South End restaurant named one of the most influential in U.S., according to Eater

"A South End restaurant, which features Spanish-style tapas, a curated wine list and cocktails, was recently named one of Eater's most essential and influential restaurants in America over the past 20 years. Toro has been a Boston staple since it opened 20 years ago but the list further cements its status as one of the best restaurants in the country."

"Chef-owner Ken Oringer, a James Beard Award winner and founder of JK Food Group, called the acknowledgement "an incredible honor" in a Sept. 24 Instagram post. "In December 2005 a lot of people thought I was crazy for trying to bring everything I love about Spain-its food, its culture, its spirit-to the South End of Boston," he wrote. "To be listed alongside so many legends is beyond anything I could have imagined.""

Toro is a South End restaurant offering Spanish-style tapas, a curated wine list, and cocktails. The restaurant opened in 2005 and has been a Boston staple for two decades. Stand-out dishes include anchovy-topped pan con tomate, maíz asado, and two signature paellas. Toro earned recognition as one of Eater’s most essential and influential restaurants in America and was listed among The New York Times’ top 25 places to eat in Boston in 2025. Chef-owner Ken Oringer, a James Beard Award winner and founder of JK Food Group, called the recognition an incredible honor. Oringer also operates Uni, Coppa, Little Donkey, Faccia a Faccia, and Verveine Bakery & Cafe.

Read at Boston.com