El Torito

4.0 (2k reviews)

ModerateMexican, Bars, Breakfast & Brunch

Open • 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Updated over 3 months ago

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

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

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

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

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EL TORITO ATMOSPHERE

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Inside

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Outside

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Casual

Classy

Moderate noise

Good for groups

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Juan P.

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

Sy M.

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

Tina G.

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

Dora R.

Kassandra our waitress!! Wow! She just redeemed this location for me. My husband and I had not had good interactions in the past. So much so that we stopped coming to El Torito at Riverside Plaza. Sure driving to other locations was a pain in the rear but we did not want to chance bad service. Well tonight was redemption day for this location! Kassandra and Ruben made our night amazing!! UNFORGETTABLE!!! These two staff members truly define customer service at its BEST!! Ruben is very thoughtful and acknowledges customers the second we sat at the table , I was even taken off guard as I expected to not be acknowledge until 25 minutes after , like before. Then Kassandra with her sense of humor had me laughing all the time I was there. This was whole heartedly the BEST! Dinning experience I've had at this location. P.S. to the manager ... both Kassandra and Ruben could be leaders on customer service training to all employees !

"Tableside Guacamole" and rancid chips! Yuck!

B H.

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

Joshua N.

Great food super awesome service came in for a late lunch, and the whole atmosphere was great! Just had to add some more pictures of the food they have!

Boris M.

Toritos is conveniently located in Riverside Plaza, and after coming here a few times over the years, I finally decided to leave a review. We visited on a Friday at 1:35pm to catch their lunch specials before 2pm. Despite only three patio tables being occupied, we were told there'd be a 15-20 minute wait. At 1:55pm, I confirmed with the hostess that we'd still qualify for lunch specials, which she assured. Unfortunately, service was the low point. After being seated, we had to actively flag down our server, who had ignored more subtle cues. We ordered two El Dueno Margaritas ($17.75 each) which come with a mini bottle of Grand Marnier. While the price was fair, the drink was disappointing--overly sweet with a low-quality mix that didn't let the premium ingredients shine. The food didn't impress either. The Fajitas Chiquitas looked nothing like the menu photo--pale and a bit dry. The Chicken & Sour Cream Enchilada was equally underwhelming and lacked flavor. Ironically, the salsa may have been the highlight of the meal. With so many great Mexican restaurants in the area, it's hard to understand why this place draws such crowds.

Beto R.

The food was great! Definitely recommend the birria tacos. They are very attentive, but the only disappointing thing I can say was, we went when there was a special taco bar and the waitress didn't let us know about it. Since we did get tacos and probably could've been cheaper. We did hear other waiters/waitresses tell other people about it after we had already ordered. And the ambience is very nice and they play Spanish music which is nice and nostalgic.

Sandra A.

I recommend this place. This is the only El Torito we go to because the service is immaculate. So many servers here are great! Especially Victor Perez. Hands down, best server I have ever seen. Very detailed and is always asking what we need. I recommend to come here and ask for Victor. You won't be disappointed.

Correy E.

We came here about two hours before they close. The service was great, food was good and we like the ambiance. We enjoyed our meals but the competition for Mexican food is fierce out here. Overall, this is good place and I recommend it.

Lauren T.

Ordered takeout from this restaurant and, unfortunately, they got one of my items completely wrong. We had ordered the chicken fajitas and the skirt steak salad. The chicken itself was white meat, juicy, and flavorful, though the portion size felt pretty small for the price point. The salsa was a highlight--clearly house made, with just the right amount of spice and a fresh, chunky texture that stood out. While the quality of the food was solid in parts, the combination of the order mix-up, small portions, and very high prices makes it hard to justify ordering from here again.

Jacob C.

I've been coming to El Torito for 15+ years. The service from Fernanda was great, the food was good, but the 4% dining fee is extremely annoying. It's not a credit card processing fee, it's another charge for merely visiting a beloved restaurant.

Teresa L.

Food was great. We drove from Menifee to come and eat El Toritos chile relleno. My dad's fav. Our waitress Pascuala was professional, and was going over and beyond to make our experience great. Only minus from this experience was that the food took a long time to come out. Turns out they have a change in shift and there was only one cook back there. By the time we got our food we had filled up on chips and salsa. Which are amazing by the way. I miss their vegetarian enchiladas which were removed from the menu I came to find out. Ambiance was chill.

