When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
Toro Scottsdale
Why Toro Scottsdale is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Toro Scottsdale by Chef Richard Sandoval offers a freshly renovated and vibrant culinary experience that perfectly blends elevated Latin flavors with inviting ambiance. Nestled within the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and overlooking the iconic 18th hole of TPC Scottsdale, Toro provides an unmatched setting for meeting friends, enjoying a leisurely brunch, lunch, or dinner. The space features rich leathers, lush greenery, moody lighting indoors, and a bright Sunset Bar on the patio, making it a lively yet intimate venue. The menu is an inventive blend of contemporary Latin cuisine with influences from Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, Venezuela, and more, crafted by Chef Gage Smit alongside Sandoval. This fusion provides a diverse and sophisticated palette that excites the taste buds with unexpected pairings and unique flavors, including sushi combined with Latin ceviche and wok dishes. Whether coming for the impressive rum bar or for a social meal, Toro Scottsdale stands out as a dynamic place to gather—a restaurant designed not just for dining but for memorable experiences that guests are eager to revisit.
Here's what people think of Toro Scottsdale
As of recent, Toro Scottsdale holds a 4.5-star rating based on 840 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Toro Scottsdale for its excellent service, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious, creative dishes. Many guests highlight the restaurant's location with its sweeping views of the TPC Scottsdale golf course as a special draw, enhancing the dining experience with a scenic backdrop. The lunch experience at the '19th Hole' is specifically noted for its cozy bar area and well-spaced seating that balances intimacy with social comfort. Positive reviews often mention the hands-on and thoughtful service, with particular commendations for servers like Arnoldo, and the impressive variety of rum cocktails and mango mojitos. The culinary offerings receive high marks for standout items such as the ribeye, scallops, pork belly, crispy shrimp, and the stunning Peruvian chocolate bowl dessert. While most reviews are very positive, a few note minor critiques, such as the gluten-free cheese bread being passable but not exceptional. Overall, the blend of approachable yet sophisticated Latin cuisine, combined with attentive service and an inviting atmosphere, results in a highly recommended venue that guests look forward to returning to again.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Vicky Tosta
Absolutely loved this restaurant. The angry tuna sushi was fantastic, as well as the pulled pork tacos. The drinks were also phenomenal. Shout out to our server Jocelyn for the great service and recommendations. She Surprised us for our anniversary dinner with the best most beautiful raspberry/horchata pastry. Thank you for giving us such a great experience, we will be back once we come back to AZ :)
Stephanie Wingate
Such a beautiful location about a mile from The Princess. We loved there was a shuttle option. Service was absolutely top notch. Atmosphere and vibes were 5 star! The food I was hoping to be more than it was. We were in a group and had a set menu (wonderful options). However be aware in a group setting and you are wanting the steak option, it will only be prepared to medium for “accuracy and speed”. As a rare steak eater that would not work and I then chose the chicken (which was delicious). My mother got the steak and it was so well done it could not be eaten. The appetizers and salad we had prior to the meal was fantastic. The watermelon, tomato and burrata salad was out of this world and I actually tried to recreate at home. Strawberry margaritas were consumed and also wonderful. Would just have loved main courses to have been executed. Would definitely visit again!
Raquel Surrey
Me and my husband went here to celebrate an anniversary and I must say Armando (I hope we got the name right) but the Cuban guy really made our experience wonderful. Right from the beginning the restaurant was beautiful they sat us at a table with the perfect view of the golf course by the water. Then they sent us complimentary champagne along with a house bread appetizer with a delicious tomato sauce and small smoothie palette cleanser which was very delicious as well. My husband had the Cusco chicken (which I also picked off) the chicken and the mashed potatoes with veggies were sooo good! The dish was very flavorful and savory I almost couldn't stop eating it. Then I got the crunchy roll sushi which was very good as well very fresh and delicious some of the best sushi I've had in a long time. Then we also got a dessert to go which he informed us was also on them. Armando was extremely informative and seemed very passionate about each individual dish and drink. We both had a wonderful experience thanks to him and we would love to come back here.
April
We came in as a large group and had a great experience. The food was delicious, the entertainment was enjoyable, and we loved the area where we were seated, the view was absolutely phenomenal. We highly recommend TORO for large group gatherings.
