Mentioned in 166 reviews

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P.S. I Crepe You

4.8(372 reviews)

0.3 mi

•$$

PS I Crepe You is located inside Tyler Mall right next to the food court. Crepes are pretty simple,…read moreso if you mess one up, the store might as well close down. I went with the original crepe with Nutella, strawberries, and banana. The crepe was fresh, the flavor was on point, and it was delicious. I have not tried the rest of the menu yet, but based on this one, it was definitely worth stopping by. If you are walking around the mall and want something sweet, this is a solid choice.

I tried their coffee and it was great. It was creamy and had their unique mazapan flavor. The lady…read morewas nice enough to make me cold foam with my drink even though it wasn't on the menu. The cafe itself is so cute and all pink.

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Inside P.S. I crepe you. A few tables to enjoy the crepes !

Dubai strawberry crepe

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Strawberry Cheesecake + a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream + Wild Berry Hibiscus Iced Tea

Condron Coffee

4.0(449 reviews)

0.1 mi

•$$

Me and my boyfriend been hunting alll over Riverside and Fontana for the best ice coffees. I would…read morehave to say this is the best in Riverside so far! The service was amazing and the coffee was amazing.

Loved the coffee and service I received! The barista (Tamia) was so friendly and recommended me the…read moredrink below, I get it every time I come here now :) Highly recommend!!

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Iced Vanilla Latte

Unfriendly staff at this location.

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Palenque by Mezcal

Service was amazing. Artemiza did an amazing job and was very attentive at all times. I recommend…read morethis place for a good time and good food.

Excellent service and Artemiza was the best!! She was very kind, friendly, and provided great…read moreservice throughout our visit. She definitely made our experience even better.

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Steak & Eggs Steak asada, fried eggs, refried beans

Palenque by Mezcal - Pulpo

Crispy octopus, mint jalapeno aioli, brussel sprouts, macadamia nuts,piloncillo glaze, garnished fresno jalapeño peppers

Pulpo Crispy octopus, mint jalapeno aioli, brussel sprouts, macadamia nuts,piloncillo glaze, garnished fresno jalapeño peppers

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Breakfast Burrito Choice of chorizo or chicken scrambled egg, crispy potatoes, shredded cheese, pico de gallo

Beignet Spot

4.3(674 reviews)

2.0 mi

•$$

The beignets were delicious! In fact, all the food was delicious, the customer service was great…read more Everyone was very friendly and nice. They answered questions and helped with recommendations. This place is a cute casual spot with tasty bites and good customer service it's welcoming, and I appreciated what they had to offer.

Legit 5 star beignet spot! The beignets are freshly made…read moreand taste amazing, they had great texture. We did have to shake off some of the powdered sugar but not a big deal. We also got the chicken and fries to try, it was also very good. Service was super friendly, and attentive. We felt welcomed and taken cared of. The restaurant was super clean and had lots of seating.

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Beignet Combo Scrambled eggs , andouille sausage , grits ,beignets.

B spot loaded fries Fries, cheese , house slaw , pickles , jerk aioli, house sauce .

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Banana foster beignets Our 6 beignets topped with homemade banana foster whipped cream and Nilla wafers crumble.

Mission Inn Restaurant

3.3(1.9k reviews)

2.2 mi

•$$$

Came here for the brunch buffet and had a splendid time! We…read morecame here for the Sunday only brunch buffet, decently crowded at 11 AM. The selection is amazing with shrimp, lamb, prime rib, salmon, salad and dessert. My favorite was the prime rib and shrimp! Both surprisingly fresh and good for a buffet. Their bread pudding was also bomb! It's also unlimited champagne/mimosa we were refilled pretty frequently. You can also order omelette made fresh to order Although price is $80 per person quality is decent for buffet and service is great. Would love to come back here for Sunday buffet!

Located in the heart of Riverside at Mission & Orange, inside the historic Mission Inn Hotel. For…read moreparking, you can choose between valet, street meters, or nearby paid garages. I personally prefer the garage directly behind the hotel; it's a bit pricier than the lots a couple blocks away, but the convenience is worth it. While I'm a regular at the lounge, this was my first time trying the restaurant. I booked a table online just in case, but walk-ins were welcome. We celebrated my husband's birthday here for Saturday brunch and chose the outdoor Spanish patio. Despite the hot weather, the patio was surprisingly cool and comfortable, thanks to excellent umbrella coverage. The food was outstanding. I ordered the Classic Breakfast which is their Eggs Benedict served over biscuits. The Prime Rib French Dip was so good, with perfectly light-toasted, soft bread. Kudos to the kitchen on both, taste and presentation! What truly sets this place apart is the hospitality. The service is easily some of the best I've ever experienced. From the welcoming hostess to the efficient food runners, everyone was genuinely friendly. A huge shoutout to our server, Maria I., who was absolutely awesome and kept our brunch flawless. Even management stopped by to check on us. The entire team seems genuinely happy to be there. The restaurant is clean, well-organized, and maintains a beautiful business-casual atmosphere. As a first-timer to the restaurant side, I was thoroughly impressed. We had a wonderful birthday celebration and will definitely be back!