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E E.

647

1952

7 months ago

Came here recently for dinner on a Friday night, it was early, but still very crowded. I had the chicken & sour cream enchiladas. The service was very slow and it took forever to pay and leave. It reminded me of why I don't come to this location anymore. read more

Business owner information

Janelle O.

Hello, I'm so sorry about not delivering the experience you deserved…

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Foodie T.

6 months ago

I have been going to El Toritos restaurants for over 40 years and I have noticed the changes in the food quality, taste and portion sizes. When I first started, the food was consistently good, flavorful and the portion sizes were worth the price. I would always get the chicken tortilla soup, sweet corn cake, pepita salad with the grape vinigrette dressing, chips & salsa. Nowadays, the food does not taste like it did originally and has gone through many changes over the years, less quality ingredients being used, portion sizes shrinked (especially the to-go containers), but prices increased. The soup at times lacks flavor, ingredients missing, consistency is sometimes watery, other times it's a little thicker and more tomato based. Sweet corn sometimes comes out overcooked, dry, burnt pieces of corn, other times it was cooked with too much water and turned out mushy, easily falling apart, and did not have much flavor at all. Was told the salad dressing is being made with olive oil, but don't know for sure if that is really true or not. Sometimes the dressing was not made correctly having too much oil and not enough of the other ingredients to give it the right flavor. Even the salsa has not been consistent. Sometimes it can be way too spicy, too many peppers where you can barely eat it, if at all. Sometimes the veggies weren't cut up small and blended like they should be and it made the salsa turn out all chunky. The opposite has also happened, where it was over blended and came out like a puree creating a foamy type salsa, which was not good. Different Chefs preparing the food at the same restaurant and it comes out tasting different, between different restaurant locations the taste of food is not consistent. Being a paying customer I expect the food to taste good each and every time I order and I get my money's worth and that has not been the case in my experience. read more

El Torito - Grape vinaigrette dressing with way too much so called "olive oil" and not enough of the other ingredients. Taste like straight up oil. - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - Sweet corncake that is dry, crumbled with burnt pieces of corn. - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Francisco C.

Elite 26

179

10 months ago

Great device and great food once again I love the service and quality here! Christina thank you for making my day even smoother much appreciated!! read more

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Emma R.

9 months ago

Came in w my husband for our 18th anniversary on a Sunday during brunch time, we had a great time, great food, good vibes. I didn't know they offered complimentary champagne until our server mentioned it after offering us different drinks from the drinks menu. Victor Perez was the name of our server and he was very attentive to say the least. We ordered a few songs from the live mariachi. We had a great time overall. Will definitely be coming back. read more

El Torito - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Eliza L.

3 months ago

Tonight food was awful, ordered cheese enchilada w/a cheese relleno both were barely warm, cheese was thick in enchilada & barely in the relleno & wasn't melted. Had them reheated but still cold, nothing was hot, not the beans the rice or the plate, best thing was the chips & salsa... read more

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Amy S.

3 months ago

We had a private party yesterday for a memorial lunch with about 14 people. The service & the food was amazing. My review is about the manager. The minimum was 20 people @ $32 per person. We had 14 and some people were taking the extra stuff home. The manager said you know it's in your contract that you can't take anything home. I said but we only had 14 people & prepaid for 20. He said it is in the contract. Plus, we paid over $400 on top of that for the bar fee. My question is, are you throwing the food away or can the remaining guests take home the (6 other people that did not come) food home and not waste it. This was our second event there and the manager before was so awesome. Just an FYI - But I will not use it for a private party again. read more

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Zana K.

1 year ago

Went for their fantastic Sunday brunch. Everything was delicious and fresh. Our server Maria H. Was dynamite! We were serenaded by mariachis and the decor is always nice. Would highly recommend you check this out! Bottomless mimosas are delicious! https://youtu.be/U9eVwFBryaU?feature=shared read more

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Omar F.

