El Torito

4.2 (1.7k reviews)

ModerateMexican, Bars, Breakfast & Brunch

Open • 9:00 am - 11:00 pm

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El Torito - Mini tacos & chicken flautas - Mexican Near Me - La Mesa, California

El Torito - Dinner Spread - Mexican Near Me - La Mesa, California

El Torito - Mexican Near Me - La Mesa, California

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El Torito - Sunday Brunch Waffles - Mexican Near Me - La Mesa, California

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Moderate noise

Casual

Outdoor seating

Good for groups

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Alberto C.

My overall experience was okay. The reason why I give the 3 stars was mainly because of the amazing service of Stephanie. Stephanie was able to serve us and she did a GREAT job. She was super nice and helpful. Stephanie provided a comfortable service without constantly coming over to the table. She made sure our drinks were always topped off. Despite her being busy, she took care of us and did a great job! As for the food... it was very mediocre. The food was pricey for quality... the food was also SWEET! They have no spicy salsa its all relatively sweet. The tortillas all either have no taste or overly sweet. Also the food taste like its all been pre-made and in a oven rather than made to order. It was disappointing to get this quality of food when the restaurant overall was not busy. It seems to be ok in there not super clean/up kept or modern. Overall, I was not satisfied with our meals. But the customer service was great from Stephanie! Thank you...

Karen N.

I'm happy that we still have the 1 location left in San Diego, because after that I think the closest one is Irvine. I'm not here that often, I usually come when they offer me something. My favorite thing is the corn pudding that comes with some of the entrees. It's like cornbread that wasn't cooked the whole way. I remember they came out with a bagged mix you could get at grocery stores, and we used to get that. This time I ordered the queso for $4 on happy hour, and a 2 item combo with a barbacoa taco and a chicken enchilada. It was really good, and I ended up taking half of it home. I ate it a few days later, and it still tasted good. Service was pretty fast, and Rachel my waitress was nice. They weren't super busy because it was a little before 5 on a Friday.

Good food. A little bit on the sweet side.

Richie M.

El Torito was an interesting experience. The restaurant its self is an old Mexican architecture that was cool to look at. The food was overall sweet I don't think I'll be back here again. The food was not horrible but too sweet for my liking to be honest. Our server Stephanie was awesome. Stephanie is a great server she was not overwhelming nice and she was very kind. The overall service was fast and good. The food in the other hand I would say way too sweet!

Vivian

This review reflects their Sunday Brunch. For $45 per person, you get to experience El Torito's Sunday buffet brunch from 9AM to 2PM. We got there around 10AM. Upon walking in, we kind of played eye tag with a male host or manager who didn't acknowledge us right away. It wasn't until a female host, who was clearly busy running around, came over and found us a table. The layout of this place honestly feels like a maze. There are ramps, stairs, arches. It almost felt like a fever dream walking through it. There's a ton of seating though. Booths, tables, patio seating, bar seating, and it definitely looks like they can host large parties or corporate events. The brunch is all you can eat buffet style with different sections throughout the restaurant. In the main middle area, there's a taco station with meats like birria, carnitas, pastor, and pollo. There are trays of breakfast items like waffles and bacon. Lunch options like mole, chile relleno, enchiladas, and more. In the back of that section is dessert with flan, ice cream, a chocolate fountain, rice pudding, and other sweets. There's also an omelette station where a chef makes it fresh based on your ingredient choices. That area gets crowded fast. There isn't really a clear place to stand and wait, so you end up kind of being in someone's way. Near the entrance, there are three additional tables. One is more kid friendly with mini corn dogs, macaroni and cheese, chicken tenders, cereal, milk, and yogurt. Another has drink dispensers with horchata, jamaica, and another agua fresca. The third has coffee and hot chocolate. On the left side near the bar, there are three more tables. One with pozole and menudo. One salad station with pre made salads and build your own options. The last one features seafood like shrimp ceviche, aguachile, seafood soup, chilled shrimp, and more. Drinks are included with the brunch. Our server was very kind and attentive. He cleared plates quickly and checked in throughout the meal. Most of what I ate was actually really good. Standouts for me were the carnitas. Super flavorful and not dry. I made tacos with fresh onions, cilantro, and this orange crema based salsa that paired really well. The sweet cornbread was also a hit. Moist with real corn baked in. I went back for that. The salad station impressed me too. Their green, maybe cilantro lime salsa tasted so fresh I genuinely wondered if it was made in house. The waffle with honey butter was also a solid choice. Things that didn't hit the mark for me were the menudo, which felt bland and lacked depth. The chocolate fountain was fun but the chocolate itself wasn't great. The horchata tasted like sugar water. The al pastor meat was a little too salty for me. Overall, I think $45 is a bit steep for what you get. There's a lot of food and a good amount of variety, but the selection doesn't rotate much, so I could see getting tired of it. I might come back occasionally, but not often.

Alice M.

Haven't been here for a while we came here for the dinner service around 6:30pm and surprisingly there was no wait in line with many parkings outside right in front on Sunday evening. The music was pretty good and loud. I used my Shazam a lot and saved it to my mexican playlist. Very good place for celebration. The decor was also nice. You can tell they are about to get ready for Cinco de Mayo. The restaurant was a little too cold for my liking. The presentation was cool for the flaming fajitas. The flames went up really high. The food portion here is very generous and it tasted freshly grilled. Our server was nice and since it was my birthday she removed the dessert from our bill. Thank you for the special evening El Torito!

Christopher C.

Came here on a Sunday evening and was seated right away. The vibe was cool and I liked the music but it was a little on the loud side. The salsa, guacamole and chips were on point. My main course was tasty but the crispy flautas weren't crispy.

Maya H.

Our waiter, Sergio, is amazing!! He's so attentive and give great recommendations!! We went during Happy Hour and the menu is great! We got a couple of drinks and some snacks!! I'm also addicted to their corn bread. I've been a fan for over 20 years!! I've taken my kids here since they are small and now they can drink. I haven't been to the weekend brunch in a while and need to come back to try it again. The place still looks the same with lively music. It's such a chill and fun place to go with your friends and family. Great happy hour prices and delicious margarita . Will come back again with my friends and family. I hope Sergio will be our server. He's the best server!! Great attitude and vibe!! Give him a raise, El Torito

Hanafi M.

Always delicious, try the sweet corn, it's sure to put a smile on your face. Plenty of terrific parking. On Sunday, May 3rd, they are having an all-you-can-eat for Cinco de Mayo

Gina C.

Gilberto is an amazing server. Highly recommend sitting in his section! He makes you feel like your family. Excellent food and amazing service! Must try the deep fried ice cream! The salsa is excellent. Food is outstanding!

Simeko O.

Wow! what a surprise! El Torito's in La Mesa was going off tonight. We showed up for dinner not expecting too much, and to our shock, happy hour was running from 3 PM to 9 PM. So of course, I had to start with a margarita flight and follow it up with a draft beer. So good. My chicken enchiladas with sour cream were delicious, and the music and ambience were upbeat and fun. Our server was super friendly, and the food came out hot, fresh, and honestly way better than my last visit. Huge difference this time around. I'm giving this place five stars for the lively atmosphere, friendly service from JORGE, excellent food, and great prices. If you're in the area and want something fun and a little different, definitely stop by El Torito's in La Mesa.

Post demolish soup. Hearty with veggies.

K B.

El Torito Review (update 10/25) - solid 3.7 Although El Torito isn't traditional Mexican food, there's still a lot to like when you dine here. This visit, I came in for a light meal--chicken tortilla soup, bottomless chips and salsa, and of course, their signature margarita. I decided to switch things up and tried the Raspberry Lemon Drop, which was part of the happy hour special. Great choice! Heads up on the tortilla soup: It's actually a vegetable tortilla soup. The bowl includes potatoes, zucchini, and squash, giving it a thicker, more filling texture than I expected. The broth itself was rich and flavorful, though if you're not a fan of cheese, I recommend asking them to go easy. I arrived around 7:30 PM on a Saturday night and was pleasantly surprised, no wait time for bar or table seating. Overall, El Torito delivers solid flavors, generous portions, and good vibes for casual dining, especially if you catch happy hour.