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Indoor dining

Side fruits comes w Huevos Rancheros Breakfast

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Spring Caprese Burger. A juicy patty topped with fresh mozzarella slices, spinach/basil, and ripe tomato.

Toasted

Locally owned & operated

First time here with a buddy of mine and my initial impressions were this: line was kinda crazy for…read morea weekday. The space inside is cute and has a relaxed ambiance and I appreciate being able to see the food prepped. That said it is very crowded and can't accommodate large parties/ number of people. After waiting in a semi-long line for about like 20/25 mins--we truly expected the service to be okay. Were well prepared or wait 20+ mins again which was a bummer except-- they shocked us! They had our food and coffee items out in under 5 mins I want to say. Me and my friend both loved what we bought. Would definitely recommend

Great find. Highly recommend. It was busy!!!! The line was long and the cashier was real busy but…read morealways politely gave customers an apology and did her best not to keep people waiting. Chai Latte I would give a 4 stars out of a 5 star. We all got breakfast sandwiches that were good. The sourdough bread deserves a 5/5 but the ingredients to the sandwich is like what you would get any other place but rest assured they bake their own bacon and use fresh eggs out of the shell. So that's as authentic you can get. We would go back and check other items on the menu. Recommend this new find ya'll.

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Cafe de fleur

4.7(12 reviews)

1.6 mi

The menu is small. They do serve tasty food and coffee. Their dining area is small but cute…read more Service is great.

I love my ham sandwich with pesto . And my vanilla latte! Service is great!…read more Love the ambiance ! Great to hangout after long hard work, very relaxing!

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The Cafe

Arcade Downtown

4.4(423 reviews)

2.1 mi

•$$

last time i came here i left disappointed today when i went in it made up for my last experience…read more The young lady who took me order named diamond suggested the Turkish eggs i left and came back and she also suggested a quad shot latte with salted caramel it was better then expected and her customer service skills were amazing.

I've been to the Arcade coffee shop but it's my first time coming to this location. Came with…read morefriends on a Sunday around lunch time so we did expect to have a wait. While we waited, we did order coffee (which they always have great coffee) and took a look at their menu items. The seating inside is fairly limited but they do have bar and outside seating (except it was raining so the outside seating was a no). Just be aware that there will be a wait unless you reserve ahead of time. The staff were very friendly, the hostess kept checking on us to make sure we were still okay with waiting. When we were seated, our waitress Diamond was the sweetest! She explained a few of the food items and gave us her favorites. The food came pretty quick, I'd say within 10-15min after ordering. Diamond gave us a poppy seed lemon loaf as a thank you for waiting so patiently which was so sweet. The food tasted very good! Definitely recommend adding steak to the chilaquiles. Overall would love to come again and try the other food items!

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What a cool place ! Noisy tho

Avocado Toast

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Cherry Glaze Matcha & The Ube Latte

El Patrón Downtown Riverside

3.9(1k reviews)

2.2 mi

•$$

Wow! This place has a top quality fresh meat and these tacos are delicious. I love the ambience and…read morealso their tequila selection. They have a nice patio and the servers and bartenders were very personable and very attentive to my brother and I.i had to give them a review.

After reading reviews on here, I decided I wanted my birthday brunch to be at this restaurant! I'm…read moreso glad I found them and decided to come here. The food was absolutely delicious, the menu is extremely well rounded with options for everyone, and the service was amazing! Our waitress went above and beyond to make me and my whole party feel welcome. The restaurant itself has its own parking so this is a huge plus for downtown Riverside. The feels inside are very Mexican vibes with some rustic appearance as well. It's very pretty and picturesque at all angles! Even the chairs are absolutely stunning!! So happy to have celebrated my birthday here and I cannot wait to return to try more food and drinks on their menu.

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Enchiladas Plate

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VDM sunset, rum based tropical signature cocktail

The Lucky Greek

3.6(349 reviews)

0.2 mi

•$$

The Food is always good! It can be a bit pricey for some items. But I"m never disappointed with the…read morequality and taste My favorites: Pastrami Sandwich Greek Salad w Chicken BLT Combo - Fries/Onion Rings/Zucchini Also important to note, the employees are always friendly & attentive.

I want to give this place an honest review. This visit was for breakfast, and overall, it was…read moredecent. I ordered a ham and cheese omelette with a side of hash browns. The omelette was good enough, but I have to be completely honest about the hash browns they were very bland and lacked seasoning. The texture was fine, but I would suggest adding some seasoning during cooking. I think that small change could make them much more appealing to customers. One thing that confused me was the ordering process. When I placed my order in the drive-thru, the employee asked what style of eggs I wanted with my omelette. Since an omelette is already a specific style of egg preparation, I wasn't sure what she meant. Then, when I got to the window, I was asked whether I wanted pickles from a breakfast burrito and whether I wanted potatoes again. I'm not sure if there was some confusion with my order or if they were joking around, but I didn't make an issue out of it. Now that I've finished my breakfast, I'd rate it about a 6 out of 10. That said, I come here often, and there is one item that keeps me coming back: the zucchini. Their zucchini with ranch is an automatic 10 out of 10. In my opinion, it's probably the best thing on the menu, and I highly recommend trying it if you visit. Overall, the breakfast was okay, but the zucchini is definitely the star of the show. Enjoy at your own discretion.

