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El Trompo Taco Bar
Category: Restaurants Mexican Mexican [Edit]
277 Augusta AveToronto, ON M5T 2M1
Neighbourhood: Kensington Market
(416) 260-0097
- Hours:
Tue-Thu 11 am - 8 pm
Fri-Sat 11 am - 9 pm
Sun 11 am - 6 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
80 reviews for El Trompo Taco Bar
Review Highlights
"Chorizo is spiced well and al-pastor is tender."
(in 22 reviews)
"Their pico de gallo is fresh and delicious, as is their..."
(in 11 reviews)
"Corn tortillas are soft and fresh."
(in 3 reviews)
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80 reviews in English
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Review from David T.
Scarborough, ON
1/26/2012
This is a great little gem in Kensington market that serves authentic Mexican food at reasonable prices.
Whenever I go (I go quite often in the summertime), I normally start off with the guacamole with corn chips ($6.75) which is fantastic, you can tell it's freshly made and they are pretty generous with the guacamole.
I then order the Al Pastor tacos ($9.75 for five tacos) which is their specialty, consists of marinated pork and bits of pineapple and onions. Even though they are five small tacos they are delicious, nicely marinated pork and perfectly made corn tortilla which I then add some hot sauce to make the perfect light meal.
I have been to Mexico a few times and tried tacos at restaurants and from local street vendors and the tacos at El Trompo are almost as good as the ones served in Mexico but better than any other place in Toronto.
I asked some friends from Mexico what they thought of the place and they said it was really authentic.
It's a family run business with really friendly service.
They have a very small patio that is great for people watching in the summertime or just to sit back and enjoy a corona or two. -
Review from Chris K.
Toronto, ON
1/10/2012
The reviews at our table were a bit mixed, but I enjoyed the food here - it's authentic, tasty and you get a decent amount for the price.
My wife and I each had the al pastor ("Mexico-city style tacos" - pork, pineapple coriander, onion) and were big fans, largely because of the authenticity. If you prefer Tex-Mex to the real thing (first, what is wrong with you), you may be a bit underwhelmed because these dishes aren't about hot sauce and sour cream.
The service was good and quick - it took about ten minutes to get our food on a busy night. This place always seems to be hopping, as there was a line at the door when we left.
Most of the customers were young couples, although one or two tables had one or two kids. The place is laid back, fun and cramped.
Along with two beers, one horcahta (a drink made with rice, vanilla, cinnamon and milk - tastes better than it sounds), a tip and taxes, the bill came to just under $40. -
Review from Mikael J.
Toronto, ON
1/8/2012
So I went here tonight for dinner and I have to say - I'm a total convert!
I'm vegan, and have never been a huge fan of Mexican food, but this place really blew my mind. My partner is from Texas, and knows good authentic Mexican food when he tastes/sees it, and this is his favourite Mexican place in Toronto by far.
For all my fellow vegans out there - the staff here is very friendly and has no problem pointing out the vegan menu items. This will probably just be guac + corn chips (BEST guac I have ever had), the veggie quesadilla sans cheese, and then something else veggietacular that I can't quite remember. Whatever it is, it'll be badass, trust me.
Prompt service, delish food, and free unending corn chip refills! Hells yes! They even gave us some more for the road!
I really love the family vibe of this place. The food is made fresh, clearly homemade, no frozen/processed bullshit. It's light and healthy, not greasy and oily and heavy as some restaurants are. You won't come out of this place feeling sluggish and like you need to take a nap/sit for the rest of the evening.
For 2 people it was ~$45 including tip, but we came home with leftovers of everything we ordered, which has already lasted me one snack, and will probably last another meal or two for each of us. You do get a decent amount of food! I'll definitely be coming back here... and often! -
Review from Brian G.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 12/15/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Always tasty and real! True Mexican and quality food!
I like to stop by at least a couple of times a month and enjoy the friendly staff and some REAL Mexican food!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/5/2011
Well when you take your Mexican friend there and he raves, you know it's good.
Authentic, tasty and… Read more »
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Review from Rainie L.
Markham, ON
1/8/2012
The tacos here are fairly good but for price and taste, I prefer some of the other taco joints in the neighbourhood. But I would recommend this place for the atmosphere. I love the vibe of this place compared to the rest. It's like going to dinner at your Mexican friend's home. Great place to grab food and hangout with friends.
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Review from Natalie T.
