El Torito is a casual Mexican restaurant chain with locations across the United States
El Torito operates as a full-service Mexican restaurant, not a fast-casual or quick-service concept. The chain has restaurants in multiple states, with the largest concentration in California. Each location serves sit-down meals with table service, a full bar, and a menu built around traditional Mexican dishes and Americanized Mexican fare.
The restaurant is owned by Dine Global Holdings, a restaurant management company. El Torito locations vary in size and decor, but most feature a casual dining atmosphere with colorful interior design and a festive environment. Hours and specific menu items can differ between locations, so checking your nearest restaurant's website or calling ahead is the most reliable way to confirm what they offer on a particular day.
Key Takeaways
- El Torito serves table-service Mexican food with a full bar, not counter service or fast casual.
- The chain has locations primarily in California and a few other western and southwestern states.
- Most locations offer dine-in service, and some have patios or outdoor seating areas.
- Menu prices and specific dishes vary by location, so calling ahead or checking online is worth doing before you visit.
- El Torito does not operate a delivery service directly, but some locations may be available through third-party delivery apps in their area.
What El Torito's menu typically includes
El Torito's menu centers on enchiladas, burritos, tacos, and combination plates. Most dishes come with rice and beans as sides. The restaurant also serves carne asada, chile rellenos, and fajitas. Appetizers include items like chips and salsa, quesadillas, and fried calamari.
Seafood options appear on most menus and may include shrimp dishes, fish tacos, and ceviche. The restaurant offers both meat and vegetarian versions of many entrées. Desserts typically include flan, churros, and sopapillas. Drink options include beer, wine, margaritas, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Menu items and pricing differ between locations. Some restaurants offer daily specials or seasonal dishes that are not on the standard menu. The best way to see what a specific El Torito location serves is to visit their website, call the restaurant directly, or check their social media pages.
How to find an El Torito location near you
El Torito maintains a location finder on its official website. You can enter your city or zip code to see which restaurants are open in your area. The search tool shows the address, phone number, and hours for each location.
Most El Torito locations are in California, particularly in the Los Angeles area and Orange County. The chain also has restaurants in Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, and Texas. New locations do not open frequently, so the number of restaurants has remained relatively stable in recent years.
Calling ahead is useful if you want to confirm hours, ask about current specials, or find out whether the location has a patio or private dining space. Many locations accept reservations for larger groups, which can reduce wait times during busy periods.
Dine-in service, seating, and wait times
El Torito operates as a full-service sit-down restaurant. You are seated by a host or hostess, given a menu, and served by a server who takes your order and brings food to your table. Most locations do not require reservations for small groups, but walk-in wait times can be 30 minutes to over an hour during peak hours like Friday and Saturday evenings.
Many El Torito restaurants have outdoor seating areas or patios. Some locations are larger than others and can accommodate bigger groups. If you are planning to bring a party of eight or more, calling ahead to reserve a table or a section is recommended.
The pace of service is typical for casual dining — you order once, receive your food, and can stay as long as you wish. There is no time limit on how long you can sit at your table.
Pricing and what to expect to spend
El Torito's pricing is consistent with casual Mexican dining restaurants. Entrées typically range from the mid-teens to the mid-twenties in dollars, depending on the dish and location. Combination plates, which include multiple items, are usually priced similarly to single entrées.
Appetizers, sides, and drinks are priced separately. Chips and salsa are often complimentary or very low cost. Margaritas and alcoholic drinks are priced like those at other casual dining establishments with full bars.
Prices vary by location and can change over time. Checking the menu online or calling the restaurant gives you the most current pricing for your area.
Dietary accommodations and menu modifications
El Torito can modify dishes to accommodate dietary needs. You can request items without certain ingredients, ask for substitutions, or inquire about preparation methods. Many dishes can be made vegetarian by replacing meat with beans or cheese.
If you have a severe food allergy, inform your server so they can alert the kitchen. The restaurant staff can tell you which dishes contain common allergens like nuts, shellfish, or dairy. However, cross-contamination in the kitchen is always a possibility in any restaurant, so if you have a life-threatening allergy, discuss your concerns with management before ordering.
El Torito does not publish a detailed allergen menu on its website, so calling the specific location you plan to visit is the safest approach if you have serious dietary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does El Torito deliver or offer takeout?
El Torito does not operate its own delivery or takeout service. Some locations may be available through third-party delivery apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats, depending on the restaurant and your area. Calling the location directly is the fastest way to find out whether they participate in delivery services.
Can I make a reservation at El Torito?
Most El Torito locations accept reservations for groups, particularly larger parties. Call the restaurant directly to book a table. Walk-ins are also welcome, though you may wait during busy times.
Does El Torito have happy hour specials?
Many El Torito locations offer happy hour pricing on drinks and appetizers during specific hours. Hours and offerings vary by location. Call your nearest restaurant or check their website to see what specials they run and when.
Are there vegetarian options at El Torito?
Yes. Most dishes can be made vegetarian by substituting meat with beans, cheese, or vegetables. The menu also includes vegetarian-specific entrées. Ask your server about options when you order.
What payment methods does El Torito accept?
El Torito accepts major credit cards, debit cards, and cash at all locations. Some restaurants may also accept mobile payment apps, though this varies by location. Call ahead if you want to confirm payment options.