Elite 26

166

604

927

11 months ago

Good service and good food. Ordered the steak fajitas with flour tortillas. It was pleasantly delicious. I would come back and also recommend the fajitas. Kudos to the amazing staff for being so nice and attentive. Great service overall. read more

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Lucy D.

10 months ago

Favorite new happy hour spot. Can't believe they have happy hour every day till 9 PM. Today our server was Fernanda who took very good care of us. Food was great except for the street corn which was a little strange. Thank you Fernanda for taking great care of us read more

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Jim S.

2 months ago

Don't go on a Saturday for bunch. Food was cold, service terrible and out of food most dishes.

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Maribel A.

10 months ago

Amazing time at ETG, service was great, ambiance was perfect for a moms nite out! Came in at 6:00 on a Saturday and it was busy but not crowded enough to hurt service. Our server Brooklyn was very attentive and friendly. The happy hour until 9:00 pm is what brought us in. And we'll be back again for more on our next moms nite out. read more

El Torito - Delicious sampler platter! Whats left of it - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Jackie_ M.

2 months ago

Stopped in today for a quick Margarita with my husband, sat at the bar and Jannet was our bartender. Great Margaritas and service! She suggested the wings and we tried the three flavors. They were great! Ghost pepper BBQ was our favorite! Will be coming more often as we just moved to the area. Thanks Jannet for the great experience! read more

Business owner information

Lorena C.

Thank you Jackie! We're happy you enjoyed the margaritas and wings.…

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Teresa R.

218

2 months ago

Love the Sunday Brunch! It gets so busy yet the waiters/waitresses still manage to keep a smile with great service. The environment is a great place to hang out with family and/or friends. The manager was super sweet and very welcoming! read more

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Lorena C.

Thank you, Teresa! We appreciate your kind words. So happy you felt…

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Ruby V.

6 months ago

Went in for brunch today to celebrate my aunts my birthday and it was such a vibe! Our waitress Christian was super sweet and friendly very accommodating. She made sure we had refills on our drinks and kept our table clean. She recommended the michelada's and they were sooo good. Definitely will come back for brunch my whole family had so much fun read more

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Patsy C.

11 months ago

On June 29th my husband and I celebrated his birthday, 6/2, my birthday 6/28, 46th anniversary 6/23 and Father's Day at El Torito, Riverside Plaza. We were treated with so much love and respect that it brought such joy. We were greeted by our favorite server, Kassandra and were waited on by Fernanda for 2.5 hours as we sampled most of the buffet and enjoyed bottomless mimosas. We were not rushed, instead we were encouraged to take our time and enjoy our meal. As always, the food was outstanding and the service and ambiance was more than we could ask for. We were also serenaded by Mariachi Alegria Michoacana who were amazing. El Torito is our go-to for any celebration as we are always treated like family. If you are looking for a place to celebrate, El Torito is the place to go. If you are lucky, Kassandra or Fernanda will be your server. Buen Provecho read more

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art e.

6 months ago

I had the most amazing time at El Torito today, the bartender, Brooklyn was amazing. She was friendly, professional and attentive, all the things I love in a server/bartender, I'll be back soon, and I hope Brooklyn is here! read more

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Shelly V.

5 months ago

We had a large group and it was very inconvenient to break it into 3 bills because they can't do more than three credit card transactions. The place was not even full with customers. Not to mention we were not asked about refills on drinks, water, or alcohol. Food was average taste drink was weak. Not returning anytime soon. read more

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Mia S.

146

2 years ago

Food......C+, but that's what you get with chain restaurants. Service.......C+, some servers are great, some not so good. Bartenders......C-, surely not the best! Ambiance....... Well, it gets pretty hot inside when they have ac on and big patio doors wide open. Ugh read more

El Torito - Dodgers - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Samantha S.

6 months ago

Sunday brunch was really good and the best of all was our server Victor Perez. I would definitely come back again and have us serve us.

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Matthew M.

331

5 months ago

Lora is truly exceptional. From the very first interaction, it's clear that she brings a rare combination of skill, thoughtfulness, and reliability to everything she does. Her attention to detail stands out, and she approaches each task with genuine care and intention--not just to get it done, but to get it done right. Beyond her abilities, Lora's positive attitude makes a real difference. She elevates the experience for everyone around her, creating an environment that's both productive and enjoyable. If you're looking for someone you can trust to deliver quality and exceed expectations, Lora is an outstanding choice. read more

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Celeste A.