Fernanda M.

This place had us skeptical walking in. It looked like a ghost town, not many people and then a waiter dropped a bunch of things on the floor and well we were regretting our choice. Then none of the beers my husband wanted they had since they ran out. At that point we were second guessing eating there at all but we chose to do the family fajitas and queso quemado and all the food was good! Really good! And service was really good too! The waiter was super nice. They had good music playing too!

Steak and chorizo tacos, queso, and nachos supremes

Jordyn S.

The happy hour menu had a great selection of items for reasonable prices. Got the steak and chorizo tacos and queso from the happy hour menu and then some nachos off the main menu. The service was great and they kept our free chips and salsa flowing. The free starter salsa was fresh, almost like a pico. They allow in kind for payments which is a win in my book. The food was your standard chain restaurant Mexican food, but great value overall.

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StealthGod A.

6 years ago

Amazing food but most of all amazing service as always by Gilberto, great manners, great conversation, great attitude and always fast service, Gilberto's customer service exceeds expectations, thank you Torito for Gilberto, great waiter and server! read more

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Melly M.

227

9 years ago

Came here for my MIL's Birthday for Sunday brunch. Our server was Gilberto and he had outstanding customer service! Champagne kept flowing and food was excellent! Will highly recommend and ask for Gilberto! hhoooorahhhh!!! read more

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Walter S.

Gilberto is the one of the best...No doubt. Thank you so much for…

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Elias M.

6 years ago

Omg. Let me tell you service in this place is awesome our waiter Pedro is the best in the place great attitude great service great food ! Gracias El Torito for great experience during COVID! read more

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Daniel A.

7 years ago

The worst experience last night at this place!!! Showed up to happy hour with a few friends. Waited in front for at least 20 minutes, no host/hostess. We finally sat ourselves at the bar. The whole place was in chaos. The manager and bartender arguing. He then walked away and she ended up bartending. Guest coming up to the bar and complaining about drinks and wait times. Servers complaining to the manager as well asking for drinks they needed. While we waited sitting there at the bar watching all the chaos ensue with no acknowledgement from anyone whatsoever. Finally she greeted us after 30mins and offered us drinks. We received our drinks and ordered food. Waited another 30 mins for food. When it arrived it was cold and soggy. We had to get up and get our own silverware, our own chips, and salsa. They were short staffed, the atmosphere was chaotic, and management running around like a chicken with their head cut off. The worse experience ever. Also a warning when paying, don't use your CC. Pay cash. The tablets they use store your personal information as we paid once I inserted my CC my email and phone Number were automatically filled in. Because I had dined here before. Those tablets are left all over the restaurant unsupervised. Anyone can grab them and boom your info if in danger. Last time I or anyone I know will step foot in this place. Worst advertisement is word of mouth and I will make sure everyone knows how bad this place is. read more

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General Manager

Thank you so much for your feedback! We are committed to great…

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Mandie B.

6 years ago

Fantastic! This place is the best brunch place on a Sunday! Gilberto is a fantastic waiter who catered to our groups needs. We never had an empty glass and never stopped smiling. If you haven't been here, you need to come right now! read more

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Diandra H.

9 years ago

I went to grab some lunch with my son this past Tuesday and was lucky enough to have met Gilberto!! He was absolutely the best waiter I have ever encountered. My son also felt the same way and asked if we could go to El Torito every Tuesday just so he could talk to Gilberto again. I hope this restaurant doesn't close as this is the only one left in San Diego I believe. I have been coming here for years and would hate to see this place shut down. Nonetheless, thank you for making my dining experience exceed my expectations. I hope Gilberto will get the recognition he deserves because waiters like him who go above and beyond, are very hard to come across these days! read more

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Walter S.

Thank you so very much for feedback about Gilberto. We truly…

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Cynthia Q.

6 years ago

El Torito is a wonderful place everyone there is so polite and cheerful. The way that they set up to be careful and sanitary is great! They are really taking it serious with having guess be safe From COVID-19. My partner and I got to meet a cheerful and funny waiter his name is Gilberto you will love having him as your waiter he always ask if everything is okaay or has talks with you and just make you feel welcomed to the restaurant. He is a really wonderful person and I love when he made us laugh all the time I was there. You won't regret getting him as your waiter. Another person that I also loved from there was a lady named josefina she is always in the taco stand bar every Tuesday. They thing that I admired was that she will always tell people not to forget there mask or have then wear then and to keep a distance between her and the customers because that's the rules there and she is really good on being on top of that. The tacos she gives out are amazing I loved those tacos so next time you want to go to a place that's secure and has you feel welcome el torito is your place it we'll have this two people that I got it met there that are amazing. read more

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Eva F.

6 years ago

I love the staff here at this el torito! Gilberto is so awesome!! Had a great experience here because of him! Super funny and friendly! Definitely coming back here soon! 100% would recommend coming here and ask for Gilberto! read more

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Janelle O.

Thank you for the great review Eva! Gilberto is always so engaging!…

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Tim A.

7 years ago

We are so glad to have at least one El Torito here in San Diego. We went to this location for a late lunch. As usual, the place, despite its age, was clean and in great shape, the reception area was inviting and we were immediately seated by Gilberto, one of their experienced servers. He makes the whole dining experience - he's sensitive to your needs while also being personable, fun, knowledgeable and attentive. It is difficult to find such great service these days so we want to go there when he's there. We're sure other servers are great but he is exceptional, Our food was excellent with good cuts of savory meat and well cooked, seasoned chicken. The sides were excellent and prepared well. And finally, the margaritas. They were excellent and they offer a great variety including one with Maestro Dobel!! El Torito has been around a long time but it is worth the drive because it has great Mexican food and great service. read more

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General Manager

Tim A. - thank you for your stellar review. - We hope to see you…

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Cynthia J.

6 years ago

I brought my family for brunch at El Torito. The food was amazing, they have a large variety of food choices for everyone's taste buds. From salads, meat, chicken, omelettes, traditional Mexican dishes and desserts. Gilberto greeted us with great energy and humor. He provided us with exceptional customer service. Thank you Chava for all the food, your are a great chef. read more

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General Manager

Hi Hi Cynthia!…

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Antonio M.

7 years ago

Sunday Brunch was amazing! Plenty of options and service was the best. Gilberto was awesome! He seated us right away and when we asked to sit at a different part of the restaurant he accommodated us quickly. Whenever we asked for anything he was quick and more than happy to help. read more

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General Manager

Antonio - Thank you for your review. We will be sure to share you…

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Fatima Z.

7 years ago

Our waiter was super nice and attentive. However, as soon as we sat at our table my father and I noticed a horrible stench. My father wanted to leave as soon as he sat down but we decided to give the restaurant a try. Huge mistake. The food was reasonably priced. The food itself, however, was disappointing. The rice was bland and the beans were obviously canned beans. I ordered a carne asada burrito and my father ordered the carne asada and shrimp. My burrito came on top of some sort of tomato soup and had some bland sauce all over it which made the burrito quite soggy. My father ordered the carne asada medium-well and it was cooked medium-rare. His shrimp were okay and the teaspoon of guacamole that came on his plate was the worst guacamole I've ever tasted in my life. We will never be returning again. If you're looking for somewhere new to try DO NOT COME HERE. Complete waste of money. read more

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General Manager

Fatima Z. - We take our guest feedback very seriously. I have sent…

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Gretchen V.

