The Matador
7824 Leary Way NE, Redmond, WA, 98052
The Matador Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Redmond for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Redmond for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Redmond for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
7824 Leary Way NE
Redmond, WA, 98052 - Phone (425) 883-2855
- Website https://www.matadorrestaurants.com/redmond
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 2:00pm
- Mon : 11:00 am - 2:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner, Late Night
Parking : Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Music : Background
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
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Jonny H.
I have driven by here more times than I can count! Finally... stopped in for a very nice lunch today. We were seated right away and were pleasantly surprised as to how attentive our waitress was. She was more than happy to explain certain items on the menu as well as vegetarian options. We both ordered the Top Shelf Margarita and didn't have very high hopes. I was so happy to be wrong... It was very good! We ordered the Texas Size Nachos and the Butternut Squash Quesadilla. Both were surprisingly tasty. The portions were more than generous, neither of us were able to finish what we had on our plates. I would not call his food brilliant by any means, however... I can see myself coming back here every once in a while. I have to say I like the decor, what you see on the storefront and outside... is pretty much what it looks like inside. This probably sounds strange, but I love the sink in the men's room, I had to take a photograph of it.
(4)Aaron W.
Excellent happy hour and they make one of the best mango mojitos I've ever had. Nachos are highly recommended, I haven't really found a dish that they don't do well. Parking can be a little rough when busy but it is always worth the trouble of finding a spot.
(5)Serena G.
I have been to the Matador in West Seattle and I loved it. I have to say I really enjoyed this one as well. The peach sangria is fantastic. Great food, the only complain i had was that they served my meal with too many black beans. I loved the waitress, I had left my ID at home and she was nice enough to hold our table until i could run and get it so the folks we were having dinner with were able to sit there and wait for us. and she even remembered what i ordered and was getting it ready when she saw me return with my ID. Great place. The owner has a fantastic chain of restaurants in Seattle and this one is no exception.
(4)Sri S.
This place doesn't deserve any stars, don't come here if you're from Seattle. Total bitch east side vibe. F*** your couch...
(1)Delgado H.
This place is always packed, and the hosting is pretty slow. If you can find a seat at the bar, do it! The food is subpar for the price. The tequila selection is awesome, but over priced. The service at the bar has always been good, I have only sat outside the bar once and the service was not bad. They have something called diablo shrimp or something along those lines that is pretty good.
(3)Krista J.
I would like to commend your bartender, Cameron. Tonight as I was leaving Redmond, Cameron and his friend flagged me down to let me know that I had a flat. They changed my tire in a matter of minutes and I was on my way back to Auburn. Two very great young guys!
(5)Kendra M.
So I generally enjoy the matador. The staff is friendly, drinks are stiff and the atmosphere is always enjoyable. Loud enough you don't feel like people can eavesdrop but not so loud you have to yell at anyone. This place can get busy so I try to avoid Friday nights, eat at the bar or avoid main meal times. I do have to say their food is hit or miss unfortunately. Some dishes are amazing (matador burrito, shrimp tacos, appetizers), others should be avoided. One in particular would be the tacos or burrito Al Pastor. The meat is flavorless and has the consistency of oatmeal. The habañero mango salsa overpowers what should be a delicious and interesting mix of flavors. It's essentially a spicy pile of mush in a tortilla.
(4)Joe M.
My wife and I ate here again Saturday night. I'm surprised it's been 4+ years since our last visit. The menu was different - not as many small plates - but the food was still excellent and the service was still prompt and attentive. I had the Butternut Squash Quesadilla, made with carmelized onions and goat cheese, and Queso Fundito, which was made with roasted peppers, chorizo ... guess I was in a cheesy tortilla mood. My wife had the Braised Carnitas sandwichand the Braised Grape Salad. The margaritas were still very good too. This time we ate in the dining room, and I wanted to note two aspects about this experience that I did not note in my initial review. One is that the music inside the bar is very loud. I could only hear my wife if I leaned in to within about a foot away from her lips; perhaps this requirement of leaning in order to hear someone is the intended effect for people who are dating, or people who like to shout, but we would have left the place if a table did not open up in the adjacent dining room, where the music volume was a little less loud (though still above a level we thought was conducive to conversation). The loudness of the music was sufficiently disruptive to our dining experience that I'm lowering my rating from 5 stars to 4 stars. The second thing I wanted to note in my update was how slippery the floors are in the dining room. After taking a few steps into the dining room, I thought I had stepped in oil, and went back to wipe my feet on the carpet on the floor adjoining the two rooms, but apparently the entire floor in that room is slippery. I don't know if it due to the way they treat the wood floor in cleaning it, or is grease tracked in from the kitchen, but it is slippery enough to be potentially dangerous for an elderly person or someone who has any impediment in walking. The volume level of the music probably precludes anyone in the former category from visiting (or staying in) the establishment, but I can imagine alcohol consumption may increase balance challenges for some normally sure-footed customers.
(4)Julienne P.
Dedicated gluten-free menu with many choices. Food is very good. Gets really busy though so expect a wait.
(5)Jennifer A.
This place is almost always crowded with the overflow jammed all around the entrance waiting for tables. The service is hit or miss. But the food! It's delicious. Unlike most "Mexican" restaurants, when they describe something as spicy, they actually mean it. The blackened fish taco is delicious. My shrimp taco was a little rubbery and overcooked, but the flavors of everything else in the taco made up for it. And the nachos....you need at least two people to tackle them. Plenty of real melted cheese, crispy tortilla chips, and all the fixings. Plus, during happy hour the nachos are only $5! I also had one of their pork dinner specials a few months ago and it was amazing. I wish I could remember more about it, but I always check out the specials list now hoping they'll have it again. Their specialty margaritas are also quite enjoyable and actually contain some alcohol, which is a nice change from paying upwards of $10 at other places and getting flavored syrup in return. I'm not a tequila drinker, but their list is quite extensive and seems to offer a good selection.
(4)Linda C.
HAPPY HOUR NACHOS! Need i say more? The other items are okay but the best deal are the $5 nachos! They have a good size selection as everything is $5 unlike other places that have different price ranges. The drinks are overpriced though and not worth purchasing there.
(4)Cindy C.
Bring Cash The food, drinks, and atmosphere were all good. I had a wonderful evening with friends. My husband recently had a wonderful lunch with coworkers there. So why the 1 star review? Both my husband and I paid with different credit cards. Within two weeks, we both had fraud reported on our credit card. The cards were still in our possession, but the information necessary to make online purchases were stolen. The ONLY place both of used our cards where someone could have gotten this information was at the Matador in Redmond. I called and asked to talk to the manager, figuring they would want to know it looks like one of their employees is stealing credit card information. The general manager was not in, so I spoke to the manager on duty. She expressed her concern and told me the General Manager would call me the next day. That was a couple of days ago and I have not heard back. I would consider going back because I really enjoyed my evening there, but I would not pay with a credit card. Although if they don't care enough to call and talk to me about it, then why bother. There's plenty of other nice places in the area that I have enjoyed without subsequently having my credit card stolen.
(1)Jordan L.
I work up stairs from the Matador so my review is a bit biassed. I haven't had a bad meal here and their tequila selection is great. I have the Matador burrito at least once a week.
(4)Kristi H.
Had dinner at Matador, pretty darn good! We were originally waiting for seating in the resturant area, but since it was just my husband and I, we decided to sit in the bar since there as a seat for us after waiting a few minutes for a table! The place as packed and it was 5 pm on a Saturday...? Anyway, we had to ask for chips, but enjoyed the warm tortillas chips and savory salsa dip. We were immediately given water and asked what we wanted to drink by our bartender/waiter Jackson! Kudos to him for being efficient and prompt! My margarita, top shelf, was great! I could actually taste the alcohol. My husband got a Coke. Yes, they had coke, not Pepsi. It was good according to my husband, not watered down and they didn't give him diet either! We both ordered enchilladas, mine was the green and his the red. The fillings were good. I especially liked the carne asada in one of mine, chicken in the other was also good. Didn't have to wait too long for our food either. Overall, we will go back! We enjoyed watching the Oregon vs. Texas game on TV just above us. The bar music was also pretty good, not too loud or annoying!
(4)Jamie R.
My chick friend and I made a trek here to try out the Matador happy hour. We got here like at 4:30 in the afternoon on a Wed... parking was easy on the street because it was early, I could see it being a problem later... I don't know if they had some secret private lot in the back. The place seemed dead and our hopes of sitting on the patio were out because it was tiny and full already. Our server took us to a second room we didn't know existed and it was full of peeps which added to the fun happy hour ambiance. The happy hour menu had lots of choices... nachos, fish tacos, prawns etc. We went with the nachos and prawns. We also each got a mojito which we both agreed was quite scrumptious and not weak. The nachos were the BOMB! Prawn? Not so much. Prawn my pinky toe! These were little itsy bitsy shrimpies! hmmmm. Our server was quick and friendly. The joint was clean. We ate and drank for cheap. What more can I say? I'll be back, but probably early again because when we left the place was hoppin' and there was a line to wait in.