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Grilled chicken sandwich

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Menu updated 9/28/26

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Anthony M.

3 years ago

I recently had the pleasure of dining at El Torito, and I must say that my experience was nothing short of amazing, all thanks to the exceptional service provided by Litzy! From the moment I walked through the doors until the time I left, she went above and beyond to ensure that my visit was truly unforgettable. First and foremost, Litzy greeted me with a warm and welcoming smile, immediately making me feel at ease. She expertly guided me through the menu, offering insightful recommendations and patiently answering all my questions. Her knowledge of the dishes and her enthusiasm for the cuisine were truly commendable. Not only was Litzy attentive, but she also anticipated my needs throughout the entire meal. My glass was never empty, and she consistently checked in to ensure that I was enjoying my dining experience. Her genuine interest in making sure I was satisfied was truly remarkable and made me feel like a valued guest. What impressed me the most was Litzy's ability to handle the restaurant's busy atmosphere with grace and efficiency. Despite the bustling environment, she managed to attend to each table with a high level of professionalism, never compromising on quality or attentiveness. It was evident that she takes pride in her work and genuinely cares about her customers' satisfaction. Furthermore, Litzy's friendly demeanor and positive energy added an extra layer of enjoyment to my meal. She engaged in friendly conversation, making me feel like I was catching up with an old friend. Her warm personality and genuine kindness truly made a difference in my dining experience. Lastly, I must mention that Litzy's timing was impeccable. She seamlessly coordinated the arrival of each course, ensuring that I never felt rushed or left waiting. Her attention to detail and ability to manage the flow of the meal demonstrated her professionalism and dedication to providing a top-notch experience. In conclusion, Litzy deserves every bit of recognition for her outstanding service as a waitress at El Torito. Her exceptional skills, warm demeanor, and attentiveness created an unforgettable dining experience. I highly recommend visiting El Torito and requesting Litzy as your server for a truly exceptional culinary adventure. I can't wait to return to El Torito and experience Litzy's remarkable service once again! Thank you, Litzy, for making my dining experience at El Torito a memorable one. You are a true asset to the restaurant, and I wish you all the success and happiness in your career! read more

Bryan P.

1 year ago

To Whom It May Enlighten: Permit me, dear reader, to extol with the fullest vigor and most unreserved candor the extraordinary merits of one Victor Perez, a gentleman of such rare quality and service that I should be remiss, nay negligent, were I not to commit this encomium to the public record. It was at the esteemed house of nourishment known as El Torito in the fair city of Riverside that I did encounter Mr. Perez--not merely a server of meals, but a steward of hospitality, a paragon of attentiveness, and, I dare say, the very embodiment of gracious comportment. With a countenance bright as the morning sun and a wit as sharp as any Federalist pen, he welcomed us not as mere patrons, but as honored guests in his court. Victor conducted himself with such poise and precision that one might believe him descended from the same lineage as the finest butlers of Monticello or the grand halls of New York. Each course arrived not a moment too soon nor too late, but precisely when the appetite called for it--as if he had studied the internal rhythms of every diner at his table. His knowledge of the menu was encyclopedic, his recommendations precise, and his timing impeccable. But more than these mechanical excellencies, what distinguishes Mr. Perez is his humanity--a warmth of spirit that kindles mirth in the weary, his humor flowing like wine from a well-tended vineyard, and his respect unwavering. He served not merely with his hands but with his heart, and in so doing, uplifted a simple meal into a memory. I would sooner dine under his care again than attend the finest banquets of Philadelphia or the grandest salons of Paris. I submit to you that if all establishments employed men of Victor's caliber, there would be no need for complaint, for Yelp, nor for the occasional stern letter to management. Thus, in full confidence and with no hint of hyperbole, I say: Victor Perez is not merely a server--he is a statesman of the supper table, a diplomat of the dining room, a Hamilton of hospitality. May his efforts be known, his labor appreciated, and his excellence rewarded. read more

Bianca A.

