In the pantheon of Hollywood moguls, few names resonate with as much clout as Mike Fleiss. His deft touch in crafting television marvels has long been a subject of admiration. But now, the famed producer is pivoting from the screen to the culinary scene with a project that’s as fiery as his television work – jalapenos.
There’s a well-established narrative that creatives, whether in film, literature, or music, often harbor multifaceted passions. Fleiss’s culinary foray is a testament to this versatility. While one might initially chuckle at the thought of a seasoned Hollywood producer nurturing an ambition centered on the fiery condiment of grilled jalapenos, delving deeper into his culinary aspirations reveals a thoughtfully curated vision.
Situated in Lake Oswego, Oregon, is the realization of Fleiss’s spicy dream – Toreados. Drawing inspiration from the traditional Mexican side dish ‘chiles toreados’, this Tex-Mex haven couples smoked meats with zesty grilled peppers, accompanied by a luxurious selection of tequila. To understand the gravity of Fleiss’s culinary ambition, one needs to note the recent Instacart survey. With 74% of Americans indicating their penchant for hot sauce and about 45% regularly introducing fiery elements to their meals, Toreados seems to be right at the epicenter of a culinary trend.
The restaurant’s offerings are an ode to the myriad interpretations of spice. From jalapeno poppers that tantalize the palate to chicken enchiladas that exude comfort, Toreados seems to have cracked the code of melding tradition with innovation. The drink menu, too, is emblematic of this ethos. Be it the fiery yet sweet mango tequila concoctions or the distinctive mezcal mixtures, each drink is a testament to Fleiss’s unwavering commitment to authenticity. Their margarita menu, with creations like “The Pear Necessity” and “Boaty McBoatface”, ensures that patrons leave with a memorable experience.
Located a stone’s throw from Portland, Toreados has enriched an already vibrant food landscape. Reviews on Open Table mirror this sentiment, with patrons extolling its delectable offerings and impeccable service. Mike Fleiss’s incursion into the culinary world isn’t just a mere diversification of his portfolio. It’s an affirmation of his belief that passions, no matter how diverse, can coalesce into tangible successes.
While Hollywood might have offered Fleiss accolades and affluence, his foray into the restaurant business is a heartening reminder of the power of unrelenting passion. “I’ve had this idea forever and ever,” Fleiss says, emphasizing the longevity of his dream. With discussions underway to mass-market his signature chiles, Fleiss’s culinary journey seems to have only just begun. More information on Mike Fleiss: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-fleiss-52b329b6