Tobala

4.5 ( 294 reviews )
Checking... 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM See Hours
$50–100
3732 Riverdale Ave, Bronx, NY 10463, United States
+1 347-427-6889
Tobala, nestled in the heart of Riverdale, offers diners an exceptional taste of Oaxacan cuisine, perfectly blending authenticity with a touch of elegance. Customers rave about the Short Rib Memelas and the Crudo, both of which showcase chef Moises' artistry and deep commitment to flavor. Many have hailed their meals as some of the best they’ve ever experienced, with reviews hinting at a potential Michelin star on the horizon. The atmosphere exudes romance, making it an ideal spot for a date night—candle-lit tables and aromatic ambiance set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Patrons like Brian felt captivated not just by the food but by the top-notch service, characterizing it as a no-regrets choice. Cocktails, including the house specialty Carajillo and vibrant flavored margaritas, receive high praise, enhancing the vibrant dining experience. Drinks are consistently delivered alongside a joyful attentiveness from the staff, ensuring a memorable outing. Overall, Tobala stands out not only for its culinary creativity but also for a communal warmth and infectious passion for Mexican culture, inviting patrons to indulge time and again. Reservations may be wise, especially as outdoor seating beckons when the weather warms up. If you're in the Bronx, Tobala is a culinary gem you won't want to miss.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
    • Serves great cocktails
    • Has live music
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves food
    • Serves late-night food
    • Serves small plates
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves brunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has bar on site
    • Has gender-neutral toilets
    • Has toilet
    • Has Wi-Fi
    • Free Wi-Fi
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Romantic
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Good for groups
  • Planning
    • Dinner reservations recommended
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs available
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Paid street parking
    • Somewhat difficult to find a space
  • Pets
    • Dogs allowed

Reviews For Tobala

Brian Feltch
Jun 1,2025
This place is a guaranteed no-regrets date spot. We loved all our dishes, but the two big stand-outs were the Short Rib Memelas and the Crudo. Our cocktails were great, and the service was top-notch. Just go!
Eric Borlaug
May 30,2025
Had a lovely time at Tobala. Outstanding service and lovely decor. The best dishes were Michelin worthy. Some didn’t quite hit the mark as much. But overall, a depth of flavor and loving attention to detail make this place worth a visit, despite the high prices.
C Polanco
May 25,2025
Tobala was absolutely fantastic - from start to finish! Reservations are not required, but I could see why it is suggested - it could easily get packed. Wonderful service (Cindy was knowledgeable and courteous) and superb food (easily one of the top 5 meals I've ever eaten at a restaurant - thank you chef Moises!)... I could see why they're poised to get that Michelin star (good luck!) Perfect date night spot, great NYC location (Riverdale). Hope to come back sooner than later.
Emiliano Wuc
May 6,2025
I never leave reviews unless I literally been amazed by a place. This restaurant is the quintessential about food, ambience, service and kindness of the people! As an Italian (born and raised in Italy) I rarely go out my “comfort food zone” but in this place we had a really terrific colorful and flavorful experience!
Jose Almejo
May 6,2025
Great place for drinks in Riverdale and a quick bite to eat at the bar. If you’re looking for something romantic, this is a strong contender. Candle lit tables and aromatics fill this space with great music, food and drinks. The service at the bar was fast and friendly. Drinks were consistent and food came out in good time. Pictured are the mariposa, serenata, guacamole and chips and the esquites. All were delicious and had great presentation. Tobala was somewhat busy on a Friday night which died down after 10pm or so. I’d recommend reservations as the weather gets better as there is plenty of outdoor seating available.
Minerva Santiago
Apr 13,2025
Staff is friendly, great smiles, decorations are awesome, soft music, family friendly, they also educate you on Oaxaca cuisine, ingredients use and special of the day. Portions are great, drinks amazing. Kitchen is open you can see chef and assistants preparing the food. We requested to see the chef and thank him for a delightful meal and dessert, also took a picture. Guacamole was amazing,
Roberta Mastrandrea
Feb 28,2025
What a stunning venue, with exquisite cuisine and an impressive selection of Mezcal. This place instantly transports you to the heart of Oaxaca, Mexico. The decor is beautifully minimal yet meticulously detailed, creating a magical ambiance enhanced by the aroma of palo santo. The food is simply delicious, offering a unique twist on traditional Mexican dishes. A must-try is the Aguachile de Camarones, Guacamole, Esquites, and Roasted Repollo. The bar is a hidden gem, boasting an exceptional array of Mezcal. It promises a memorable experience for those who love Mezcal and newcomers as well. Don't hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations!
Anna D
Feb 28,2025
Tobala is a gem of a restaurant that beautifully blends creativity, flavor, and atmosphere. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a warm, intimate setting with thoughtful decor and a welcoming staff. The menu is inspired and ever-changing, showcasing seasonal ingredients with a strong nod to Mexican roots, particularly Oaxacan cuisine. We started with the mezcal cocktails, which were expertly crafted — smoky, balanced, and unique. For starters, the heirloom corn tamales were a standout, with perfectly soft masa and rich fillings. The main dishes were equally impressive; the mole was deep, complex, and memorable, and the grilled meats were cooked to perfection. Service was attentive without being intrusive, and the staff was happy to explain the dishes and suggest pairings. Prices are on the higher side, but well worth it for the quality and experience. Overall, Tobala is a must-visit for anyone looking for a special dining experience that celebrates bold flavors and culinary artistry. Thanks again for a great experience.

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