El Torito

3.2 (2.4k reviews)

ModerateMexican, Bars, Breakfast & Brunch

Open • 9:00 am - 11:00 pm

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El Torito - SLOW-ROASTED CARNITAS - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

El Torito - Pina Colda + our waitress - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

El Torito - How yummy is this plate FAJITAS COMBO - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

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

El Torito Popular Dishes

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EL TORITO ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?

Inside

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Outside

194 Photos

Casual

Touristy

Moderate noise

Good for groups

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A burrito that lost its shape under the weight of the sauce.

Darryl B.

If there were ever a restaurant in need of a Gordon Ramsay intervention, this would be it. The food was drenched in sauce to the point where any actual flavor seemed to have surrendered. The rice was passable, but the beans came with an unexpected sour note that no one asked for. The restaurant itself had a noticeable odor, which it seemed to combat by simply propping the door open--an ambitious but ineffective strategy. Unfortunately, the issues didn't stop there. The floors were dirty, the furniture showed signs of rust, and the windows (at least the ones within reach) were decorated with bird droppings. To top it off, I witnessed a homeless man decline food offered by two patrons leaving the restaurant. In hindsight, that might have been the most reliable review of all. Given the location, the experience was especially disappointing.

Christian E.

The hostess was very friendly! There was a bad smell (wet mop?) when entering. They have a happy hour, but it's only at the bar, which no one wants to sit at. The server asked if we were ready to order before he even brought out our water or drink. I hate feeling rushed! The chips tasted as if they have been in old oil. The Spicy margarita was slightly weak. Although they gave a large private free parking lot & great views, I was not overly impressed. The bacon-wrapped shrimp was decent. The Birria tacos were good, but definitely small and could use some more cheese. The Spanish rice was good. They have the potential to do so much better especially with this space! Add a roofftop& better drinks!

Prajakta G.

Went here on a Saturday for lunch. We were seated at one of their large window tables with an ocean view. They have colorful art around the place with an old-time charm to it. The service at the restaurant is not up to the mark. Our server was not helpful and got a lot of our orders wrong. We ordered the Bloody Maria with 3 toppings, but only got one of them. It was also missing the olives and celery, which are not add ons and part of the original drink. Because we had difficulty placing the order in the first place, we did not send this back because we weren't sure they'd be able to fix it. The small plates at the table were not clean; they had some sticky spots on them. We got the chilaquiles, huevos rancheros and avocado toast. The food was average-tasting. The prices are below average for that area. I would not recommend this place considering there are much better options available very close to it.

Angelica G.

I've been to El Torito a couple of times, and since I love Mexican food, it's become one of my favorite spots in Monterey. One of the things I enjoy the most is the location, the view of the beach is beautiful and makes the whole experience even better. My go-to dish is always the Trio Fajitas, which come with steak, chicken, and shrimp. They arrive sizzling at the table and are packed with flavor. The portion is also very generous, we ordered them for two people and still couldn't finish everything. Honestly, they could easily be shared by three people. For this visit, we also ordered guacamole and swapped the traditional beans and rice for mixed veggies. The service has always been good, although this place gets pretty busy. This time we waited about 15-20 minutes for a table, but honestly, it was worth it. Great food, beautiful ocean views, and a fun atmosphere. If you're in Monterey and craving Mexican food, enjoying some sizzling fajitas while overlooking the beach is a pretty great way to spend the afternoon.

Gianna S.

Pretty restaurant right on the bay. It's nice that it has a parking lot and you can get your parking vouched. The restaurant can be loud Food is pretty decent - got a hibiscus guava margarita Service can be good depending on who you get. It can be pretty slow depending on how busy it is!

Kyanna G.

Great happy hour, great view! You can't beat the view. Our sever Debbie, was top notch, fantastic- worked so hard and was so friendly. Food was decent, and it was nice to see an El Torino thriving.

The half of my Mucho Combo that was delivered

Daryn B.

This review is based on a DoorDash experience. I ordered the Mucho Combo which includes a chili rellano, chicken and sour cream enchilada, tamale, taco, beans and rice. When my order arrived half was missing. I called the restaurant and was told it was still there sitting on the order up tray cooling off. The portion of the order I did receive was very good. All three items were full of flavor. However, they had cooled off fast. In conclusion, I would consider eating here someday. Just don't order through DoorDash.

Monica Z.

Before leaving for the airport stopped in again + had lunch. There was three of us so we had Grande Fiesta Platter appetizer, Buffalo tenders,crispy Flautas, Nachos Supremos + cheese Quesadilla. Just enough to get us home. Pretty sure it was the same waitress as before. She's a sweetheart + efficient. Skipped the bloody Mary, but mom had one + my sister had a Pina Colda. The views from the restaurant are outstanding.

Plate 1: CARNE ASADA & SHRIMP Plate 2: 2 ITEM COMBO (Cheese Enchilada & Chicken Tamale)

Kristina K.

Dinner with a view!!! The food came out fast & flavorful! The portions were generous, and the service was very attentive. The atmosphere was very warm and welcoming! I'd definitely come back again for both the food and the overall experience!

Alycia A.

The absolute best Mexican food with a beautiful ocean view! Weekends can be busy, it's best to make a reservation beforehand. They have a private paid parking lot. Staff is great, this restaurant is family friendly and can be loud. Bathrooms are clean. They have a buffet on weekends as well. Definitely try them out if you are in the area!!!

Karen A.

We had high hopes for El Torito in Monterey, but unfortunately our visit didn't go as planned. We made a reservation 1.5 hours ahead, confirmed it over the phone, and specifically requested a booth by the window (since my wife is pregnant and can't sit at high tops for long). We arrived on time but still had to wait another 15 minutes, and despite the request, we were not given a window booth. The host didn't communicate very well -- perhaps just tired by that time of day -- but it set a rough tone for the evening. From the outside, the restaurant wasn't very welcoming. The building had bird droppings all over the roof, which immediately gave off a neglected vibe. We were drawn in by the online photos showing nice views, but once inside, the atmosphere felt more chaotic and run-down. Guests were yelling and cursing loudly with kids around, which made it uncomfortable to settle in. Food was another disappointment. What we ordered was either too oily or lacked flavor, and we couldn't even finish our meals. It really felt like we failed our dinner that night. The frustrating part is that this place has so much potential -- the location is prime, the building is large with its own parking, and it could easily be elevated into a polished, destination restaurant. Instead, it feels cheap and run down, which is a shame given the setting.

Pretty disappointing experience overall. The food was overly salty and not very enjoyable. Service was also lacking servers (Wendy T) seemed annoyed and unprofessional. We were told we couldn't split the bill, but apparently that has to be requested at the beginning, which no one told us. There was also a random surcharge on the receipt that wasn't explained. The biggest issue was cleanliness. The restroom had no soap, and we had to ask staff and wait for it to be refilled just so I could wash my hands. The only positive was the person who brought out our food, they were kind and polite. Overall, I wouldn't return or recommend this place.

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Lauren R.

