Mariam Nihal
Saudi Gazette
The Middle East is one of the fastest developing markets in the hospitality sector across the world. Thousands of restaurant brands express the ambition and drive to enter the Middle Eastern marketplace because of its rich cultural diversity. Most of the younger population (which marks more than fifty percent of the total population) is well conversed with international cuisine and sophisticated with greater exposure. Which also brings us to the cosmopolitan city of Dubai. In many ways it’s a favorite Middle Eastern spot, even for Saudis. And we are very specific about our culinary desires. Introducing Toro Toro, for the right pinch of sophistication and urbanity.
If you are looking for an intimate yet exquisite evening out with friends and family for a special occasion, this one is a safe bet. It might even become a ritual as the experience grows on you. The hosts are incredibly attentive and make sure the service is worth more than what you paid for. Chef Richard Sandoval’s Toro Toro offers a blend of Pan Latin styles and flavors including some of the finest steak verities in the region. The chef spins South and Central American ingredients into sharing portions for customers. Primarily Toro Toro is a steak heaven. So remember to go easy on the starters, which are ‘sharing’ portions for a reason. You can start with the Toro Toro salad, a mixture of coyote, fava beans, Queso fresco Turkey rasher, corn and crispy tortilla. Or US prime beef steak tartare and causa de cangrejo with crabmeat, wasabi, avocado and mashed yellow potato cake. The heavy portions are enough to share between two. But make sure you don’t end up ordering more. If you haven’t saved an appetite for the unbelievable steak variety, then go for zucchini flower empanada, delicious chicken anticucho with aji mirasol and red miso paste, or scrumptious shrimp anticucho skewers. If you’re looking for meat varieties, the lamb skewers are reminiscent of our cultural cuisine (served with garlic and yoghurt sauce). The corn pancakes cachapas come with halloumi cheese and tomato jam on the side adding a twist to the traditional style.
You can enjoy the free flow of meat and sides, carved at your table with brazilian-style picanha steak, wagyu rib eye steak, beef tenderloin, Australian lamb chop, achiote marinated chicken thigh and prawns. And no matter how many steak varieties you have tried before, Toro Toro appeals to more than just gastronomical senses, it promises a beautifully satisfying evening and guarantees it.
Typically, looking out for dessert would be considered sinful at this hour. But what harm could a flourless cake inflict? Seems light and just right to change your mind? At least justifies the occasion.
Meanwhile, their professional cameraman will make sure to stop by and ask if you want to be clicked for their social media pages. After all, how can you be outdoors without having a picture clicked? You can log on to their Facebook page next day to see your paparazzi moment.
Mexican-born Chef Richard Sandoval has almost single-handedly made Latin cuisine one of Dubai’s most sought after culinary experiences. To make dinner reservations, give them a call in advance.