(5)Sean M.
I regret that we missed the end of happy hour. The food looked good. The staff was friendly and competent - the interactions that we had were all pleasant. The bartenders were top-notch. Beers were ok. Margaritas & mojitos were great. Don't expect heavy-handed pours & you won't be disappointed. Very classy, decor was appropriate & appreciated. I would definitely go again.
(5)K.A. E.
Judging from the other reviews, I'd say they were having an off night: The mixologist got carried away with bitters; the "sour cream" appeared to be French Onion dip; the chips were stale; the ceviche had enough habanero in it to send us into orbit; my enchilada rojo had a decent flavor, but was ice cold - the rice was ice cold as well. AND the dude's meal looked like an appetizer. So . . . meh . . . It LOOKED like a cool place to eat. Maybe you're supposed to ingest enough tequila so as not to notice how they're serving the food.
(1)Ryan J.
Nicest place to go for a drink in downtown Redmond. Food is ok but nothing special.
(3)Jessi H.
The setting is very intimate, yet casual. It's dimly lit and there are usually a bunch of people there, but it's still worth it. Mexican themed with lots of tequila to choose from. So far, I've tried their tacos and their enchiladas, and neither were a disappointment. Lots of flavor and a huge portion size. The drinks are delicious and just the right amount of alcohol. I also recommend getting their fried ice cream. It's got a spicy chocolate sauce and the ice cream is rolled in a coconut batter. Sooo yummy.
(4)Gustavo M.
This is my favorite Redmond happy hour. In fact, as far as happy hours, it doesn't get much better than this. All other times, it's good still, but the prices aren't as good (Ooooh... that's why they're called 'happy hours'!?!?) My recommendation: start with a punch-you-in-the-face-deliciously-strong tamarind margarita, while you wait for the best chorizo quesadilla you will ever have. Seal your experience with the ice cream with banana dessert. My only qualms with this place are that it seems to be relentlessly packed, and that they don't do blended drinks, *sad panda*.
(4)Josh E.
I've visited the Matador a few times in the last couple of months and have enjoyed it quite a bit. Located in the heart of downtown Redmond, The Matador is one of the busier places to visit just about any night of the week. It seems to be the after-work hangout for all of the local companies...so if you're reading this review, chances are someone might have invited you for an after-work drink and you want to know the deal before you say yes. One thing I want to mention is that they have an outdoor patio, and during the summer, it's a lot quieter and nicer out there. If you can sit outside...it's a completely different atmosphere than the noisy, crowded interior. Also, try the nachos, they are aces.
(4)Jeremy W.
Two things to remember when you come here - you need to get the local beer on tap AND the pork shoulder is some of the best I've ever had. Soft, succulent and just flat out amazing. Add in the perfectly cooked black beans and rice and this fancy mexican rivals Austin. Brock, the bartender, was informative and personable as I was here on business alone, a good bartender is key. An unassuming building not a far walk from town center in Redmond, this is a must stop of you aren't able to get to downtown Seattle or a more lively area. I contemplated rating it a 4-star because of the location (who wants to stay in Redmond), but it is a 5-star BECAUSE it's a gem in Redmond. If I stay in Redmond again, I will be swinging by Matador for sure.
(5)Sandra M.
Busy Friday night. Standing room only. Atmosphere great. Service great. Drinks great. Knowledgeable and friendly waitress. Ordered food and that is where the 3 stars comes into play. Guacamole flavorless aside from the overdose of onions in it. Ordered Carne Asada tacos. Problem was the Carne Asada was missing. Tacos filled with 80% lettuce and pico de gallo. The black beans were the best thing on the plate.
(3)Juli-ann W.
A great happy hour spot as many others have said. Love the nachoes (I add chicken) and margaritas. The service is really nice, too. This goes on my favorite happy hour spots list!
(5)Kristin C.
The Texas size nachos from Matador are Gods gift to humanity. Or at the very least, Matador's gift to Redmond. At $5 during Happy Hour they are a great deal. Not only are the huge, but super delicious. It's quantity and quality wrapped into one cheese covered basket(or plate, if you will). I have driven by the Matador so many times its ridiculous. I love the vibe from the outside, and was looking forward to trying the legan....wait for it....dary Nachos. We finally made time at around 4 on a Tuesday(or was it Wednesday, who cares, it doesn't matter) afternoon. I expected this place to be slammed, but despite the parking lot being completely full, there was plenty of seating available. We grabbed a spot at the Bar and ordered a couple margaritas. I had the mango, which was fine, but I wouldn't order it again. It didn't taste very..... mangoey. The nice thing is though they don't require you to order a drink to enjoy the Happy Hour offerings. Which is great, since their drinks aren't discounted at all. In addition to the previously mentioned delicious nachos, we also had the chipotle wings. I am a sucker for anything with chipotle, including the restaurant chipotle. The wings were delicious, some of the best I have ever had, but for $5 for 5 wings, not exactly the best deal. The huge plate of nachos for $5 that could feed a large, very hungry, army of sumo wrestlers was well worth it though. We split it between the 2 of us, and I was so full the rest of the night I couldn't even enjoy some ice cream later on. I really like the vibe of this place though, since its Redmond there are lots of pretentious people, but I imagine at night with the dark interior and the candles it would be very romantic, and fun. It's great to know there is such a good Happy Hour spot in Redmond, which has a early happy hour from 4-6 and a late from like 10-close every night of the week. There is also a patio around back for a nice day. I wanted to sit out there, but since its August in Seattle, naturally, it wasn't a nice day.
(4)Joe D.
One of the better burgers I've ever had. Margaritas were awesome also. One cool looking bar. I will return.
(5)Vishnu N.
Grabbed dinner and drinks after catching a movie at iPic. To my delight, this place accepts Prime card 2-for-1 which makes it a great value for anyone that has a prime card. It is worth noting that we tried to come here on a saturday afternoon with our kids but kids are not allowed in the entire establishment.
(3)Susan G.
We went to The Matador for a weekday late afternoon lunch. We were seated promptly by a pleasant hostess in the bar. For some odd reason, we ordered Guiness when we should have sampled the tequila drinks but oh well, that will be for next time. I found the atmosphere to be welcoming and pleasant. inviting you to settle right in. The Mister ordered the braised pork chop and I the tamale. the pork chop came with braised brussels sprouts which were deliciously seasoned tho a tad bit under-braised, which is far preferable to over-cooked when it comes to brussels sprouts. My tamale was good but over spiced to the point where the flavor of the pork and corn tamale wrap was over whelmed by HEAT. The spices should convey and compliment rather than envelope the main portion which is the pork. In all, it was an above average tamale. The service at The Matador is good. Attentive and accomplished but not over-whelming. We'll return for sure and try other offerings from the menu.
(3)John F.
Went in here on a whim while running errands in Redmond. The "Tequila Bar" on the sign outside drew me in. Great decor and ambience. Nice and antentive staff. Tried a Tequila flight as I am not a tequila conneseur and some of thier happy our hour specials. Everything was truly fantastic and the happy hour prices are mui beuno!! I will definitely go back... John
(4)Tyler W.
Damn! Get your mind blown!
(5)Laura W.
We went to The Matador for the first time tonight. Happy Hour is 4 to 6pm and we came around 5pm and at first thought it may be crowded...but we were immediately seated at a window table in a room adjacent to the entrance. We ordered Habaneros Shrimp and Chicken Quesadillas, both just $5 and delicious! The Top Shelf Margarita was exactly what I was looking for...not cloyingly sweet, but full flavored with fresh lime, Patron citronge, Sauza hornitos. Best I've had outside of San Diego! I can't wait to go back to try the blackend shrimp tacos and butternut squash quesadillas with goat cheese and carmelized onions! And the $5 massive plate of nachos look pretty good also...
(4)Donna S.
My husband and I went to The Matador for their Happy Hour which is 4 to 6pm. We came around 4:30pm and ordered Shrimp Quesadilla, fish tacos and Spicy Fried Calamari, $5 each and VERY delicious! The portion size is big and totally worth it....We will go back again soon!
(5)Heather K.
Happy Hour only. $5 HUGE nachos. These are not "happy hour" portions - just happy hour prices! the nachos were very good & vegetarian. It was pretty much dinner for 2. There are no drink specials on HH which was kind of disappointing. However, the drinks were good but the margaritas were realllly salty (even w/o salt on the rim). I think the margaritas were around $8 so not too bad (even w/o HH pricing). Outside seating, attentive staff, great HH food menu.
(4)Stephanie B.
I have only gone for their late-night happy hour (10pm - 1am everyday). I would recommend the garlic prawns and the nachos grande with grilled chicken as the portions are plenty for two people. I wish there were drink specials for happy hour but the delicious food does make up for it. I love that they use fresh fruit for their margaritas rather than using the pre-made syrups. The margaritas go down very smooth. The Bartender's margarita and the raspberry are my two favorites. We have been here a few times and we always have fast and friendly service.