East York, ON
11/24/2011
VIBE
This place doesn't look like much on the outside- or the inside. It reminds me of old school Kensington Market, with its ramshackle sign and its checkered table cloths and chinzy Corona signage. I'm not sure if the place is family run but the crew seem pretty close-knit. A hodgepodge of people come here - from students to couples to groups for birthday parties. It doesn't matter. The food is good and their outdoor patio is one of THE BEST places to people watch. You're literally right in the heart of Kensington Market (just make sure to go shopping at Model Citizen BEFORE you eat!).
I EAT
I'm a creature of habit at El Trompo. Guacamole and chips as an appetizer; tacos el pastor as a main.
The El Trompo guac recipe is one of my favourites in Toronto. I always eat this in one sitting and am not ashamed to say so. The avocado is super fresh and there is a right balance of ingredients in the guac. Splash a bit of lime on the guac and voila! Craving for life.
The five mini pork taquitas are marinated and are Mexican city tacos. They've got a great spice to them and not over-accessorized with ingredients like most of the burrito places in town. The el pastor tacos also have pineapple sprinkled throughout and it adds a sweet tanginess to the spicy kick of the meat. Win-win.
The meal is also reasonably priced: for a Corona, guac and taquita meal, it's about $25.
Definitely on my top 10 Toronto eats list and one of my favourite places to have Mexican food. Add that to the fact that you're in one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Toronto, equals a solid 8.5 out of 10 rating for me.
A note: what is up with the music on the website (or websites in general)? That is so 1999. Stop. Please stop.
OBLIGATORY CATCHY REMARK
This place "el trompos" the other Mexican restaurants in town. (I know. I need to stop this. But it's fun.) -
Review from Peter K.
Mississauga, ON
11/29/2011
Everything smelled homemade! The fajitas were dynamite! Overall the place makes you feel like you're in a small town in Mexico. Very homey and welcoming, the music was good, food is served hot and fresh and the beer was cheap!
Service with a smile :) This spot is definitely a keeper. -
Review from Reynold P.
Toronto, ON
11/10/2011
I love Mexican food. I love tacos and burritos. I love Mexican rice most of all. Although El Trompo doesn't serve rice, I still like it.
It's simple food done in a authentic way, at least it makes me believe so. It's not a cheap meal, it's pricey for the portions and they aren't too filling.
I've had the guac with chips, chorizo, al-pastor, and black corn fungus tacos. Dishes come in 3 or 4 small and portable tacos.
Tacos are really tasty, I always want more. Chorizo is spiced well and al-pastor is tender. The corn fungus is certainly unique and palatable I would rather have the other two. The guac is alright, but I've had better and have made better too.
The Horchata is my favorite drink there. It's like a rice milk that's spiced with flavor. It's good, just try it.
Overall, the food is good but the portions are not filling. I could eat two plates easily and that would make my bill 20 bucks alone. For that price I would expect more anyways.
It's great to have once in a while. -
Review from Justine H.
Toronto, ON
10/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
Restaurant: El Trompo Taco Bar
Cuisine: Mexican
Location: Kensington Market
Address: 277 Augusta Ave
Price Range: ~$10
1: Poor 2: OK 3: Good 4: Very Good 5: Excellent
Food: 4
Service: 3
Ambiance: 3
Overall: 3
Extra information:
*Patio during Summer
*Around 7 tables outside
*No air conditioning inside
*Small seating area
One of the cuisines I started to enjoy as I got older was Mexican. Growing up in Vancouver, we didn't really get much options for Mexican restaurants until recently. It was only when I moved to New York 4 years ago that I was introduced to real, authentic (somewhat) and delicious Mexican food.
El Trompo Taco Bar is located in Kensington Market, a little far from public transit so you might have to walk a bit. When I went, the weather was still hot so we decided to sit out in the patio since there were no air conditioning inside.
When you sit down, they give you 2 hot sauce in plastic bowls. One of them are red hot sauce (spicy & salty) where as the other one is green hot sauce (refreshing & has that after kick). These come with 2 spoons and I realized they don't give you specific instructions as how to use them, are you suppose to use the spoons to scoop up some sauce for your plate? or do you use the spoon to put some on your chip? or do you dip your chip in the bowl? I was seeing people using it different ways and it made me wonder how sanitary it could be cause I doubt all this is just for one time use.
