Torito

276 Augusta Avenue, Kensington Market

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

I have to admit, I wasn't sure how it was possible for a Tapas restaurant to be good in Kensington Market, especially after having been to a few other places in Toronto, and as well, travelling Spain. However, to my delight, Torito's food was just as good as its service and atmosphere.

Upon being greeted within about 30 seconds of entering the restaurant, we were quickly seated and accomodated in the bar downstairs as it was relatively busy. A delicious glass of Sangaria was first to order on the list, and then to follow some wonderful tapas that took forever to decide upon.

The fish ceviche was amazing! Fresh, lemony, well plated and well flavoured. Torito took a new and delightful spin on their patatas bravas, adding spicy chorizo in a zesty tomato based sauce. The Adalusian chickpea stew was a nice dish, however lacked a little bit in flavour. A salty component could have been added to it, however it was still nice. And finally the crab croquettes were also very well flavoured, and fairly light. My only - and surprising - disappointment was the spanish tortilla. A seemingly easy (and mandatory) tapa for a Spanish restaurant was dry, doughy, and tasted more like a cake than a potato style pie. However, 4/5 ain't bad.

I recommend Torito as a place you should try. It is a reasonably priced Tapas bar, has a nice selection of Tapas, some very innovative and refined, the service is great and the atmosphere is very welcoming.