Good Food

Taco Tycoon Larry Cano

Larry Cano is the founder of El Torito . In 1954 he took over Bali Hai , a tiki bar in Encino, and turned it into a Mexican restaurant. There, Cano says, he invented what we know now as the blended margarita.

By Evan Kleiman • May 12, 2014 • 1 min read

Larry Cano is the founder of El Torito. In 1954 he took over Bali Hai, a tiki bar in Encino, and turned it into a Mexican restaurant. There, Cano says, he invented what we know now as the blended margarita. He also lays claim to the expression "Taco Tuesday," and was one of the first restaurants to host happy hour, Mexican brunch, table-side guacamole and the sizzling fajita plate.

Music: "Tequila" by The Champs

Evan Kleiman
host 'Good Food'
Gustavo Arellano
columnist, LA Times
Gillian Ferguson
Supervising Producer, Good Food
Laryl Garcia
Senior Director, Good Food
Harriet Ells
Program Director for Talk

Culture

Food & Drink

Good Food

Taco Tycoon Larry Cano

Larry Cano is the founder of El Torito . In 1954 he took over Bali Hai , a tiki bar in Encino, and turned it into a Mexican restaurant. There, Cano says, he invented what we know now as the blended margarita.

Share

Good Food

Taco Tycoon Larry Cano

Larry Cano is the founder of El Torito . In 1954 he took over Bali Hai , a tiki bar in Encino, and turned it into a Mexican restaurant. There, Cano says, he invented what we know now as the blended margarita.

Share