2 years ago

It was Mother's Day and we decided to take my mom (who lives in Riverside) to this establishment. We came from Indio which was an hour and 20 minute drive. We had a reservation at 5 PM, but was canceled by the restaurant without notice. So we made a second reservation for 5:30. When we arrived we were greeted by a friendly hostess. We didn't get her name but she was really hospitable. My husband, My mother, and my daughter and I were seated at a booth. The server who assisted us was named Isabella. My mom. Daughter and I our beverages with in five minutes. I ordered a virgin chavela (as I am 7 months pregnant) and my husband ordered a Budweiser Michelada. The server returns to the table stating that they were out of Budweiser and offered an alternative. I was told they had to club soda for my virgin drink and was offered no alternative until my husband told me they had corona zero that he had seen when we walked in. So I ordered one of those. Surely, after we ordered our drinks, we placed our food order. Our meal had came in long beforeMy husbands drink. He waited about a total of 40 minutes just to get his. He was half done with his meal by the time his drink finally came to the table. That was unacceptable. I understand it was Mother's Day and they were a little backed up but the servers service was far below average. We were offered a plate with deep-fried ice cream, and an apology, but that did not make up for the service that was provided during our visit. The food was really good! That was the best part of our visit. But as for service I'd give this place two stars. We will not be returning to this location again. read more

Juan F.

3 years ago

Came here on Saturday and got sat right away in Brooklyn's section. It was extremely busy and there wasn't a lot of servers or help but she was very good at getting to everyone as fast as she could and she was very very sweet and personable. Ive managed in the restaurant industry for many years and a lot of people don't understand how hard it is to have that many tables at once and be at so many places at a time but she definitely did it successfully, fast, and was HUSTLING! Our food took a little long but she made sure to let us know, and made sure to keep refilling our chips and salsa and drinks without having to ask. We ordered 2 fajitas and they were brought out hot and sizzling and were very tasty. She made sure to keep checking on us to make sure we were okay and if we needed anything else. She brought us boxes, bags, fresh to go drinks, and also threw in some fresh chips and salsa. We come here alot but this was only our second time having her as a server and I will definitely be coming back and asking for her. Servers like her are hard to find and I like her because she has a really upbeat and bubbly personality, she's funny but also knows how to be professional, knows how to talk to her customers and provides great customer service, and is an all around amazing server. El torito is lucky to have her and If you ever decide to come here, all the servers are amazing, but I would definitely recommend Brooklyn. read more

Parth P.

3 years ago

I recently had the pleasure of dining at El Torito and was fortunate enough to be attended by an exceptional server named Litzy. From the moment I sat down, Litzy's warm and friendly demeanor immediately made me feel welcomed and comfortable. Her attentiveness and genuine care for my dining experience were truly remarkable. Litzy's knowledge of the menu was impressive, as she effortlessly guided me through the extensive options and offered valuable recommendations. Her timing was impeccable, ensuring that my drinks were promptly refilled and that each course was delivered with precision. She anticipated my needs without being intrusive, striking the perfect balance between attentiveness and allowing me to enjoy my meal. What truly set Litzy apart was her infectious enthusiasm and passion for her work. She went above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of my dining experience was exceptional, taking the time to check on me and ensure that I was satisfied. Her warm smile and genuine interest in my satisfaction made me feel like a valued guest throughout the entire meal. In short, Litzy's service at El Torito was truly outstanding. Her professionalism, knowledge, and warm personality elevated my dining experience to new heights. I would highly recommend visiting El Torito and requesting Litzy as your server for an unforgettable dining experience read more

Paul T.

10 years ago

Went for lunch with all my co-workers since they advertised a margarita special for the day only. When the server asks for everyone's ID, I pull out my temporary ID provided by the DMV. The server refused to accept it. I asked for the manager and a kid who looks like he can't even legally buy a pack of cigarettes comes by. I politely explain to him that my DL was lost/stolen and that I have the temporary ID the DMV gave me. I also showed him my work ID and credit cards. And, although I used this temporary ID EVERYWHERE over the weekend with no problem... and, that I was the oldest person at our table at the ripe age of 40, the staff at El Torrito, Riverside Plaza refused to serve me. Not only was this an illogical move on their part, it was a bit embarrassing. My co-workers walked out of the restaurant in solidarity with me (though i insisted we stay so they could at least have lunch), but it was beyond embarrassing and highly disappointing, as everyone's lunch was ruined. I will never go to ANY El Torrito ever again. My co-workers also showed a new dislike for the place. Besides, their food is mediocre and overpriced and their drinks are pricey and definitely not memorable. And, of course, management and customer service training leaves a lot to be desired. read more

Erin W.

2 years ago

I recently dined at El Torito and had the pleasure of being served by Victor Perez, who made our experience truly exceptional. From the moment we arrived, Victor greeted us with a warm smile and an infectious enthusiasm that set the tone for the evening. Victor's attention to detail was remarkable. He was knowledgeable about the menu and offered excellent recommendations, ensuring we didn't miss out on the best dishes. He checked in frequently but never intrusively, making sure our drinks were full and our needs met. Speaking of the menu, the food was nothing short of fantastic. We started with the fresh guacamole, which was made right at our table--definitely a highlight! For the main course, Victor suggested the carne asada, and it was cooked to perfection, bursting with flavor. Every bite was a delight. The ambiance of El Torito is vibrant and inviting, making it a great place for a casual dinner or a special celebration. Victor's energy complemented the lively environment perfectly. Overall, Victor Perez made our visit to El Torito an unforgettable experience. His exemplary service and passion for hospitality truly stood out. I can't wait to return for another meal and hope to be served by Victor again! read more

Ron V.