(4)Ryan S.
Love...love...love this place. Great food and personalized service every time we go in there. They make you feel like family. Recommend eating the black bean queso to start. All their margaritas are excellent. But every menu item we've tried is great so you can't go wrong with anything you order. And if you go there...you gotta see Amber or Jamie. They will treat you great. We go there at least once a week and we always have a great time. Highly recommended.
(5)Esther W.
My time was good. During the lunch rush my friend and I were seated almost immediately and was greeted with warm smiles. We were promptly given menus, promptly taken orders.... The service was fantastic. Reading the earlier reviews, i'm not quite sure what the problems were. But seeing that there might be a food inconsistency, I will revisit this place again to see. I ordered the beef burrito and my friend got the taco salad. It looked pretty good. I loved my burrito-- the beef was juicy and plentiful. They don't skip out on the cheese either-- amazing! So I enjoyed my food. I'd come back here again, although the prices are a little higher, I love the atmosphere this place gives. You could go to Bandido's a few blocks over, pretty much same (if not more) portions, almost same quality meat, for lower the price (lunch-specials), but the atmosphere just isn't the same as El Matador. So, I would come back for lunch dates and meetings.
(4)Perry M.
Matador has an awesome atmosphere really nice staff stays open late. The waitress was really great she took care of my order and kept a smile on her face the whole time and not to mention how cute she was! Thanks Matador for the experience!
(5)Rob M.
Visited Microsoft, and the employees and I went there to hang out for a bit. Great beers and cocktails.
(4)Alexis S.
LOVE THIS PLACE! The guys who work at the bar are super nice and really cool! The food is amazing, and the happy hour prices are out of this world!!! You can get fish tacos for $5 at happy hour! Their drinks are really great too! The lighting is just perfect and the decor is perfect! Please note that this is a 21+ bar. Also they recently changed their menu.
(5)Joop V.
3.5 stars. The Menu at The Matador is slightly limited but just enough for us to choose from. We met up with friends over a Memorial Day weekend lunch and liked the fact that the place wasn't too overly noisy. It's still nice and quiet enough for us to enjoy a conversation at our table. The food was decent but nothing noteworthy. I had a skirt steak burger and especially like their cilantro mayo on a bun. My SO had a tacos salad and he said it was ok, too. The only downside was that we felt our waitress took away our dishes too early. To be faire, she did ask before taking the plates away. However, I felt it was weird and awkward to just take everyone's plates away and still letting the last person with his plate while he tried to finish up his last bits of food. P.S. The perks are that they have private parking spots nearby and refillable sodas + chips and salsa.
(3)Nacaly T.
The place is ok but I had a bad experience with the service. We called in advanced for a table to fit a big group and they didn't make sure to have our spot set. They couldnt find a good option for our group and we waited for an hour, we ended up leaving the place.
(2)Scott C.
My wife and I have been here several times and the one thing that really stands out is, no consistency. We went on a Tuesday night and the food coming out was sub par and cold. We had the spicy shrimp, calamari and the chorizo queso appetizer. The spicy on the shrimp was almost unbearable. Now I like habanero but this was over the top. Next were drinks. I ordered an "original" to start and it was blah and very light on the tequila. So as a follow up and to see if maybe he makes a better "top shelf" margarita I tried another. Nope, bartender sux on Tuesday night. I can think of another Tuesday night we were there with about the same consequences. Service sub par as well. I'm guessing it's the B or C team in Tuesday's.
(2)Richard Y.
The food was above average but the waitress made such a BIG deal over ID! My friend ordered a tequila and his wife was under 21 (the rest of us did have ID) and they were so aggressively about it we almost wanted to leave.
(2)Angie W.
First let me say been going here for the past few years. Over that time things have been hit or miss with the service and food. We like the food so keep going back. Think this past weekend will be our last visit. Came in for a late lunch/early dinner. Wasn't too crowded but the waitress was busy. Took about 5 min from time we were sat until server came over. She took drink order and then another 5 min for drinks and another 5 min after that for chips and salsa. We ordered shrimp fajitas and blackened shrimp tacos, both of which we have had before. After a really long wait the waitress dropped off food that was cold and greasy. Fajitas had stopped sizzling and a pool of grease was sitting in the bottom of the dish. The shrimp tacos were stone cold. HATE creating a scene so we patiently waited for the waitress to come over. Told her what was going on. The fajitas were inedible and that is really hard to do. The tacos were at least edible. We weren't willing to wait another 30 min for food, so we sent fajitas back and shared the tacos. The lack of acknowledgement by management on the issue was disappointing. Face it, stuff is going to happen but it's how you recover that makes a lasting impression. The waitress let us know they were having issues with the kitchen and we left her a BIG tip because we felt bad that it was impacting her pay. Think we have given these guys one too many last chances. Drinks are good. Food is tasty when they get it right. Just not willing to chance another bad dinner.
(2)Caitlin S.
The service was slow but the food was delicious. Got the taco flight, street corn and chocolate cake
(4)Namtran V.
Definitely my favorite happy hour on the east side!! Their Texas sized nachos are such a good deal and add meat for another dollar or two. I found that I got more meat on my nachos when I asked for no beans! It's hard to see if you're eating a piece of steak vs a bean in the dark. I've tried the garlic prawns and I just don't think paying a dollar per prawn is worth it, plus the flavor wasn't there to me. I also didn't care for the romaine salad either, and I'm usually an advocate for vegetables on the table. Pass on the calamari too, really soft and not breaded well. Other than that, come here for the nachos and tacos, the red sangria, ANY margarita, and don't skip dessert! Get the chocolate decadence for a perfect end to a late night happy hour date.
(4)Chelsea B.
Great happy hour which starts at 10pm. I'm really picky about meat quality - and theirs is excellent, especially considering the low prices. I love the staff - everyone who works there is super nice and attentive. My husband and I are regulars. The atmosphere is intimate (dark lighting, candles), but it's not so "romantic intimate" that you can't go with a group of friends or family. Some of the walls have TV's which is a bummer, but they're not too obtrusive so I barely notice them. The drinks are delicious. They have a certain type of tequila I like but can't remember the name of, so I will update this review later when I find out. All around great place. It has everything I love in a restaurant (wonderful, caring staff + tasty food & drinks) so I'm rating 5 stars. Hooray!
(5)Melissa R.
This was described as upscale Mexican to me, and based on the prices, I would expect more than your standard Mexican fare. But unfortunately that's what it felt like to me. Nothing too special. Probably a better place for happy hour and going with a group of friends, but if you are seeking a unique twist on Mexican or something better than what you can find at most Mexican chains, probably not worth going.
(3)Mike R.
Good margaritas and good atmosphere. Bartenders were very friendly. I will come back again.
(4)J M.
Good service, good Happy Hour, food is delicious (mostly). The seasonal fresh sheet corn on the cob is outstanding! My son's girlfriend, however, had the chicken taco salad which was mostly inedible because it was soooooooo spicy. Way too much. We'll give it another try, however, because both this location and West Seattle are great.
(4)Rebecca I.
I created an account just to review this restaurant ... That's how awful my experience was. My husband and I have spent many an evening at the Matador, enjoying their usually fantastic food and drinks. The staff has usually been inattentive or crazy busy, but we deal with it and go back anyway because the food and drinks are good. This last visit was our final visit. We had our dog with us, and the hostess said that it would be okay to sit with her on the back patio. So, we sat and our dog took her spot under the table. After sitting for a total of less than a minute, an extremely rude server came out back and noticed our dog. Instead of handling it professionally, she loudly exclaimed that dogs were not allowed there and accused us of intentionally breaking the rules. She was extremely loud and the whole back patio went silent and stared at us. I said that the hostess said it was okay as a way of apologizing and diffusing the situation, but she went on and on until we were shamed out of the patio. It was mortifying. I have told all of my friends about our experience. I used to be a server and I know it's a very tough job and everyone has a bad moment, but this was so over the top. Bad service. Will not go back. It's too bad because the food is very descent and we love their drinks.
(1)Doris W.
Flew in late on a Thursday night and was taken here for a late night happy hour. I think we popped in around midnight. I like the setting, kinda dark with high bar tables in the middle and I think fire pit things. We sat near the back of the bar in a booth. We got sat right away. Pretty big selection of food on their happy hour menu. We ordered: - nachos (HUGE) I think they were $5. So big! I liked the kinda burnt , really crunchy tortilla chips on it - garlic shrimp - calamari - wings - beer and cocktail (I ordered some kind of pineapple cocktail I thought but it did't taste like pineapple, it was pretty strong) Everything was good, good happy hour!
(4)Nina R.
I really like this place for happy hour as it is busy and I like to sit at the bar to visit. Also like all the outdoor light coming in.The only complaint is that they don't update there menu enough so some of the items are boring. Service is usually above average and of course isn't on par when they get slammed for happy hour. In short I give them a 4 star for ambience 3 stars for food as it is little plain 3.5 for service That said I keep going for the people that go.
(3)Nancy R.
