Toloache: Authentic Mexican Dining in the NYC Theater District

Toloache Introduce

Toloache is more than just a Mexican restaurant; it is a culinary haven in the bustling heart of New York City's Theater District. Named after a flowering plant famed in Mexico for its use in love potions, Toloache aims to cast a spell on its diners with its creative and authentic cuisine. The restaurant, helmed by celebrated Chef Julian Medina, is a testament to the art of fine Mexican dining, blending traditional recipes with modern, sophisticated techniques. Its menu is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, showcasing a deep respect for Mexican culinary heritage while daring to introduce new and exciting elements.

The atmosphere at Toloache is a perfect harmony of trendy, cozy, and casual. The two-story space is designed to be inviting and visually appealing, with decor that feels both authentic and modern. It’s an ideal setting for a variety of occasions, whether you're looking for a quick, high-quality lunch, a special dinner, or a place to enjoy a great cocktail before a show. The multi-level layout, including a charming upper level, adds to the intimate and attractive nature of the space, a rare feature in New York City's dense urban landscape.

What truly sets Toloache apart is its commitment to providing an impeccable dining experience. From the moment you walk in, the staff is known for their gracious and efficient service, making sure that despite being a bustling and often packed restaurant, no customer is overlooked. The seamless teamwork and genuine hospitality contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment of the meal. This dedication to service, combined with the outstanding quality of the food and drinks, is why Toloache has become a cherished spot for both locals and visitors.

Toloache is strategically located at 251 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019. Its prime position in the Theater District makes it an exceptionally convenient destination for anyone attending a Broadway show at nearby theaters like the Gershwin. The central location also makes it easily accessible from all over Manhattan, with multiple subway lines and bus routes serving the area. This is a restaurant that understands the New York pace, offering fast and efficient service without compromising on quality, which is crucial for the pre-theater crowd.

The restaurant's accessibility features are a key benefit for all guests. With a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, Toloache ensures that everyone can enjoy its vibrant atmosphere and delicious food. While parking in the area can be a challenge, as is common in New York, the option of paid street parking and nearby garages provides solutions. However, the convenience of its location makes public transportation the most recommended way to get there, allowing for a stress-free experience from start to finish.

Toloache offers a variety of services designed to make dining convenient and enjoyable.

Dine-in: Guests can experience the full menu and vibrant atmosphere inside the restaurant, with professional table service.
Delivery and Takeout: For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home or in their hotel, Toloache provides reliable delivery and takeout options.
Reservations: Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended for lunch, brunch, and dinner, especially for the pre-theater rush.
Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner: Toloache's extensive menu is available for all three meal periods, with specific dishes and pricing for each, ensuring a perfect meal at any time of day.
Catering: Toloache also offers catering services, bringing their acclaimed Mexican cuisine to your private events and gatherings.

The restaurant’s many highlights contribute to its reputation as a top-tier Mexican dining spot in the city.

Great Cocktails and Extensive Bar: Toloache is a go-to for its exceptional cocktails, including a vast selection of tequilas and mezcals. Their “Margaritas To Go” and “Mezcalitas To Go” are a great option for enjoying a taste of Toloache from home.
Creative Guacamole: The restaurant offers a variety of inventive guacamole options, including the "Trio de Guacamoles," a popular choice that allows guests to sample different flavors.
Diverse Menu: The menu is a highlight in itself, offering a wide range of dishes from elevated tacos like the "Tacos De Langosta" to hearty entrees such as "Carne Asada Con Papa" and "Fajitas Nortenas." There are also plenty of vegetarian options, like the “Paella De Quinoa” and "Enchiladas Vegetarianas."
Impeccable Service: The staff is consistently praised for their attentiveness, professionalism, and teamwork, creating a welcoming and efficient dining environment.
Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The decor and ambiance make the restaurant a visually appealing and comfortable place to dine, whether for a quick meal or a leisurely one.