2 years ago

We did the Sunday brunch buffet. Food was decent, the bottomless mimosas weren't great since they're premixed bottles, but the flight of mojitos were great. Our server, Omar, was fantastic! read more

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Jennifer V.

3 years ago

DO NOT GO INSIDE! Here we go: *Made reservations 830 *Went to bar because they weren't ready for us when we arrived at 820. *Sat at bar way too long, hostess had been calling for us and didn't hear her cause we were At The Bar. *Husband went and asked what's up? First hostess didn't tell her co-worker that we were at the bar waiting. *Server never came by to let us know she'll be with us in a moment, but she glady sat her friends down and chatted. * Severs name, don't even know, she finally came back after 15 minutes. * She took our order, and got us more drinks, but never got the limes for the shots. She said they weren't cut? * Called for the manager and said he'll comp. our apps. He didn't look like he was concerned about his staff not communicating. *Our friend order guacamole, oh we don't have anymore avocados! She didn't know what she was talking about, because all of a sudden they had them. *Guacamole delivery was thrown on the table. * When our apps arrived, they looked like they gathered them from other dishes. Well, this was done all in an hour and half! We walked out and spoke to another couple that were having issues with the same server. What a mess that server was, I didn't mind she was late getting to us, but she never tried to communicate with us or ask for help. read more

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C S.

2 years ago

The location on Cannery Row is great but the dinner was not. The service was very slow. Chips and water came late, only after we flagged down other waiters. Silverware and napkins were not provided until we asked for them. Food came slowly and part of the order was wrong. Moreover, the fajitas I received did not look or taste like what I had received at other El Torito restaurants. read more

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Adriana W.

4 years ago

This place if I could give it more then 5 stars I would this place was so good that we ate there a second night in a row, the food was the best mexican food I have ever had hands down, the drinks went down smooth and the view from our table looking over the ocean was spectacular and our server was great her name I think was Mata, will return in the future this place is AMAZING and I am already craving the Tomatillo Enchiladas I had both times :) read more

El Torito - Our Margaritas - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

El Torito - View from our Table - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

El Torito - El Tomatillo Enchaladas - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

El Torito - Margaritas - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

El Torito - Fajitas - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

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Janelle O.

Thank you for the stars and we appreciate you taking the time to…

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Courtney A.

5 years ago

I absolutely loved this place. By far the best me of my favorite locations to eat for Sunday Brunch. So much selection, tacos were amazing and the posole was fire. Cannot wait to go back to this location. read more

El Torito - Sunday Brunch - tacos and mimosa - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

El Torito - Posole - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

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Janelle O.

Thank You for your kind review! We hope to see you again soon!!

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Marissa R.

2 years ago

Extremely bad and slow service. Waitress only checked on the table twice to take the order and give us our food after that we didn't see her until we were leaving to pick up her tip. Waitress got mad because we asked for new sliver-ware because they were dirty. We had to wait almost an hour for our food. Food was okay. If you like to wait hours for your food and have bad service then I would recommend this place. Very bad experience. read more

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Alyssa H.

2 years ago

We had Rose as our Waitress! She was absolutely amazing with such a sweet heart. She attended to us greatly. We loved Rose!!

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Mayra M.

2 years ago

Rose is the best server and she deserves a raise. The food was delicious and kept coming asking if we needed anything. The location is very nice read more

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Rod P.

4 years ago

Very disappointed with the service at this establishment. Perhaps covid and lack of descent help? The host wasn't professional at all. The servers looked like they didn't want to be there at all. Our server was great tho. I think his name was Reuben? He'd only been there for a few months but he was doing everything that he could. The food wasn't that great either. I really don't know what happened but it's not the same as it use to be. read more

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Giovanni P.

Thank You for your feedback. Please send me an email…

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A G.

2 years ago

First time and last time coming here. Don't waste your time or money. Food was not good, its was cold and portions were terrible. Parking is posted as free but you have to pay when you exit. Terrible service + parking fee. Definitely not worth it. read more

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Teslin L.

229

3 years ago

Rose made our Sunday brunch experience unforgettable! The food was delicious and the mimosas were flowing!

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Karin S.

5 years ago

Great food. Freindly staff. Amazing view. Just have to wait for very long time. If they would accept reservation would be great. So can cut off waiting time read more

El Torito - CARNE ASADA BURRITO CHILE COLORADO - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

Business owner information

Janelle O.

Thank you for your feedback. We hope to see you again soon! You are…

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Lovely L.

2 years ago

Rose went above and beyond ! She gave us everything we needed and was so quick. 100% pleased

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Julie R.

207

264

5 years ago

Food is delicious, service is great and fast, got seated quickly, had an amazing view of the ocean whirl we are eating lunch. Cons: windows are dirty. Overall - it was a great experience read more

El Torito - STREET TACO TRIO - CARNITAS - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

El Torito - STREET TACO TRIO - SEAFOOD - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

El Torito - STREET TACO TRIO - STEAK - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

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Janelle O.

Thank you for your feedback! I will share with the team so we can…

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J S.

2 years ago

Wanted to order a meal to go but the rude hostess (who never even said hello- just stood there put out) and manager said it would take too long because they had some large parties and basically told me not to order. They never asked if I wanted to order at the bar. I guess my money wasn't good enough. And the outside parking lot, roof and outdoor waiting area is covered in seagull droppings. I took money elsewhere. read more

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Sherry B.

5 years ago

Service was really good, but our enchiladas and taco were very meat deficient, chicken tacos had very little chicken, and I never found meat in the beef enchiladas. We didn't complain as we kept eating looking for the meat, Lol! we had a nice time with family and the views, hence the good time became more important than the food. Guacamole was delicious!! Chips and salsa good too, only prob was the lack of meat. Thanks for your response. In retrospect we should have let you know right then and there, as it was also noticed by our friends with us... I don't know why we didn't. I think there is sometimes a discomfort in complaining, but really we should have politely let our server know. read more

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Janelle O.

Thank You so much for your feedback, this will be shared with the…

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Tyson S.

4 years ago

Luz was wonderful waitress. Gracias para tu servicio. Food was great, love the corn cake. Margarita was well made and delicious. Atmosphere was relaxing, fun, and vibrant. read more

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Janelle O.

We are happy to hear about your experience! We appreciate you taking…

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M S.

129

5 years ago

My family and I visited here over the 4th of July weekend- sorry it took so long to post about our food! It was so tasty overall and there was so much on the table for a reasonable total for 5 people to eat out which is tricky to find nowadays. The service was very nice and we will come back again! We definitely want to try the weekend breakfast buffet. Prepared to be stuffed when you leave~ read more

El Torito - Churro pancakes - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

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Janelle O.

Thank You for your kind review! We are glad you enjoyed your…

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Edward D.

3 years ago

Rose was amazing. Great service and super friendly and talkative. Hope next time I come she will be my waitress

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Kyle E.

Thank You so much for your kind review!! We hope to see you again…

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Carlos L.

3 years ago

Waited 2 hours and a half meat was not cooked All the way asked for well done only good thing was the ocean view

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Amy A.