1 year ago

Let me just say the brunch is absolutely amazing. I've gone to the one in Ontario, but I feel as if this one has more options and I love our server. He was absolutely amazing even though we stayed a little bit past lunch me and my girlfriend we were just catching up. They didn't question us. They offered us another part of the menu and all the way. The service was absolute amazing. Our waiter was sixto j he was so sweet and never left our cup empty. He was an awesome server and I wish I could've gave him more for his service. Definitely will be coming back for more. read more

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Denise J.

360

1 year ago

Tonight it started out with a good amount of people inside and on the patio. By the end of dinner the volume had picked up. To be expected. Great table side guacamole. The service was good. Plenty of chips and salsa to go around. Note though that the salsa was a bit picante night. read more

El Torito - Cheese Enchilada and Cadillac Margarita! Happy Saturday! Enjoyed the outdoor dining and attentive staff. - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - STREET TACO TRIO - CARNITAS for a great dinner and some for leftovers. - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - Cheese enchilada with rice and beans - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - Carnitas STREET TACO TRIO - CARNITAS - So good! - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - Cheese enchilada nestled among the rice. Yum! - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - Garden salad - always a good start. - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - Beef tacos - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - Cheesecake for something different - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - EL TORITO BACON BURGER - for something different. - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - The Cheese enchilada plate was so good. Loved the rice, too. - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Maria O.

3 months ago

We come here all the time. Love the service and ambience. Brooklyn you are amazing!! Keep rocking it! Great service!

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Kyle S.

131

367

1 year ago

Food was a solid 4/5. It was packed and our waitress managed to get to our table & kept checking in consistently. The ambience was lively, went in on cinco de mayo and it was a pleasant surprise. Happy hour for the win. read more

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Karolina T.

Thank you Kyle for the amazing feedback! We hope to see you again!

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Kiara C.

7 months ago

Love the food, all you can eat brunch is always a must. Laura was a great server, she was very friendly.

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B S.

3 months ago

Brooklyn and the entire El Torito staff are a delight. The environment is always festive and inviting.

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Anthony M.

Elite 26

343

454

2 years ago

It's a nice place in Riverside. It's a little loud but that's because people are enjoying the Sunday brunch and the bottomless mimosas. The service was a bit slow for my taste, but that's OK, they were busy. They put us on it small booth, and the lighting was absolutely terrible at one point because it was so gloomy outside, we had to turn on our flashlight just to see the menu. I think that's hilarious, maybe it's just a sign of my age. I would definitely go back. It seems whenever I order off the menu and not during the buffet, the food is much better than the quality is even better than that. read more

El Torito - ENCHILADA RANCHERAS - CHICKEN - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

El Torito - BEEF BIRRIA TACOS - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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K R.

2 months ago

I met my sisters for lunch on Saturday March 28th 2026. We decided on the buffet. The food was cold, dry and absolutely terrible. So we tried an omelette, there was no one to help us. One of my sisters decided to make her own. Finally a young man came out, he was not pleasant and acted like he was doing us a favor. Needless to say we had a bad experience and didn't enjoy our lunch at all. I'm sorry now I didn't speak to a manager! read more

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Ana V.

1 year ago

Sunday brunch is always my go too place everything is always authentic, the waffles are ai delicious. Service is good they try to sit you asap , ambience is more for family but if you go on a date the bar area works great !! read more

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Lidia H.

6 months ago

Met up with my friends who I hadn't seen in a couple of years. Our server Victor P was amazing... Extremely friendly and courteous. I hope that when we go back we get him again! read more

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Keith Y.

1 year ago

My brother and I visited this location for the 2nd time since recently moving to Riverside and were very impressed again. The food was delicious and the staff were amazing. Our waitress Erica is full of energy and very attentive. The manager Jocelyn even remembered us from last time and checked in on us. I highly recommend this El Torito location for both the quality of food and the awesome staff that make you feel welcome and appreciated. read more

El Torito - Chicken tortilla soup - Mexican Near Me - Riverside, California

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Marie G.