2 years ago

We have been to several El Toritos but the Riverside Central Plaza restaurant is the best! Everyone was so friendly and welcoming, and treated us as a true guest! Our visit began meeting our host who happen to be one of the managers Jocelyn give us a great welcome and greeting. We were greeted at our table from the general manager, Andy, who treated us as if we were his family guests. He made sure he gave us the best service assigned Vicente their the number one waiter. He definitely was the best and provided us excellent recommendation and service. Everyone here treated us with exceptional service and care! Lastly, the food was over the top. Very fresh and homestyle cook remember for a little while just like my grandmothers cooking! I highly recommend you to take the extra time to drive out to the riverside El Torito. It's well with your time and enjoyment! Thank you all for your wonderful experience for me and my guests! Ron July 27, 2024 read more

Admin U.

2 years ago

I just had to share what an amazing and refreshing experience I had at El Torito in Riverside Plaza! I've been to other El Toritos, but this one was truly different, thanks to the incredible greeters and wait staff. Right from the start, I was greeted politely, with genuine eye contact, and seated quickly. What I really appreciated was feeling attended to without being overwhelmed or rushed just to turn a table. My waitress, Erica, seemed to sense I was hungry and made sure our delicious meal came out promptly. She was so warm and genuinely cared that we were happy with everything. Even a manager stopped by just to check on our satisfaction! The whole team, including Managers Jocelyn and Lorena and Waitresses Cassandra and Erica, did everything so perfectly, it made me wonder if it was a special training store. A huge thank you to all of them for making it such a pleasant visit! Much Appreciated! Dennis & Brian read more

Robin J.

9 years ago

I took my son, wife and baby daughter to celebrate my son's birthday. Vicente was our server and Tomas assisted him. I've been to this restaurant on many occasions and usually have pretty good service. But Vicente went out of his way to make sure our meal was special. Even though my son was turning 37, Vicente asked for ID for his alcohol order. He paid attention to the fact his birthday was a couple days away. He wished him a happy birthday and proceeded to just be wonderful with serving us. He brought the gang of servers over to sing to my son and even gave him the sombrero to keep. I felt his extraordinary service warranted me saying something to the manager. She was pleased I had taken the time to tell her. So muchisimas gracias Tomas for taking such good care of us. I hope we get the opportunity to be seated in your area again. --Robin J read more

Linda B.

2 years ago

Came here for my friends birthday on Wednesday at about 9:45 ,thinking they closed at 11, but didn't realize they closed at 10 on weekdays, until the music turned off and we were the only ones in there, but our server Brooklynn took extra care of us and made sure not to make us feel rushed. Our food came out fast and was very delicious and the service was the best I've ever had here. She was extremely attentive, made sure our waters were always full, gave us suggestions for drinks (which were amazing), and made my friend a flan for her birthday! Although it was super late, and I'm sure the staff was ready to go home, my friend had a great birthday dinner and Brooklynn made our dine in experience amazing !! Will definitely be coming back for happy hour and to see our new favorite server!!! Thank you Brooklyn and El Torito! read more

Nancy E.

7 years ago

We were here a few months ago, and had a great experience, and our favorite bartender " Myriam " was there and took care of us ... great and fabulous like always , just this time , there were a few great surprises in the Brunch items , they added some aguas frescas and Mexican corn on the cob... man great choice .... I asked Myriam who's idea was it, and mentioned that the "cheff Jose Luis ", has awesome ideas and likes to please his guest by having variety and changing it up , se what we like , great changes Thanks cheff .... and also wanted to mention , it's awesome that the GM Hugo comes around and makes sure we're taken care of and always helping his staff around great like always.....will be back soon and let everyone know you guys have an awesome staff... thanks "Myriam "see you soon . read more

William G.

12 years ago

My friends and I have been going to this particular El Torito for some years now. We always sit in the patio area and have enjoyed this restaurant even when all the construction was going on. In the years we have been going, we have had four servers who have been amazing and consistently have waited on us. We are sad as each one moves on to a different career or different location, but the next person who waits on us has always been amazing. Our current server is Alma Lopez - and no matter how big a group we have, she always makes us feel like we are the only customers there. The food is great (both dinner and happy hour menu), the drinks cold and the chips and salsa are constant. No matter what kind of week I have - I know I'll have a great evening at our get togethers at El Torito!! read more

Alf C.

7 years ago

In many years of coming to this establishment I've always had an amazing experience. I have came here with parties of twelve to fifteen sometimes and the service is impeccable. The staff is not only friendly but understandable when it comes to individuals with disabilities and families with very young children. They are extremely family oriented and strive hard to show the customers that they are there to give the best customer service possible. They love children and always help families that are trying to get situated. The managers will work with you with any issues you may have along with the the general staff. I will always recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area looking for amazing service and great Mexican food! You feel welcomed every time you walk through the doors. read more

Christina B.