3 years ago

Was at the Monterey CA site for Mother's Day - first off this site blocked off the handicap parking spots then decided to have an attitude with a disabled person that needed the space. It's against the law to block a disabled parking spot. The bathrooms were disgusting, they didn't even have a toilet seat on one of the toilets in the women's restroom. Then we had a reservation I'm sure as a lot of people did being Mother's Day they didn't have enough food!! Ran out of a ton of things. Shouldn't let people in without reservations and not be able to accommodate the people who do have reservations. Just not a pleasant experience. Won't be back! read more

El Torito - Illegally blocking off disabled parking - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

El Torito - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

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Veronica O.

126

3 years ago

The best place to go for your Mother's Day!! What else can you ask for, you have all you can eat buffet with great traditional Mexican food! I love the Aguachile, chile verde, chile Colorado, beef beria and all you can eat Enchiladas. Great service and good food and the best view! Thank you El Torito for staying open. read more

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Lillian P.

2 years ago

El Torito has the best Sunday brunch. It has a variety of different foods and botomless mimosas.. I was really impressed with how much food they had and the way it was laid out. I would definitely recommend trying it if you haven't already. I would go there again read more

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Paula L.

3 years ago

Hi there!! Everything was delicious!!! I had a lot of fun. Rose is the best server. She is professional, efficient and fun!! Love the place, love her! Definitely coming back!!! Loved the bottomless mimosas! read more

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George C.

3 years ago

rose was our server and she was amazing. Great with kids and service was excellent. the breakfast was amazing.

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Daniel E.

2 years ago

la comida estaba muy mal, no tenía sabor la carne esta seca y las torrillas duras, no recomiendo este lugar

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Camilo D.

3 years ago

Rose was the best server I could've ever asked for the view was awesome and mimosas were flowing

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Veronica S.

2 years ago

Thank you Jacob and Rose for your service! the ambiance is great! The food: hats off to the chefs. And thank you Cruz for checking in with us if we need water. read more

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Lulu P.

2 years ago

Great brunch with great food. Rose was amazing as a server and made sure we were well taken care of. Best brunch experience so far!

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Mariah M.

3 years ago

Was told 20 minute wait and waited an hour. No big deal! It was busy, we didn't care. From the time we sat down at our table it was 1 hour + until food arrived. That was a little annoying, but we weren't in any hurry so still had some hope. Food came and was cold, not warm COLD. My husbands "sizzling" fajita plate was laughable. If you want to wait forever in a sticky booth to get some cold food, this is your place! And no we aren't the ones to complain for something for free. We said nothing, paid with a tip and just left. read more

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Danah L.

3 years ago

Rose made sure we were well taken care of! Excellent customer service and we will be back!!

Business owner information

Kyle E.

Thank you so much for your kind review! Rose is one of our best we…

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Maria G.

3 years ago

Food was great! Mimosas were delicious and the service.....Wow thank you rose for being so tentative to us!!!!

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Kaytie B.

3 years ago

Rose was the most amazing and attentive waitress. She made our brunch so sweet and easy and kept our drinks full!! The brunch buffet had a great selection with tons of options for everyone. I can't wait to come back here with the girls! read more

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Emme V.

204

3 years ago

Our waitress Rose made the experience so perfect. We were having a girls brunch and were a very fun, loud group and she was the best. She was attentive and never left our mimosas empty. read more

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Cecilia B.

2 years ago

Jacob our server made the experience so much fun! Our Sunday brunch with bottomless mimosas was an unforgettable experience!

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K C.

3 years ago

Amazing food and service with a great view! Rose was very sweet! I recommend going in the morning as it's not as crowded and they have a great breakfast menu. read more

El Torito - View views views! - Mexican Near Me - Monterey, California

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Nicole H.

Elite 26

122

6 years ago

Dined here on a Saturday night with a reservation. Waited only about 2 minutes before our table was ready. We were seated outdoors in the uncovered section (the other sections have tents). This was a pretty chilly spot however there are heating lamps. The lamps don't give off much heat but after a couple margaritas, i wasn't feeling very cold! Haha! Anyway would recommend adding more lights along the back tables as it was pretty dark to read the menus. The tables along the front gate had string lights making it much easier to read the menus and see their food. Overall our waitress was great, food was good -- carne asada was somewhat chewy though so i didn't finish it all. And the drinks/desserts were amazing! We went with the banana chimi which was excellent! read more

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Janelle O.

Thank you for the kind words! We’re so happy your visit at El Torito…

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Dee A.

3 years ago

The food was delicious and authentic Mexican filled with real flavour! If your looking for unauthentic soggy Americanised Mexican food this isn't the place for you. If you like authentic food filled spice and flavour you will love this place . We enjoyed every course and can't wait to go back for more! read more

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Kyle E.

Thank You so much for your kind review! We hope to see you again…

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Annalicia P.

2 years ago

First time eating at this restaurant & will definitely be coming back! Great customer service with an amazing view of the ocean. Perfect for all 3 meals of the day & prices are definitely affordable!! read more

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Kyle E.

Thank you so much for taking the time to tell us about your recent…

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The T.

2 years ago

WOW SO IMPRESSED!! Service was great out server Nate wow he was so nice and attentive food was delicious!! I recommend everything. THANK YOU NATE FOR THE BEST DINNER OF MY LIFE read more

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Kyle E.

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Page 18 of 59

600 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
Directions
(831) 373-0611
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.eltorito.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does El Torito open?

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

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, Sun 9:00 AM - 10:00 PMFri-Sat 9:00 AM - 11:00 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?

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

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.

El Torito Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - El Torito

How many stairs are there to the upstairs dining area?

No stairs at the Milpitas El Torito.

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Do they have karaoke?

they don't.

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Are they open on Christmas Day?

El Torito is open from 9 AM to 8 PM on Christmas Day. From 9 AM to 2 PM is their breakfast menu which I believe consist of ham and tri-tip. Then from 2 PM till closing is there a regular menu.

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Can you make reaervations?

yes but they give your table away 50% of the time

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Open at 8am every day - does that include the bar?

They published an account of their hours on Christmas Day. Open 9 am to 8 pm. Brunch buffet served… Read more

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Are they having the Sunday buffet brunch or what are brunch options? We are a group of at least 7 people and want to go tomorrow.

They offer All you can eat Sunday brunch fajita station, which includes steak, sent, chicken, and carnitas. It also includes lot Mexican entrees, taco stations, fresh salads, almonds made to order, menudo, pozole, dessert bar and more. Along with… Read more

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Are dogs allowed outside?

I believed they offered outdoor seating during 2020-2021. But doesn't seem like they offer it now.

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Are they open for dine in?

Yes they are!! I confirmed with them today! Enjoy!!

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Is there bottomless mimosas brunch on Sundays?

Yes there is! It's from 9am-2pm!

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Is the remodel finished & open for business?

Yes its open

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Do they have brunch on saturday?

Hi Michael, we offer our Champagne Brunch only on Sundays from 9am-2pm. We hope to see you soon.

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Do u have to call ahead for reservations?