Ordered: GUACAMOLE 4/5
*$6.75 for a bowl
*This is premade in the morning so it will come the moment you order it
*Has lots of fresh tomato pieces
*Came with basket of crunchy nacho chip
*Nacho chips are corn based and lighty salted
*Bowl doesn't look very big but it's very deep so you do get your money's worth
*Had a bit of cilantro but would prefer more
*Mixed this with green hot sauce and it was really good
Ordered: TINGA - SPICY CHICKEN 4/5
*Shredded chicken tacos cooked in tomato/smoked chipotle pepper sauce, topped with onions & coriander
*5 pieces for $9.75
*Small size tacos (authentic kind, not your taco bell size)
*They use single layer of taco instead of double
*Lots of shredded chicken, onion and cilantro
*Overall has very good flavor but it wasn't spicy at all
*Added lots of green hot sauce
*Messy to eat cause the juice will drip
Ordered: JARRITO DE PINA 2/5
*Pineapple Mexican Soda for $1.99
*Most popular flavor is Tamarind but I've tried that before
*Nothing special, just your average pineapple soda
Summary: I love this little taco joint, maybe next time I visit I can ask them to make my order spicier cause I know I can handle the heat. Def going back for their fresh guacamole and I want to try beef alambre next time! -
Review from Ares X.
Toronto, ON
1/3/2012
Ive been here many years ago, and here recently.
Food is great, especially the nachos, and the avocado dip.
And the green chili sauce they serve! (I could drink a litre of it! [anyone know what it might be called?])
This place is great, only tip is bring water with yourself. I remember seeing locals in there and they all had their own water to drink. From what I remember, I think my girlfriend said how her water tasted or smelled like washing liquid (they use plastic cups so it absorbs the chemicals). I drank it though :p
Visit this place, it's great and cheap! -
Review from Wendy H.
Toronto, ON
10/13/2011
I used to sit on the sidelines, watching Zack S mow down a plate (or sometimes 2) of these famous El Pastor tacos. He would moan and glisten with sweat and tremble slightly. I now realize this sounds like I'm describing the symptoms of food poisoning, but it's because he was in food bliss.
One day I decided to join in on the fun. I ordered the Quesongo (mushroom) tacos, which come nestled together like 5 wee bear cubs my plate. And then I destroyed them.
The guacamole is decent, but the tacos - based on my experience and Zack S' - are to kill for. I had tacos at a different place last night and wanted to throw my plate off a bridge in disgust. It's not that they were inedible - they just paled in comparison.
So, 5 stars based on one plate. All you need is a moment to know that you're in love. -
Review from Kent P.
8/22/2011
Seemed pretty Mexican to me.
Popped in for a huevos rancheros with chorizo for breakfast. It came with coffee, some pico de gallo, re-fried beans, and five warm tortillas to make little tacos as I saw fit.
It was prompt, spicy as I wanted it (by way of the bowls of sauce sitting on the tables - recycled for everyone who sat there - a little unsanitary for my standards, but again, I assume it's sort of Mexican).
All that for 9$ including tax and tip. Not too shabby. Although it doesn't look like it - they also accept plastic. -
Review from Lilliane G.
Toronto, ON
8/13/2011 1 photo
I wish I had read the reviews BEFORE trying this place...didn't have my BB with me (shock)! Rookie mistake.
Ok, anyone who knows me, knows I look my food spicy, so when I ordered their Tinga - Spicy Chicken soft tacos I was super excited.
Service was speedy, I mean, speedy, like I placed my order, grabbed a seat and the server brought me my tacos. Yeah, THAT fast!
It pains me to say this, but at $9 and change, what a disappointment...they were bland, flavourless and small. The salsas were pretty watery and had a very soupy consistency. It's not to say that I didn't 'enjoy' the food, but I've had way better. I was expecting authentic Mexican and I got something that was trying really had to be that, but failing in an epic way.
Needless to say I won't return. Too expensive and bland for my taste.Listed in: Just Nasty
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Review from Andi B.
Markham, ON
8/29/2011
Well...really 4.5.
Lets break it down:
The restaurant is a hole in the wall. Its tiny, HOT, and sticky. So don't expect the Ritz. The atmosphere, I personally think is charming. Afterall, these are authentic mexican street tacos so, its nice to be served by mexican waitresses and it not be too fancy. Street food at its best.
My husband and his friends all had the al pastor which was really good. Distinctive flavors. I had the spicy chicken which was prettttyyyy good. Those hot sauces they give you are amazing.
The portion sizes are cool for the price. You get 5 small (this isn't taco bell) tacos for 10$. Margaritas were good (get the lime). BUT the churros were cold and unappetizing. That's where they lost 0.5.
So go, get the food and go get your churros down the street.
THUMBS UP! -
Review from Fern H.
5/11/2011
We stopped into El Trompo for a quick and cheap meal before a movie and were not disappointed.