To make a reservation or for general inquiries, you can contact Toloache at the following:

Address: 251 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019
Phone: (212) 581-1818

Choosing Toloache for your next meal is an excellent decision for a number of reasons. The food is consistently described as amazing, fresh, and of high quality. While some patrons have noted that portions can be on the smaller side for the price, this is a common sentiment in high-end New York City dining and is a trade-off for the superior ingredients and culinary artistry. The inventive menu, particularly the different types of guacamole and unique tacos, makes for a truly memorable meal. The steak, for instance, has been highly praised as "very enjoyable" and the Tres Leches De Limon dessert, while polarizing, is noted for its unique twist, showcasing the kitchen's creative spirit.

Beyond the food, the service is a major factor that makes Toloache worth the visit. The efficiency and friendliness of the staff, as highlighted in a customer review, create a dining experience where you feel well-cared for. This level of hospitality is invaluable, especially in a busy city environment. The restaurant’s status as a local favorite for its "home style" yet sophisticated Mexican cuisine speaks to its broad appeal. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist, Toloache offers a distinct and high-quality dining experience that stands out, making it a place you’ll want to return to and recommend to others.

Toloache Menu

Guacamole
TRIO DE GUACAMOLES $34.00
Tradicional, frutas and rojo guacamoles. gluten-free. appetizer.
Rojo Guacamole $17.00
Avocado, tomato, red onion and chipotle queso fresco.
Frutas Guacamole $18.00
Avocado, pomegranate, vidalia onion, mango, apple, habanero and thai basil. medium. gluten-free. appetizer
Traditional Guacamole $17.00
Avocado, tomato, onion, cilantro and serrano. mild. gluten-free. appetizer
Seasonal Mexican Crudite $10.00
Combination of celery, jicama, carrots, and cucumber.

Ceviches
Hamachi $22.00
Yellowtail, meyer lemon, cucumber, red onion, huichol salsa, crispy avocado.
Toro Taquitos $22.00
Tuna belly and sweet onion-habanero salsa. gluten-free.
Crispy Sushi $28.00
Jumbo crab meat, chipotle mayo, avocado-camp osetra caviar, truffle, ponzu.
Ceviche Tasting $45.00
Tasting of all four ceviches. Crispy Sushi, Toro taquitos, Tuna tiradito, Tostada de pulpo, Hamachi.
Tostada De Pulpo $22.00
Octopus & bone marrow, chipotle mayo, sweet onion salad.
Tuna Tiradito $22.00
Yellowfin tuna, soy, sesame salsa macha, avocado, cilantro-thai basil, corn tostada.

Tacos Dinner
Tacos De Suadero $17.00
Beer–braised brisket, avocado, red onions, cilantro, tomatillo salsa, horseradish crema
Tacos De Lechon $17.00
Suckling pig, cactus salad, salsa tatemada, chicharron
Tacos De Costilla & Tuetano $22.00
Beef short ribs, bone marrow, Thai basil, roasted red onion-jalapeño, chiles toreados
Tacos De Langosta $25.00
Spicy lobster, morita salsa, avocado
Tacos De Pollo $16.00
Grilled chicken breast, guacamole, pico de gallo, salsa verde
Tacos De Calabacita $16.00
Zucchini, corn, spicy kale, queso fresco
Tacos De Carne Asada $20.00
Carne asada, chipotle salsa, avocado, onions, cilantro
Tacos De Pescado $18.00
Baja-style fluke, spicy jícama slaw, guacamole
Tacos De Birria & Consome $20.00
Braised brisket in red chiles, melted Chihuahua cheese, onion, cilantro, salsa verde.
Tacos De Camaron $18.00
Garlic-chipotle shrimp, Chihuahua cheese, hearts of palm slaw, tamarind salsa

