El Torito

El Torito is a well-established full-service Mexican restaurant chain, celebrated for its blend of traditional and modern Mexican cuisine and lively dining atmosphere. Since its founding in 1954 by Larry J. Cano in Los Angeles, El Torito has been a trailblazer in bringing Mexican dining to the forefront of American culinary culture. The restaurant quickly grew from a single location into a recognized name across California and the Western U.S., especially noted for popularizing tableside guacamole and margaritas.

As of November 2025, El Torito operates around 69 locations, predominantly in California, with a presence in Nevada and Arizona. This footprint underscores its focus on high-traffic suburban and urban trade areas. The brand's journey took a significant turn in 2018 when Xperience Restaurant Group acquired it after the bankruptcy of Real Mex Restaurants, the previous parent company. Since the acquisition, Xperience Restaurant Group has revitalized El Torito through strategic remodels, menu updates, and increased community engagement, all while preserving the essence of the brand.

El Torito's adaptability in format—from large standalone restaurants to in-line and mall-adjacent units—enhances its appeal as a reliable anchor or co-tenant in retail environments. This flexibility, coupled with a stable growth strategy that emphasizes quality locations and long-term leases, makes El Torito a compelling partner for landlords and developers. The brand's enduring legacy and commitment to quality ensure its continued role as a dynamic force in the dining sector.