7 years ago

The menu has changed, and the new chef is awesome. Same great waitstaff. Friendly service. Can't wait to go back.

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General Manager

Hi Gretchen!…

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Sebastian S.

8 years ago

Very good Mexican restaurant. The Fresh Tableside Guacamole was awesome- as main dish we shared the chicken Fajitas- awesome as well. Thank you Gilberto for the best service! read more

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Veronica J.

8 years ago

I must say, when El Torito closed in the rest of San Diego I was very upset. I didn't realize that there was one left in La Mesa. Our first experience there was about three weeks ago. Not only was the food very good but the service was excellent! Our servers name was Gil. I will make sure that I asked for him every time I go there. Not only is he very well mannered and he knows everything but he is so funny and kind. It was a fantastic experience. read more

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Robert M.

8 years ago

We had an excellent dinner here. Our server Gilberto was very attentive and brought everything before we had to ask. Our kids really enjoyed their food and they are very picky. Even our kids recognized how great the service was. We keep continuing to come back here. read more

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Tiana H.

8 years ago

Wow wow wow! Family and military friendly. Absolutely wonderful. Best waiter experience we've ever had. Thank you Gilberto! read more

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Rich B.

8 years ago

Had a great dinner at El Torito tonight. Gilberto was the best waiter! He was personable, attentive, funny, and went out of his way to make sure that we had an enjoyable experience. The food was delicious, especially the flaming fajitas. We'll definitely be going back very soon. read more

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Tanya B.

9 years ago

The food was great and our host Gillberto was the best !!! He made made our family dinner so much better and entertaining. We did the taco Tuesday with a large family and he was making it easy and run smooth read more

El Torito - Our host was the best ! Gilberto made our night ! - Mexican Near Me - La Mesa, California

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Walter S.

Hahaha...Awesome pic taken by Gilberto. He's the man! Thanks so much…

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Sandra B.

6 years ago

Food was great, Service was spectacular! Gilberto was our server. My family and I were more than impressed with his attentiveness, personality, and courtesy. Its spirit lifting to see there are still people who strive to exceed at what they do. Thank u Gilberto!!!! read more

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Janelle O.

Hi Sandra! Thank you for the great review! We are happy to hear…

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Emily R.

8 years ago

We are out of towners from TN. My step dad recommended this restaurant for brunch. It was absolutely amazing. Gilbert was server and went above and beyond. We had 3 kids there under 7. Our oldest has a birthday tomorrow and he treated her like a princess. Sombrero, ice cream, toys, and a song. They loved it. Ashley also came around with a drink cart and was fantastic. Best day we have out here. Highly recommend. read more

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Rebecca M.

9 years ago

Gilberto was awesome, he had impeccable customer service and really enjoyed him. Will definitely come back again. Food was great and service was awesome. read more

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Walter S.

Awesome! Thanks so much for the feedback!

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Elena P.

8 years ago

My family and I had an amazing time tonight. My fiance and I are celebrating our engagement and pre-wedding from Saturday with a nice meal. GILBERTO was our waiter and he made our visit so special and amazing. I've never had service like that before. GILBERTO went above and beyond to meet our requests and I couldn't be more happy with his service. He was prompt and made our evening so much more enjoyable. Thanks to him our evening was a blast! The food was amazing as well. read more

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Walter S.

Gilverto is the man! Thanks much for letting us know about him!

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Lori B.

8 years ago

Last night we went out to dinner here and it was so delish! Everything was cooked to perfection and big portions were what the guys were looking for. You guys knocked it out of the ball park! Our fajitahs were so good! The burritos were amazing too. I had a quesadilla with steak and it was sooo good! Im definitely coming back!!! read more

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Walter S.

Thank much for the great feedback! Hope to see you again soon!

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Katherine H.

8 years ago

The food was fantastc. We hit the friday all you can eat tacos which was tasty tasty. Mojito and el dueno margarita was delicious and hit the spot. The service was great and they went out if their way to change our order last minute. I wish it was a little cheaper, but the presentation and quality was great. Surprisingly quiet inside. read more

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Walter S.

Thanks so much for sharing the great feedback! We appreciate it!

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Chelia M.

214

9 years ago

The food was good but the service Gilberto provided was impeccable! (Hence the 5 stars). He had really great energy, very attentive without hovering, and fun! Definitely coming back and asking for him specifically read more

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Walter S.

I hear that...Gilberto is the man. Sorry to hear that the food wasn't…

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Kassandra R.

6 years ago

We came on taco Tuesday staff was friendly I would've given it five stars if it wasn't for one of the waitresses that helped us tended to be a bit rude. The other waiter was nice and made sure we had everything we wanted, thanks to him we had a decent good meal. Make sure you try the Carnitas tacos those were great! As for the street corn, I was hoping it would be like a traditional corn in a cup, I think they went to far and trying to make it fancy read more

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Janelle O.

Thank you for your great review of our Taco Tuesday. I agree, our…

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Robert P.

8 years ago

Our server Gilberto was a great guy, made the whole experience feel very warm. That plus the incredible chicken tortilla soup made for the perfect date night. A+! read more

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Walter S.

Gilberto is the best! Thanks so much for recognizing him!

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Jon K.

6 years ago

I would save my money, this is absolutely the worst Hispanic food I have ever had in my 63 years of life. I would Personally find another restaurant but this is just my opinionI would get a better meal from Taco Bell read more

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General Manager

Hello Jon,…

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Greg F.

330

7 years ago

Went shopping at Burlington coat factory and decided we wanted to go eat. Gilberto was awesome and funny. Quick with service. Will definitely come back. Thanks again Gilberto! 10 out of 10 service. read more

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Angie B.

6 years ago

Gilberto was amazing! He went above & beyond! Him & his trainee were on top of everything. The outdoor experience was pretty chill & relaxing. I couldn't ask for a better server & a better experience for my mothers birthday. read more

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Marissa H.

9 years ago

Took the family here for a birthday celebration and Gilberto was an amazing server. The and food was delicious

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Walter S.

Gilberto is the best. Thanks so much for the feedback and for…

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Diego Andolini C.

6 years ago

Gilberto has incredible service! We were there for my girls birthday and it was phenomenal. Food was amazing and pretty fast for our size group. It was outside bc of covid but felt nice and cozy like we were indoors. Again, Gilberto has amazing customer service and very attentive. He goes the extra mile to make you have a great experience! I wish I had more cash on me to give him! read more

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Andrew L.

315

10 years ago

As I start to type this review I have not clicked a single star and hope I can submit it with Zero Stars. This was hands down flat out the worst El Torito experience I have had in all of So Cal. Food was down right the worst Mexican food I have ever tasted. The meat was dry, cold, and under cooked. I will recommend that if you are looking for a good Taco Tuesday you should go to Del Taco instead. Absolutely the worst food experience I've had at an El Torito. Revising this because I HAVE to select a star. So I'll give them a 1 star because that is the lowest allowed. read more

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Teresa R.

9 years ago

So sad there is only one El Torito left... Great service and the Fajita salad... amazing as always!:)))

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Walter S.

Thanks so much for the Great Feedback! The El Torito in La Mesa will…

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James B.

9 years ago

My wife and I had a flawless experience. Props to Bridget (manager) who seated us promptly and Gilberto, our extremely attentive and amiable waiter. The food came out within 10 minutes and it was clearly right off the grill. I can't say I've ever had a bad experience here, but this one was definitely the best. read more

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Walter S.

Awesome! Looking forward to sharing this with Bridget and Gilberto.…

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Ellie H.

6 years ago

They have the best service and kindest workers!! The manager was so amazing. All around such a pleasant dining experience, not to mention how great the food was!! Would recommend to anyone who is looking for a tasty Mexican restaurant!!! read more

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Heidi Y.