Have been here a few times and always sit at the bar. Beautiful bar. Great food and drinks and always someone nice to talk to. Very enjoyable place.
(5)Karlo G.
Upon walking into Matador, one might say the decor is a nice fusion of metal work, rustic ceiling fixtures, and an inviting center fireplace. We were promptly greeted by our hostess and immediately provided a reasonable wait time. The hostess also offered to take our drink orders while we wait for the table. We were seated in the patio area. The cement tables mixed with intricate metal designs was a nice touch. We ordered the Texas Size steak nachos, tacos de calle, flan, sangria rojo and house margarita. The service was definitely top notch. Our drinks arrive first followed by the appetizers. The moment we finished our the last nacho chip our tacos de calle arrived piping hot and garnished with queso fresco. Water service was frequent and our server was keen to notice when we are about to finish our drinks and meal. The flan was an excellent ending to a savory meal. The dessert had a perfectly creamy texture with right amount of bitterness from the caramelized sugar syrup to balance with the richness and sweetness. Overall, good happy hour spot and excellent service.
(5)Brittany V.
This is an old favorite of mine. I used to come here with my best friend frequently for the stellar drinks and good food. I came here tonight with my parents for the first time in a long time and WOW what a disappointment. The margaritas were so bad it made my mom gag. The mixer was horrific . Even the waitress said people have been complaining about them. I had her take it back and get me a Mojito but the Mojito was even worse. The food was so mediocre and flavorless....it makes Azteca look like a 4 star restaurant. As a waitress, When you have a table send Back 3 drinks the manager should come over and address the down falling of the product
(1)MamaKitty D.
Love, love, love this place, been a loyal customer for a few years and will drive out of my way to eat here..went here for lunch with my husband and unfortunately my reason for going to this place (White Peach Sangria) is no longer served, instead its a "White Sangria" that is very sour and unpleasant (in my opinion)..I asked the waitress if she could bring me another drink but with the old recipe, all she said was no and that the new drink is the only way they can make it..really?? Last time I checked, we were paying customers and most bars will customize drinks, guess next time I need to go to the bar myself to order and cut out the rude waitress...
(3)Roland A.
Inconsistent. Recently started going to matador again after several years, and -- last night -- remembered why we stopped going. Super big high-five to the busboy. He gave us best service of the evening. Hostess kept up waiting at door for 5 min while she chatted with bar tender. Waitress was a ghost ... Sat at table for another 5-7 min before being greeted. Ordered a beer and she ran a way before I had chance to ask for a glass. Got up to get a glass at bar and didn't even occur to waitress to inquire / apologize, and again needed to wait at bar for a solid minute while the two bartenders conversed. After finishing meal, waited and waited for ghost waitress to show up. Finally asked busboy for to-go box and to let waitress know we were ready to go. Food was mixed bad as well. Meat was rare when I asked for medium :( but otherwise yummy. My wife's food was too salty so she only made a small dent in portion and inattentive waitresses didn't even inquire why. So, when they're on they're on because last experience was great. So much so, wife was excited about taking her team to lunch there. Suffice it to say -- not anymore. My recommendation is pass -- other good AND consistent options in area.
(3)Melody P.
I came with my coworkers and a former manager, total 5 of us for lunch. Well, I've heard so many good things about this place. However, I was not impressed! Pros: 1) Parking 2) Good chips and salsa (not sure if it's bottomless) 3) Fast and friendly service 4) Very accommodating, we all got separate bills 5) Very modern venue Cons: When my chilli relleno was served. I had a hard time finding it! It was buried in rice and beans. I was like, "Where is my chilli relleno?" I was definitely not impressed with $17 (including tips) for that size of chilli relleno! I love how spicy it was! However, it's also a bit salty. My relleno tasted more like stuffed sour cream. Perhaps, I should have ordered fried calamari like my coworker recommended! Sorry! Matador, there are better Tax-Mex or Mexican restaurants!!
(3)Sarah A.
The food here is fantastic! The chips and salsa are always fresh, the entrees are always warm and taste authentic, and the portion sizes are huge. I'm currently pregnant, so I always order Shirley Temples. They have some of the best Shirley Temples around, and the cherries are so tasty. My husband and sister rave about the carnitas, and I am partial to the steak burrito. The staff is always friendly, and have always been able to get us seated right away. The atmosphere is relaxed and fun with a large bar, beautiful colors, and fireplaces. It is also nice that it is 21 and up, so we know we can come here for date night without worrying about parents not keeping an eye on their children. My only complaint is that the parking lot can become crowded very quickly, but it is in downtown Redmond, so that is to be expected.
(5)Ivan S.
I've been to the one in Ballard, but this was my first time in the one in Redmond. Unfortunately my experience at this one was not even close. Even though I do recognize its not easy to seat a party of 14, we called beforehand for a heads up and let them know we were willing to split the group in different tables. We got there, waited a bit over an hour and saw countless other parties that got there after us getting sat before us. But what topped it all off was the blonde, curly hair, long black dress hostess...who was unwilling to work with us. We gave her several ideas and options but she was not happy with the whole concept. All in all, I won't be considering this place for a big group of people.
(2)Amber R.
I do love this place, dispite the three star rating, I cant help it I just keep comin back for more. I think its the decor and the overall classy yet fun feel of this place. Red sangria is great. Love the salsa its smoky and delicious. Service here is hit and miss sadly...mostly miss :( waited a long time for our bill which didn't help that we had a time constraint. Parking is also hard to find..but...worth it for the sangria ;)
(3)cat b.
This place has improved a TON. The salsa that comes with the chips is really good, and I don't really like salsa that much. I had the nachos with chorizo. Freaking delicious, and it was a huge portion. The waitress was attentive and friendly. Very glad my husband convinced me to give this place another try! Worth it.
(4)Amanda S.
I went there tonight after hearing fabulous things about it and was sorely disappointed. My food was just ok. The enchilada sauce was too sweet and tomatoey. I ordered two drinks and one was delicious (red sangria) and the other (white sangria) wasn't good at all. The service was great in the beginning but after the waitress dropped off the second drink we didn't hear from her for at least 30 min. It was very weird. I'm super disappointed.
(2)Julie P.
I've being going to Matador for years. The staff is the best it's ever been. I always sit at the bar close to the service well. The guys behind the bar are kicking butt getting drinks out and the girls are running them as soon as they're up. I was there Friday and went back Saturday to see Cameron - and enjoy pork tacos!!! I love that kid. He cares about his customers, making sure they are enjoying their food/drinks and asking if they need anything. He's just plain awesome! I always enjoy our conversations and am sad that, for now, he's not there weekend nights. I guess that means I need to start going in for lunch more often! Back to the pork tacos.... These alone are worthy of a 5-star rating. Not only are they delicious, there is almost too much meat. I know, sounds ridiculous.... I have never been disappointed. Drinks are always fantastic... Sometimes I just have beer, but the Tamarind Marg - with extra cinnamon & sugar on the rim - is my fave!!
(5)Krystal O.
Texas sized Nachos are the best, but the service is a bit slow and they're always busy. On the other hand, Matador is a great place to go for happy hour as they offer excellent deals on nachos and tacos. Reserve your trips to matador for happy hour! I did not have the best customer experience of recent. I asked one of the workers about the wifi password. She asked another employee and the employee stated that they don't give out the password to customers. The worker then turned to me and said Matador doesn't have wifi. Oh really? Cause the wifi name called 'Matador' says otherwise. the service was also extremely slow and it took my friend and I over an hour to get our food. Although the food is awesome, it seems like their high volume of customers causes them to lack service quality.
(3)Brad H.
The Matador in Redmond is a great place to have a quality meal with friends. The food quality is good, the flavors are strong and the service is outstanding. The prices are a bit on the high side but it comes with the menu items served and the area on the Eastside. All in all a great place to visit.
(5)Mark H.
Would have liked to stop for a meal. But no one under 21 allowed! Would be nice if they noted that on their website.
(2)Linnea T.
This location is small, so come early or come really late if you want to find a spot. Most everything on the menu here is spicy (including the jalapeño margarita-- yum!) so those with a sensitive palate should beware! Great service and cozy atmosphere!
(4)Renee L.
Great for drinks, slightly below average for food. Waitresses are nice and accommodating. There is a patio out back which is really nice on a sunny day. Parking is difficult.
(3)Brian C.
My wife and I used to come here about once a week until we got pregnant. Now that our baby is getting older, we tried to take her with us to have lunch but were refused service. Apparently, this is a 21+ establishment which I don't fully understand as it's located in the family-focused area of Redmond, WA. I hope the owner realizes this is a restaurant, not a club--coming from L.A. and Chicago where my family have never been turned away with an infant, this was a hard pill to swallow. I would have given this place three stars if not for the ridiculous 21+ rule. That aside, the Matador does have the best marg on the east side and a great selection of tequilas if that's your thing. Food is usually pretty good, but the quality is inconsistent. I like the crispy beef tacos and the black bean queso dip, the fish tacos are also pretty good when they have them. Be careful when you order the specials, though, they usually don't have parts of the dish.