Platos Fuertes Dinner
Fajitas Nortenas $55.00
Mole Enchiladas $32.00
Enchiladas Vegetarianas $25.00
Arroz Con Mariscos $44.00
Mexican paella, green curry fried rice, shrimp, octopus, clams, salsa macha
Pollo Toloache $27.00
Chipotle-marinated chicken breast a la plancha, crispy Mexican cheese & pinto bean dumpling, sweet corn-pico de gallo.
Salmon $39.00
Organic salmon, fairy tale egg plant, sugar snap peas, caramelized cauliflower puree, caper salsa verde
Bacalao Trufado $42.00
Miso-tequila glazed black cod, hon-shimeji mushrooms, chipotle-black truffle butter
Camarones Toloache $42.00
Roasted garlic shrimp, crispy tortilla, black beans, chayote salad, cascabel salsa, queso fresco. Gluten-free.
Enchiladas Borrachas $28.00
Pulled chicken, tomatillo 5 chiles salsa borracha, Mexican cheeses, crema and radish salad. Gluten-free.
Carne Asada Con Papa $60.00
Paella De Quinoa $28.00
Carne Asada $45.00
Grilled skirt steak, potato gratin, guacamole and mole-cheese enchilada. Gluten-free.
Enchilada De Queso $20.00

Del Horno
Queso Fundido $18.00
Mexican cheese fondue, tomatillo salsa, huitlacoche mushrooms and flour tortillas.
Quesadilla De Tuétano $27.00
Beef short rib, bone marrow, Mexican cheeses, salsa verde, red onion-avocado salad
Quesadilla De Huitlacoche & Trufas $27.00
Manchego cheese, corn, black truffle, crema, huitlacoche salsa
Quesadilla De Camarón $22.00
Shrimp, chile de arbol salsa, Chihuahua cheese, pineapple-red onion salad
Quesadilla Queso Plain $16.00
Mexican cheese fondue in a flour tortilla
Quesadilla De Pollo $18.00
Roasted chicken, Chihuahua cheese, pico de gallo, crema, chile toreado

Tacos Brunch
Tacos De Pollo $17.00
Grilled chicken breast, guacamole, pico de gallo, salsa verde
Tacos De Birria & Consome $21.00
Braised brisket in red chiles, melted Chihuahua cheese, onion, cilantro, salsa verde. 2 tacos per order.
Tacos De Camarón $20.00
Garlic-chipotle shrimp, Chihuahua cheese, hearts of palm slaw, tamarind salsa
Tacos De Pescado $20.00
Baja-style fluke, spicy jícama slaw, guacamole
Tacos De Langosta $25.00
Spicy lobster, morita salsa, avocado
Tacos De De Lechón $18.00
Suckling pig, cactus salad, salsa tatemada, chicharron
Tacos De Costilla & Tuétano $24.00
Beef short ribs, bone marrow, Thai basil, roasted red onion-jalapeño, chiles toreados
Tacos De Carne Asada $22.00
Carne asada, chipotle salsa, avocado, onions, cilantro
Tacos De Calabacita $17.00
Zucchini, corn, spicy kale, queso fresco
Tacos De Suadero $19.00
Beer–braised brisket, avocado, red onions, cilantro, tomatillo salsa, horseradish crema

Mocktails To Go
Fresandia $13.00
El Atardecer $13.00
Mula Loca $13.00
Paloma Blanca $13.00
Coco Loco $13.00

Postres
Churros $14.00
Mexican donuts, cinnamon dust, dipping sauces.
Toloache Crunch Cake $14.00
Chocolate cake, cajeta, chocolate pop rock.
Flan $14.00
Caramelized vanilla custard with caramel popcorn.
Tres Leches De Limon $14.00
Lemon cake soaked in three milks, merengue and berries salsa.

Tacos Lunch
Tacos De Pollo $17.00
Grilled chicken breast, guacamole, pico de gallo, salsa verde
Tacos De Langosta $25.00
Spicy lobster, morita salsa, avocado
Tacos De Suadero $19.00
Beer–braised brisket, avocado, red onions, cilantro, tomatillo salsa, horseradish crema
Tacos De Costilla & Tuétano $24.00
Beef short ribs, bone marrow, Thai basil, roasted red onion-jalapeño, chiles toreados
Tacos De Calabacita $17.00
Zucchini, corn, spicy kale, queso fresco
Tacos De De Lechón $18.00
Suckling pig, cactus salad, salsa tatemada, chicharron
Tacos De Carne Asada $22.00
Carne asada, chipotle salsa, avocado, onions, cilantro
Tacos De Birria & Consome $21.00
Braised brisket in red chiles, melted Chihuahua cheese, onion, cilantro, salsa verde.
Tacos De Pescado $20.00
Baja-style fluke, spicy jícama slaw, guacamole
Tacos De Camarón $20.00
Garlic-chipotle shrimp, Chihuahua cheese, hearts of palm slaw, tamarind salsa