We started with an order of the guacamole ($6.75) and the pico de gallo ($3.99). Both come with an bowl of chips. We then ordered 3 different tacos - Al Pastor, Chorizo and Bistec (beef) all reasonably priced at $9.75 each. For drinks, we got a beer and two Jarritos sodas (love the lime flavour).
Food came fast and hot. I found the chorizo tacos a bit on the spicy side but still good. We sat at a table at the back of the restaurant and I think it was close to the washroom because the scent of washroom sanitizer wafted by a couple of times while we ate - not appetizing.
The waitress was kind enough to provide not only separate bills but also divided up the price of the appetizers by 3 as well.
Dinner and non-alcoholic drink plus tax and tip for under $20. -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
4/14/2011 7 photos
I think I am ready to give up my search for authentic Mexican food in Toronto... I really wondering if they really exist!!
El Trompo Taco Bar is one of the better Mexican restaurants I been to in Toronto.. but something is missing... The tacos are good.. small but good...but they did not wow me like the ones I have in Mexico...
Al Pastor ($9.75)
- Great for snacks.. I can just down those 5 tacos in record time without leaving any for my yelp friend... but I am nice....
- The pork is a little dry and blend... more fresh lime juice might help
Pozole ($5.99)
- pork and corn soup.. with garnish
- really really bland... and the garnish on the side were tasteless too..
- chili pepper with zero hotness?
- I almost want to spoon in all the hot sauces on the table to give it a kick!!
I have to say El Trompo's food is a toned down versions for the real Mexican food...
BTW, if you like me find those 2 salsa tasted like water with colours... ask the servers.. they have the REAL salsa reserved for the special someone that knows... just ask... and you will have the real thing!Listed in: A Day in Kensington Market!, Mexician Food in Toronto!
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Review from Areej H.
Mississauga, ON
1/2/2012
I have been here several times and it has been excellent every time. This weekend I went with a group of 5 friends. Its a tiny place, and almost always busy. We were seated right away by our very nice server. The service was extremely fast, and food was fresh and authentic. We got the guacamole to start, and it is the best guacamole in town. If you want authentic Mexican food, this is definitely the place to go. We weren't impressed by their churros, but the rest of the meal was absolutely delicious. The place definitely had a homey atmosphere-very warm and inviting.
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Review from Susu H.
Toronto, ON
8/11/2011
Seriously, since when was Mexican ever expensive? Oooh wait...I'm in Canada....
Tasty, but way too expensive for what you get. Not sure it's worth it. -
Review from Tong J.
It took a trip to El Trompo Taco Bar to remind me of a great community that I often forget. Kensington Market is a vibrant, energetic and colorful neighborhood, a perfect place for a warm and homey restaurant like El Trompo!
The food was awesome. I enjoyed the homemade bean soup with bacon and Mexican spices. Oh, so yummy! The tacos were equally good. My favorite was the Chorizo taco. Loved the spiciness of the sausage. The chuleta was quite tasty as well, a bit heavy on the salt, but a spoon full of house-made salsa made it taste heaps better. The pork pieces were tender and moist.
Adore the friendliness and prompt service! I cannot wait to stop by for weekend brunch! -
Review from Real B.
Toronto, ON
7/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
My 1st visit in summer 2011. (caveat: I've been here at least half a dozen times over the years.) Are there new owners? Seriously cause I wanna know...
Food this time was really bland and tasted 95% of maggi. Blah. So very disappointed :-(
previously I did say: About as good as you will get in Toronto in terms of Mexican. Pretty yummy and little patio is great for people watching strange people! I NOW take BACK what I said about the food. The people are still, well. strange... -
Review from Avitania B.
Toronto, ON
I was raised in Southern California and have been to Mexico (both Baja and the mainland) many a time. Ever since I moved to Canada, I have been missing authentic Mexican food, and my meal at El Trompo is the first one that even comes close to the delicious little street meat tacos I remember.
However, if we were comparing these tacos to real Mexican tacos, I'd say it's a solid three stars. On the other hand, we'd have to compare El Trompo to the lack of good, authentic Mexican food in Toronto, then it's definitely 5 stars. I had the combination with bean soup (which was absolutely yum, and perfect for the chilly day) and 5 Al Pastor tacos. The meat was tender, and I love the sweetness of the pineapple with the pork. I also ordered the churros (fried dough rolled in cinnamon and sugar), which were okay but served cold -- they should have been served warm.
I'd definitely come here again when I'm feeling a little homesick. -
Review from Eugene T.
Mississauga, ON
10/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
Tacos al pastor was awesome, fast friendly service, definitely the best tacos in Toronto hands down!
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Review from Brian T.
