New Latin restaurant Toro by Chef Richard Sandoval opens in Fairmont Chicago

After first being introduced to the public at Chicago Gourmet last month, new Latin restaurant Toro Chicago by acclaimed Chef Richard Sandoval has officially opened inside the Fairmont Chicago in New Eastside. According to a press release from the restaurant, Toro Chicago marks the second location that Richard Sandoval Hospitality has opened in partnership with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts—the first location being Toro Scottsdale in Arizona.

“Chicago is a city known for its diverse and dynamic culinary scene,” said Chef Sandoval in a press release. “I'm thrilled to bring to the city the rich heritage and bold innovations that define what we do at Toro. The energy in the city and its appreciation for amazing food make it the perfect home for Toro, and I’ve found the perfect partner with Fairmont Chicago.”

With Latin American influences—including the countries of Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, and Venezuela—Toro Chicago will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner while sticking to its philosophy “Old Ways, New Hands.” As explained by the restaurant, the saying describes how each dish will showcase authentic flavors along with time-honored culinary techniques.

In an interview with Chicago Star, Toro Chicago’s Executive Chef Elton Ambrose also touched on the lesser-known Asian influences in the menu. “At Toro, you’ll be able to taste Asian-influenced foods but from places throughout Latin America,” said Chef Ambrose. “Many people don’t realize there’s such a large Asian community in Latin America like Chile and Mexico, and the blend works so beautifully in the cuisine.”

Toro Chicago will also pay homage to the Midwest by featuring local meats and poultries from nearby farms, including Heaven’s Honey, Goebbert’s Farm, Slagel Family Farms and more.

When dining at Toro Chicago, guests will be able to taste flavorful dishes like the Peruvian Ceviche Amarillo and Chef Sandoval’s Argentinian Sweet Corn Empanadas. Signature desserts include the Yellow Corn Cake and La Bomba—a chocolate half sphere made with ice cream and cookies prepared tableside. 

The restaurant’s drink menu comes with a bespoke cocktail program and South American spirits. A new beverage that Toro Chicago will feature is its tableside Flaming Coffee, which is presented on a cart and comes with a choice of rum, tequila, or bourbon before being set ablaze with cinnamon and a sugar rim.

Toro Chicago is also the second restaurant that Richard Sandoval opened in the city in 2024; his cocktail-forward Nikkei concept Casa Chi opened back in May on the Magnificent Mile. 

Visit Toro Chicago at 200 N. Columbus Drive inside the Fairmont Chicago. Reservations can be made online.