Elite 24

231

268

171

9 months ago

Came here for dinner on a Wednesday and was a little disappointed. Took forever to be seen after sitting at a table in the bar area. However, our waitress was very friendly and attentive upon arrival. There were a couple of mix ups, not sure if this was because of confusion on hers or someone else's part. Also, dishes were served without utensils to use and had to be requested. At first they sent out the wrong drink and then a request/directions for a main dish wasn't executed correctly. Regardless, the food was good but the ambiance wasn't the best, almost kind of a downer for the mood because they weren't very busy and they didn't have the best selection of things to watch on the TV's until a game was requested to be put on. I just remember this place being so much more lively, regardless of the day of the week. read more

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Chloe D.

3 months ago

Happy hour does not need a DJ blasting music along with the radio music they already have playing. This isn't Miami, it's Riverside CA at 5pm. I can't even hear and the person I came with is yelling. On top of that it took 20 min to get an order put in. Not happy with the service and left feeling overstimulated and irritated. read more

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Jim T.

291

8 months ago

Good was fine. But we wanted the bill split and the server charged my card twice. Then trying to get it fixed was a hassle. Ambience is fine. read more

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Kurt D.

6 months ago

We came to the bar and got excellent service from Brooklyn ! Love coming here. Great drinks and food for great prices !

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Megan Y.

Elite 26 All-Star

109

738

2 years ago

Erika B is an amazing server! We had a wonderful experience! This is a really beautiful El Torito! The food hit the spot! read more

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Tanya G.

137

6 months ago

The brunch here is absolutely amazing, it's a good value for what it is. Our waiter, Victor P. was amazing. He was super attentive and had amazing recommendations for drinks. He was kind and made sure we were taken care of; I would highly recommend coming here for brunch. read more

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Lou Arthur B.

3 months ago

I made reservation the night before for brunch on Sunday for 5 people. I received an email the flowering day saying my reservation canceled and call the restaurant. I called and right away Jocelyn fixed my reservation and made sure we dined inside due to being windy. I was amazed by the new food selection they had and enjoyed the original menu. The corn cake is my favorite and loaded up on one plate for that. Thanks again Jocelyn for your great service and attentive detail to our party. I would recommend El Torito in this location anytime. read more

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Ariana Z.

8 months ago

Victor Perez was an amazing server! Great service. Food was amazing. Definitely will check out the brunch at this location!

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Yo M.

1 year ago

I remember coming to El Torito growing up and food tasting delicious. This place has changed but not for the good. The food is no longer authentic Mexican food. Food is blend the and the service is very disappointing. The restaurant its self is very nice inside. read more

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Page 2 of 50

3639 Riverside Plaza Dr
Ste 526
Riverside, CA 92506
Directions
(951) 684-6816
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.eltorito.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does El Torito open?

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

What time does El Torito close?

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

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

Payment methods

Does El Torito take credit cards?

Yes, El Torito takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does El Torito have catering options?

Yes, El Torito does have catering options.

Does El Torito have a drive thru?

No, El Torito does not have a drive thru.

Does El Torito have a happy hour?

Yes, El Torito has a happy hour.

Does El Torito serve alcohol?

Yes, El Torito serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does El Torito allow dogs?

No, El Torito does not allow dogs.

Does El Torito have TVs?

Yes, El Torito has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does El Torito have bike parking?

Yes, El Torito has bike parking.

Does El Torito have outdoor seating?

Yes, El Torito has outdoor seating options.

Does El Torito have parking?

Yes, El Torito has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Other Amenities

Does El Torito allow outdoor smoking?

No, El Torito does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does El Torito have free WiFi?

Yes, El Torito has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

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

History

Established in 1954.

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

More Info

Health Score

El Torito Reviews in Other Languages

Spanish
6 Reviews

Ask the Community - El Torito

Is there still a happy hour and what times?

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

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

It's $35 per person and unlimited mimosas

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Does el torito have bottomless mimosas on Saturdays?

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

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Do you take reservations?

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

Do they have misters on their patio? ?m

yes

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Do they have misters on their patio?

They do not have misters on the patio.

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Do they have mariachi ? If so what days?

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

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How much is Sunday brunch?