(2)Joyce L.
This location has gone downhill over the past few years. It used to be a great choice for late night happy hour or getting drinks/food with a group, but my experience the past few times has been mediocre. The cocktails are not made well and the food is not nearly as good as it used to be. Nachos are lacking toppings, the calamari is greasy and mostly tastes of batter, the ancho chile wings are covered in an overly sweet glaze...really disappointed that one of the few Redmond late night spots is no longer up to par. Maybe the normal dinner menu has fared better, but I doubt it...
(1)Angelica R.
Still a good place for drinks, however I'll never dine there again. Food has gone way down hill! Last time I was there with a group of 6, they served tacos on wrong type of tortillas, and another's food was not warm. Very disappointing overall. Server did not seem overly concerned about anything.
(2)Katie O.
Was the sangria delicious? Yes. Was it frustrating that our server totally forgot about my second sangria until we were kinda ready to leave? Also a yes. Basically, the food is good but the service could definitely be better.
(2)C Miranda C.
This place is hit or miss; sometimes the food is really great, and sometimes it's only so-so. I've seen specials of the day that suspiciously look like the chef is cleaning out the frig and throwing things together; sometimes it works and sometimes it fails. One thing that is consistent is the margaritas and mojitos, which are always good. It's very busy on the weekend evenings and during happy hour, and iit can be somewhat loud and difficult to carry on conversations. Obtaining close parking is very difficult during these times.
(3)Jack S.
It is mothers day and I brought my wife and mother in law in at 115pm. The place was dead with several servers. There was no sign we saw wait to be seated. One of the servers asked us to wait while she got the menus had a stuck up attitude. She then went to serve other people food. We just wanted to go outside to sit down....there was a open sunny table we saw as we walked by on the street. So we went to walk outside and the bar server stopped us and told us wait to be seated.. . Really the place was dead. ....no reason for us to wait. If it was very busy then yes. We didn't feel welcomed and was rude. I liked this place before and now you lost us as customers...
(1)Dmitriy Y.
Got drinks after work with a friend and the decor here was really awesome! I believe they also have a location in Denver, Co! Now I've been here quite a few times in the past and a few things are worth mentioning; This is a destination bar dont expect to be seated immediately, some nights it will get crazy busy with a hour wait - well worth it too! The jalepeño poppers are the best I've ever had. They have magic goat cheese and taste very fresh and spicy! Just how a fresh jalepeño should tast! It's always a staple when I come here! The nachos are MASSIVE! A coworker and I shared it and he still had some to take home. You get salsa and chips while you're looking over the menu. I assume the salsas homemade, it's always been very fresh and spicy- again just how I like it! There is a jalapeño drink that has a spicy seasoning as the on the rim IT IS SO GOOD!! Please tip the waiters well. This place is always CRAZY busy and I see like 4 people working. I work retail so I know hectic, but these guys are streamlined and efficient. Plus it's a bar, give them a break All in all this is a great chill loud sit down bar! Give them a shot and I hope you'll get to see what I have!
(5)Neil B.
There is nothing particularly wrong with Matador's food. It's the standard Mexican food that you will find at any Mexican restaurant, but there in lies the problem. The prices and the ambiance make it seem as if this is higher quality tasting Mexican food, but that is simply not the case. Standard fare Mexican food at elevated prices...
(2)Beef S.
Ribeye tonight was wonderful. Crowded but not over crowded. Hostess said 15-20 minutes to get a table, 10 minutes later we were sitting down. Food was good, service was good. The only thing I can complain about is it is so dark in the dining room. Had a hard time reading the menu. I will go back and struggle with the menu again, just to eat dinner here. Thanks---Beef
(4)Alysha H.
I have to say that I always love the food at every Matador, and this one is no different. My problem lately has been the 'bar' experience. Don't get me wrong, the bartenders are good, and maybe it's because it's such a large bar, but I constantly feel neglected when I'm sitting at the bar top. I sit up at the bar usually to have a little more interaction my server, but I don't get that here as much as I do at other locations or bars in general.
(4)Megan K.
I like this place for happy hour - the happy hour food specials are a really good deal. We love the red sangria and variety of margaritas and tequila. If you're looking for a little vibe after work, this is the place to see and be seen in Redmond. Get there early so you can sit around the fire near the bar or at the actual bar seats. Once 5:30pm rolls around, seating gets slim pickings. The food is just ok. Again, it is great for a happy hour deal. The nachos are huge and tasty. We've also had the black bean queso (it's just ok...add grilled chicken and it steps up a bit), the flautas (eh-they're decent, I mean...how bad can fried tortillas stuffed with pork be?), and blackened shrimp tacos (those are tasty). The service is fine and overall this place is good. It isn't the first place I ever think of going for dinner however, always comes up for a happy hour stop.
(3)Brit G.
My friend & I decided to grab happy hour food here after arriving out of state. We have a Matador in Portland & I've always had great experiences there. Wow, the service here... laughable. We got seated & were with empty cups for over 10 minutes. The server came--seemed to have abut of an attitude--took our order & that was the last we saw of her. We sat with empty cups for the remainder of our meal. It wasn't even that busy. Snotty service. Super rude.
(2)Jay M.
First an foremost! DELICIOUS FOOD!!! holy cow! Let alone such a great environment. Very warming and inviting. It does get packed and loud in there... Which makes it that much better! The matador burrito is definitely a must! A key starter me and my girlfriend love would be the pork verde flautas! They were the tits!!! Also don't mind the 5$ huge plate of nachos after 10pm!!! Umm... Yessss, PLEASE! I just live right next door. And I must say! It's a definite bonus!
(5)Som S.
Best Americanized Mexican food ever, I love their picante chicken burrito and grape salad. That is not to say other dishes were bad, those to were amazing. Their happy hour has a great selection for great price.
(4)Camille C.
Really love the food, drink, ambience. Great selection of mezcal, fresh ingredients. The only gripe is the price (little on the expensive side), and for that I hear there is a pretty good happy hour.
(4)Katherine N.
I have been to the Matador in west seattle numerous times and loved it. Tonight I went to Ballard thinking people would be just as nice. To be fair the host was very kind to us. But as soon as I was seated, our "server" welcomed people who sat down after us first. After we had waited 20 minutes mind you. Then she comes up to us, smugly probably thinking I wouldn't tip well. I have worked in the industry, and I know how hard it is, but she was extremely rude about me forgetting my ID and said in a condascending tone "yaa this whole place is a bar" and then turns around and just walks away. She even goes as far as to conversate with the people sitting next to us and smile. No apology, no consolation. Just straight up rude. So to the girl with the red lipstick on a Friday night who thought she was the shit. You weren't. We won't be back here again.
(1)Gary W.
I was so excited about going to Matador with a few of my co-workers for lunch as I've always enjoyed eating at the Matador in Ballard. Sorry to say this location doesn't compare, even closely. We came during the peak of the lunch rush and the stress showed in the service and the quality of the meal. It started good as we were seated immediately and our drinks came out really fast with the complimentary chips and salsa. Looking over the menu I spotted the chiles rellenos knowing that typically they are either really good or really bad when I've had them at other restaurants. Here, there were bad and came as a small poblano pepper that seemed the size of a large dill pickle on a large plate covered with a heaping portion of black beans and rice that were lumpy and unappealing. The proportion small size of the relleno with such large portions of beans and rice just didn't seem right. The taste was bland as I enjoyed better the chips and salsa. Our service was stretched during the lunch hour as we were in the middle of lunch around 12:45pm where everyone was finishing and getting their bills. Because the servers were occupied with bills and also responsible to bus the tables, my second ordered margarita was forgotten and there was a noticeable gap in our service as our waiter was busy cleaning tables. I really have high expectations of Matadors because of my exceptional experiences at the Ballard location. Maybe this location is good for happy hour, drinks and chips. But, I don't see myself coming back for lunch service anytime soon.
(2)Chelsea R.
This Matador has a purpose.. and that is to provide you with a wonderful margarita until you're ready to eat across the street at El Toreador. I regret everything I've ever ordered off the food menu.. but their top shelf margarita is my favorite rita of all time.
(2)Jim F.
The Matador is like a cake with all the decorations to make it look good, but missing some key ingredients that make it taste good. Slow and indifferent bar service, not enough menu options, and a long wait despite ample empty tables. At least the wait staff are attractive, but that only registers a 3 on the Richter scale.
(3)Sarah R.
I like going here for Happy Hour - that is when I can get a seat. See, even with a small parking lot (most people have to street park which isn't always the best) this place FILLS up and it FILLS UP FAST come happy hour time. The deals for HH are great - great food choices and stiff margaritas. The bartenders margarita is my all-time fav margarita. No one makes it QUITE like the Matador but I digress.. Anyhow, get there early if you want a seat. Oh, order the queso as well (not on HH menu) - it's delicious and worth full price. Dinner: I've found the dinner menu choices to be blah / bland & some things are over-priced. Everything tastes like mush and needs salt. The stuff from the HH menu is NOT worth full price at the regular time of day. If you invite me to HH I would say "you bet!". If you invite me here for dinner I might kindly suggest somewhere else. Tip: This place is 21+ at all times. No kids allowed!