Toronto, ON
4/24/2011
To me this is the best place to get tacos in Toronto (much better than El Asador). While the quality here does not quite match the best tacos you can get in Cali, they are nevertheless very good (regardless of what city) and stand on their own merit.
To me the three best tacos are the al pastor, chorizo, and tinga in that order. The steak tacos are also very good. House made guacamole is solid but missing a little something (possibly some extra salt?).
Red and Green sauces at the table are very flavourful and both pack good heat. Corn tortillas are soft and fresh.
Tamarindo, Horchata and Jamaica juices are all very good and worth getting in place of beer or soda.
One downside is the lack of A/C in the summer (although being a taco joint this is kind of par for the course) which means be prepared to sweat while eating if you can't get a seat on the patio (whatever, it's worth it).
In short, I go here at least once a month when ever I need to fix a taco craving. -
Review from Lauren W.
Toronto, ON
4/14/2011
I was expecting to be blown away, based on the reviews and what I've heard from my friends.
Bottom line: The taco's are good - I wouldn't say great. Everything tasted fresh, and the service was pretty quick, almost felt a little rushed, but then again, the atmosphere is ... well... kind of gross (for lack of a better word.)
It was pretty loud and stuffy, and the fact that the messy baby at the table next to me was practically on top of me for the duration of my meal didn't help my situation.
I've traveled all over Mexico and love Mexican food. As far as authenticity goes, the tacos come pretty close, but the menu selection is pretty small.
Quick meal in and out in what felt like half an hour. I'd maybe go back if I was in Kensington and passing by, but definitely not a place I'd venture out of my way for. -
Review from John F.
North York, ON
10/25/2010
It's nice to finally find a place in Toronto that reminds me of good taquerias in Chicago. And we stumbled on it by accident, as a restaurant we has planned to go to because of Yelp reviews has too long a wait.
The tacos are wonderful, everyhting is home cooked and guacomole was perfect.
No atmosphere to speak of - it's a joint. But prompt and friendly service and great food.
I wish there was a sit-down Mexican restaurant here run by real Mexicans who could cook more substantial fare as well as these people cook tacos. -
Review from Katrina L.
Richmond Hill, ON
11/1/2010
This review is dedicated to the new CM Vivek!
O..M..G!! I don't have a wide range of different Mexican cuisines but I decided to try this place one day and I will never again say "no" to Mexican food. I have never been a big fan of burritos and what not but I think that is due to the fact that my exposure to it consists of Taco Bell and Old El Paso commercials.
To start, I had to have the guacamole, once that touched my lips, I was hooked. I'm already a guac lover regardless of the taste but this was by far the best guacamole I've ever had. I can seriously go on and on about this guac, but I'll spare you. But I had the quesadillas, I was extremely skeptical to order this as I have had the "white washed" versions from Kelseys, Jack Astor's etc. But I was pleasantly surprised when savouring this tasty creation. The tortillas were soft and fresh and the chicken wasn't dry, although the cheese could have offset that.
I was a little disheartened when the plates came and the portions were quite small, I guess I'm just used to the gargantuan size of the burritos a la Burrito Boyz or Chipotle. These little servings were actually a perfect size for my stomach, although I know that average sized humans would probably want a little more, which is why the guac is a definite MUST ORDER!
The atmosphere is...well there isn't any but on a nice summer's night, sitting on the patio outside sipping a beer and chowing down on some nachos and guacomole, who could ask for a better atmosphere? -
Review from Sharky L.
Toronto, ON
9/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
The spicy chicken was really good with the green salsa. Outdoor searing was good as well. Need to try more things to give it 5 stars.
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Review from Marie M.
10/3/2010
Last night I went to El Trompo for a friend's birthday dinner prior to hitting Nuit Blanche with him and his other friends. I almost always research a restaurant's menu prior to the date of the event, because being vegan isn't always easy and I don't like unpleasant surprises. Needless to say, since having done my research ahead of time, I'd narrowed down my dinner choices to 3 items: the nachos (sans fromage), the mushroom tacos, or the vegetarian fajitas (sans fromage). The nachos are appetizers and the latter 2 are entrees. Prior to attending my friend's dinner party, I was at another party where I had snacks and wine, and since I wasn't too hungry, I ended up ordering the nachos (sans fromage).
I was really happy with my dinner when it arrived, it was delicious, not too heavy, and fresh: corn chips smothered evenly with refried beans and tomato salsa. It was the perfect comfort food: warm and crunchy, healthy (sans fromage = sans gras), and full of flavor. The nachos also came in a good size, bigger than I'd expected for $3.99 before taxes. My inexpensive dinner allowed me to buy the birthday boy a shot of tequila (~$5 a shot) and take one with him; I found it amusing that I'd spent more on alcohol than on my actual meal.