You can. But no need. The restaurant is huge

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Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel And Spa On Del Monte Golf Course

Not really a golf player, but I can see why this resort would lend well to golf players. This venue…read morestrikes me as a getaway / staycation resort for the "still young and active". It seems perfect for someone who wants to stay in a solid hotel with easy access to the course. It includes a spa (didn't try), tennis+pickleball, and the requisite restaurant and clubhouse. Staff here are super friendly, food is solid, and as an avid pickle and tennis player myself, I loved having the courts nearby. The gym is also pretty good compared to other hotel gyms. If I were to pick up golf and play regularly, I would probably come for a quick weekend golf trip.

4/15/26 -I would give this hotel a 0 if I could. We checked in at 4pm, the room was in the "E"…read morebuilding with a bottom floor room facing the pool. First walking in the room, we noticed a weird smell and the bathroom smelled like somebody had just used it . The carpet in the bedroom is old and dirty looking. The bathroom shower and bathroom share one combined floor so when you use the shower, the entire floor gets soaked. I had to use up all the towels to soak up the water on the floor so we didn't slip and fall. When you flush the toilet it sounds like a hurricane. If you plan on using the bathroom during the night, be prepared to wake up everyone. You can also hear the toilet flushing in any room near yours. Also, there's no sink countertop, it's a stand alone sink so there's no place to put your stuff and get ready. You can hear the people in the next room like they are sitting in your room. The door to get into the building did not latch close on its own so anyone could walk into the building. Also when you check in, they charge an additional $20 parking fee, a $35 recreational fee and a refundable $50 fee. This was on top of the $369 cost of the room. I almost forgot I was awakened in the middle of the night to several people in the hallway, saying there was somebody running down our hallway and had just went up the stairs. This was probably because the building doors didn't latch like I mentioned above. For this price, I suggest you shop around and a smaller, cleaner, quieter, and newer hotel. This was a big disappointment for a Hyatt hotel, and not up to their standards.

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Another angle of seating

Lobby facing golf

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Comfy beds

Loulou's Griddle In the Middle

Food: Went with the special of the day that is a 3 egg scramble with mushrooms, spinach, cheese,…read morechicken apple sausage, and country style potatoes. I went with corn tortillas, and avocado slices on top. It was filling and was the perfect start to the day in Monterey. Ambiance: Diner vibes in full effect. Hole in the wall type of spot with friendly and lovely staff. About a 30min wait so you can walk around and explore, while you wait. Parking: You can park on the pier or park down the street for an easy walk to the diner.

If I could give this more than 5 stars I would! The views, service, and vibes of this place are…read moreunmatched. Their food is to die for! It's a quaint and charming diner with ocean views and cooking right in front of you. The omelette and French toast we LOVED! But this has got to be up there with the best clam chowder I've had. We will be back!

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First Awakenings

The food was amazing. Service was outstanding. We enjoyed…read morethe ambience as well as other 200 people! Many people want to enjoy their first meal of the day in such a local /tourist dinner! Congratulations to First Awakenings. I have enjoyed you for the last 32 years. Cheers ! To Local businesses!

Went there before going to the aquarium and hand a wonderful breakfast. Beautiful views, clean…read morerestaurant, and caring staff. Quite frankly, the best part was being able to observe how respectfully a regular was treated by the staff: I watched as an elderly gentleman came in alone and the staff greeted him with warmth and familiarity. They kept him company his entire meal, engaged in conversation, and made sure he was well taken care of. When the gentleman got up to leave, a young man, maybe a teenager, checked to make sure he had his cane and was taken care of. This was the best customer service I have ever seen in my life.

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Old Monterey Cafe

Visited mid March. The orange juice is freshly squeezed and divine. The pancakes are also amazing!!…read more A major reason for not giving is a 5th star is the pork chop being undercooked and flavorless. Service was not up to par either. They were attentive but not friendly, warm or inviting. We felt rushed. It is a very cramped space. We were charged $2.12 for not paying cash.

Don't order the Burrito with Chirizo. No flavor Don't order…read moreMonte Cristo, Pig in Blankets was delicious Beautiful day eating outside, a little noisy, but nice. Server really attentive.

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Rosine's Restaurant

Service was the best I have had in a long time.Food was great. First time there but won't be my…read morelast.

Went to Rosine's for breakfast, four in our party. We were immediately greeted with a smile and…read moreoffered a choice of table or booth. Our server was great and checked in on us a few times and she refilled our waters. The food was fantastic! Huge portions and very reasonably priced. We had the Scramble, blueberry pancakes and vegetable omelette. We devoured the food it was so delicious! Will definitely return when in the area. The interior and the restrooms were very clean. Thank you Rosine's!

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Our freshly made award-winning desserts!

Crab Avocado Benedict

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Bacato Omelette (bacon, avocado)

Crepes of Brittany

Awesome spot for a breakfast or lunch! The crepes were so fresh and warm, the toppings were great…read more The sweet and savory crepes were both great. I got a make your own with onions, tomato's, and turkey. So good. The apple cinnamon dessert one was really good too. Food was out pretty quick. Glad I got to check it out!

Stopped by here for a snack with my pup and husband. And I am so glad we did…read more They had a nice patio area where you can see the wharf and the water in the distance and it was spacious. You order your food first and then find a seat, the cashier helping me was very friendly and recommended I add their famous homemade whipped cream to my crepe, so of course I did. The crepe itself was filled with fruit and very delicious. So glad I stopped by for this snack.

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The Butter House

Hey there Party People…read more The Butter House is a place that is unassuming and has that neighborhood diner feel. It should be featured on Guy Fiery's "Diners Drive-ins and Dives" The place is always packed so we joined the "wait list" online while we were driving in When we got to the restaurant we only had to wait 5 minutes. Our waiter Cesar was great, very personable as well as efficient. The food came out quickly and was paced well since we had an appetizer. Started with the Lumpia which is basically a Philippino style egg roll. Super delicious and very large so you only need to order one trust me. I had the Carne Asada Fried rice. Their Verde sauce was nice and tangy. The meat was seasoned very well and there was a ton of it on the rice. I great dish I would order again. Hubby had the French Dip sandwich. He said the bun was nice and soft and the sandwich was wonderful. The meat was very lean, which he is very picky about. The fries were off the hook just crunchy enough and not over salted. If you're in Monterey and looking for a great breakfast to get your day started this is the place to go. Be kind to one another

We didn't wait too long because there was option to put our name in the Yelp waiting list. So by…read morethe time we got ready and drove there, our names were already on the top list. Staff was super friendly and kept checking on us to see if we needed anything. I got butter fried rice with pork belly, which was really good!! I just wish the pork belly was less salty but other than that, I was content with my order. My partner loved his omelet order as well. The egg was buttery and fluffy. Parking was easy too, either inside the plaza or street parking.

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Croissant Breakfast Sandwich with sausage patties, fried egg, cheddar cheese and house made aioli.

