There’s a new hotspot in my neighborhood, and I am excited! After swinging by Toro for cocktails with friends last week, I couldn’t resist a return visit. This time, after a session of retail therapy (don’t judge), I stopped in for a glass of vino and a little nibble. Spoiler alert: that nibble turned into a full-blown Fab Dish Friday moment.

For those unfamiliar, Toro is not the same old Columbus Tap haunt of yore. Chef Richard Sandoval has brought his culinary magic to the scene with “Latin Cuisine Without Borders.”  

I wasn’t famished, so I found myself chatting with Danny, who was a very friendly bartender, about the Angry Tuna Tempura Roll. Naturally, I needed to know—how angry are we talking here? Like, “mildly annoyed” angry, or full-on “lost-my-parking-spot” rage? Danny assured me it was more of a sassy side-eye, and I was in.

Now, let’s talk about these little beauties. Forget traditional rolls—this dish is more like bite-sized sushi pizzas of pure joy. The base is a sticky, crispy rice foundation (think crunchy and chewy perfection). On top? Sushi-grade tuna, cucumber, avocado, a chili sauce that whispers instead of shouts, and yuzu kosho aioli that’s like a citrusy hug. add on some sesame, top with a little salty tobiko and dip it in soy, and boom: your mouth is throwing a flavor party.

Angry? Not even close. More like cheekily feisty, with a surprise zing that keeps you on your toes. These little bites are perfect for when you need to silence the hunger gremlins without committing to a food coma.

Long story short: I have already visited them again with a friend. This time we enjoyed Cachapas – Venezuelan sweet corn pancakes that are absolutely worth a visit and the Grilled Provoeta – melted salty cheese with spicy bites of chorizo. I am looking forward to heading back to Toro to try lots more of their menu offerings.