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

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Do they have bottomless mimosas during brunch?

They sure do!!!!

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What time do the mariachis play?

Sunday Brunch only 9am-2pm

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At what time does happy hour end?

9 pm...in the bar

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What are prices for three people?

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

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Review Highlights - El Torito

“Stopped by El Torito for the first time recently and had a really great experience, largely thanks to our server, Victor Perez.”

Mentioned in 168 reviews

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Explore benefits

P.S. I Crepe You

4.7(363 reviews)

0.3 mi

•$$

I had such a great experience at this Ps I Crepe You location! As soon as I walked in, I was…read moregreeted by a very nice and welcoming lady. Ordering through the kiosk was quick and easy, and my crepe came out amazing. I've tried Ps I Crepe You at other locations before, but this one definitely stood out in terms of service. The friendliness and overall customer experience here were the best by far.

This place is amazing and Customer Service is great. I recommend it to Friends and family., the…read morefood is delicious, the drinks and the desserts are amazing. I give it five stars and two thumbs up. .

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

Dubai strawberry crepe

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

Condron Coffee

4.0(422 reviews)

0.1 mi

•$$

The coffee was tasty and had an ingredient I have never seen in coffee before (ube). It was a…read morelittle loud for getting work done but an overall great vibe.

Cafe is such a hidden gem. From the moment you walk in, the whole place just feels like a…read morevibe--plants everywhere, good music playing, and a super inviting atmosphere that makes you want to stay awhile. I ordered a hot fig latte and it was honestly incredible. You can tell they really care about their craft--the espresso shot was smooth and rich, and the flavor of the fig was perfectly balanced, not too sweet but still super satisfying. The fact that they make all their syrups in-house really shows in the quality. I loved it so much I ended up buying a bag of their coffee beans to take home, which says a lot. The location is great, the ambiance is on point, and the coffee is genuinely some of the best I've had in a while.

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Iced Vanilla Latte

Unfriendly staff at this location.

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VG/GF Chocolate Donut

Palenque Kitchen

An amazing experience from beginning to end!…read more Our server, Victor gave us great recommendations from delicious drinks to apps and mains. Our food came out within an appropriate time and Victor immediately noticed our daughter's food had a sauce on it which we had asked to be on the side. He took it back and brought out the right plate without our asking! If we lived nearby, we would be here all the time! 5 stars!

What a great place to celebrate my birthday our server was Christian he took our table and made us…read morefeel special. Loved the drinks and the ambiance. Christian is now our preferred server.

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Beignet Spot

4.3(676 reviews)

2.0 mi

•$$

Went to New Orleans a few weeks ago. Was craving good Beignets. This little shop has nailed it. The…read moreservice was good, it's a little front counter, with one person manning the register. And sounds like maybe one cook in the back. The menu isn't huge, which happily makes things easy to order. Beignets and some sandwiches. We had some Beignets, and OMG these were actually pretty epic. We had some caramel apple Beignets. The ambiance to the place, it's kind of semi industrial and semi eatery. If the windows on it opened up wide, it could easily make out for being straight outta Nawlins. If you want to try Beignets, but don't have the cash to fly out to the South. The Beignet Spot will take you there, without all the airport hassle.

Equivalent to New Orleans. Get two patters of four. They are that good. Highly recommend if you are…read morein the area. Service was excellent and friendly.

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Buffet setup

Breakfast "JFC", Potato Tots

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Caramel Chicory Cold Brew

Mission Inn Restaurant

3.3(1.9k reviews)

2.2 mi

•$$$

Mother's Day brunch very disappointing. Kept running out of food. Many trays empty. Variety very…read morelimited. Service was excellent.

Four high school friends, 50+ years later, enjoyed the best meal outside on the patio, served so…read morebeautifully by Veronica. Everything was top-notch but honestly, Veronica just made our dinner so very special. She loves her job, and the beautiful Inn, and her enthusiasm is so refreshing, and contagious. Plus-the food and drinks are fabulous! We will be back!

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Indoor dining

Side fruits comes w Huevos Rancheros Breakfast

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Try the tiramisu, it's sinfully good!