Elite 19

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162

7 years ago

Soo as much as I wanted to love this spot I just can't... for starters slowest service known to man! But they do offer free chips and salsa- yum! And the margaritas are delish!!!! They have quite a few kids menu options that do include American food too which is a plus! There were four of us however we were given 1 set of silverware ! People who say after us were given chips and salsa before we were AND served before us when we ordered before them! When we went to leave my daughter wanted to take her food, we were never offered to go containers or dessert... back to the point I went to the bar and asked for a to go box where a rude woman looked at me and stated "sure well bring one right out"... I waited at the table while my sister loaded my two children up in the car and drove around without ever being brought the box- however she had time to serve two other tables and take a tray of what appeared to be dirty dishes to the back... terrible experience! read more

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General Manager

Thank you so much for your feedback! We are committed to great…

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Micah R.

177

6 years ago

I'm so happy this place is open during COVID it's very hard to find a sit down place with amazing food and drinks!!! Gilbert is by far the best waiter I've ever had! GILBERT GILBERT!!! Amazing read more

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Janelle O.

Thank you for the great review Micah! Gilberto is amazing and we are…

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Kassy J.

6 years ago

Gilberto was the BEST server ever! We went with my family that were visiting from out of town and Gilberto sure made it was a fun night for everyone to remember!! Food was amazing and they even had a DJ playing a variety of music which I found fun and relaxing especially during times like these. Thanks for the AMAZING service we will BE BACK!! read more

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5024 Baltimore Dr
La Mesa, CA 91942
Directions
(619) 698-7404
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 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?

Yes, El Torito allows 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

Is El Torito wheelchair accessible?

Yes, El Torito is wheelchair accessible.

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
10 Reviews

Ask the Community - El Torito

What is the 2026 Sunday Brunch price?

39.50 for the full brunch sunday

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Sunday brunch price?

We went on Sunday, Sept 29, 2024 and the brunch price was $37.50 for adults and I think it was $13.00 for kids.

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Does the staff still serve the food for the all-you-can-eat brunch or are patrons able to serve themselves now? Last time I went, the staff served the food for brunch but that was not long after COVID dine-in restrictions were implemented.

You serve yourself. Go It's a good brunch. You'll like it

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Has the La Mesa CA location closed permanently?😳?

It was open as of last week so it should be!

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Is the Buffet only on the Weekend or is it on Fridays too?

Only on Sundays

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Do you allow dogs in the outdoor area?

Yes

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Can reservations be made for the Sunday brunch or first come first serve? Is there a bottomless…

Yes. Reservations. Yes Bottomless mimosas

View question details

Is Brunch on Sat and Sun?

Yes, both brunch are on the weekend. The only thing about Sunday's brunch is that it's all you can eat.

View question details

Do they have a bar? Or place for dancing?

tHE BAR IS TO THE LEFT OF THE ENTRANCE. hOWEVER, THERE IS NO DANCING.

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How much is the Sunday Brunch Buffet?

As of March 2022, about $30.

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Do you serve menudo?

Hi Fred. We do have Menudo available on our Sunday Brunch.

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Is the Brunch open?

Yes

View question details

Is one in la Puente california?

No, this one is in La Mesa California (East San Diego area) There is one at 3133 E Garvey Ave N,…

View question details

Is there happy hour? Also, I'm disappoinment to see the Plaza Bonita location closed. Even though it's been years, I still miss it. It was so near my house😕

Yes they have happy hour. And when I went a couple months ago they had happy hour on Sunday as well, 3-7 I believe. But of course call to check for current deals.

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Casa Gabriela

I had been meaning to visit this place for a while and I am so happy I got the chance. We were able…read moreto sit in the outdoor area which is just as nice as the pictures on here suggest. Not only was all the food amazing, but the portions were generous and made for some great leftovers. My parents were in town so we were out to dinner together and we all got different dishes and each one was better than the next. The quesadilla was probably the best thing we had. Our server was attentive and quick while still giving time to be friendly. When they were out of a couple items for the drinks we wanted, she was ready with alternatives and always offered to at least double check in case there was something they could do. My dad even got a little preview of a new version of their Old Fashioned since they were in the process of phasing out the old one and were out of one of the ingredients.

This was my first time visiting Casa Gabriela. I saw the menu and it looked really yummy. The major…read moredraw was the Cafe de Olla. I had to order it. It came with a yummy almond galleta dusted with powdered sugar. The coffee was perfect. I dipped my cookie in my coffee and truly it was the perfect bite plus perfect treat as I waited for my food because I was HUNGRY! Our food took a while to arrive it was a Saturday morning at brunch but it wasn't crowded. The wait was the kind of wait you do where you look at the tables around you to see who has food and who doesn't and wonder what was the seating order of the folks around you and if they got their food before you and why. So when my food arrived I was sooooo ready! I ordered the chorizo and crispy potatoes burrito. It looked great when it arrived! I strategically cut my burrito about a quarter of the way in. I knew I would at least eat a quarter but I knew I definitely wouldn't eat the whole thing and I didn't want to waste a perfectly good bite on all tortilla. I cut my burrito and put a bite on my fork and as I put my food in my mouth I looked down and find a long curly hair. To say I was disappointed was an understatement. I was disappointed for several reasons. 1. The bite I took was all egg and tortilla. No cheese no chorizo no potato. 2. I was starving! And 3. I knew I wasn't going to have anything to eat until after the other two people I was with finished eating and I could go somewhere else to get food. I didn't let it damper my mood. I showed the waiter who was very apologetic and took my plate away. When he walked away. It hit me I didn't tell him to not bring me anything else because I was going to eat a remade burrito. So I got his attention because I didn't want them to waste anymore food. Here is what I will say. To replace my food, I was given a pastry platter that was AMAZINGLY good! The concha was legit the best I've ever eaten. The banana bread was delicious with delicious toasted pecans which added a caramelized texture to the banana bread! No joke, it was so good. What I will also say is that I was visited with no less than 3 people including Gabriela herself who was absolutely apologetic about my experience and assured me it wouldn't happen again. What's also nice is that I wasn't charged for the food I ate which believe it or not has happened to me before MANY years ago. My peeps whom I was with absolutely loved their food. One had the Sopes and the other had the huevos rancheros. So while I have to be honest about my review, I really think this was a one off mistake and at the very least I would highly suggest ordering cafecito and pastries from Casa Gabriela!

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Chicken Tinga Empanadas

Main dining room

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Lobster & Black bean Chipotle Flautas

Casa De Pico

To start off our server was super friendly and gave us chips and salsa to begin with. We love that…read moreit comes with free refills because the chips tasted so fresh and salsa was also very tasty, just wish it had a little kick of spice! I got the Chicken Enchiladas, it came with a side of black beans. I loved their verde sauce that the enchiladas are smothered in, both the sauce and chicken had amazing flavor. Sauce was citrusy which I loved in a verde chili, overall Id definitely order it again. My boyfriend ordered the Huevos Rancheros which came with a side of beans, rice and flour tortillas. I didnt taste it but it looked amazing and my boyfriend enjoyed it as well, he finished every bite! I got to try his fresh flour tortillas and they were very tasty as well, I love how fresh everything is! Ambience inside was gorgeous and really love how festive it looked.

