Our Story
If it’s not good, I will not serve it.
Since 2005, Ruben and El Toro Bravo have been welcoming guests into one of the best dining experiences in Sarasota.
El Toro Bravo has maintained its small town warmth and charm by delivering friendly service with exceptional Southwest Mexican food. Ruben personally travels to the markets to hand-pick only the freshest and most colorful produce for his dishes. You won’t find lard or vinegar being used at El Toro Bravo. Ruben insists on cooking with olive oil and canola oil because they are healthier and more flavorful.
Diners can choose from a wide variety of carefully prepared menu items and can choose from Ruben’s own special sauce creations, red or green (or ask for Christmas – which is a combination of both).
What people are saying!





London
Read the Trip Advisor reviews and thought we would try out El Toro Bravo. Very positive first sign in that the place was full and very positive welcome from the staff so we waited outside for ten minutes or so reading the menu. We (me plus wife and two daughters) all ordered different mains and all really enjoyed them. Great experience and staff really looked after us, especially nice touch for the owner to come and thank us as we left. Many thanks!
Tony





Sarasota, FL
Absolutely the best Mexican food our family has ever had. In our group of 5, the vote was unanimous. Salsa was the best, burritos were best, desert was best. As good or better as advertised for us. We will be back.
Gary C





Largo, FL
This place is a hidden gem. The food was wonderful and our waiter was friendly and very prompt with our order. The salsa (made from scratch I heard) and chips were delicious. If you love Southwest Mexican you’ll fall in love with this quaint little restaurant. The New Mexico enchiladas are incredible! The owner came out and personally greeted us, then came back after we finished and thanked us for coming. We’re already planning our next trip to El Toro Bravo!
Vanessa M.





Siesta Key, FL
I brought my daughter and her boyfriend here. They were visiting me from Minnesota. We had the best dining experience EVER! The food was delicious. The service was grand. And nothing prepared us for the treat we received at the end of our meal! Thank you!!
Kerri B





Fayetteville, GA
Chose El Toro because of the Trip Advisor ratings. Found it to be small but popular. We arrived on a Thursday evening about 5:30, and the place already was 70% filled, mostly by locals, which is always a good sign. Food was excellent. Tried a New Mexico dish. Wife had a Taco Salad which she enjoyed. Small family run place.
Fayettecar
For over ten years our family has worked to provide the highest quality Mexican food in Sarasota, made from the finest ingredients available. We are excited to share our new location with you and thank you so much for your support!