Toasted

Locally owned & operated

Loved this restaurant! The food was amazing. We had the breakfast sandwich, both sourdough &…read morecroissant, and a rise and shine. We left no crumbs! The sourdough is made in house. Everything tasted fresh. The almond croissant latte was great, not overly sweet. We enjoyed everything we ordered. It's a smaller spot, so seated is limited but everything is clean. The service is great, everyone was very friendly. Highly recommend!

Toasted is a lovely little place tucked in a small strip center. It hosts a small number of tables…read moreinside. We enjoyed a robust cappuccino and split the Garden Sandwich. This sandwich was super flavorful containing hummus, cucumber, pesto, avocado, and feta cheese. My only criticism is that it was grilled, and therefore the lovely sourdough bread was a bit greasy. I would certainly have the sandwich again and just ask that it be toasted and not grilled.

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Cafe de fleur

4.7(12 reviews)

1.6 mi

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

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

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The Cafe

Arcade Downtown

4.4(400 reviews)

2.1 mi

•$$

Arcade Coffee in Riverside has quickly become one of my favorite spots. I've tried several of their…read moreholiday drinks, and every single one has been delicious--flavorful, well-balanced, and clearly made with care. Their pastries are also really good and pair perfectly with a coffee or seasonal drink. The space itself is clean, modern, and has a really trendy, inviting vibe. It's the kind of place you actually want to sit and stay awhile, whether you're catching up with someone or just enjoying some time to yourself. Every visit has been consistently great--nothing has ever disappointed. Overall, Arcade Coffee is a solid go-to in Riverside if you want good drinks, good pastries, and a nice atmosphere.

Came in excited and left... with mixed feelings…read more Let's start with the good Food and drinks came out fairly quickly The food presentation was definitely there. It looked like it was made with love. The egg+cheese sandwich absolutely carried the experience (seriously, give that thing a raise), and the matcha held its own as it was refreshing! Now the not so great... the huevos rancheros were unfortunately very, very, salty.. but I didn't want my money to go to waste so I made myself eat it.. The coffee was bitter, pretty but bitter. I usually like bitter coffee but this one caught me off guard haha The Customer service wasn't great.. The server asked if we needed anything else but was already walking away before we could answer. Overall, the matcha and egg+cheese sandwich was the best part from this experience. I would recommend those two.

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What a cool place ! Noisy tho

Veggie Sandwich | bakehouse sourdough, roasted peppers, avocado, english cucumber, roasted garlic kewpie

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Mont Blanc

El Patrón Downtown Riverside

3.9(1k reviews)

2.2 mi

•$$

I wish I had pictures to show what my wife and I ordered for dinner and drinks. Meli, our waitress,…read morewas great. She was kind enough to change tables after we ordered our food. The sun was shining on my face. I don't know who came over to our table to recommend a tequila for our flight. Dame Mas was a very good choice. My wife is more of a tequila drinker than I am. I did hog up the Dame Mas to myself. The restaurant had a nice atmosphere for a relaxing dinner. I recommend ordering the bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with crab meat; it's the best. We loved the food and the drinks. I also recommend the Black Widow, a very good drink to end our dinner date.

We celebrated my grandma's 80th bday here. My uncle rented out the outdoors patio & small room…read moreadjacent to it from 1pm-4:30pm for an affordable price with deposit paid in advance to reserve. The owner, Santiago, allowed us to come a half hour beforehand to decorate & we came in, not knowing what to expect. Upon our arrival, the birthday cake was promptly whisked away to the kitchen, we found Santiago PERSONALLY on his hands & knees fixing the electrical cords for us, our servers introduced themselves & graciously helped us rearrange the set-up to accommodate the band we brought in. Then helped us rearrange the layout yet again once we realized the band needed to be next to the electrical outlets. I was embarrassed to even ask so I started doing it myself but they jumped right in without being asked. If I'm being honest, usually I'm not a fan of buffet meals, so I wasn't expecting much. But everything served was SO delicious! The fajitas were my favorite dish, not only flavorful but also nice & moist. Not only that, but they refilled the food for us as it ran out. They brought out to-go boxes for the leftovers, & best believe my family took home every last bite! The lime margarita tower was SO yummy but also hella dangerous because it was strong!! Other restaurants will give you watered down drinks but El Patron doesn't play. We were only planning on one but it was so good, we couldn't resist getting another. From start to finish, the servers (Leslie and Cecilia) were on POINT. Their service went above & beyond expectations-- continuously checking on us, refilling drinks/food, taking photos, etc. Not only that, but also, when my young autistic nephew unfortunately got sick, they were so incredibly compassionate about it & helped clean up the mess right away. I was absolutely blown away by the attention to detail & quality of care. As my grandma is getting older, we are especially cherishing these final years with her. We spent thousands overall (venue, music, photographer, special mass, etc) but every last cent was worth seeing her happy with all of her loved ones. After many months of planning, I was super nervous about something going wrong but I can honestly say that core memories were made. Thank you to Santiago, Leslie & Cecilia for your hospitality, good food & work ethic-- it truly meant so much for our family unit.