My best friend and I came here today to have a girl date. We ordered a shot, a margarita, and an…read moreappetizer. We were having great conversation and catching up, just the normal things you do when you have a "girl date". Anyways, we ordered another shot to take as we were vibing out and enjoying our ceviche when we were told that "we've had too much", since we had not yet ordered our entrees. I have been here more than 20xs in the last 6 months. I've been HAMMERED, I've been sober, you get the point. Never once have I been told of this "policy". Never once have I been cut off or warned. From the second we got here, the bartender was rude. He wasn't the main bartender, but that's neither here nor there. Every interaction we had, he never made eye contact, never engaged, never NOT seemed annoyed to be there. Anyways, after being told that we needed to order entrees before we were able to get another beverage, I asked to speak to the manager. She came over a few minutes later trying to explain responsible service to us...my best friend and I are bartenders and have been since we were in our 20's. We're now in our 40's and are not sloppy. Anyways!! I am not sure where this came from; had we been acting intoxicated and embarrassing, not another word would have been said. We would have left with our tails tucked and many apologies would have been given. We will never go back. This "policy" has never been enforced in all of the times I have patronized the restaurant, and this fully ruined our evening. We understand responsible service and how to appropriately gauge a customer's level of intoxication and never once were we acting in a manner that would warrant such actions from their employees. Very disappointed by this experience.

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Pico's Chimichanga

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Mochisimos Taquitos

Mario's De La Mesa Restaurant

I was fortunate to be back at Mario's De La Mesa during the Flag Day Parade. My Mom and I enjoyed…read morethe parade immensely. We needed to eat so we decided on Mario's! The food was impeccable and delicious as usual. I highly recommend it here! You always leave happy!

$16 for a bean and cheese burrito?!! No thanks!!…read moreMargaritas were not good! So disappointed! Had to ask for napkins, had to ask for silverware and then had to ask for the check!!! Not busy, service was lacking!

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Colorful decor

GUACAMOLE

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¡Feliz Navidad de Mario's!

Chuy's Taqueria y Burritos

Great tacos! Loved the food and good service. Would order from there again. Ambiance was chill.read more

Chuy's doesn't bother with theatrics. It's a straight shot of San Diego comfort: a counter, a warm…read moregriddle, and a crew that treats your custom order like it's the most natural thing in the world. I ordered a California burrito and asked to swap in adobado pork. No hesitation, no side‑eye, just a nod and a "you got it." That alone puts them ahead of half the shops in the county. The burrito itself delivered. The adobado came through with that deep red glow and smoky tang, the kind of flavor that feels like it's been tended to, not rushed. Fold that into fries, cheese, and a tortilla doing quiet, reliable work, and you get a bite that hits all the right notes. Rich, bright, salty, satisfying. It's a simple thing done well, which is exactly what you want from a neighborhood taco shop. Chuy's isn't trying to reinvent the wheel. They're just making a damn good burrito and treating you right while they do it.

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Chuy's Taco Shop

I just grew a hate love relationship with these taco shop. The order the carne asada fries and the…read more2 beef taco plate. Both smacked. The fries are the best fries I had in a while. Perfect mix of everything. Fries are a perfect crisp. The asada was good and tender. I looked around what everyone was getting and all the portions were huge. The service was fast and helpful. There was enough seating for big groups. I will definitely be coming back cuz it's that good!!!

My Hubby got in for a Yelp Event so I was excited to tag along with him to check this place out…read moreespecially since Guy Fieri had been here. It pretty spacious inside. Lots of seating. They carry a wide range of drinks that pairs well with any of the meals you get. The have a nice salsa bar too. The staff is super nice and helpful. Every time we had a question, they were quick on answering and assisting where things were. ...and now the food, their 3 Mini Carne Asada Tacos were good. I had better flavorful tacos, but these were decent. One thing I will say is you get a lot of meat which is awesome because you can make an extra taco or two. The Salsas is where the flavor is at and I enjoyed all of them. My Hubby got the Chili Verde Plate, I did not try it, but it looked delicious and was a lot of food.

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Inside seating

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Inside

Cocina de Barrio

The food was really great and I loved the attentive service!…read more I recently attended a small birthday celebration at Cocina de Barro and was delighted with the quality and flavor of the food. Parking in the area was rough, but at least there is a nearby parking garage with good prices ($5). We ordered a bunch of items off the menu, and everything was perfect. At less than $50/head for a huge and wonderful meal with drinks, this was a bargain in my book. Five stars for all elements of the experience!

Yummy brunch! Nothing too special but it gets the job done, especially if you have a large group or…read moreparty. They were able to seat 12 of us at around 10:30AM. I got the emoladas and a cafe de olla. I've had much better cafe de ollas and the enmoladas were tasty and the plate was huge! It was around $21 and I couldn't eat it all there was so much food there. Don't skip their breakfast potatoes!!

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Mango-Tajin Popsicle Margarita

Marieta's

Homey Mexican decor theme throughout. We decided to forgo appetizers as chips and salsa seem to be…read moremore than enough. We shared the chips and salsa with our cocktails. Hubs had a Cadillac margarita and I had a Cabernet. Chips were fresh and warm, salsa was perfect, not too spicy. We ordered the #13 and #14. #13-Taco and chile relleno with rice and beans. #14-Taco and cheese enchilada w/rice and beans. I asked for the green salsa and wow was it delicious!! Mild as far as spice level but very flavorful addition to my rice and beans. Taco had lots of beef, delicious!! Enchilada was yummy too as were rice and beans. Luis, our server, was friendly, quick with food, requests and had a good sense of humor about him. Quality food, drinks and good atmosphere keeps us coming back! Try it for yourself and say hi to Luis!

The service at Marieta's is fantastic, from the moment I walked in. The staff at the front are…read morequick and welcoming, and as soon as we were seated, we were given a large amount of fresh chips and salsa. In my previous review, I mentioned how good the salsa is. It's still true today. When we almost finished our salsa, they brought us some complimentary chorizo beans with some cheese to dip our chips in. That was also delicious. This time, I ordered the steak fajitas and a mango margarita. The steak fajitas are definitely larger enough to be sharing size, and their flour tortillas were homemade! Both were good, but I will say that the steak was quite dry today... I think I was overcooked. However, my mango margarita was delicious and strong, and only $8.75! A great deal for a margarita compared to other stores.

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La Posta De Acapulco

Saw an instagram review and wanted to check out this place. I had the California burrito and it was…read morereally good, one of my favorites so far. The service was quick and friendly. The ambience is your typical home-in-the-wall kind of place...clean, comfortable, but minimalist. I'd rather go to a place like this where the primary focus is the food.

I've always come to this restaurant because the food is good…read more However, on certain nights they say they only accept cash, and I had a concerning experience: I was charged $60 in cash, but when I asked for a receipt, the total showed $48. Tonight, the same employee again said it was cash only and that the machine was down when I asked why this happens on certain nights. However, he later proceeded to let me pay with a card, which made the situation feel inconsistent and unclear. I recommend being cautious and double-checking your total, especially if paying in cash. Siempre he venido a este restaurante porque la comida es buena. Sin embargo, en ciertas noches dicen que solo aceptan efectivo, y tuve una experiencia preocupante: me cobraron $60 en efectivo, pero cuando pedí el recibo, el total era $48. Hoy, el mismo empleado volvió a decir que solo aceptaban efectivo y que la máquina no funcionaba cuando le pregunté por qué en algunas noches es así. Sin embargo, después me permitió pagar con tarjeta, lo cual hizo que la situación se sintiera inconsistente y poco clara. Recomiendo tener precaución y revisar bien su cuenta, especialmente si pagan en efectivo.

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#10

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Sore front

City Tacos

WOW I know there are a couple of these around I was at the La mesa one and have to say everything…read moreon the menu looked fantastic. I had the chili relleno taco and it was more than great. My friends had the Mexicali and everything looked so delicious. Service was fast and the guy answered every question we had and was fast. And the prices are great Plenty of seating inside and out they have tvs inside to watch the game and on Friday's they close the street and have a farmers market.

I recently came to La Mesa for a record store event across the street and I saw this taco…read morerestaurant. I decided to come for some food and drinks while I wait. The corn got my attention right away! I thought it was fairly priced at $5. It was pretty good but I wish they would've added more of the ingredients, there was missing some. The taco was okay. Unfortunately they ran out of agua fresca so I got a soda and I like that it was all glass soda bottles. They have bathrooms in the establishment which is always a plus!