Sushant Pansare
We walked into Toro for lunch to celebrate our wedding anniversary. We were immediately impressed by the atmosphere inside. Service was great, our server Madison was very attentive and explained the menu to us and also provided suggestions on how we can custom order to make something vegetarian. We loved each dish that we ordered and on top of it we were not charged for the desserts. Highly Recommend!!
How to reach Toro Scottsdale
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Why Toro Scottsdale may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Toro Scottsdale with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Toro Scottsdale is an invitation to experience more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors, lively atmosphere, and thoughtful hospitality that makes every visit memorable. Located conveniently on the 18th hole of the prestigious TPC Scottsdale golf course, Toro strikes a perfect balance between casual elegance and playful sophistication, making it an ideal venue for your group’s social gathering. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a sunny day on the greens or simply share great food and drinks in a stylish setting, Toro offers a compelling reason to rally your friends. The restaurant’s 4.5-star rating from over 840 reviews underscores its popularity and consistent quality, promising a welcoming and enjoyable experience for any group size. The décor is a tasteful fusion of Latin charm and modern Asian elements, creating a dynamic visual backdrop that energizes conversations. Plus, their emphasis on shared plates and cocktails means your group can bond over tastes and stories, making Toro Scottsdale more than just a place to eat—it’s a destination to connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories with friends and family.
What kinds of activities and experiences can groups expect at Toro Scottsdale?
While Toro Scottsdale is first and foremost a dining destination, its design and offerings make it a vibrant social hub for groups. Shared dining is a cornerstone here, with a menu that fuses Latin American with Asian influences, especially inspired by Peruvian flavors. This makes the food itself an engaging activity as friends interact over diverse, artfully crafted small plates like ceviche, pork belly, and scallops, encouraging communal tasting and conversation. The centerpiece is the expansive ceviche, sushi, and rum bar, where guests can mingle and watch expert mixologists craft exotic cocktails—an engaging spectacle that enhances the social atmosphere. Beyond just eating, the rum bar offers tastings of impressive rum selections and creative specialty drinks like the famous mango mojitos or unique rum-whiskey concoctions served in planter-style vessels. Toro’s environment also encourages leisurely, multi-hour dining experiences, perfect for intimate dinners or celebratory get-togethers. The staff’s knowledge and friendly service add to the experience, often guiding groups through drink pairings or menu highlights, which gives your gathering a personalized and attentive touch. Together, these elements make Toro Scottsdale a place to share not just food but an interactive, festive evening with your loved ones.
Why is Toro Scottsdale ideal for hosting a group meetup?
Toro Scottsdale excels as a venue for group meetups because it combines sophisticated atmosphere, thoughtful space design, and impeccable service that caters to varied tastes and preferences. The restaurant’s layout supports both larger groups and smaller gatherings, with ample seating arrangements that encourage socializing while allowing for intimate conversations. Its location on the TPC Scottsdale golf course adds a scenic, relaxed backdrop ideal for daytime meetups or sunset dinners. The menu’s emphasis on shared plates ensures everyone in the group can enjoy tasting a variety of dishes together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and engagement uncommon in more traditional dining settings. Additionally, the extensive and creative cocktail program, distinguished by an expert rum selection and Latin-inspired flavors, provides a lively beverage experience that complements the food and conversation. Guests frequently praise Toro’s staff for their attentive and personalized service, often going above and beyond to ensure the group’s needs are met, from dietary preferences to drink recommendations. This attention to detail makes every group feel special and well cared for, which is crucial for memorable meetups with friends and family. Moreover, with easy parking and the option for shuttle service from nearby resorts, accessibility is fully addressed, reducing stress for guests arriving from different locations.
How does Toro Scottsdale’s food and beverage menu enhance the group experience?