One disappointing aspect of my dining experience at El Trompo was the interior design of the restaurant: it was not aesthetically appealing -it was like a shack, and the dining area was too cramp -I do not like being in close proximity with other patrons who are not a part of my party. The appearance of the restaurant plays a great role in my overall dinning experience: I have to be happy and comfortable sitting in the establishment in order to enjoy the food, and for most cases, the place must be visually stunning and lovely for me to enjoy myself. However, regardless of this slight setback, I had a great time at dinner with my friend and his friends last night. -
Review from Jonathan S.
York, ON
5/31/2011
It's well-established here and across Yelp that Toronto is blessed with a fantastically multicultural dining scene. Adventurous foodies like myself routinely point this out, especially before we launch into a critical review of the latest ethnic hot spot.
I can think of three reasons for this behaviour. First, it's the culinary equivalent of saying "some of my best friends are...", as a means of avoiding accountability for an insensitive comment. Second, it allows for the expression of personal preferences in the face of cultural norms. I may prefer my vegetables less crunchy, but it's because I was raised that way. Third, it insulates us from critiques of our criticism; food can be delicious, but I just don't 'get' it. I wouldn't know good tripe from bad, since it all smells like feet to me.
This brings me to El Trompo; a small, bloodstained joint in Kensington Market, whose authenticity is heartily debated on these pages and elsewhere.
I will admit that I don't always get 'authentic' Mexican food. I enjoy complex flavours, but have tried enough 'real' black mole to know that it just tastes muddy to me. I remember family dinners at the long-departed Chi-Chis fondly, although I feel the same way about Lichee Garden, and my tastes have surely developed since then.
Authentic or not, El Trompo is nothing like Chi-Chis. It's a long, narrow room, with walls sponge-painted adobe red. This is the most disconcerting aspect of the place. If you've ever read or watched "Dexter" you half-expect Harry Morgan to come wading to your table in the middle of the blood-spattered space, to collect you and train you in the fine art of vigilante vivisection.
In summer it's a sweatbox, driving customers to an equally sweltering front patio, where they can gorge on tacos while people-watching. And gorge you will, while hipsters around you flock to the Blue Banana and funny upscale kitchen store nearby.
Breakfast is a blast. Chorizo scrambled with eggs is a bit dry, but perks up nicely with the addition of the aforementioned green salsa. Sided with beans and tortillas, it's a substantial brekkie. Mexican coffee is advertised as augmented with spices, but comes to my table as a watery brew. My dining companion figures out the best breakfast option: tacos and beer; a Tecate tallboy or two, limes jammed rudely down their throats. The weekend also brings the option of house-made pozole soup; a thin broth loaded with hominy and shredded pork, sided with obscene amounts of veg, lime and crispy tortillas. It's good, but unnecessary, as is the black bean soup that can be combined with a set of five perfect tacos. If you're really hungry, better to order sublimely limey fresh pico de gallo and/or guacamole. They come with fresh tortilla chips, but pace yourself so you have extra dip with which to stuff your taco (and no, that's not a euphemism),
And here we get to the glory that is El Trompo. Reading through this thread, I find people debating the authenticity of the joint, but how can one argue with the piquant perfection of the chicken tinga, or the masterpiece that is the El Pastor, all roast-pork goodness with the occasional acid sweet hit of pineapple. They'll offer cheese to the gringos, but I happily refuse in favour of the brightness. brought on by green salsa.
So here is my summary of a perfect day at El Trompo:
breakfast-tacos and beer.
lunch-tacos and beer; maybe some pico de gallo.
Dinner-tacos and beer; definitely guacamole.
If you have room, they also sell churros on weekend. But why waste valuable tacos and beer space? -
Review from Viviana M.
Toronto, ON
8/29/2010 3 photos
Dining Experience: Dinner
Venue: El Trompo
Specialty: Tacos
Menu items: Guacamole + Queso Fundido + Tacos al Pastor
Drink Pairing: Michelada (Beer with lime juice and salt)
If you are looking to go to Mexico but find yourself short on money or time, then look no further than Kensigton market in Toronto. There, you will find El Trompo, a place that will transport you to the country that defies spiciness.
As I am waiting for my girlfriends to arrive at El Trompo, I decide to order a Michelada. The place is warm, welcoming and on a hot summer night like this, blasting all possible fans available. Yet the heat of the night has overtaken this place. But it is not an uncomfortable heat, is one of those smooth, pleasant, relaxing and breeze kind of heat.
