Toro Bravo

Toro Bravo is generally made with tequila or mezcal, then balanced with citrus and a spicy chili element. Recipes vary because the drink is associated with Portland's Toro Bravo restaurant rather than one universal international formula.

The drink takes its name from Toro Bravo, the Portland restaurant known for Spanish-inspired food and cocktails. Its flavor profile commonly combines agave spirits, citrus, and heat.

It can be either, depending on whether the recipe uses mezcal and how much chili it contains. Mezcal adds smoke, while chili supplies the heat, and citrus keeps the drink from becoming too heavy.

Yes, tequila is a common base for this cocktail and gives it a cleaner agave flavor. Mezcal is the better choice when you want a more pronounced smoky note.