Acompanamientos
Sauteed Spicy Kale $10.00
Only Salsa $2.00
Corn On The Cob $8.00
Avocado Fries $14.00
Green Curry Fried Rice $10.00
Chips & Salsa $5.00
Sweet Plantains $10.00
Fried Brussels Sprouts, Queso Fresco $12.00
Rice & Black Beans $10.00

Cocktails To Go
Mojito $18.00
Rum, mint, lime, soda
Coco Berry $18.00
Citrus Gin $18.00
Sangria $18.00
Apples, grapes, oranges, peaches
Mexican Old Fashioned $18.00

Ceviches
Tostada De Pulpo $22.00
Octopus & bone marrow, chipotle mayo, sweet onion salad.
Crispy Sushi $28.00
Jumbo crab meat, chipotle mayo, avocado-camp osetra caviar, truffle, ponzu.
Hamachi $22.00
Yellowtail, meyer lemon, cucumber, red onion, huichol salsa, crispy avocado.
Ceviche Tasting $45.00
Tasting of all four ceviches. Toro taquitos, Tuna tiradito, Tostada de pulpo, Hamachi.
Toro Taquitos $22.00
Tuna belly and sweet onion-habanero salsa. Gluten-free.
Tuna Tiradito $22.00
Yellowfin tuna, soy, sesame salsa macha, avocado, cilantro-Thai basil, corn tostada.

Guacamole
Traditional Guacamole $17.00
Avocado, tomato, onion, cilantro and Serrano. Mild. Gluten-free. Appetizer
TRIO DE GUACAMOLES $34.00
Tradicional, frutas and rojo guacamoles. Gluten-free. Appetizer.
Rojo Guacamole $17.00
Avocado, tomato, red onion and chipotle queso fresco. Spicy. Gluten-free. Appetizer
Frutas Guacamole $18.00
Avocado, pomegranate, Vidalia onion, mango, apple, habanero and Thai basil. Medium. Gluten-free. Appetizer
Seasonal Mexican Crudite $10.00
Combination of celery, jicama, carrots, and cucumber.

Acompanamientos
Rice & Black Beans $10.00
Sweet Plantains $10.00
Fried Brussels Sprouts, Queso Fresco $12.00
Corn On The Cob $8.00
Chips & Salsa $5.00
Sauteed Spicy Kale $10.00
Green Curry Fried Rice $10.00
Avocado Fries $14.00

Cafes
Coffee $5.00
Latte $8.00
Tea $3.00
Carajillo $14.00
Chilled Liquor 43, espresso, Kahlua, cinnamon
Cafe De Olla $7.00
Spiced Mexican coffee, cinnamon, orange peels, piloncillo brown sugar
Chocolate $7.00
Milk, chocolate abuelita, vanilla bean
Espresso $7.00
Decaf Espresso $7.00
Decaf Capuccino $8.00
Americano $5.00
Iced Coffee $5.00
Mexicano $14.00
Tequila cream, cappuccino, Kahlua
Herradura Cafe De Olla $13.00
Chocolate Azteca $14.00
Mexican hot chocolate, mezcal
Café Con Leche $7.00
Double Espresso $10.00
Decaf Coffee $5.00
Cappuccino $8.00
Toloache Martini $14.00
Chilled Tequila cream, dulce de leche, espresso, chocolate rim

Platos Fuertes Lunch
Fajitas Nortenas $55.00
Paella De Quinoa $28.00
Carne Asada $45.00
Grilled skirt steak, potato gratin, guacamole and mole-cheese enchilada. Gluten-free.
Pepito $28.00
Enchilada De Queso $20.00
Enchiladas Borrachas $28.00
Pulled chicken, tomatillo 5 chiles salsa borracha, Mexican cheeses, crema and radish salad. Gluten-free.
Pollo Toloache $27.00
Chipotle-marinated chicken breast a la plancha, crispy Mexican cheese & pinto bean dumpling, sweet corn-pico de gallo.
Mole Enchiladas $32.00
Salmon $39.00
Organic salmon, fairy tale egg plant, sugar snap peas, caramelized cauliflower puree, caper salsa verde
Enchiladas Vegetarianas $25.00