TBH Benedict

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Chicken & Waffles

Turn 12

The most phenomenal food and service. We at here for the first time on Friday and came back on…read moreSunday. We love finding new places to eat with our family, and this place did not disappoint. The halibut special was mouthwatering, and according to our son, he would eat the ribs daily. Our daughter ordered the spaghetti and meatballs and it could have fed an army. For dessert we tried the skillet cookie and mousse, and once again, and they were delicious. If food is good but the service is mediocre, it ruins the entire experience. However, the staff checked on us about every two minutes, and even brought a small dish of water and extra napkins for our son who was eating ribs. We'll be back...very soon. Come here and support this fantastic eatery.

What could be improved.... Everything but the cook!…read more Any stars given are to the chef. People that were in line for a table behind us got their food first. There was a family of three that came 15 mins after we did... we barley got one round (no waters, the bus boy served us waters, waiter over worked) they got two rounds plus there food. Mind you there was only two of us. There was a table of 4 that were behind us, they got their food, ate and we still didn't have our food. Worst service I've ever had I am from the Bay Area where we are over populated and use to waiting. It wasn't the wait, it was how disrespectful the wait became. DONT OPEN THE 12 doors just walk away.... Not to mention they didn't even give me my damn truffle fries, didn't even have the heart to ask and wait another hour for them to fix it. Thanks for the strong drink, it was greatly needed!

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Wave Street Café

The cinnamon bun pancakes are indescribably delicious!!!we ordered a plate to share as an appetizer…read moreand all elements were spectacular. We really liked the crunchy,sticky side the best. No morsels were left on that plate! The BLT has the most generous portion of thick sliced bacon , so much so several of us were able to take a slice and add it to our sandwiches! They serve a white chocolate hot chocolate here which is quite unique and a favorite with kids and adults. A perfect warm beverage for cool ocean breeze. Plenty of outdoor seating but you'll be happy inside too as plenty of windows to see the ocean. They do have some limited parking but just a block to two uphill is 90 min free parking

A must-visit when you're in Monterey or exploring Cannery Row. The breakfast is fantastic, the…read moreservice is excellent, and the atmosphere is warm, charming, and inviting. The Huevos Rancheros is an absolute must!!Crispy corn tortillas layered with creamy beans, topped with sunny-side-up eggs with perfectly runny yolks, and finished with a rich, vibrant salsa ranchera. What's not to love? The Breakfast Quesadilla is another winna!!Chicken breast, scrambled eggs, fresh spinach, tomatoes, Jack and cheddar cheese, and fresh avocado inside a toasty flour tortilla. The portions are also very generous, making it a satisfying meal and a great value. Park at the designated parking lot above the restaurant and take the stairs down. Happy eating!! 48

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Inside

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

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Breakfast Burrito with chorizo

Captain + Stoker

A staple in this community for ages and always the freshest, most delicious everything. CS is more…read morethan coffee but community and culture. Every order is treated with care & artistic vision, as is the merch. Thankful they exist.

Stopped by Captain + Stoker and really enjoyed it. The matcha latte was DELICIOUS, best matcha yet!…read moreI subbed oat milk and a little vanilla sweetener and it was perfect. Service was quick and friendly, and parking was super easy with plenty of open spots nearby. When I got there there was no line at all, but by the time I left there was a line out the door, which definitely says something. I didn't try the food this time, but everything coming out looked amazing. Looking forward to going back!

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The ordering counter. Still nostalgic

Iced matcha latte

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Pistachio and rosehip latte

the C restaurant + bar

Located inside the Intercontinental The Clement Monterey, the C Restaurant is fabulous. We had…read morebreakfast here the morning of our last day in Monterey, this breakfast was a great farewell. The restaurant itself is relatively upscale for a hotel but has a warm vibe. The Belgian waffle is a must- it's decadent, the berries are fresh and the whipped cream is cloud-like and sweet. The American breakfast was hearty and filling. The bacon was perfectly chewy, salty and cooked. The Yukon potatoes were crispy and had a good level of spice. The eggs were super fluffy as well. The sourdough was warm and the butter was creamy. Our server was extremely kind and was ON IT when it came to refills and making good conversation, super kind and made sure to check on us consistently.

C Restaurant at The Clement -- Great Hotel, Mixed Bag at the Table…read more The Clement is a fantastic hotel. Full stop. But C Restaurant didn't quite live up to the address. Let's start with the wins: the service was genuinely excellent -- attentive, warm, professional. The Old Fashioned was well-crafted, and major props to the bar program for stocking Nochino. That's a detail that signals someone behind the bar actually cares. The food, though? It missed. The fish was overcooked and the presentation felt like an afterthought. For a restaurant at this price point and in this setting, I expected more -- both on the plate and on the plate. You can forgive a lot in a restaurant when everything else sings. But the food is the whole point, and this one didn't deliver. Worth a drink at the bar. Skip dinner and eat somewhere else in Monterey.

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Chocolate

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The Clement Monterey ~ The Intercontinental Monterey

Sandbar & Grill

Come for the food, hope to get Laurene as your server!…read more We ordered the Crab Louie, fish and chips, sand dabs, and calamari steak. All of the food was excellent but what made the meal was the service. Not sure of the spelling so apologies but Laurene was great with our kids. Helpful with any requests and genuinely the best server I think I've ever had in my life. She knows how to make a customer feel appreciated while not taking herself too seriously. We'll definitely be back the next time we are passing through! Thank you for making our lunch a memorable experience.

The sand dabs are the best tartar sauce is the best Clam…read morechowder is the best The spicy Bloody Mary needs more Tabasco sauce Fish tacos are the bomb Service is the best

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Hot chocolate with a view.

Sobremesa

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Views of the harbor come free with every meal

Stokes Adobe

Truly enjoyed this place. It was a great experience…read more Well done. Service is outstanding.

My family and I came to visit Monterey Bay for Mother's Day weekend and it was a nice and relaxing…read moredinner. We booked Stokes Adobe for table of 8 (including two small toddlers) They brought out little coloring paper & crayons which was super nice of them. We were seated in a private area which was nice since our two small toddlers like to walk around and it's less distraction. We did family style and ordered a bit of everything! Crispy potatoes: Love the carbs! The potatoes were crispy and delicious. The lemon truffle crema sauce was so yummy! Oysters: Definitely order half shell oysters! They were delicious! Hamachi: This was okay, nothing special to be honest sinc Mussels: This one was also delicious as well. It was made with white wine and tomato broth with butter, shallot, garlic. Beets salad: You can't go wrong with ordering a beet salad! The honey vinaigrette was delicious! Santa Cruz King Salmon: This dish was simple but tasty. The Meyer lemon sauce went well with the salmon. 12oz Pork chop: The meat was soft and easy to bite into. The cauliflower puree was delicious! Snake River American Wagyu: I thought the steak was okay. It was a bit too rare for me personally but my husband liked it! Brussels sprouts: Yummmm! Love the crispy Brussels sprouts. Overall service was great and the food was good. The only downside of the night was not getting the duck liver mousse toast. Not sure why the order went through when we mentioned in the beginning but hope to try it next time we're in town.

