From the acclaimed chef that brought you Burger & Barrel & Lure Fishbar comes El Toro Blanco, a Mexican joint in the West Village.

Having covered the likes of seafood and pub fare, throwing a south of the border twist into the Capon restaurant line up was a brilliant choice.

I can’t help but to think of la flama blanco everytime I hear the name, however the white bull (literally) is kicking some major matador ass and serving up what I like to dub: deliciosa comida

With an inside reminiscent of my grandparents kitchenette, the warm feeling that encompasses the interior of the restaurant draws you in and makes you feel right at home.

You know what else makes you feel right at home? A Chef that not only makes amazing grub, but personally comes out to say hello to every table – and even donned a sombrero while singing happy birthday to nearby diners. Chef Capon – you are legit.

At a suggestion of Capon himself, we started with a round of mango jalapeno margaritas (I love any spicy/tequila combo), gauc for the table and the queso…

Chorizo Fundido – photo by Matt Duckor

…which I could sadly not eat. They use a bit of flour to thicken the cheese. I know, sorry.

Luckily, El Toro Blanco actually notes on its menu what is/isn’t gluten-free with an asterick, love it.

I was even able to eat the fried corn chips which seems mundane, but coming from someone who usually needs to eat guac with veggies, I was thrilled.

Guac, Chips & Salsa (GF)

Other dishes include:

Tuna Ceviche (partially eaten) w/ soy, avocado, cucumber & cilantro

Lobster Ceviche (GF) w/ coconut, jicama, habanero & mango

Carne Tampiquena – skirt steak w/ a cheese enchilada

Escuela Vieja (GF) “old school” beef tacos

From left: Tuna Taco & Tinga de Pollo (GF) Chicken Taco

Elote de Calle (GF) – street corn, & they even take it off the cob for you!

And for dessert? I didn’t want the whole table to suffer and not try the churros so they each got one and I got the rice pudding with sorbet dish (can’t recall the name)…

Churro w/ chocolate & caramel sauce – photo by Matt Duckor

Arroz con Leche (GF) w/ sorbet

After throwing back a quick shot of Patron, we departed ways from El Toro Blanco, but will most definitely be back.

Lure, B&B and now El Toro Blanco – a true culinary trifecta. Congrats Capon & team.

El Toro Blanco
@ElToroBlancoNYC
*
Rating: A
Pros: Always a good crowd, amazing food & gluten-free menu.
Cons:  I gained 5 lbs overnight. 

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