3 months ago

We had such a great experience, and a huge part of that was because of Lorenzo! From the second he greeted us, he made us feel so welcome. He was kind, personable, and had such a positive energy that made our dinner even more enjoyable. He was always one step ahead--our drinks never sat empty, he checked in just the right amount, and he made sure everything came out perfectly. You can tell he truly cares about his customers and takes pride in what he does. It's not often you come across a server who makes you leave thinking, "Wow, that was exceptional service." Thank you, Lorenzo, for making our night so enjoyable. People like you are the reason we look forward to ALWAYS coming back. We hope we get you as our server again because you truly made our experience memorable! read more

Nevada P.

5 years ago

I placed an order for car side to go. When I got there the sign said to call the restaurant to let them know which stall I was in. I did car side to go because I had 3 small children and did not want to get them out of the car. I called the restaurant for 20 minutes and no one picked up the phone. I finally had to get my 3 children out of the car and bring them into the crowded restaurant where still no one helped. I seen my order sitting on the back table, grabbed it and left. How long had my order been sitting there, I dont know. I tried to call after to speak to the manager, still no answer. I sent an email and received something back stating that a manager would call me. Still nothing. Maybe they are short staffed but still poor management at this location. read more

Elizabeth A. B.

7 years ago

I would like to thank the staff at El Torito Riverside Plaza for a great evening. I planned a Retirement Party for a friend. I wanted to reserve a location for about 15 people. El Torito allowed me to reserve the area on their patio. When I arrived I was escorted to my tables. I was permitted to do some minor decorations on my tables. Was assigned a waitrees her name is Yolanda, her service was excellent. As peopled arrived she came to take there beverage orders and to check with me if I wanted to order more appetizers for the new arrivals.. I am from a customer Service back ground so I appreciate exceptional Customer Service which Yolanda provided to my party of 15. I truly appreciate all she did to make my party a sucess. Thank you Yolanda and El Torito read more

Rosalee C.

8 years ago

Even though we live in Sycamore Creek, the drive to this location is well worth our Time and dealing with Traffic. The service, atmosphere, food and employees are always AWESOME!! Many THANKS, from the management all the way down the servers. Hector Silva ( It was a pleasure to have met you ) Hugo Cano ( Always a pleasure to see you ) Cesar ( Thank you, for always making us feel at home ) And of course our favorite bartender, who always greats us pleasantly and never leaves us with an empty glass. Plus always introducing us to her new drinks. One of the most professional bartenders that we know. Myriam Plus we can never forget our other favorite person Jaime Who ALWAYS greets us with a smile and great service. Rosalee C. read more

Na W.

2 years ago

My Sister, who lives in Riverside, California, whom I am visiting from another State, decided to try this restauran, El Torito. Our Server, was Vicente, very patient, Kind and help me with different vegetarian dishes The salsa is the best I have had, the beans had no type of meat in them, so, I was able to enjoy a great meal, as well, as my Sister, who is not vegetarian. it has been the only place that I have gone to that served Beans with no meat product in them. Thank you We came back and had the same server, Vicente we really, enjoy coming here, we will definitely come back, this time with more Family and Friends Thank you Vicente, my Sister enjoyes watching the game, they also, had Salsa music, nice mix. read more

Robin G.

2 years ago

Initially , our experience at El Torito's was less than stellar due to some issues with the service. However, what truly turned our visit around was the heartfelt conversation I had with the manager. As someone caring for a loved one with dementia, I deeply appreciated his understanding and empathy. The manager shared his own experience with a family member dealing with the same disease, and his genuine compassion made all the difference. It's rare to find such personal care in a restaurant setting, and it transformed our entire dining experience. While there were some bumps along the way, the kindness and understanding shown by the manager truly set El Torito's apart. I would return based on that alone. read more

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El Torito - mexican - Updated October 2026

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Habanero Mexican Grill

4.6

(1.2k reviews)

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Have been driving by this place for a while and keep saying we are going to try it…read more Went Sunday after church and it was amazing. I judge a lot of places by their chips and salsa. Both were on point. Chips fresh and just right, salsa had perfect amount of spice with the right amount of heat. Service is fast and attentive. And follow up service throughout the meal was great. I had the salmon taco plate. The portions were big, one piece of fish alone would have been enough for both tacos but they really build them right. So glad we stopped in, this is just the start to a long term relation ship. Forgot to mention they have a large attached events room and dance hall. When planning your next party family gathering, company luncheon or whatever, I'd check them out first.

3* Habanero Grill University Ave, Riverside…read moreMexican food Local favorite Lunch specials Excellent chips and salsa Hard shell tacos good Chile rellenos, beans, rice okay Prices seemed high Friendly staff e.g. Christian

Cactus Cantina

3.5

(467 reviews)

•$$

Came here for some quick food before our movie. Ambiance is like Polly's meets ihop with a bit of…read morelong John silver.. besides that the food was good and the portions were huge. Service was attentive and friendly. We had the following from the happy hour menu; Loaded potato skins 9/10 ask for ranch Small nachos 9/10 ask to add protein Fried shrimp 9/10 Kids got chicken tenders and they were delicious and breaded correctly. 10/10

Horrible experience. The food was terrible, and the steak was so rubbery it was hard to eat…read more Nothing tasted fresh. The menu is all over the place with a million different items it feels like they can't decide whether they want to be a Mexican restaurant, a sandwich shop, or something else entirely. Instead of trying to do everything, they should figure out what they actually want to be and focus on doing that well. I really hate spending good money on bad food, and unfortunately that's exactly how I felt leaving Cactus Cantina. Definitely won't be coming back.