As I sip my beer and look around the place with its fans, Mexican inspired decor and the Spanish speaking staff; I realize, I am no longer in Toronto...the next 2 hours, I will be visiting Mexico city, and this will only cost me a mere $15-$20.
This is not the first time I come to El Trompo, in fact I am a regular here. So my menu plans have already been decided and selected from the moment we planned coming here. My Mexican night then starts off with some lovely guacamole...
....according to my friends, this is the best guacamole they have ever had, and I will have to concur. The "gauc" is fresh, chunky and smooth. The tomatoes are visible, which makes it even more fresh. With it comes some corn tortilla chips, which according to the owner, Lucero, are especially brought from Mexico. And for those of you who would want to have more of these, they also sell them at the restaurant by the bag.
Next up, my lovely Queso Fundido or Molten cheese. This is a special Mexican white cheese, melted and covered with sauteed mushrooms. I have yet to guess what kind of sauce they use on the mushrooms, but the whole dish, is just delish.
The Queso comes with flour tortillas, which you then use to spread the cheese and mushrooms on, wrap it up and proceed to eat it. Yum.
Next up, my favourite and El Trompo's most ordered dish, Tacos al Pastor!
The tacos come in an authentic corn tortilla with pork marinated in a special traditional Mexican sauce. The pork has a kick to it, but it's not spicy. If you want to add heat, just turn to the salsas on the table - Verde or Roja (green or red sauce), they are both amazing, just one spicier than the other.
Back to the tacos, on top of the lovely pork comes pineapple, onions and coriander (also known as cilantro). All tacos are served with a lime on the side. In Mexico, the formal way to eat tacos is to squeeze the lime in before you eat them. The tacos are great as they are, but once you sprinkle the lime juice on them, then the real party begins in your mouth. Is as though the sourness turns on the marinate from the pork and makes the flavours come together. Exquisite!
My night finished off with some sweet churros and cafe the olla (coffee made on a pot). Overall, a great dining experience.
Thanks to Lucero for being such an awesome restauranteur and for bringing this lovely place to our sometimes cold city!
Buen Provecho.Listed in: Best Restaurants in Toronto
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Review from Sarah W.
Oakville, ON
9/10/2010 1 Check-in Here
Tortillas here are nothing special and really small. Chicken tacos were tiny bits of chicken covered in onions. Husb had the pork fajitas and I tried one. It started out tasty and oddly smoky and then turned into fire in my mouth. I know a few people who would love this simply for the spice, but for me it wasn't enough, really. I like flavor, too.
Lived near the Mexico border for too long to enjoy this as "Mexican food." I have never seen tacos so small or so...boring. Even the chorizo was just so-so. -
Review from Danielle B.
9/14/2010
Let me preface this review by asserting that I am an expert in authentic mexican cuisine. I grew up a burrito toss from the Mexican border so I know legitimacy when I taste it. This place is not bad for being 3000 miles from anything actually Mexican but it's not great either. Their tacos are freakishly small and make me feel like I have giant hands. However this place definitely doesn't offer any of the tex-mex bullsh*t that most people call mexican food. Its overpriced but the kensington location and nice patio almost make up for it.
The grilled chicken tacos are OK but the meat is chopped so finely its like dog kibble. My amigo had the beef fajitas which looked pretty legit. -
Review from Char C.
Toronto, ON
3/13/2011
My boyfriend is Mexican, we tried this place because I got one of those deals. We tried it and he fell in love immediately. It's been over 10 years since he's been back to Mexico, so when we found this place he was so happy. The Taco's al pastor were as authentic as you can get outside of Mexico. We also had Orchata which was fantastic, Tamarindo was very good and Jamaica was very nice!
We now go there once a week...he LOVES it and I have to say it's pretty fantastic!
Cost: 2 people, 1 apps, 2 mains, 2 drinks $40.
Food quality: 5/5
Food quantity: 5/5
Service: 4.5/5
Would I Go Again: Yup Yup Yup! -
Review from Ben S.
Toronto, ON
7/11/2010
I am in love with this place.
I didn't realize how authentic the food was here until I spent time in California and Mexico.
My wife and I usually pop in here on a weekend and have a light lunch, splitting an order of street-food-style tacos, guacamole, and a pair of Jarrito sodas.
Afterwards, I may head down the street for a fresh churro. -
Review from Jason K.