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16Jul2024

Surf and Turf on the left Crunchy Shrimp on the right

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Panchos Mexican Restaurant

Our family has been going to Pancho's for years. The food tastes great, the prices are reasonable…read moreand everyone there treats you like family! After you go a few times, they will recognize you and even remember your order. I recommend Pancho's to friends and family all the time.

Great Mexican food. Friendly service , I will be returning to order more food.the inside was ok.read more

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Flowers in parking lot !

Chips 'n' Salsa

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Stained glass window

Banbu Sushi Bar & Grill

The food was amazing and our server Chloe was really sweet and helpful!! Would definitely come back…read moreagain

we come here regularly and the food is always excellent…read more the Dynamite Roll is our favorite. Savannah is always helpful and we appreciate her recommendations.

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Scena Fusion Kitchen & Bar

Try it and you will be back again Love the place and the…read morefood Everything is perfect

Had an anniversary dinner on Saturday at Scena good service, host were friendly, attentive! Chef…read morehas an amazing flavor! Ordered a spicy rigatoni and pesto pasta. Flavors were vibrant top of the line! Would definitely go again!

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The Hills Pub

Locally owned & operated

Family-owned & operated

u guys have amazing food but also comes with an amazing server nirvana! she is very good at what…read moreshe does and doesn't hesitate to get you what you need! very sweet and kind!

Food was great Service was great…read moreI had a Bloody Mary my husband a Michelada. Both were made to perfection. We had ginger wings, chicken chipotle sliders and garlic parm fries very tasty. There is outdoor seating and game area, children are welcome. Great spot.

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Remodeled back yard

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Hoops

Antica Trattoria

What a gem in La Mesa! The food completely blew us away and pleasantly surprised us. We usually…read morehead to Little Italy, North Park, or downtown for our go-to Italian spots, but Antica Trattoria absolutely holds its own. Our server, Leticia, made the entire experience even better. We had two families at the table with three little kids, ages one, two, and four, and she was so patient, funny, and genuinely wonderful with them. As parents, we rarely get the chance to go out together, and she made the night feel so easy and enjoyable. It was one of those evenings that made us wonder why we don't do this more often. The food was amazing, the atmosphere was incredibly family-friendly, and the service was exceptional. We highly recommend Antica Trattoria, and we'll definitely be back.

This is my go to for close to home fine dining so when my family asked me where I wanted to go for…read moreFather's Day... The special menu they had was fantastic and I was very excited to try something new here. I was craving Rack of Lamb so that's what I got and it didn't disappoint. My son got Lobster ravioli, My daughter got the Chilean Sea Bass (perfectly prepared and delicious) and my wife's Pappardelle pasta dish also fantastic. Did I mention the appetizer's? We got the Frittura Mista (Calamari, Shrimp, Artichoke w/ creamy Garlic sauce) & Polpettine (Braised Meatballs, San Marzano tomato sauce, Olives & whipped Ricotta), Excellent! The staff, as usual, were amazing even under pressure because it was packed from a little after opening at 4:30pm untill until we left, and I'm sure, until they closed. Well done - Antica Trattoria and thank you.

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Nice spot to watch the Chefs.

This homemade gnocch with short ribs iwas to die for

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Sangria and dirty Martini

Tappi Sushi Lounge

4.6

(42 reviews)

1.3 mi

Dined here tonight and loved it. Had the seaweed salad, sweet and spicy broccoli appetizer along…read morewith two rolls and the teriyaki chicken entree. Food was excellent, and the service was friendly. We will be back!

Food Service…read moreAmbience We'll make this a regular spot for sushi night. We also had jalapeño poppers and spice garlic edamame. It was all very delicious. And Fresh. Fresh fish is key to good sushi. There's enough room here for larger parties. Not all crammed in one little spot like most places.

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Fried ice cream sans banana. Delicious.

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Spicy yellowtail roll. (I already ate a piece)

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Bannister B.

155

3 years ago

Where Mouthwatering Mexican Delights and Bottomless Mimosas Await! When my large family decided to celebrate my mom's birthday at El Torito, we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. It was a hidden gem that one of my sisters stumbled upon, and boy, were we in for a treat! With promises of a Mexican brunch buffet and bottomless mimosas, our expectations were set high. Let me tell you, El Torito did not disappoint! Now, let's start with the parking situation. The spaces were a tad small, but fear not! We parked a bit further away, which was a great excuse to stretch our legs and build up an appetite. As we entered the restaurant, we were greeted by a welcoming committee of multiple hostesses, ready to guide us to our table. Our party of 14 was promptly seated, and the waiter wasted no time in bringing us an array of refreshing mimosas, coffee, water, and even milk for the kiddos. They had us at "bottomless mimosas"! Once the tantalizing aromas of Mexican goodness hit our noses, we made a beeline for the buffet. Tacos, glorious tacos! El Torito had us covered with an impressive selection of steak, chicken, pastor, and carnitas. And let me tell you, the carnitas took home the gold medal, closely followed by the juicy steak. What made it even more magical was that they made the tortillas right in front of our eyes, ensuring a truly authentic experience. We also indulged in the fantastic fajitas, which took a little time to prepare, but trust me, every minute of that wait was worth it. Now, let's talk about the ambiance. El Torito knows how to accommodate parties of any size. They have small square tables for intimate gatherings and long hosting tables for those unforgettable fiestas. The restaurant is beautifully adorned with authentic Mexican decor, transporting you to the heart of Mexico. The staff, oh, the staff! They were a delight to interact with, always attentive and ready to make our experience extra special. And here's the cherry on top of this already fantastic meal--the price! El Torito goes above and beyond by offering all of these mouthwatering delights at a fraction of the cost you'd find at other restaurants. It's like they're saying, "Hey, let's treat you to an unforgettable feast without breaking the bank!" And don't get me started on their bottomless mimosas. Bravo, El Torito, bravo! Salvador, the manager, deserves a special mention. He graced our table with his presence, ensuring everything was going smoothly. But he didn't stop there. He regaled us with the story of how he came to work for El Torito, and let me tell you, it was an entertaining tale that had us chuckling between bites of deliciousness. So, if you're looking for outstanding Mexican cuisine, an engaging and friendly staff, and an experience that won't drain your wallet, El Torito is the place to be. It's a hidden gem that deserves to be shared and celebrated. Book your reservation, bring your appetite, and prepare for a fiesta like no other. El Torito, you have won our hearts and our taste buds! P.S. If you're lucky, you might just get to hear Salvador's fascinating story too. Trust me, it's worth it! Oh, and how could I forget the pièce de résistance of my mom's birthday celebration at El Torito? It was truly unforgettable! As we were enjoying our meal, the staff surprised my mom with a grand entrance, singing and clapping, bearing a little cake adorned with flickering candles. The joy on her face was priceless, and we all joined in to sing along. It was a moment that captured the essence of El Torito--a place where celebrations come alive, and memories are made. My mom's birthday at El Torito will forever hold a special place in our hearts. The outstanding food, engaging staff, and the delightful birthday surprise made it a day she'll cherish forever. So, if you're looking to make your loved one's special day truly extraordinary, head to El Torito. They know how to turn any occasion into a fiesta! ¡Feliz cumpleaños, Mom, and gracias, El Torito, for creating memories that will last a lifetime! read more

John F.