Cervezas To Go
Pacifico $10.00
Modelo Especial $10.00
XX Amber $10.00
Chelada $11.00
Corona Light $10.00
Corona $10.00
Negra Modelo $10.00
Michelada Picantina $12.00
Choice of beer, fresh lime, Mexican salsas, tajin
XX Lager $10.00

Del Horno
Quesadilla De Pollo $17.00
Quesadilla Queso Plain $16.00
Mexican cheese fondue in a flour tortilla
Queso Fundido $18.00
Mexican cheese fondue, tomatillo salsa, huitlacoche mushrooms and flour tortillas.
Quesadilla De Tuetano $25.00
Quesadilla De Huitlacoche & Trufas $25.00
Quesadilla De Camaron $20.00

Platos Fuertes Brunch
Pepito $28.00
Enchiladas Borrachas $28.00
Pulled chicken, tomatillo 5 chiles salsa borracha, Mexican cheeses, crema and radish salad. Gluten-free.
Burrito Huevon $17.00
Vegetables Enchiladas $25.00
Torta Ahogada $20.00
Huevos Rancheros $18.00
Huevos Motuleños $17.00

Mezcalitas To Go
Mezcalita De Toronja $19.00
Mezcal, Tequila Reposado, grapefruit, lime
Mezcalita De Naranja Sanguina $19.00
El Manguito Double $36.00
Mezcal, mango puree, tamarind, valentina, lime, tajin, rim
Mezcalita De Piña Double $36.00
Mezcal, grilled pineapple-jalapeño puree, light agave, lime
Mezcalita De Naranja Double $36.00
Mezcalita De Piña $19.00
Mezcal, grilled pineapple-jalapeño puree, light agave, lime
Mezcalita De Toronja Double $36.00
Mezcal, Tequila Reposado, grapefruit, lime
El Manguito $19.00
Mezcal, mango puree, tamarind, valentina, lime, tajin, rim

Sopa Y Ensaladas
Ensalada De Jicama $14.00
Jicama, radish, mixed greens, avocado, orange, almonds, tamarind vinaigrette
Ensalada Madre $15.00
Baby arugula, heirloom tomatoes, hearts of palm artichoke, avocado, dill-mint vinaigrette
Caesar Toloache $15.00
Hearts of romaine, cotija cheese, roasted garlic dressing, chile pasilla strips
Sopa De Tortilla $14.00
Tomato & guajillo soup, crispy tortilla, Chihuahua cheese, crema, avocado

Sodas
Jarritos $6.00
Diet Coke Bottle $4.50
Sidral Manzanita $6.00
Sangria Soda $6.00
Mexican Coke $6.00
Cranberry And Soda $4.50
Topochico $6.00

Margaritas To Go
La Sandia $19.00
Tequila Blanco, watermelon, lime, light agave
De La Casa $18.00
Tequila Blanco, Cointreau, lime, agave
De La Calle $19.00
Tequila Blanco, cucumber, jalapeño, lime
Chef's Margarita Double $40.00
Chef's pick Tequila Añejo, agavero, lime, orange
Oro Blanco Double $38.00
Tequila Reposado, lime, agave, Cointreau
Raices Double $38.00
Raices $20.00
Toloache $19.00
Tequila Blanco, hibiscus, blueberries, lime
Toloache Double $36.00
Tequila Blanco, hibiscus, blueberries, lime
Paloma De Pepino Double $38.00
Tequila Blanco, cucumber, grapefruit soda, lime
La Sandia Double $36.00
Tequila Blanco, watermelon, lime, light agave
Oro Blanco $20.00
Tequila Reposado, lime, agave, Cointreau
Skinny $19.00
Tequila Blanco, Cointreau, lime
Chef's Margarita $22.00
Chef's pick Tequila Añejo, agavero, lime, orange
Skinny Double $36.00
Tequila Blanco, Cointreau, lime
De La Calle Double $36.00
Tequila Blanco, cucumber, jalapeño, lime
Paloma De Pepino $20.00
Tequila Blanco, cucumber, grapefruit soda, lime
De La Casa Double $34.00
Tequila Blanco, Cointreau, lime, agave