6/4/2011
- frakkin awesome
- if you can help it, sit on the tiny patio they have, as it gets extremely hot inside the restaurant. perhaps, they are trying to make it feel like mexico in there... i dunno.
- and get the guacamole. you will be sorry if you dont.
- the tacos el asador were magical. pork. onion. cilantro. pineapple. mmmm....
- handmade tortillias, and mexican streetfood.... how can it get any better? (maybe if they open one closer to where i live) -
Review from Mark M.
Toronto, ON
8/5/2010
After eating at El Trompo and at other Taco/burrito joints in town, I've come to realize that if El Trompo serves authentic Mexican chow, I would rather eat the less authentic fare they serve at "Tex-Mex" or "Plasti-Mex" joints around town. It's not a shot at El Trompo or at true Mexican cuisine but more of a revelation that El Trompo helped me find.
I ordered the chorizo tacos because I love me some sausage. It was good but nothing out of this world. The side of nachos we had were also tasty but it was hardly anything to get excited about. All in all the food was alright but the what really got to me was what we paid. I'm no cheapskate but it was hard for me to pay over ten dollars for a bunch of tiny tacos and a serving of chips. I thought tacos were street food made with the cheap but yummy parts of an animal? I guess this place proved me wrong.
I know my review doesn't seem super positive but with all the great talk this place gets I promise myself I will comeback and give this place a second try hoping I will truly understand the joint better. -
Review from lucinda k.
Vancouver, BC
9/1/2010
I expected this place to be very good- it came recommended by a friend and I've walked by countless times wanting to try it "some day". That day came Sunday evening- and unfortunately I wish it didn't.
I got the Tacos al Pastor, their house specialty- and I was disappointed. $11 for 5 small corn tacos with pork, cilantro and onions. Nothing really distinguished them to me.
Oh well, another one off the list:) -
Review from Leslie W.
8/8/2010
BOTTOM LINE: Tasty tacos (but a bit $$$), nice (but small) patio, and friendly staff!
Cost:
-$10-15 per item, which is a bit more than I expected.
Atmosphere/Decor:
-Right on Augusta where the patio gives you the perfect vantage point to people-watch the folks in Kensington Market.
-Inside is a bit more claustrophobic, but for some reason, I really dig the kitschy plastic red and white checkered table clothes.
Ordered:
-Haven't eaten a lot of Mexican food so I can't say how authentic it is, but a lot of the other reviewers seem to think it is!
1. Al Pastor Tacos: Nice chunks of beef mixed in salsa and pineapple cubes and served on five soft silver-dollar sized tacos. I wish I knew about asking for their spicy salsa sauce. I also wish the serving sizes were larger.
2. Tinga Tacos: Spicy (?pureed) chicken that wasn't all that spicy - again, nothing some spicy salsa can't fix!
-For the future: Need to try their margaritas, fajitas, and quesadillas.
Service:
-Friendly staff and fast service! -
Review from Laz C.
Toronto, ON
2/20/2011
The closest you'll get to Mexico without leaving Toronto, El Trompo is one of my favorite places to lunch on Sunday afternoons. I almost always get the Quesongos (mushroom tacos) because they are just so damn good --sauteed mushrooms topped with creamy queso fresco and spiked with cilantro. That hit of freshness sings in your mouth as the tastes and textures harmonize.
Because I have trouble veering away from the tacos, I usually convince my dining companion to order something else so that we can share. Enter, Veggie Alambres! These make your own tacos are actually cheaper than the pre-made and come with eight small tortillas to use as vessels for the succulent goodness of sauteed peppers, onions, and pineapple that sizzle under their coating of cheese.
I find that the tacos alone aren't enough to fill me up so starting with guacamole and chips is highly encouraged. In fact, once you taste El Trompo's guac, your taste buds will demand that you order it every time.
The interior of the restaurant is small but cozy and the warm, cheerful staff will make you feel right at home. In the winter a trip to El Trompo is a comforting reminder that Spring is just around the corner, plus it's easier to get a table. Once summer rolls around, there is no better way to enjoy some fine company on a sunny day than washing down some guac and tacos with a bottle of Sol. But you'll have to wait for a table because everyone else in the city has caught on. -
Review from Anupa M.
Toronto, ON
9/6/2010
I've gone to this place a bunch of times but never really been impressed. Sure the margaritas are decent, and I like that it's actually Mexican, but the service is almost always glum and never helpful. That's not to say the servers are mean, they're just there.
That said, their guac is pretty good as is the pico. I almost always get the tacos al pastor, which are great (though not the best i've ever had). Basically, if I'm craving Mexican food and a margarita i'll go here but it's not really my first choice.