102

1 year ago

Extremely Disappointed - Worst Holiday Dining Experience I rarely leave negative reviews, but our experience at El Torito in La Mesa for Easter brunch was incredibly frustrating and disappointing. I personally called ahead to make reservations for a large party (over 10 people) specifically to avoid any issues with the online system. Despite this, when we arrived, they had no record of our reservation. Instead of taking accountability or trying to resolve the situation professionally, the staff at check-in acted as if I had never made a reservation at all. They challenged me on it and made it seem like they were doing us a favor by "trying" to seat our party--something that should have already been guaranteed. After over 40 minutes of waiting outside, we were finally seated--but not even together. They split our family into two separate tables, completely defeating the purpose of bringing everyone together for a holiday meal. We were seated with the clear expectation that we'd be enjoying the Easter brunch buffet--only to be told we had five minutes before it ended. There were no plates available, and as we tried to see what we could get, we watched staff clearing the buffet and throwing untouched food into garbage bags right in front of guests. Rather than allowing us to eat what we came for, they rushed to shut everything down as if we were an inconvenience. Eventually, the manager came out and tried to blame Corporate for the mix-up, saying they had set up the reservation. But I had called this exact location directly--it was the local team who took the reservation. Then, a second manager came out and went as far as to accuse us of being rude, instead of taking responsibility for their own mishandling of the situation. This has truly been the worst dining experience I've had, especially on a day meant for family celebration. With Mother's Day around the corner, I strongly recommend looking elsewhere if you're planning something special. This location showed a complete lack of organization, professionalism, and respect for its guests. We will not be returning. read more

Derrell D.

172

2 years ago

I came to El Torito to celebrate my birthday and Father's Day with my wife and daughter, and from start to finish, this was the worst dining experience I have ever had. As soon as we entered the restaurant, the hostess had her back turned while on the phone. We waited for a few minutes with no acknowledgment whatsoever. After about five minutes of standing there, other patrons walked in, and still no acknowledgment. Finally, a server or busboy passing by noticed the situation and seated us. Although the food was pretty good, I had to ask our server several times for water, which never arrived. By this point, the server became increasingly difficult to flag down, and eventually, my wife just let me have what was left of her glass. The experience went further downhill when my wife found a piece of hair in her food while we were waiting on desserts to go. When we informed the server, he jokingly brushed off the situation and deducted the cost of one side dish, about $2. When we tried to use a gift card I received for my birthday, the server seemed completely clueless. Despite my explanation, he asked for my phone number, which had no relevance to the gift card. After a long wait, he returned, unable to find my info. Finally, he paid attention but then asked me to write out all the details on a receipt paper so he could enter them. This tedious process led to a mistake, and the manager had to step in, pointing out my error in writing the numbers. By this time, our ice cream had melted, and we requested replacements. After another long wait, the manager brought a printout regarding the gift card instead of the check. We waited an additional 10-15 minutes before abandoning the place altogether. El Torito abandoned their customers just as we abandoned this place. Terrible service, clueless staff, and an overall disappointing experience. Avoid this restaurant if you value your time and sanity. read more

Jose B.

5 months ago

We recently visited El Torito for brunch with a reservation for 13 people. Overall, it was a solid experience with a few highs and a few noticeable misses. First, although we had a reservation, our table wasn't ready until about 20 minutes after the scheduled time. For a large party, that delay is understandable to a degree, but still worth noting. The brunch buffet had a mix of strong and average options. The handmade sopes and fresh tortillas were definitely a highlight -- great texture and flavor. The pork in salsa verde was tasty, and the chile rellenos were consistently good. The omelet station was another plus, with a solid variety of ingredients and made-to-order quality. On the other hand, some items left more to be desired. The birria lacked depth, and the seafood selections like the aguachile and ceviche didn't stand out. The menudo and pozole were just okay -- not bad, but not particularly memorable. The aguas frescas were overly sweet, and once the ice melted, they became even more diluted. The pricing felt aligned with the experience, especially considering the bottomless mimosas. However, one major issue: after automatic gratuity was already added for our large party, an additional tip was included, which resulted in us tipping over 25%. That's something guests should carefully review on their bill. A bright spot of the visit was Gilberto, who helped make the experience more enjoyable and brought good energy to our table. Overall, a decent brunch option for large groups, with some standout items, but also areas that could use improvement. read more

Crystal L.

8 years ago

I came here on taco Tuesday with a good friend of mine. We ended up getting three tacos, and a margarita. I can't remember the exact price but I remember it was very fair considering the ambiance, and sit down nature of the restaurant. The food is really good, but one of the tacos I got was so spicy. It was funny because my friend and I were both sweating from the spiciness of it. And I can handle my spices so this thing was strong. The margaritas here are really good, I always go with the blended style with salt around the top. It's perfect and just right and I can always feel a little bit of a buzz after having just one of them so they aren't cheap with the liquor which is awesome. The best part about this place though has to be the chips, they are so good. They bring you unlimited chips when you are sitting down. They are hot and very fresh. And the hot sauce that they bring with the chips is delicious. The only reason for four and not five stars is they are a little bit unorganized. It was not a huge deal, but there was a bit of confusion but everything was settled fine so no big complaint. I did really enjoy this spot , so I will be back here again and probably very soon. read more

Tanja M.

4 years ago

I was here for Taco Tuesday on 10/18/22 with 2 friends. Once the bill came we decided to split it 3 ways. The waitress Jessica took all three cards and brought back a receipt for each of us, which we each signed, The tip was left in cash. Imagine my surprise when I noticed a few days later that some how, some way, the ENTIRE amount was charged to my card DESPITE me having a receipt that says otherwise!!! I immediately called and was told that I would have to wait for the mgr(Nick) to call me back..never called. I called and actually spoke to Nick, explained the situation including the fact that the other 2 people each had a receipt showing a portion of the bill for their cards, was told that he would look into it and call me back. Again no call 2 weeks later! Once I finally with him again, he said that accounting issued a refund on 10/25/22. AS of today 11/17/22 I have yet to receive a refund. This is just plain FRAUD committed by this restaurant! I will never step foot into this place again and will gladly tell people not to bother!!! Zero stars should be a very real option. I guess dinner was on me. read more

Carlos G.

5 years ago

I absolutely loved the fact that El Torito is working very hard with this pandemic. However I'm a current customer, I also helped this restaurant with many to go orders and never got picked up. And had friends of mine buy them, by making calls. Last night I wanted to watch the game, the bar was full meaning with the six feet distance only 3 chairs available. I was sat by one of my great friend, which is a server. However then I went to the bar to seat, so I can hear it. There you had the manager sitting on the bar eating, that's unacceptable, your the manager, the limited sitting is for guest. I did not cuz any trouble, but for the manager to take one of the 3 seats to eat, while customers, specifically when your a constant customer and take that space is unacceptable. You need to lead by example. Then she got all mad and didn't wanted to serve me another beer. I had a driver, since she said I was too drunk. Anyway I sure hope that her attitude changes and she needs to be a leader. If not replace her. Because you don't take or seat on company clock. Poor customer service and horrible attitude. read more

Thomas C.

9 months ago

Review for Gilberto at El Torito's La Mesa, San Diego I had the pleasure of being served by Gilberto during my recent visit to El Torito in La Mesa, San Diego, and I cannot recommend him highly enough! From the moment we sat down, Gilberto's professionalism shone through. He was attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that we had everything we needed while allowing us to enjoy our meal. His knowledge of the menu was impressive, and he offered great recommendations that truly enhanced our dining experience. What stood out the most was Gilberto's warm and friendly demeanor. He brought a genuine sense of joy to our table, making us feel welcomed and valued. His laughter and positive energy were infectious, turning a simple meal into a memorable occasion. It's clear that he loves what he does, and that passion made a significant difference in our experience. In summary, if you're dining at El Torito in La Mesa, make sure to ask for Gilberto. His combination of professionalism, warmth, and humor is a rare find, and it elevates the dining experience to a whole new level! read more

Julia F.