(3)Reza A.
I've been coming to Matador for years now, and let me tell you it's a great place to go to hang out with friends and co-workers after work. They have a pretty good drink and food selection, both on their regular menu and their happy hour menu. The food is pretty decent, portion sizes are fairly large and prices are very reasonable. They take the prime card as well, which is a big plus. The atmosphere is pretty laid back, which makes it a great place to just hang out for a few hours and have a good time. It can get busy during peak hours, so you might have to wait a few minutes to get seat, but nothing too bad. All in all you can't go wrong with Matador if you just wanna hang out for something casual.
(4)David A.
This is a good place to eat in the convenient Cleveland Street area. The food was good, so was the service. It's a big place with different ambiences, including a section outdoors, which is great this time of the year (June). I'm not a fan of spicy food, but I really liked this!
(4)Roman T.
Very good bar with a great selection of tequila. Happy hour is good. Food wise, they are just okay. Appetizers are good.
(4)Ceci M.
The restaurant is delicious and the environment is poppin. I enjoy this restaurant, when we can get in. Yes, it's that popular! Go on a early-mid week night for dinner. Our favorite server is Jackie. She recommended the "scratch margarita" our first visit and it's so fantastic we order it every time.
(4)Eileen J.
This place is more of a bar then a restaurant I feel. Their drinks are really good and some of their menu items are tasty but its almost like all the food is just completely overloaded with cheese and grease. The service is kind of spotty. Of the 3 times I've been here I had 1 really good experience, 1 mediocre one and 1 that was just awful. It's kind of a restaurant roulette. Great tequila choices though! I hate going back and forth between good and bad, thus the 3 star review
(3)Kyla F.
Great food, service, and atmosphere! Great happy hour!! Will be back!
(5)Karyn S.
The Matador used to be one of our favorite places to go, but is no longer. The ambiance is great and the place is always packed, which gives the impression it's a trendy place to be, but that doesn't mean it's worth going to. We waited 45 mins outside for a table for two Friday night at 5pm, as they don't accept reservations, and wished we just would have gone somewhere else. The chips and salsa are awesome. I think they make their own fresh salsa, and the chips (usually) are served warm. The drinks are pretty good, but over priced. The menu is very limited, though is usually pretty good food, however they are very skimpy of the portions of meat in the entrées. The service is lacking; snotty servers, rude hostess and takes forever to get a drink. The parking is horrible and can't understand why the place is always crowded. Where did you people park??? Their parking lot is always full and have to walk blocks to find a parking space. The Matador missed the mark and can find better food, service, and places to be.
(2)C S.
I usually love coming here. I'm pregnant so I can't have an alcoholic beverage, but was craving some Texas Size Nachos. I had ordered chicken nachos and our waitress brought us steak nachos instead. We told her we had ordered chicken, and she frowned and said we ordered steak. Our waitress took the nachos back and set the correct nachos on our table and walked away. She didn't say anything to us. The whole time we were there, we felt a hostile vibe and unwelcomed. Also, the chicken nachos tasted stale, part of my fear of ever sending a dish back to the kitchen. Two stars because I'd still go back, but no more because of my experience tonight.
(2)Mark D.
Grilled corn on the cob served with mayo, lime, cilantro, et al is awesome!!!!!!
(5)Alissa S.
Tried to go here for a date night sans kids, which does not happen often when we have twins. The greeter was not very inviting. Just grabbed menus and say us at our spot. No enjoy your meal. Nothing. After some amount of wait chips and water were delivered. At which point our server requested drink orders. We ordered and waited. 10 minutes passed and she came back by to say not only did she never put them in, but she forgot what we even ordered. My husband decided he didn't want his at this point, but I still wanted mine because dang it... Date nights rarely happen and I wanted to enjoy it. She put my order in but clearly she did not rush the drink order despite forgetting and never even submitting it. So my drink still took another 10 minutes with the back up at the bar. My drink arrived after the food showed up. She's just set it on the table. No apology for the LONG delay or anything. The food was good. The experience wasn't as amazing. Probably will choose from the plethora of other 21+ places next time in hopes of actually having drinks on our date.....
(3)Hee Jin B.
Came here for dinner on a Tuesday night. Place is very dimly lit, but looks like a nice establishment. You have to be 21+ for matadors Started off with a mojito and my gf got red sangria to drink. Free chips and salsa that taste great while dining in. We shared the green chili from the special menu. It was more soupy than you'd expect "chili" to be but nonetheless it was amazing! The tortilla strips we got to dip or eat with the chili was not so good though so we used the free chips instead haha. I would definitely get it again. My gf got the carne asada matador burrito while I got the braised carnitas. Talk about large portions! We ate half, maybe more, of our meals and were full (perhaps we shouldn't have had so many chips). Both were great, only thing I did not enjoy were the tortillas for the braised carnitas which were the same ones for the green chili. We'd definitely come back and hopefully the green chili will be on the menu:)
(4)Claire B.
I used to be a regular here but the service has gone way down hill. There is this bartender who kept mixing up my drink order, he looked barley 21 himself to be serving drinks. His service was unfriendly and rather rude and snobbish. I was thinking of making a complaint to the manager but decided to try the new spot down the street instead, with a little nicer service from more experienced bar tenders. I used to not mind the overpriced drinks at matadors, but now the service quality is all the way down hill.
(2)Geoff F.
Great happy hour and the margaritas are excellent. You can't go wrong with the Carne Asada here, and the salsa is fresh and quite good... A little underpowered, but good. It's actually a bar, so no kids allowed. Get there early because the parking lot fills up, as does the outdoor patio. Some seasonal variety and a changing menu would give this small, local chain 5 stars. But we go here all the time because the food is consistently excellent and the service is always very good. Great atmosphere
(4)Lee K.
There are very few dairy-free options in the food menu; the food is bland, and the only sauces they offer contain dairy. Not even salsa is offered. Think of it as a nacho bar, and not a full restaurant. The tequila selection is very good, but they are a little overpriced. The atmosphere is very loud and crowded, given the small space. Parking is limited and fills up quickly in the evening. I usually have to park a couple of blocks away on the street. I'd only come back here to taste tequilas, and only when it's not crowded, such as on weekday afternoons.
(2)Z A.
Don't get me wrong, food is good, but service sucks at the redmond location. For me, good food is nothing without great service. We pay to be treated well, but this place has servers that lack that and an arrogant manager who can't care less.
(1)Chelsea M.
This was a favorite dinner spot for a big group of my friends. We especially loved the sautéed veggi filling option but they just changed their menu and got rid of the option. Now they are just offering button mushrooms or their fajita bell peppers and onions which aren't nearly as tasty. Hope they bring back the previous options and/or the chili rellenos or we are going to have to find a new dinner place :( Also really wish they had air conditioning!
(3)Isobel P.
Came here last night with my bf on a whim, and loved it! It was crowded and lively, but not so loud where we couldn't hear each other. The waitress immediately brought us water and asked if we were interested in any beverages. We were, of course : ) The drinks: I ordered the "Piña Express"(Espolón Reposado, lime, agave, Pineapple Shrub, Dos XX Amber) and my bf ordered the Mac and Jack's African Amber beer to start with. My drink was good, but I couldn't taste the pineapple at all. It was pretty strong, but yummy. I just wish it had tasted more like the flavors that it advertised. My second drink was a Mango Margarita. Absolutely delicious! Strong enough but still sweet. Our waitress brought out all of our drinks quickly and with a smile. Great service here! The food: It was Happy Hour when we came (10:00-1:00) and so a lot of dishes were discounted. I ordered the Romaine Salad and the Habanero Prawns and my bf ordered chips, salsa, and guacamole plus the BBQ Pork Flautas. The flautas were delicious and the chips + sides were EXCELLENT. The guac was fresh and tasty and the salsa was spicy but not too much. The chips were warm and crispy. My salad was good (they give you lots of lettuce) but the prawns were the only thing that I wasn't very satisfied with. They lacked flavor and were just blah. Overall, a great experience! Go during Happy Hour : )
(4)Vyjayanthi R.
Not only are they open past 10pm until 1am every night (when the rest of Redmond resembles a ghost town), they actually have their happy hour then! If you're a vegetarian and you'd like a reasonably priced meal (i'm meaning $10ish), do the following: 1. Order the texas size nachos - a gargantuan proportion of tortilla chips, beans, salsa, cheese, gaucamole and sour cream, yum! 2. Cheese quesadillas Of course, when the complimentary plain nachos with salsa sauce are brought to the table, you will eagerly devour them until you realise that you're full. Which means you will now have leftovers easily enough for two more meals! And all this while you're sitting in a lively, bustling ambience with cool, sober night lighting. Also, did I forget to mention that the food is absolutely scrumptious?
