Tauro Cocina
1758 N. Water St., (414) 488-2941
taurococina.com
Latin-Italian fusion, brunch
$$$
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Flavors collide (in a good way) at this family-owned East Side spot, which fuses Italian staples (like pasta, risotto and pizza) with Mexican flavors. And it’s no accident that I’ve placed this entry during the summer months, since it’s an extra special delight to visit Tauro Cocina while their quaint courtyard patio – complete with its burbling fountain – is in full swing.
Tender mussels steamed in white wine and flavored with the smoky spice of chipotle butter make an excellent shareable dish. Meanwhile, their Guajillo cream risotto highlights the spicy, fruity, and slightly smoky flavor of guajillo peppers and pairs it with tequila lime shrimp and the umami-rich flavor of shaved parmesan.
You’ll also find pastas dressed with poblano pesto and mezcal chipotle cream sauce; pizzas topped with beautifully cooked mid-rare hanger steak, tomatillo salsa and Oaxacan cheese; and even some nostalgic 90s era flavor combinations like figs, goat cheese and balsamic glaze. And don’t sleep on summery patio-perfect cocktails like the herbal Rosemary Paloma or wonderfully floral Elderflower Margarita.
Recommended: Burrata frito; mussels with chipotle butter and white wine; guajillo risotto