Toro Loco

- 23 Valley St, South Orange Village, NJ 07079

For New Jersey residents seeking an authentic, long-standing Mexican dining experience with a lively atmosphere, look no further than Toro Loco in the charming South Orange Village. As a true local staple, this Mexican restaurant and bar has been serving up flavorful, satisfying dishes and famously potent margaritas for decades, establishing itself as a beloved institution in Essex County, particularly popular with the Seton Hall University community and local families alike.

Toro Loco is more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it offers a full, vibrant experience. From the moment you approach the location, the exterior, often noted for its charmingly kitschy pre-Columbian-inspired decor, sets the scene for a culinary journey south of the border. The interior continues this theme with a rustic and unique, yet cozy and trendy, atmosphere, featuring vibrant colors and traditional elements. Whether you are seeking a casual weeknight dinner, a fun spot for lunch, or a lively weekend celebration, Toro Loco provides a welcoming backdrop for all occasions.

The menu is extensive and thorough, ensuring there is a delicious option for everyone, from comfort food enthusiasts to those seeking vegetarian fare and specialty seafood. Appetizers include favorites like 3 Empanaditas, Chilaquiles (Fried Corn Tortilla strips), Ensalada Nopales (traditional cactus salad), and fresh Guacamole. Their selection of soups, such as Sopa De Almejas (Clam Soup), Sopa De Frijol Negro (Black Bean Soup), and classic Tortilla Soup, offers warm, traditional starters.

For the main event, the "Specialties" section highlights their generously portioned, sizzling plates. The Fajitas are a house highlight and can be ordered with shrimp ($16.95), skirt steak or chicken ($14.95), or the impressive combination, Fajitas Toro Loco ($18.95). Patrons should also consider the Bistek Empanado Con Camarones En Salsa Blanca ($24.95) or the luxurious Mariscada En Salsa Verde O Salsa De Ajo ($25.95), which features shrimp, clams, mussels, scallops, and lobster. They also offer a wide array of classic Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, enchiladas, chile rellenos, and more, with various options for meat, seafood, and vegetarians.

The bar is a major highlight, well-stocked with a great selection of beer, including Mexican brews like Dos Equis and Corona, and hard liquor. They are particularly famous in New Jersey for their potent margaritas—available in regular, frozen, and a wide variety of fruit flavors like strawberry, peach, mango, and melon. Additionally, happy hour drinks and food specials are available on weekdays, typically from 4 PM to 6 PM, which often includes deals on margaritas and delicious appetizers like the Toro Supreme Sampler, making it a perfect after-work or pre-dinner stop. The atmosphere during these hours and on weekends, especially when a live DJ is present, is often described as energetic and "vibing" by local patrons.

Toro Loco is centrally situated in the vibrant community of South Orange Village, making it easily accessible for residents across Essex County and surrounding North Jersey areas.

The exact address is:

23 Valley St, South Orange Village, NJ 07079, USA

The location offers excellent accessibility features, catering to all guests, which is a significant convenience for the local community. These features include:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot
• Wheelchair accessible seating
• Free parking lot and free street parking available
• Paid parking lot options also available nearby

Being a neighborhood staple near Seton Hall University, the spot draws a diverse crowd, including college students, large groups, families, and tourists, all looking for a fun and satisfying meal.

Toro Loco provides a comprehensive list of services to meet various dining needs in the New Jersey community:

• Dine-in table service for lunch, dinner, and dessert
• Takeout options for meals on the go
• Outdoor seating area for a pleasant al fresco dining experience (dogs allowed outside)
• Accepts reservations, which is recommended for larger groups or peak hours
• Bar onsite offering a full range of alcohol, beer, cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages like coffee
• Accepts major credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments (e.g., Apple Pay)
• Offers high chairs and a dedicated Kids’ menu, making it good for families with children

The establishment is well-regarded for several key features that contribute to its local popularity and make it stand out among New Jersey’s dining options:

• Fast Service: Customers consistently praise the attentiveness and speed of the wait staff.
• Great Drink Selection: Especially known for its "Great cocktails" and "Great beer selection," with a strong reputation for high-quality, generously poured margaritas.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Described as casual, cozy, and trendy, with a lively environment often enhanced by a live DJ on weekends or special nights, making it a "fun time no matter when you go."
• Serves Local Specialty: Focuses on authentic Mexican cuisine, satisfying the demand for quality ethnic food in the area.
• Excellent Dessert: Known for offering a great dessert selection to round out the meal.
• Diverse Offerings: Provides comfort food, late-night food, quick bites, small plates, happy hour food and drinks, and vegetarian options.

For current operating hours, reservations, or takeout orders, residents can easily reach Toro Loco using the following details:

Address: 23 Valley St, South Orange Village, NJ 07079, USA

Phone: (973) 761-1515

Mobile Phone: +1 973-761-1515

Toro Loco stands out as a top choice for Mexican cuisine in the New Jersey area for several compelling reasons. It successfully blends the quality of traditional Mexican cooking with a truly festive, vibrant dining experience. It has established itself as a reliable, long-standing institution, which speaks to its consistency in both food quality and service. For those in search of a good time, the lively bar area, famous for its margaritas, and the inclusion of a live DJ on certain nights make it an exceptional destination for groups, parties, or just a fun night out.

The reasonable pricing and generous portions ensure excellent value, a factor frequently highlighted by satisfied customers. Whether you are gathering a large group—reservations are accepted—or simply looking for a satisfying solo dining experience, Toro Loco is equipped to deliver. Its combination of accessibility, excellent service, delicious comfort food, and vibrant, welcoming atmosphere solidifies its position as a favorite local haunt and a highly recommended spot for anyone in the North Jersey region looking to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors in a high-energy setting. The dedication of the engaged and attentive staff, who ensure fast service and customer satisfaction (even offering a needed second round before you have to ask), makes it a place where you will quickly feel like a regular.

Toro Loco

23 Valley St, South Orange Village, NJ 07079, USA