El Toro Blanco

El Toro Blanco Restaurant Review:

Located in the West Village, El Toro Blanco attracts a young, unfussy clientele who aren’t necessarily looking for inventive Mexican fare, which is a good thing because the menu at this south-of-the-border spot offers straightforward Mexican-American-reminiscent cuisine. Start with chunky guacamole before moving on to one of the first-rate tamales made with corn that has a lingering sweetness. Tacos can be hit-or-miss: the al pastor pork was too chewy, but the pulled roasted chicken nails it with its chipotle and tomato flavors. More substantial dishes include pan-roasted snapper and a nutty red mole-anointed chicken. There’s a small selection of wines by the glass and some creative takes on the margarita, too, including the “Calabazita” with lemon, pumpkin, cinnamon and clove. Bonus for dog lovers: The outdoor patio is a welcome spot for Fido.