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Enchiladas Plate

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VDM sunset, rum based tropical signature cocktail

The Lucky Greek

3.6(337 reviews)

0.2 mi

•$$

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

I used to love Lucky Greek until a few years ago when the food had gotten kind of "meh", and quite…read morepricey, so I stopped going. Today, I had a powerful craving for my old favorite - a hot roast beef sandwich with BBQ sauce and horseradish, and some onion rings so I decided to give Lucky Greek another chance. The total for the two items was nearly $25. The rings were pretty good, but the serving was enough for at least 4 people. I wish they would offer a lower priced half-order for single meals. The roast beef sandwich was a real disappointment. The meat was very fatty and had a lot of hard gristle. I pretty much had to take the sandwich apart and pull off the objectionable bits which were about 1/5 of the total weight of the meat. The meat flavor was bland and really needed all of the sauces. The bun was kind of smashed and gummy but held together. Sorry to say, but for me, Lucky Greek just isn't worth going to anymore.

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Dining area.

Gyro Greek Salad ask for tzatziki sauce

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Outside by drive-thru

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Anthony M.

3 years ago

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

Bryan P.

11 months ago

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

Bianca A.

2 years ago

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

Juan F.

3 years ago

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

Parth P.

3 years ago

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

Paul T.

10 years ago

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

Erin W.

2 years ago

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

Ron V.

2 years ago

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

Admin U.

1 year ago

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

Dora A.

3 months ago

My nephew took me out for a lovely brunch today at El Torito located at Riverside Plaza in Riverside, CA, and I just had to share what a nice experience I had. Being a 77-year old woman, it's the simple things that really make a day special, and this outing certainly did. The food was delicious, fresh, and came out nice and hot. The atmosphere was comfortable and welcoming, which made it easy for us to relax and enjoy our time together. (the champagne made the experience even more pleasant). I especially want to give a big shout-out to our server, Cynthia! She was incredibly kind, patient, and attentive throughout our visit. She made sure we had everything we needed and checked in on us with such a warm smile. Great service definitely makes a difference, and makes you feel truly at home, and cared for. Thank you to Cynthia and the team at El Torito for making our brunch so enjoyable. read more

Robin J.

8 years ago

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

Tony M.

5 days ago

After a disappointing experience at the Corona location, visiting El Torito-Riverside, reminded me why I have enjoyed this location, menu, and service for so many years. From the moment we arrived, the El Torito-Riverside team attended promptly and professionally. Our drinks were served within 5-minutes, and our meals arrived in 15-minutes, making the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. The staff was attentive, welcoming, and ensured we had everything we needed without having to ask multiple times. It is clear that customer service and hospitality are still a priority at the Riverside location. Thank you El Torito-Riverside, for delivering the high-level of service and dining experience guests love coming back too and appreciate. This location continues to earn my loyalty and recognition! Gramma, Tia, and I will gladly return again. read more

Linda B.

2 years ago

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

Nancy E.

7 years ago

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

William G.

12 years ago

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

Alf C.

6 years ago

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

Nevada P.

5 years ago

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

Elizabeth A. B.

7 years ago

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

Rosalee C.

8 years ago

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

Na W.

2 years ago

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

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El Torito - mexican - Updated June 2026

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1257 reviews that are not currently recommended

El Torito - mexican - Updated June 2026

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