Sopa Y Ensaladas
Scallops Special $38.00
Caesar Toloache $15.00
Hearts of romaine, cotija cheese, roasted garlic dressing, chile pasilla strips
Sopa De Tortilla $14.00
Tomato & guajillo soup, crispy tortilla, Chihuahua cheese, crema, avocado
Ensalada De Jicama $14.00
Jicama, radish, mixed greens, avocado, orange, almonds, tamarind vinaigrette

Toloache Details

Service options
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great dessert
Serves local specialty

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Hard liquor
Late-night food
Small plates
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Trendy

Crowd
Groups
Locals
Tourists

Planning
Brunch reservations recommended
Lunch reservations recommended
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Usually a wait

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
High chairs

Parking
Paid street parking

Toloache Photos

Toloache Location

Toloache

New York New York County New York West 50th Street

251 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019, USA

Toloache Reviews

An average rating of ★4.4 from 2678 user reviews.

broadway showgrasshoppertimes squaretrufflebone marrowpomegranatechapulineslobster tacospaellashort rib tacos

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Impeccable service & amazing food!! I stumbled across this place while in New York seeing a play on Saturday and it has to be the most amazing food I’ve had in a long time. When I walked in despite them being absolutely packed they managed to find me a nice seat at the bar. Not only that they very graciously offered to charge my phone for me (which saved my life)! My server Arturo was a delight he made sure to check in with me and his suggestions were absolutely fantastic. I’m vegetarian andnonalcoholic, both with his suggestions for a drink and the main meal were absolutely amazing! I enjoyed it every bit. But the most amazing part had to be seeing the team and the way worked together! I have worked in restaurants my whole life and it’s really hard to get a team that not only gets their job done but also helps their colleagues without asking. Not a single minute was being wasted standing around! Everyone was either attending their tables, helping their coworker or checking in on diners. Despite being packed not a single customer was ignored, one had to simply look in the general direction of a sever and they would make sure they got you what you needed. Needless to say I will be returning and telling everyone that they absolutely need to eat here!
March 05 · Meenu Puri
I like to jokingly say that this restaurant was imported from Mexico because the decor seems so authentic (see my photos). I had their strip steak ($45) which was very enjoyable. I had a side order of black beans ($5) which were delicious. I tried their Tres Leches De Limon dessert.with berries. In my opinion, it is an extremely poor version of a Tres Leches dessert. From my experience, good Tre Lehes elsewhere have not included a fruit on the side of the plate, they let the Tres Leche speak for itself. This restaurant is the only occupant in the two story building, which is uncommon and helps account for its attractiveness. Try to get a table on the upper level, it is charming.
September 13 · Harvey Messing
Great place and I need to call out the above and beyond service. 1) they forgot to bring our chip from the bar to the table which is fine it was super busy. When they realized the mistake they brought us a fresh order and a round of delicious tequila shots. 2) one of the cocktails was too sweet and the replaced it with a traditional margarita. A lot of places would have shrugged but we really appreciate the extra effort. 5 stars!
September 14 · Mike Towey
Just had a great time at Toloache on 50th St. for their Mexican Independence Day special. The menu was packed with bold, vibrant flavors, and everything we ordered hit the mark. The mango and hibiscus margaritas were standouts. Fresh, balanced, and just the right kick. Service was warm and friendly, which made the whole evening even better. It can be a little pricey, but it’s a solid pick for a pre- or post-theatre meal, or a fun dinner with friends and family.
September 14 · dipayan sen
Went there for a personal occasion on a Sunday and it was quite full.Good location - Close enough to broadway and all the action.Loved the food and the drinks. Not a large menu but quite authentic. Ordered the open quesadilla which was very nice. Tacos were better than average but not out of the world. The drinks were great.
May 09 · Suhas Sethi