(5)Michael F.
The food good and atmosphere was great. It was worth the wait to get in. I had the Taco's and some cold beer. I will be back soon.
(4)Andy W.
Bo the bartender was awesome. Gave is fantastic suggestions on food. Wings and nachos were very good. Highly recommend if you are in the area. Beer section was solid.
(5)Jenny K.
I fell in love The Matador when the Tacoma location opened up a few years ago and I found myself regularly going there for the steak nachos & mojitos. Since moving away from Tacoma I don't go there as often but I have been to the Redmond location by my office a few times. When I went there last night I had the nachos (my usual) and Mexican old fashioned drinks. The first one was okay and the second one was much better. Tequila instead of whiskey with muddled oranges and cherries. The happy hour menu has a great food selection and would be better if there were drinks on there too. Parking in the lot is limited but plenty of street parking around.
(4)Crystal T.
This is a great place to get happy hour. Great prices, great people... the only downside is it gets crowded pretty quickly, so if you are planning to be there for HH, come early! It doesn't get any better than a heaping plate of $5 nachos.
(5)Amanda J.
After many decent and awesome trips to Matador, I have to say that Matador has gone down in service, food. It appears that in the past 6 months they keep flipping employees over like yesterdays business. Each time we have gone in, in the past few months its been a new face. Last night, was the final straw on poor service. We arrived before midnight and the main area was 70% full and the back area had 5 tables going. We were placed in the back and at first the waitress wanted to place us next to a loud group. We asked for a different table and were quickly escorted away from the loud group. Well, we sat, and the blond lady said she would be back to take our order. 5 minutes pass, no rush. Shes busy with another table, another 5 minutes pass, and shes bringing the others water. two tables by this time have finished and left. We are left with 3 other tables of 2 to 5 ppl. 20 minutes pass and no service, no water, chips/salsa nothing.. We got up and walked passed the waitress who was too busy flirting with the other tables and left. Went to the main bar and let the bar know what occurred. 'Customer Service' Left, saying "Just wanted you to know that we sat for over 20 minutes and nothing" His response.. "oh sorry" My thought, really? How about, what can I do to make it up to you, what can we do to provide better service. Customer Service is not in the Matador VoCaBuLaRy. Ever since they canned all of their staff
(1)Lauren C.
The worst experience ever!!! I frequent this establishment three times a week with colleagues and other business savvy entrepreneurs. I am sorry to say that I was accused of saying "something" against gays and lesbians when in fact I have many friends that are gay and lesbian. The manager brought us our tab and asked us to leave! He was himself gay and took offense to something he had never heard but felt appropriate enough to come to us and accuse us of saying. I am more than offended by this establishment. One I thought was a home to have colleagues and bring them to an established that was well mannered. I've been frequenting here for years and never thought I would be treated the way I was tonight!
(1)Pone C.
Good place, always packed. Great HH. Not enough parking would be my only complaint. O and the building is haunted. Ghost be cray at night!!
(4)Roxanne K.
Conveniently across the street from our apartment, we LOVE Matador. The happy hour menu can't be beat! Especially the Texas size nachos! Bigger than you could ever imagine for $5. Great service by staff and management as well! Matador keeps us coming back.
(5)Gaylynn F.
What horrible service at the Matador!!!!!!! I have tired this place 4 different times to see if maybe it was just a off day for the food or the servers. The food is average but the service is a what makes me never want to come back again.
(1)S A.
I recently met up with my boyfriend here for dinner and a drink. He had eaten already, but was coming along anyway to sit and chat with I ordered. We had been before, and knew that we both liked the place. I was seated right away, as it was later in the evening and not too busy. It was a lovely night out, and things progressed well. My date arrived shortly, we ordered drinks, I ordered my meal. When my meal came, my drink (short tequila soda) was a sip away from done. As soon as the server walked away, I realized I needed another, and spent several minutes trying in vain to flag her - or anyone - down. Unfortunately, it was like everyone disappeared suddenly! One guy walked right by our table, and I waved and said "Excuse me! Excuse me!" and he just kept walking. Finally, I successfully grabbed a waitress as she was going past. I asked if I could get another drink, and she said she'd tell our waitress. I thanked her, and got back to my meal. And got back to my meal. ...And got back to my meal. ....And completely cleaned my entire fajita dinner of every last scrap of food, while enjoying conversation with my date. This experience was not very pleasant, since fajitas are 1) spicy (and in my case, covered in tabasco) and 2) served sizzling and steaming on a hot skillet. They are really meant to be enjoyed with a cold beverage, of which I had none at all for the entire duration of my meal. After finishing the last of my meal, our waitress FINALLY appeared with my drink. I told her, politely, that I was somewhat disappointed that the drink arrived after my entire dinner was finished. Now, if at this point, she had said something along the lines of, "oh, I'm sorry, the bar was really behind, we just had a rush of drink orders." I would have understood. Shit happens. I get that. But she just gave me this belligerent look and said, "well, you didn't ask ME for the drink." with quite a bit of edge in her voice. I told her that I tried to, but I couldn't find her. Instead of responding, she turned around and walked away from the table without saying another word. At that point, I flagged down the next person walking past and asked to talk to a manager. The manager came by a few minutes later and, lo! it was the guy who had walked past earlier when I was waving and saying "excuse me!" I explained what had happened, said that I understood if the bar had gotten behind, but that our server was very rude and that I didn't think I should have to pay for the drink. At this point, even if he didn't comp the drink, I expected some sort of apology? Nope. Instead, he said, well, your drink order was too complex and had to go through too many people. Reminder: tequila soda. "What?" I asked. "Well, you didn't tell your order to your server. Another server had to ask your server to put in your complicated order with the bar." I was kind of stunned at that point, and the manager left. Our server came by, THREW the check on the table as she walked past, without saying a word. The check had the second drink on it, so I asked to see the manager again. I explained again that, please, I would like the second drink removed since it came after my entire dinner was concluded. His response? Verbatim, aggressively, "Well, what did you order?" I told him fajitas, and asked why? He said because it changed how long I was without a drink. Then he went on to demand of my boyfriend, "how long were you guys waiting for the drink?" I'm not sure why he asked my date this, but we both told him we weren't exactly timing it with a stopwatch, but that it was enough time that the entire meal passed. The manager kept going on and on, saying things like "Well, if you REALLY are telling me that it was fifteen or twenty minutes that you THINK you were waiting, then I can remove this...." The entire time, he had a very aggressive tone, and kept demanding how many minutes it was, exactly. Also, blaming me for my "complicated" order. I really couldn't believe how rude and aggressive he was. Now, the food was really great. The fajitas were fantastic and really hit the spot. But I won't be going back to this location after this experience. What completely terrible service! I was just speechless!
(1)Shereen A.
Rounding up from 2.5 stars (maybe I'm in a good mood?) The ambiance and décor of the Matador is awesome. It's comfortable, inviting, fun, and has a great vibe. However, the food is a different story. The only thing I like here are the chips. I've ordered a variety of dishes and am just not impressed. You're probably safe ordering something that has the chips in it (aka nachos). Otherwise, this place is just whatever. The table salsa is boring and blah (ever heard of seasoning?). The last time I ate here I left with a stomach ache. If I'm coming here to chill (and not eat) which I often do at their location in Ballard, I'd give it 4 stars. But, because food is always a necessity and should taste good I give it 2 stars. I'm also from Texas which raises the bar a bit. The basics of any Mexican food starts with salt and pepper. Come for fun!
(3)Joshua J.
Horrible service, if you want attentive service do not go here. they do not bring you drinks, they do not bring you refills and the food is only average at best......stay away as the Seattle area has way too many restaurants for you enjoy. Don't waste your time here.
(1)Michelle M.
We've been coming here for years and absolutely LOVE it! We come so often my mom makes fun of us! We've also become friends with the Manager (love Danny)!!! This place is always fun, has the BEST margs EVA, has amaze balls food & the cutest, sweetest waitresses!! If I could give it 10 stars I would!!! #justsaying #theend
(5)Ross Y.
This place is amazing. I work late so I often look for restaurants that remain open late. Since The Matador is open until 2 nightly, it is the perfect spot. The drinks are fantastic (I recommend the Top Shelf Margarita). The atmosphere (music, lighting, decor) is great. The food quality is exceptional for all times of the day. It's also great because it's 21+ at all times so no screaming children to ruin the experience. I love the matador and will be back tomorrow.
(5)Carmen V.
Matador sounds like cheap Mexican or Spanish restaurant by its name, but don't judge the book by its cover, the food is very well elaborated and comes delicious and fresh directly out of the busy kitchen! Fabulous cocktails and craft beers from the area. I had the opportunity to be invited there by business associates and we tried so many different dishes and there was no one that I didn't like. Everything was excellent, tasty and the place is cozy even if noisy. Great for work gatherings and happy hours and just having a great time. A great experience during my visit to Redmond.
(4)Paul S.
