The Black Toro @ Kingsway, Glen Waverly, Melbourne

Have heard tons of good reviews about this place, so I went by for a try and indeed, it did not disappoint. For those who frequent Glen Waverly, you would be aware of how this place boasts about Asian cuisine, so if you're on the look out for something fun and different, this place would be 'THE' place to go to.

Upon entering, you would be greeted by a friendly staff member who would gladly locate a seat for you.

Then, brace yourself as you immerse in the various delicious tasting aroma coming from the open kitchen. Look at those chefs hard at work, oblivious to me taking photos of them.

Nice and quaint little place.. considered crowded for a Wednesday night.

Instead of browsing through the menu and going through the tedious process of deciding what to eat, my friends and I decided to let 'them, (staff of Black Toro)' do the ordering for us. And yes, it was stated in the menu that we can get them to do the ordering for you and indeed, they happily obliged. The downside is that I was practically unaware of what food was coming and when and entered into the happy waiting mode, thinking to myself, ''HIT ME".

We started from the Poco plates (which I later found out, starters) to the Grande plates (main courses)..

The first, was a beautifully prepared oyster dish with tequila and lime (AUD 4.00 each).. so fresh, succulent, tangy at the same time. Eat it in one shot, and just thoroughly enjoy the wonderful flavour combination.

Tequila Oysters (AUD 4.00 each)

Then, it was time for something crunchy and golden brown on the outside, savoury and tasty on the inside. It is the lovely potato and chorizo croquette with manchego foam  (AUD 4.00 each)...the chorizo gave this dish a wonderful savoury aroma and taste, and the foam gave it a calming balance as its more lightly seasoned.

Potato and Chorizo croquette with manchego foam (AUD 4.00 each)

Just look at how soft it is inside..filled with various other ingredients to give this dish an ''oomph'', different from the usual.

Next we moved on to the Mezcal cured salmon, served with avocado puree, smashed coriander meringue and salmon roe (AUD 17.00)... honestly, this isn't my favourite.. probably ain't a fan of cured salmon.. and it probably needed another touch of salt as when eaten with the meringue, the meringue overpowers the taste of the salmon. However, to me, the meringue was the best part of this dish.. can't hide the fact that I have a sweet tooth! But do try this dish, it's quite different.

Mezcal Cured Salmon with avocado puree, smashed coriander meringue and salmon roe (AUD 17.00)

Then it was something deep fried again, Crispy cuttlefish with spicy aioli & lime (AUD 17.00), this dish although simple, it was just SO GOOD. The cuttlefish cooked to perfection, each a nice bite size, just sink your teeth it in and enjoy the goodness of this dish. Please don't be lazy and squeeze those lime pieces.. it sure lifts up this entire dish!

Crispy Cuttlefish with spicy aioli and lime (AUD 17.00)

Forgive me as I have absolutely no idea what this dish is called, but my tastebuds say just eat it.. and don't worry about the name of this dish. But I'm regretting that decision now, it's so fresh, with sweetness coming from the purple cabbage, saltiness from the meat, tanginess from the lime, and an overall sauce to tie it all together. One word, it hits the right spot.

Next up, the main course which was Lamb barbacoa (900gm) with accompaniments (feeds 2-4 persons, AUD 65.00).. and boy, was this dish big.. presented majestically, the lamb sits nicely, perfectly seasoned and topped with various nuts and berries.. giving it the sweet and savoury kick..

Lamb barbacoa (900gm) with accompaniments (feeds 2-4 persons, AUD 65.00)

Apologies for the poor quality of the photos, it was dark in the restaurant, therefore hard to get the appropriate lighting! Although in this picture, this dish doesn't look as good, but trust me, the taste will blow you away. Eat it with the sauce and take small bites full. However, this dish is only suitable for those that love lamb! It comes with 2 sauces, one spicier, and the other more gooey.. both goes well with this huge slab of meat.. difficult to slice to beautiful even pieces as the meat just falls off the bone.. look at the piece of meat below.. still slightly red and so tender..

Such a satisfying meal. Loved the experience. Loved the service. What can I say, I am happy customer. Gotta love mexican food!

Ratings: 

Ambience: 7/10

Price: 8/10

Service: 8.5/10

Food: 8/10

Overall ratings: 8/10

Verdict: Although it is a bit pricey, but in my opinion, it's worth it.. probably can't afford to go like every other day(I'm unemployed).. but definitely worth bringing your loved ones, friends, family and relatives to try. Keep it up black toro! I'm loving you. Wait for me, I will be back to try out the rest of your dishes! Check out more at their official website, www.theblacktoro.com.au.

Location: 79 Kingsway, Glen Waverley 3150

Opening hours: 

Lunch 12.00pm – 3.00pm
Dinner 6.00pm – till late

Contact Number: +61 3 9561 9696