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Inside, you can choose different rooms to sit in

Crispy potatoes

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Duck terrine

Bistro Moulin

This was our first time dining at Bistro Moulin, and it completely exceeded our expectations. From…read morethe moment we were seated, the service was exceptional, our server was extremely kind, informative, and attentive, checking on us several times and offering a detailed explanation of the menu and specials, which we really appreciated. The food was outstanding. My husband and I were scraping our plates by the end of the meal. Everything was perfectly cooked and full of flavor, but the standout for us was the lamb chop lollipops with yogurt sauce, they were absolutely delightful, tender, and incredibly well balanced. I cannot overstate how flavorful and fresh the food tasted. The ambience added to the experience, with a warm, cozy atmosphere that truly makes this place feel like a cute gem in Monterey. We would absolutely recommend Bistro Moulin and are already looking forward to returning. This is a place we will be visiting again very soon.

We were really looking forward to our meal, but unfortunately it didn't meet our expectations. The…read moremussels had a strong, unpleasant odor that concerned us. I felt bad about sending them back and was apologetic when we brought it to the owner's attention. He was responsive, explained that it was the natural smell of the sea, and kindly showed us the invoice proving they were purchased that day. He also offered to check with the vendor. While we appreciated his efforts, the smell was off-putting enough that we decided to order something else. We tried the lamb lollipop special instead. For $42, the portion was quite small--just five thin, uneven pieces--and the lamb was overcooked and overly salty. When we gently mentioned this to our server, she responded with an eye roll, which was disappointing. We genuinely dislike leaving negative feedback, especially for small independent restaurants, but the overall experience left us quite disappointed. Hoping they can improve these items, as the restaurant has potential.

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Inside

Seafood Risotto

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345 reviews that are not currently recommended

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

Kanwar D.

3 years ago

Extremely Disappointing Experience at El Torito in Monterey, CA My recent visit to El Torito in Monterey, CA turned out to be an incredibly frustrating and disappointing experience. From start to finish, the service and overall quality of the dining experience were far from satisfactory. Upon arriving at the restaurant, my party and I were seated promptly, but our server was nowhere to be found. We assumed he was attending to other customers, but after an extended wait, we grew concerned. It was only when I approached another staff member that I discovered our server had gone on his break without informing us. This lack of communication and courtesy was highly unprofessional and set the tone for the rest of our visit. As time dragged on, we realized that no other server came to check on us or offer any assistance. We patiently waited for over an hour, expecting our food to arrive, but it never did. The absence of any communication or updates from the staff only added to our frustration and confusion. To make matters worse, when the one appetizer we ordered finally arrived, it was prepared incorrectly, with the wrong ingredients. This demonstrated a clear lack of attention to detail and a disregard for customer satisfaction. At this point, our hopes for a satisfactory dining experience were completely shattered. Overall, I cannot recommend El Torito in Monterey, CA to anyone based on my experience. The server's disappearance without informing us, the excessively long wait for food that never arrived, and the incorrect appetizer were all indicative of a poorly managed establishment. The lack of attentiveness and professionalism demonstrated by the staff left a lasting negative impression. If you're looking for a Mexican restaurant with prompt service, delicious food, and attentive staff, I strongly suggest looking elsewhere. El Torito failed to meet even the most basic expectations, and my visit was an unfortunate reminder of the importance of quality service and customer care in the hospitality industry. read more

Cheryl A.

2 years ago

Offal, Offal, Offal...Don't Bother! 4/4/2024 Went there for dinner, the wait was to be 30 mins. so we decided to eat at the bar. (Bar Tender was running with so much work). Took along time to order and took along time to get our drink. Tried to order the special Chili Relleno, the bar tender came back and said that was unavailable. Okay order the steak and prawns 27.00. After an hour, I asked a manager that had jumped behind the bar if he could check on our food as it had been an hour. He asked the hostess to check, someone brought out our meal. You could tell it had been sitting under the hot light for quite some time, my med rare steak looked like beef jerky and the prawns were not prawns but baby shrimp and were so dried out from being under the light it was disgusting. My husbands dinner wasn't any better and it wasn't what he ordered. They should have been embarrassed to service us such crap. I picked up the thinly sliced steak nothing like the menu picture and it was just brown, dried out and burned looking I'm sure from sitting under the light for so long. Why the kitchen staff let is sit there for so long without saying sometime I will never know. We didn't complain as the 2 people that handled our food should have surely noticed the condition of the meal and serviced it to us anyway. I wouldn't have given that food to my dog. Needless to say, we paid our bill and tipped. But, I'm sharing this review to let you know beware. Bad service, offal, offal food, would bother. Disgusting, Oh yes and an older couple came in after us, never got serviced, they ended up leaving, we should have done the same, especially after our meal came. We should have just walked out, leaving that god offal food on the bar. read more

Dora P.

1 year ago

We stopped by El Torito for a drink and nachos, figuring we'd grab a quick bite and decide if we wanted to stay for dinner. We got on the waitlist and found a seat in the bar. Unfortunately, the service started off slow. It took a while for the waitress to come around, but we were patient. Our drinks were served, and just as we were enjoying them, we were told our table was ready. The restaurant was busy, so we didn't think much of the long wait for our food. However, after about 35 minutes of waiting, we checked in with the waitress about our nachos. She told us that the restaurant was slammed and it would be another 20 minutes. At that point, I was ready to leave, but my husband wanted to wait. Well, she wasn't exaggerating--20 minutes later, we finally got our nachos. By the time the food arrived, the restaurant had started to clear out. We ate our nachos, finished our drinks, and decided not to stay for dinner, as it seemed like it would take forever to get our food. The waitress explained that large parties of 10+ people were being prioritized. She said, "They wanted to make sure the bigger parties were happy," implying that they placed more value on larger groups than on smaller customers like us. Her apology felt half-hearted, and she suggested we return for happy hour. Honestly, after this experience, we won't be back. The service was awful, and the nachos were just okay--not worth the long wait. Very disappointed. read more

Rebecca R.

16 years ago

My husband and I went here on a Tuesday evening, so not one of the busier times. When we were waiting to be seated, a family came out of the restaurant complaining about the service. They looked kinda cranky so we chalked it up to that and were ready to give the place the benefit of the doubt. That was a mistake. Once we were seated (at a booth with an amazing view, hence half of a star) it took a while for the waiter to get our drink order. Once ordered, it was another while until we actually got them (mine was a super yummy pineapple-coconut margarita, hence the other half star). After we finally got our food order in, it took forever for it to come (we went through 3 baskets of chips waiting for it). The food was good, but I've had better at El Torito in the past. The tables all around us were being served by a different waiter than us and he seemed to be very attentive to them; ours on the other hand was not. We barely saw him the whole time we were there. My husband had a child behind him kicking the back of his seat the whole time we were there. When we asked to speak to a manager about our overall experience, we waited a good 20 minutes. It was just a whole lot of sitting and waiting for something that wasn't worth sitting and waiting for. The only reason I would ever go back there would be for a margarita with a view; and then I would sit at the bar. read more

Bri A.