Tacos Al Fuego -Riverside

4.2

(211 reviews)

•$$

My first visit was yesterday, 05-25-26. Was headed back to LA leaving from the Riverside National…read moreCemetery when I discovered this spot driving down Van Buren towards the 91 Freeway. Looked on google maps using my phone and saw they had 4.2 stars which was good enough for me to bust a u-turn and pull up. Then I looked on Yelp and saw some good reviews which confirmed I was making a good decision. Big parking with many spots available. It's also a shared lot. Seating is available outside. Immediately walking in I liked the vibes and was greeted by the hostess. It's a nice spacious restaurant with plenty of tables and seating. A few tables were occupied from what appeared to be a couple of separate families dining. I grabbed a seat at the bar and was then greeted by the bartender who was very welcoming and friendly. I love the customer service. Being swamped with the other tables and then including myself, she still was attentive to me at while I was sitting alone at the bar. The old fashioned she made me was on point. Although, I was expecting a big ice cube or ice sphere in my glass and not the standard ice cubes, it still worked out. $16 is about average for an old fashioned. I also had a passion fruit margarita and it was great. $6 on a Monday, you definitely can't be upset at that. The Quesa Birria Tacos came with a cup of consomè for $12. That's not a bad price. And they put some Birria in the consomè. I've been to a lot of spots where they don't. Not your traditional with the queso but it was still fire with the Mexican blend or style of cheese. I truly enjoyed both tacos and wish it came with more consomè lol. Overall, I loved the experience. I had a great time before taking that hr drive back. The vibes were definitely on point.y drinks were good and reasonable. The tacos were really good and also reasonable. The customer service was amazing. I left the bartender a $5 for working so hard and just being a decent person.

The Wife and I had the day off yesterday, which obviously meant one thing: honoring the taco…read morecraving that had been stalking us since last Tuesday. So we headed over to Tacos A Fuego, t's been a minute, and the place still hits like a warm tortilla hug. First plot twist: our favorite bartender was gone. Rae, the cocktail magician, the shaker‑wielding sorceress of the spicy margarita realm, vanished. Tragic. But my Wife ordered the mango margarita anyway, and let me tell you, that thing showed up ready to party. A full spicy fiesta in a glass, perfectly paired with her birria tacos like they were soulmates in a telenovela. I went for the mulitas with Jamaica, because balance is important. Everything was delicious, no notes. The staff was friendly, though our waitress seemed to be moving in slow‑motion like she was trapped in a soap opera flashback. We flagged her down more times than I care to admit. Still, with the Mexican ambiance, the décor, and that cozy cultural vibe, Tacos A Fuego remains one of our go‑to spots when we need a little flavor therapy.

Yeyes Kitchen

4.3

(57 reviews)

I had an excellent experience at Yeye's Kitchen!…read more We were greeted and attended quickly by the server(Karina) The ambience had great music and I was able to have conversations with my family. The food was hot and delicious! I ordered the molcajete and agua frescas. I definitely recommend the molcajetes! I also appreciated my server, Karina, for the great service she provided. She was attentive and was very helpful with my requests. I recommend this restaurant; I will definitely be returning!

The food is always freshly prepared and absolutely delicious. The atmosphere is welcoming, clean,…read moreand inviting, making every visit enjoyable. We love coming back and consistently have a wonderful experience. We highly recommend this place to anyone looking for great food and excellent service.

Yard House

3.6

(1.4k reviews)

•$$

I like the vibe and the food isn't terrible for hanging out with friends. I would come againread more

I came for the HH menu and sat at the bar. I ordered the poke nachos and someone else ordered the…read moretruffle pizza . We shared the items. When it comes to the poke nachos I like a lot of sauce. I want every chip to have a little. Next time I'll ask for it when I order. The nachos I had were good, but they needed more sauce!The truffle pizza was delicious and full of flavor . No notes. I wish garlic noodles and chips and guac were on the HH menu. Our wait staff team checked on us throughout and even delicately set our placemat. Sitting at the bar is nice because there's no wait when it's busy. The bar had TVs set up that were playing a few sports games. Parking is free in the large mall parking lot.

Ramiro's Cocina

4.0

(290 reviews)

•$

Great food and great service. Super nice family. Love their fresh homemade salsa. Will continue…read moreto dine here many more times!!! You must give them a try.

