The sign is gone from the old Taqueria El Torito building, but there is an El Faro Mexican Food sign in the window.
If you were disappointed when Taqueria El Torito closed last year, here’s a reason to rejoice.
The local Mexican restaurant at 4628 W. State St. is about to be replaced by what appears to be – yes, another local Mexican restaurant.
Mexican food El Faro is “coming soon,” according to a sign in the window. Other than that, details are scarce. A look inside reveals a space that looks like it could be up and running pretty quickly. But who knows?
There is a hint – about the menu. “El Faro” means “The Lighthouse” in Spanish. Additionally, there is an ocean and a sailboat on the poster. So it seems safe to assume that El Faro’s offerings will include fish, shrimp, or other seafood tacos and burritos.
El Faro will have to aim relatively high to reach the former glory of Taqueria El Torito. With a history that dates back to its beginnings as a Garden City food truck, El Torito has become a neighborhood favorite in northwest Boise. Opened in late 2016 near the corner of State and Collister — next to New Garden Chinese Restaurant — it specializes in authentic and affordable tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tortas and more. Orders were taken at the counter and delivered to customers’ tables. A significant portion of the business was in takeout.
Taqueria El Torito got four out of five stars on Yelp. “Legit,” wrote one reviewer shortly before it closed. “100% by far the best tacos in Boise.” Added another reviewer: “I’m from So Cal and this place does it better than most in Boise.”
Will El Faro impress old Taqueria El Torito fans? Time will tell us. As of now, it doesn’t appear to have an online presence. If I can shed more light on the situation, I will do so in the future.