5 years ago

What a great experience!!! Years ago we used to celebrate special occasions with our extended family at the Rancho Bernardo location. We were sad when they closed. Tonight, we surprised my husband for his birthday by taking him here because he loves Mexican food and good margaritas. I have to say, this experience was PERFECTO! Our server was Gilberto and he made the experience like the Disneyland for restaurants. He gave us personal service and guided us with drink and entree recommendations. The salsa was wonderful. We had the fajitas with refillable sides. Loved the presentation. The beans and rice were great. All the proteins (beef, pork, chicken as fish) were great. I loved the little papas mixed in (potatoes). The flan almost made me cry, it was so good. I could say more, but you get the idea. I hope you have as nice of an experience when you go. We will be coming back! read more

Vivian D.

3 years ago

I recently had the opportunity to dine at El Torito, and it was a fantastic experience. The atmosphere was lively and vibrant, with colorful decor that added to the overall ambiance of the restaurant. The menu offered a wide variety of delicious Mexican dishes, from traditional favorites like tacos and enchiladas to more unique options. The food was flavorful and well-prepared, and the portion sizes were generous. The service at El Torito was exceptional, with attentive and friendly staff who were knowledgeable about the menu and provided great recommendations. The waitstaff made sure that we had everything we needed throughout the meal. Overall, I highly recommend dining at El Torito. Whether you're craving classic Mexican cuisine or looking to try something new, this restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience. read more

Gem Ann K.

14 years ago

This was awful Their Lunch buffet they used to have with a variety of food now has been reduced to a TJ Taco bar for 6.99 very little to put on the tacos, no tomatos, guala cheese instead of monterrey jack or cheddar, have to wait for the girl to make the tortillas and that with 5 in front of us put us there for 10 minutes waiting eating into our lunch hour We both got team and what a shock 2.89 for a soft drink/soda highest in San Diego anywhere,. food wasnt great I will go back for 7.99 to Hacienda Casa Blanca on Tues for a full Mexican Buffet including desserts and never return her Oh the bartender Miquel was great very nice always there for us this is poor management ridding the buffet of varitety Oh yes no control of loud drunks somoeone should have told them to hold it down very very noisy read more

Damon J.

1 year ago

Five Stars for Gilberto's Exceptional Service! What can I say? Gilberto is an extraordinary server! From the moment my family and I walked in, he greeted us with such a positive, upbeat, and enthusiastic attitude--it truly set the tone for the entire meal. Throughout our dining experience, Gilberto went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and well taken care of. His attention to detail, warm personality, and selfless approach to service did not go unnoticed. It's clear he takes great pride in creating an experience that makes guests feel welcome and appreciated. It's rare to encounter someone with such a genuine servant's heart, and it's exactly that kind of energy that makes people want to come back. Gilberto, thank you for making our visit so memorable--you're a true gem. Well done! read more

Coreen S.

4 years ago

Pedro served us an early dinner this evening. Before we even sat down, his friendliness seemed to insure a wonderful experience. Three of the five of us are vegetarians and when I asked a specific question about the menu, Pedro practically ran back to the kitchen to get a precise answer. Next, we noticed that he wore an N95 mask and never let it slip beneath his nose, which was particularly important to us since were dining with our 80+ parents/grandparents. Pedro also made it possible for us to eat outside, even though the restaurant did not seem to be set up for outside dining. Sure enough, as the delicious meal progressed, we conversed more and more with Pedro, until by the end of the meal we felt we had made a new friend. We had not been to El Torito in ages, but we will surely return soon! read more

Sarah O.

3 years ago

My in-laws and I came to this location last week and had such a great dine-in experience! The service was phenomenal from our server Gilberto. He was extremely accommodating and quite hilarious. He definitely showed us a good time, chatted with us, and even went an extra step in improving my mother-in-law's order. He tended to all the tables in that way and his positive energy set off a great mood. The restaurant manager Sal was also very friendly and made sure that our experience was perfect. Our food was also very tasty! I got the Birria Tacos which were divine. They also have an amazing buffet on Sundays for $37 a person (not sure of the hours) and kids under a certain age eat for $1 on Wednesday with the purchase of an adult entree. Definitely recommend! Will be going again soon. read more

Sofia R.

1 year ago

El Torito Has been the best all around town!,The day I came with my family and friends to come celebrate my mom birthday.Elizabeth was our server,Elizabeth amazing,she was very helpful and always came to check up on us to make sure if we had everything we needed,she always made sure to ask if we needed anything else and always had our drinks full !!. El Torito such a great restaurant. It's always a restaurant that I love to go. Their food is very good. The service that they give is amazing. I have never Had a problem every time I go. The workers always give such great energy and greet their guest.Me and my family,and friends enjoyed our time there the food was delicious and we had a blast with the music.Thank you Elizabeth and the rest of the team for such an amazing service. read more

Ernie R.

10 years ago

Hey, new life, El Torito had been revived in La Mesa, on Baltimore...it used go be my spot for happy hour and special occasions, then it happened, they made some changes and the whole thing took a nose dive...then came Kelly, this amazing young lady took the bull by the horns, hand picked staff, like Missy, Luis, and others have poured their hearts out to bring this place back to life...indeed, my spot now...I can feel good about bringing friends and family here again, and not having to wonder if they are going to enjoy the experience or have that never again feeling...my hats off...Kelly is an asset and worth her weight in gold...I hope the Corporation shows some appreciation, I would and I do by bringing back my patronage... read more

Araceli V.

2 years ago

I had the pleasure of having breakfast here for brunch on Sunday, and it was an experience I won't soon forget! Our waiter, **Gilberto**, was absolutely top-notch. His attention and kindness were second to none, and his sense of humor added a delightful touch to our meal. Even though it wasn't our first visit, Gilberto made us feel like we were first-time customers. The food was nothing short of fantastic. I highly recommend the **CEVICE** - a tasty treat that delights the taste buds. And do yourself a favor and don't skip the **chocolate fountain**. It's a sweet ending to a great meal. In conclusion, this place not only offers excellent food, but also an atmosphere that makes you feel at home. I can't wait to return! read more

Helen N.

4981

996

1943

12 years ago

Margarita, pretty good! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/el-torito-la-mesa-3?select=jEm7mV_te_VsAiTZY_kk1Q#sqvaWX8lM5DB__t9qP0WoA Very smooth. I'm having one. Fresh limes, tequila and salt bring out the flavor in everything. Not too sweet, not too sour. Just right! Chips http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/el-torito-la-mesa-3?select=jEm7mV_te_VsAiTZY_kk1Q#jEm7mV_te_VsAiTZY_kk1Q, salsa, plus margarita - all tasty! I love a good margarita after a long hard day at work. I was sitting next door so it was a short walk. I received a very friendly greeting. They had street tacos. Pork was good. The chicken grilled ones were really good. Good place to eat when you have the funds. Slightly higher than other places... read more

Joseph A.

1 year ago

Went in for a celebratory birthday dinner, left after good times and memories. The food was delicious and service was fantastic. The waiter Gilberto was the coolest guy in town, made us feel right at home checking in on us throughout the time there, even got us together to sing happy birthday for the pops. The vibes were just the best kind to have. I'd recommend anyone to check it out if they want that authentic El Torito experience. The La Mesa location off Baltimore Drive is the spot to be at. Suitable for any family gathering and friendly get togethers. They even have a great selection drinks drafts cocktails mocktails etc. I'll for sure be back. read more

Nick W.

3 years ago

Our server Carlos was truly outstanding. From the moment we were seated, Carlos's positive attitude and enthusiastic approach made us feel like valued guests. He expertly guided us through the menu, offering insightful recommendations and ensuring our satisfaction. The Carne Asada Burrito showcased high-quality meat and a symphony of flavors that left me craving more. Carlos struck the perfect balance between attentiveness and giving us space to enjoy our meal, making the experience even more enjoyable. With vibrant decor and a welcoming ambiance, El Torito is a must-visit for a truly unforgettable Mexican culinary adventure. read more

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