808

2 years ago

**Restaurant Review:** I visited this spot yesterday for dinner, drawn by their Happy Hour menu despite the mixed reviews. I'm glad I decided to give it a shot myself. Upon arrival, the host who greeted me was surprisingly friendly, a nice contrast to some of the negative comments I'd read. I opted to sit at the bar because, as others had noted, that's where you get access to the Happy Hour menu. The service was a bit slow, but it was understandable. The bartender was handling everything solo, from crafting drinks for the entire restaurant to serving bar patrons. When it comes to food and pricing, this place is probably one of the best budget-friendly options in town. I ordered the Chicken Flautas and Birria Tacos, both priced at just $8 each. A cool perk was a QR code that gave us free table-side guac and tortilla chips, which would normally cost $14. As for the food, it's not bad--it's American-style Mexican, so don't expect traditional flavors. The Birria Tacos, for instance, were made with ground beef rather than the usual Birria meat, but the seasoning was on point. All in all, the total cost for the meal came to $17.40, which is a steal for what you get. If you're looking for a decent, budget-friendly meal with a relaxed vibe, this place is worth checking out, especially during Happy Hour. read more

Tyler H.

7 years ago

Food doesn't get much worse! Salsa was like water which everyone thought was weird. I got the fiesta platter to try a bit of everything.. Chicken tenders looked so gross I didn't eat them. The cheese was barely melted on everything, but not as bad as my friend's boyfriend whose enchiladas were covered in shredded cheese that hadn't melted at all. His beans were also very watery. Seemed like everything was microwaved. Also.. Super, superrr oily. I felt so sick the whole rest of the day after eating there until I actually threw up that evening. Really disgusted by this place. Oh to add insult to injury... they charge almost $4 for a CLUB SODA. It's literally free water from the fountain. Not to mention their one bathroom was filthy and the soap dispenser was broken with no soap in it and no paper towels and the floor was completely wet. Went to Lala's a couple weeks later and changed spots at my table so I didn't have to look at El Torrito's building the whole time because the memory left a such a bad taste in my mouth it actually was making me feel a bit sick again. If you're going to get ripped off like a tourist at least go somewhere that won't make you sick. Would do zero stars if possible. read more

Shana C.

11 years ago

Came for Thanksgiving today. Killer view and was lucky to get a window seat after great grief. Kinda soured my day. Front staff was kinda irritating with the whole thing. I never feel like it's ever just alright to feel an ounce of discrimation for my disabled family member. Because of this we need to be seated comfortably for us and the wait staff to safely maneuver around. Once that was settled after a bit of embarrassment we were on to getting some plates. Overall the food was decent - nothing spectacular. Can't help to say I was a bit disappointed. The desserts for starters ALL had a pumpkin theme and felt it was a bit of overkill especially for those of us who don't enjoy pumpkin. Food variety was decent. Ham was tasty, mashed potatoes were decent, taco station was a nice surprise - the lady manning it not so great, but whatever, the retried beans were good, etc. Waitress was whatever and was picky and choosy who she was nice to. Guess she didn't like us because everyone else got wished a Happy Thanksgiving but us. Real nice. I probably would not choose to come here again for a Thanksgiving or another holiday. Just nothing special and I left still hungry. read more

Itzel C.

7 years ago

3 horas esperando la comida. Pagamos $100 por sodas. Y el baño sucio, el piso súper resbaloso en la área de las mesas. Nos pusieron en un pasillo sin luz y teníamos que agacharnos cuando pasaban con las charolas. Pedíamos una soda, y tardaban más de 30 min en traerla. A final de cuentas pagamos más de $100 por sodas, mal servicio y comida que nunca llegó. Mis sobrinos pequeños sufrieron más por estar sentados ahí sin comer. Al irnos la manager corrió dejando al mesero súper lento que se desaparecía , a atender nuestra queja. Nos hicieron pagar la bebida que tuvimos que pedir mientras esperamos la comida que nunca llegó. Y su solución fue un "no es nuestra culpa" y un misero 10% de descuento en el appetizer de una sola persona en la compra de toda una cena. Cuando éramos una faMilia de 7 personas esperando 3 horas por comida que nunca llegó. Ahora, me piden que me comunique con el restaurante por mensaje privado. No hay manera de hacer eso. Para sólo aparentar interés con otros comensales . Y borran mi review. Platicando con amistades me cuentan que también les ha sucedido en el mismo Toritos . PÉSIMO. Arruinaron ese día en familia. read more

Rob M.

3 years ago

I like to qualify my statements. Therefore, I'll start by saying I've visited hundreds of restaurants. I also believe that I have reasonable service level expectations, as both of my kids have worked as servers and have shared their horror stories about unreasonable patrons. As such, I am normally patient, polite, and generous with servers. That being said, the service was bad! We (my family and I) got seated quickly, but waited around 10+ minutes without so much as glance from a server. I flagged down a server to request some drinks and he tracked down our server who eventually showed up. From that point on, I literally had to wave my arms around in an attempt to get his attention for any service. The service was so bad that I felt like I was begging for everything. I used to be a college wrestler, so I'll sum it up this way. I felt like I was in a wrestling match with the service and it was slippery and hard to pin down. At the end of this match, I was exhausted and not interested in a rematch. I will say that the view and the food was good, but not good enough to make up for the bad service. read more

Sandra M.

1 year ago

A Truly Exceptional Dining Experience Courtesy of Marcus at El Torito During my recent visit to El Torito, I had the pleasure of being served by the exemplary Marcus, whose impeccable service and expansive knowledge of the menu elevated our dining experience to unprecedented heights. From the moment we arrived, Marcus greeted us with warmth and graciousness, ensuring that our every need was anticipated and met with effortless ease. His expert recommendations and insightful guidance navigated us through the culinary offerings, showcasing the restaurant's signature dishes and hidden gems. The culinary delights, expertly prepared and presented, were further enhanced by Marcus's attentive and personalized service. His dedication to ensuring a memorable experience was evident in every detail, from the impeccable timing of course delivery to the thoughtful refilling of our glasses. For a truly exceptional dining experience at El Torito, we highly recommend requesting Marcus by name. His outstanding service and passion for hospitality will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. read more

Marcus M.

9 months ago

We stopped by El Torito in Monterey, and wow -- this place delivers big time! The food, the drinks, the whole vibe -- everything feels a little extra in the best way possible. Even the kids' meals had that Monterey flair -- like, low-key fancy! My kids were out here eating better than me! Marcus was our server, and he made the experience even better -- super friendly, attentive, and just overall awesome. Of course, the adults had to dive into some margaritas and cocktails, and they did not disappoint. Perfectly mixed, super refreshing, and packed with flavor. The food was just as impressive -- every plate looked straight out of a foodie magazine, but still had that comforting, authentic Mexican flavor that hits home. The atmosphere was lively but relaxed, with awesome service and those ocean views that make Monterey so special. Perfect spot to bring the family, hang out with friends, or just enjoy a great meal and a good drink. We'll definitely be back -- next time, I might just order off the kids' menu myself! -- A happy dad living the good life read more

Peter M.