The menu at Toro Scottsdale is designed to be a shared journey of bold, complementary flavors that promote collective enjoyment. Featuring an innovative blend of Latin American and Asian cuisines, the dishes bring together the bright, fresh acidity of Peruvian seafood and the subtle complexity of Asian spices, creating a flavorful adventure for every palate. Signature items like the crispy pork belly, fresh ceviche, scallops, and the to-die-for ribeye provide diverse tasting options that spark culinary conversation among guests. The vibrant and unexpected flavor combinations encourage groups to explore the menu together, pairing dishes with cocktails or rum tastings for a fuller sensory experience. The bar’s rum selection is a particular highlight, showcasing rums from across the Caribbean and Latin America, which, coupled with the skillful craftsmanship of the bartenders, transforms drinks into works of art. Many patrons note the mango mojito and other cocktails as standout choices that perfectly match the menu’s spirit of exploration and celebration. By focusing on shareable dishes paired with exceptional beverages, Toro Scottsdale’s menu supports communal dining as an activity in itself, enriching the group dynamic and leaving everyone with a memorable taste adventure.
What makes the atmosphere and service at Toro Scottsdale special for groups?
Toro Scottsdale’s atmosphere strikes a harmonious balance between elegant modernity and rustic Latin warmth, creating a setting that feels both upscale and inviting for groups. The décor’s fusion of Asian clean lines and Latin-inspired materials like rustic wood floors and artistic steer horns brings visual interest that sparks conversation and adds character without overwhelming the senses. Lighting and spatial arrangement encourage lingering, giving groups the freedom to enjoy a long, relaxed meal filled with laughter and connection. Service at Toro is frequently celebrated for being attentive without intrusive, with staff members who are knowledgeable about the menu and adept at catering to group needs—helping accommodate dietary restrictions, suggesting drink pairings, or customizing the experience to fit your celebration. Many reviews highlight waitstaff who treat guests “like royalty,” elevating the overall visit and making group members feel valued. This personalized service is essential when hosting groups, as it helps ensure smooth coordination from ordering to settling the bill, allowing your focus to remain squarely on enjoying time together.
How accessible and convenient is Toro Scottsdale for group gatherings?
Accessibility and convenience are crucial when planning group meetups, and Toro Scottsdale meets these needs adeptly. Situated on the TPC Scottsdale golf course’s 18th hole, the location is scenic yet easy to reach, positioned near major roadways to serve the Scottsdale area effectively. Guests benefit from ample parking on site or can take advantage of shuttle services available from nearby resort lobbies, easing logistics especially for larger groups or those coming from out of town. Toro’s policy welcomes walk-ins based on availability but strongly encourages reservations, especially for groups, to secure ideal seating and avoid wait times, with recommended booking at least two weeks in advance. Open for both lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers flexible scheduling to accommodate different meetup times catering to your group’s agenda. These conveniences enhance Toro’s appeal as a venue for celebrations or casual gatherings alike, supporting stress-free planning and a welcoming arrival that lets everyone settle in quickly and start enjoying the experience.
How does Toro Scottsdale compare to other Scottsdale venues for group meetups?
In Scottsdale’s vibrant dining scene, Toro stands out for its distinctive blend of high-quality Latin-Asian fusion cuisine, stylish yet approachable environment, and a dynamic beverage program centered around rum—a combination that few local venues replicate. While many Scottsdale restaurants offer fine dining or casual spots, Toro’s commitment to creating a shared culinary experience sets it apart, making it especially appealing for groups wanting to engage in a social meal with diverse, exciting flavors. The integration into TPC Scottsdale also offers a unique ambiance compared to downtown or resort-only locations, adding prestige and a scenic setting linked to a celebrated golf destination. Reviews consistently emphasize Toro’s outstanding service and unique menu as key differentiators that enhance group enjoyment, contrasting with some venues where food or drinks may lack innovation or staff may be less attentive. Whether your meetup revolves around a casual dinner or a celebratory event, Toro’s holistic approach combining ambiance, cuisine, and service positions it among the top choices in Scottsdale for hosting memorable and meaningful group gatherings.
In summary, Toro Scottsdale is a premier venue for rallying friends and family thanks to its engaging shared dining experience, artful fusion cuisine, vibrant rum bar, and warm yet sophisticated atmosphere. Its thoughtful service, accessible location, and distinctive culinary approach make it ideal for those seeking to create lasting memories together over exceptional food and drinks. If you want a place where your next group meetup becomes more than a meal—where it is a true celebration—Toro Scottsdale offers an unparalleled setting to do just that.