Going there again…read more Green chilaquiles were fantastic. My partner had the tacos dorados and we both finished the rice and beans which never happens at other Mexican spots I the area

Rodrigo's Mexican Grill

3.7

(310 reviews)

•$$

Rodrigos Riverside is a favorite for sure!…read more We had dinner at Rodrigo's tonight, and it's always such a pleasure coming back to one of our longtime favorite spots! We've been coming here for years, even back when it was still Don Jose before the change in ownership, and it continues to be one of our regular go-to restaurants. We absolutely love the chips and salsa, and the shrimp tacos with rice and beans are always a great choice! The service is consistently excellent, too. Many of the servers have been here for years, and they are all amazing. It's nice to see familiar faces and receive such great service every time we visit. We also love sitting in the bar area to watch the games, but there's a large dining room as well, so there's plenty of space whether you're stopping by for a casual dinner or coming with a group. And if you enjoy margaritas, you have to try theirs! They're delicious and definitely pack a punch! Rodrigo's is one of those places we always recommend to friends and family. Between the delicious food, excellent service, and welcoming atmosphere, it's easy to see why we've been coming back for so many years. If you're looking for a great Mexican restaurant in Riverside, this is definitely one to check out! We'll continue coming back!

Went to Rodrigo's for grandpa's birthday and it was super great. I got the Happy Hour Nacho's for…read more$10. It was a huge plate and so good! It doesn't come with a meat option, but for $10 I can go without it. The service was great too. And super relaxed at 4:30pm on a Thursday. Grandpa is an early eater though, haha. Worth it for Happy Hour, get it until 6pm Monday-Friday.

Maria's Mexican Kitchen

3.9

(370 reviews)

•$$

Marie's Mexican Kitchen is are go to Mexican restaurant for over 20 years +. We have never been…read moredisappointed with the food we have ordered. We have never had a bad meal at Maria's. At times we have waited long time to be seated but it's very worth the wait. The prices can't be beat. The food is quality, it's family owned and run. Plus we have witnessed Maria's two sons grow up at the restaurant. Marie's Mexican Kitchen is FIVE STARS! Cheese enchiladas were fantastic as well as their Chili Rellenos and shredded beef tacos were fantastic! Their beans and rice were cooked to perfection.

Been coming here for years and food quality does not change it's always consistent. Friendly staff…read moreand everyone is always helpful and attentive. The tacos are so good, el toro burrito is bomb and rice and beans are perfectly cooked. Seating is great and it's a quiet place to relax and enjoy a good meal.

Brandon’s Diner

3.5

(155 reviews)

•$$

Went for breakfast on a Friday morning. Was busy but was seated quickly…read more Went with a staple at Brandon's, pancakes with eggs and bacon. It did not disappoint. Love the country potato's and Krispy bacon. For being so busy, staff was super friendly, fast and attentive.

Friday morning, just before the dentist and I want to treat myself to breakfast. I chose the wrong…read moreplace! The location is small and they don't have room to work. Don't sit at the bar because the counter is being used for the wait staff and you'll just feel like you're in their way. I don't think they could make healthy food if they tried I kind of felt like Gordon Ramsay were as soon as the plate hit the table. I wanted to say take it back. It's slop! Way too much sauce on top It's not gravy I'm actually trying to lose weight. There is nothing appetizing about this and then when I got a side of fruit it tasted like something that's been sitting for a month so clearly no one comes here to order fruit. You know, if you just wanna eat fattening food like pancakes and crêpes this might be your spot I saw a picture of avocado toast with micro greens. I walked in and kind of said I want this. He asked to cook. They said no that's at the Brandon's on Indiana. So there's no consistency from one location to another. My husband is a pescatarian and pretty much eats healthy so he would never come here. I thought this would be a nice change of pace. I was wrong. Everyone that works there was friendly enough It just wasn't what I was hoping for

The Tamale Factory

3.8

(411 reviews)

•$$

Came here for a Saturday lunch and had a great time! A nice tamale restaurant located right next to…read morethe mission inn. Right away service was very welcoming and helpful in giving us recommendations. As for the food itself, it was amazing! I really enjoyed their chilaquiles and my wife got the pozole which was amazing as well. All of the ingredients were fresh, flavorful, and the portions were generous. Restaurant is clean, and has a classic and historic vibe. If you're looking for a good lunch spot in downtown this is one of the best!

Came to see the Riverside Festival of Lights and as you can imagine all of the restaurants are…read moreabsolutely packed and have really long waits. I was in a rush to get something quick and The Tamale Factory had no line. I was a little skeptical since there wasn't a wait like the other restaurants but it was actually just very quick and food was good! You just order at the counter and they assemble your plate in front of you as you make your way to the register. I ordered the Pork Tamale plate which came with rice and beans. It was a good amount of food and if you're extra hungry you can get the 2x Tamales. They also have other things like quesadillas, tacos, and enchiladas but when at The Tamale Factory I figured you better go with the Tamales. With the high number of patrons coming in at dinner time, I could tell they were really busy because tables took a while to get cleaned and their big water cooler never got filled up during my visit so unfortunately I did not have water with my meal. Other than that, this place provides quick Mexican food at a decent price.

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El Torito - mexican - Updated October 2026

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