9 months ago

5 Stars -- Marcus Made Our Visit Feel Like Home My family and I came into town again, and by good fortune, Marcus was our server once more. It's rare to find someone who truly enjoys what they do, but Marcus takes pride in every detail. From the moment we sat down, he greeted us warmly and made us feel like old friends. The ambiance at El Torito was just right -- comfortable, lively, and full of that welcoming energy that makes you want to stay a little longer. The music, the aromas, and the cheerful atmosphere all came together perfectly. When our meals arrived, Marcus came by, got down to eye level, and asked how everything was after our first few bites. That simple gesture showed real care and attention. Throughout our dinner, our drinks were always full, the table stayed neat, and Marcus made sure everyone was happy -- from the grandparents to the youngest at the table. It's service like this that keeps us coming back. Thank you, Marcus, for making our evening so special once again. El Torito is lucky to have you. -- A grateful family man read more

Jenny M.

8 years ago

What a wonderful experience we had El Torito tonight! So much so that I am writing my first ever yelp about it to make sure Kyle, Nick, the Chef, and their whole team gets the credit they deserve. The atmosphere was lively, welcoming, and friendly from the moment the young General Manager opened the front door for us and welcomed us in. We were told there was a 20 minute wait and we were seated in about 15. Nick (in his bright red chef coat gagaga) offered to bring us drinks in the lobby while we waited and we declined but appreciated the gesture. When we were seated we had warm chips and delicious salsa right away and our server Montana made our guacamole right in front of us! The Macho combo is huuuuuge and the steak fajitas were enough for two people and they were both delicious. There was even another manager an older gentleman I didnt catch his name that came by to check on us while we were eating they have managers all over the place! We will definitely be back whenever we are in the area, great job El Torito! read more

Ismael A.

1 year ago

We visited El Torito in Monterey to celebrate a cousin's graduation with a midday meal. Although we had a reservation and our table was ready when we arrived, it was missing two chairs. We had to ask twice before the extra seats were brought over -- a frustrating and basic oversight. Our server was kind and polite but frequently forgot items we requested, from drinks to napkins, which added to the disorganized feel. The food was a major letdown. It leaned heavily toward Americanized Mexican, missing the authentic flavors you'd expect. Dishes arrived lukewarm and uninspired -- my birria tacos looked more like plain ground beef than the rich, tender meat they should be. The rice was particularly disappointing; honestly, I'm pretty sure even microwave rice would have tasted better. The best thing about the meal was the mojitos -- at least those were refreshing and well-made. What should have been a smooth, celebratory lunch was ultimately a letdown. I wouldn't recommend El Torito for any special occasion. read more

Jenna Z.

9 years ago

This review is coming kind of late, but we stopped by the actual restaurant for dinner last night and had the same kind of wonderful experience so I wanted to share. A few months ago El Torito came to cater our office party, and the manager Kyle his team really did an amazing job. They were on time, professional, caring, courteous, and provided delicious food and tray service for our party. They set up a beautiful display for us and went above and beyond and helped decorate the rest of the office too, they even helped us wash glasses and dishes in our break room that had nothing to do with them. Last night we decided to give the actual restaurant a try and we were not disappointed. We received the same level of friendly caring service and delicious food that we had when they came to cater our party, its clear that is just the kind of business they run. I would highly recommend El Torito as a catering service or restaurant to any of my friends. Kudos to you El Torito we will be back! read more

Mr J.

1 year ago

I just had the most amazing dining experience at El Torito, and I have to give a huge shoutout to our server, Marcus. From the moment we were seated, Marcus made us feel like VIPs. His warm, friendly demeanor and expert knowledge of the menu made our evening truly special. He was attentive without being overbearing, ensuring our drinks were always full and our food came out just right. Not only did he offer great recommendations, but his timing was impeccable, making the entire meal flow smoothly. We were truly impressed with how he anticipated our needs before we even had to ask. The food, of course, was outstanding--delicious, flavorful, and cooked to perfection--but it was Marcus's exceptional service that really elevated the experience. It's clear that he takes pride in what he does, and his genuine enthusiasm for the job made our night unforgettable. Thank you, Marcus, for making our visit to El Torito so enjoyable. You're the reason we'll be coming back! read more

Bryanna S.

4 years ago

Was really excited to try out this restaurant as it's a short walk from the aquarium and overlooks the bay. When we got there we were told it would be an hour wait but luckily got a text about 15 minutes later that our table was ready. We were seated at a booth out looking the water and were served our drinks thereafter. Once we ordered we waited about 20 minutes before we got impatient and asked where our food was. We were told we were three tickets away from coming out and trusted the food would be out soon. However, 20 minutes later the table next to us that arrived 10 minutes after us got their food and we were still waiting. After this I asked the waiter again for the eta on our meal and was told our ticket got lost?? He apologized and offered us a discount on the bill but still had to wait for them to get the order in again. Fortunately we only waited about 5 more minutes but at this point we were just ready to leave. Don't think we'll be back. read more

Paul B.

9 years ago

My wife and I came here last Saturday afternoon and had to wait almost 40 minutes for a table but the hostesses were friendly and kept us updated and it ended up being worth the wait. We sat at a beautiful window seat and the service and food were great. The general manager came by and checked on us during our meal and we told him it was wonderful and he invited us to the Sunday Brunch the next morning and boy are we glad we took him up on the offer. There was an hour wait when we checked in but he recognized us and said he would get us seated because he made us a reservation since "he knew we would be back." I have never been to a better buffet. Tacos, mole, enchiladas, omlettes, salads, desserts, and bottomless mimosas! Our server Cressensio was funny and warm and took great care of us. What a great experience we had! We will visit every time we are in Monterey read more

Margaret W.

7 years ago

The worst service I have ever experienced anywhere, any tine. Our waitress brought drinks and food. No utensils, napkins, or salt and pepper. I had to ask for the salt and pepper and the waitress removed it halfway through dinner. I can forgive friendly but incompetent service, or not friendly but efficient service, but our waitress GLARED at us. She didn't drop by the table at ALL. I got up FIVE times to ask for refills. I called on Monday & asked for the GM. He wasn't in & failed to return my call Tuesday. I called today (Wednesday) & was told it was his day off. The Assistant Manager pretended to be shocked at my story & told me to "ask for him" next time we came in. I said we were only visiting & he said that he would try to find a coupon or something & call me back. I am willing to bet one thousand dollars that he won't be calling me back. read more

Mai Y.

13 years ago

So continuing my exploration of my newfound home(from LA just moved to Monterey), my girls and I were really feeling Mexican today so we decided to try this place. We went in and the three of us came to the conclusion that we will never come back. This lady we dealt with was very rude, and it turned out she was the manager. The chips tasted very stale, the food was really greasy, I could not understand how even the salad must have been 1000 calories! The vibe of the place was kind of dull too, I did not appreciate my time there. I would not recommend this place to anyone, best part about it, was that it was right on the water on Cannery Row near the aquarium so if you want to go in after visiting the aquarium, as we did, and eat really heavy food and experience an unenjoyable time, go for it. (Sarcasm to the Max!) read more

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