A lot of reviews ding service at this place. Happy Hour at the bar is good. Bartenders are attentive and friendly. Have been here twice in the last two weeks and will definitely be back. Food is decent and drinks aren't on sale but overall a good value. Kudos to the bartenders. They represent the establishment well.
(5)Ben E.
Arguably the best Happy Hour in Redmond. The Happy Hour Nacho platter is unbelievable. On a nice summer afternoon the covered outdoor seating is enjoyable and relaxing. Beware that the age requirement for the entire restaurant is 21 and over. Numerous times I have witnessed families being turned away. Poor kids. Imagine waiting for Christmas until you are 21. Yes, it is that delicious. Come for Happy Hour. There are better places for dinner.
(4)Heather S.
We have been to this location a few times and have always had great service and amazing food!! Love that they have an outdoor patio, perfect for a nice NW afternoon! Our server was awesome and friendly and made sure we were taken care of the entire visit! Our drinks and appetizers were out quickly and our entrees weren't far behind! We had some food to box up and our server even offered to box it up for us and even refilled my husband's soda as we paid our check!!! We will be back soon!!!
(5)Gemini J.
Cheese Quesadilla was good, and Texas Size Nachos was just okay.. but the ambience was too good & lively at happy hours.
(3)Jillian R.
I've been here about a dozen times and did NOT know it was a bar that served food, rather than a restaurant with great cocktails and a bar. It doesn't make that clear enough! I brought my mom and sister to dinner with my boyfriend and me after they'd been on a backpacking trip. My sister left her driver's license in her backpack and they kicked us out. It was really annoying, and since they don't take reservations or do take out... We'd waited 20 minutes for nothing.
(3)Abhi B.
Atmosphere was nice. We ordered a Moscow Mule & Mojito, barely any alcohol. Very weak drinks that are overpriced. We were turned off by how bad the drinks were so we decided to leave. Can't comment on the food, perhaps it show's more promise. If I ever do come back I will only order beer and no cocktails.
(2)Jay M.
Great Happy Hour menu! Nachos are amazing and taste even better with ranch sauce on the side (extra $0.50)!
(4)Sarah M.
Shared these nachos with three friends: A-mazing! It was delicious and I can't wait to have an excuse for the next time.
(4)Carlos S.
Good for Drinks, and light snacks or lunch. Mexican food is far from authentic, would say its more tex mex, but the ambiance is a whole lot of fun. Overall they are good and they take Passport/Prime.
(4)Mia T.
I'm a fan!! I munch on their chips and salsa until I realize I'm getting full and then I order one of a few things... Matador Burrito - Just delicious. Chicken with the green sauce. A win overall. Spinach and Pear Salad w/ Chicken - So good, light and flavorful. Love it. Tacos - their mango salsa on some of the tacos can be deceptively spicy, but I like it anyways. I do miss their crunchy taco special, but oh well! They have a ton of tequilas, which makes it an awesome bar in my book :) And an Amber Dos Equis that my man gets, served in an icy mug. Perfect for summer days on the patio or next to the open windows.
(4)Morgan L.
I love this location, love that its a 21+ establishment, love they have a delicious full menu, and I love the open windows on warm days. The waitresses are hit and miss. Typical low cut shirt, flirty, and young. Some actually know what they are talking about, others just blink twice when you ask a question. We most recently came here for margaritas on Easter (Easteritas!!)...they had all the windows open so we could feel the warm breeze and get down on some tacos. Personally, I am not a huge fan of their tacos. You get 2 for $5 on HH, but the fish ones I got were all tortilla and sauce- very small slivers of fish. I had to dig around to even find it. My boyfriend got the steak tacos, and again, way too much sauce. Careful if you have any allergies, although I am not allergic to pork, the waitress recommended I try the enchilada special (which was pork) after I told her I don't eat any type of pork. So read the menu descriptions thoroughly. Although they can remove the chorizo from their queso! In the past we have tried their dinners and Yelp famous $5 nachos (this is where Matador excels). We will be back!
(4)Tifani J.
Hands down the best Stuffed Jalapenos we've ever had! Amazing food and drinks!!! We came on a busy Friday night and our server Caitlyn was wonderful. She was very knowledgeable about the food and drinks and very attentive. We ate the mushrooms (tasty!), jalapenos (cheese blend is amazing), carne asada (thick, meaty steak), habanero prawns, and chorizo tacos. Every single item was prepared perfectly. Margaritas were killer as well, I had the house and the jalapeno. The manager was cool, he stopped by to see how we were doing and ended up having a great conversation about tequila and the bar menu. I can't wait to go back.
(5)R G.
Went to The Matador for dinner and drinks. The food and drinks added to the great time. You got to love a place where your 74 year old mother-in-law is doing shots with you and the kids. Our server Nicole was was awesome. I highly recommend this restaurant for the food, drinks and the awesome service. Ask for Nicole's section if go to The Matador. Thank you Nicole from the out of town visitors who felt so welcomed!
(4)Jim T.
Agree with previous reviewer that Friday night dinner is crazy busy! But we were there just ahead of the rush and seated in minutes. Service was outstanding, and obvious teamwork in play as there was a rotation by everyone around the room to ensure all tables had what they wanted. This place is NOT afraid to bring the heat! No stinking jalapeños here, go straight to Serrano and habanero! Yahoo! Started with habanero prawns and if had to find fault it was a bit oily, but quite tasty. Total of about 8 large shrimpies. I went with the enchilada verde and was not disappointed, but found adding a side sauce of the habanero salsa contributed positively. The Evil Queen went with a spicy salad and verde flautas. The flautas were lacking enough filling as only about a third full and slightly dry perhaps just overdone. Still tasty though! Scratch margarita was enjoyed enough by the EQ that took half of mine and left to me order a fine top shelf version. Love the decor, parking is a challenge.
(4)Ariel Z.
You must come here for happy hour. $5 nachos and they are HUGE! I come for the nachos alone
(5)Nina S.
This place is amazing!!!! We have been here a few times now and will continue to go. Definitely try the nachos (especially during happy hour where they are only $5!). They are piled HIGH and are delicious. We have never been able to finish a whole plate there are so many! The enchiladas are also great! The quesadilla with chorizo was very good (it was the same price as the nachos but not as large). The margaritas are amazing. Unfortunately because the appetizers are so discounted during happy hour, the drinks are not discounted at all. That being said, for the size of the drinks they aren't that over priced. A very cozy atmosphere and good service! It had the potential to be loud in the main bar room at night when it's full, but it is one of our favorite Redmond hotspots.
(5)Suj S.
Matador is always consistent, good quality, tasty food. Their meats are well seasoned, beans are perfectly salted and rice is soft. Salsa leaves something to be desired, chips are a bit dry but the variety of margaritas and tequila selection makes rhis place always a fun venue. I love their top shelve margarita. Another added plus is their late night/happy hour selection and pricing. They do not skimp on quantity or quality for their happy hour. Staff is friendly and efficient.
(4)Kevin W.
The location in Ballard is great, and I don't think I like the one in Redmond as much, but it's still an all right place to get food and drinks. Functionally, it appears to be the same, so that means the menu is the same and there's even a fireplace to make the building warm. I'm not familiar with very many bars on the Eastside, so it's nice to have one of these here. If you've been to a Matador restaurant in Seattle, you can pretty much expect the same thing here. During happy hour, the appetizers are five dollars, which is great when you compare them with fast food like a burrito at Taco Del Mar. Even without taking the prices into consideration, I still find it to be a lively and cozy place. I had heard to come here at around 4 PM because the place gets really crowded during happy hour. The staff was able to quickly get a bar seat for me, and I was able to order a mojito from the bartender right away. There was no delay and he made it for me in less than a minute, although it's not as strongly flavored as I was expecting. The glass was brimming with ice cubes but not mint leaves, so the drink was kind of watery. Still good, but probably not worth $7.50. I also ordered two appetizers: the calamari and nachos. They arrived at the same time after about eight minutes and were both quite good. The calamari is just delicious fried squid rings with dipping sauce. It's very greasy though, but what would you expect from something that's deep-fried? The nachos were also a little greasy. The main draw to them is that they're huge, but I can't help but feel that it's just one giant plate of junk food. I still like it, and it helps that there's a lot of it for a relatively low price, but after stuffing my mouth full of them, I think I've had enough nachos to last me for the rest of the year. I couldn't finish them, but they had boxes for take out. How else could one person possibly finish that huge plate? The people here are nice, but the service seems a little spotty. After I got my food, they didn't pay much attention to me, except when they brought the bill, which happened way too early. Normally at restaurants, I have to ask for the bill, but I guess here they've saved that step for me. The food was good, but now I think I'll be sick of nachos for a long time, so I'm not exactly feeling compelled to come back soon. Overall, it's a fun place to get food and drinks, but it's best to go during happy hour.
(4)Angela W.
Many of my friends are big fans of this place but that last two times I have been here, I just cannot understand why! The menu is pretty odd, and the food is SO bland! And the last time I had lunch here my food was cold. I said to the waitress, um my food is cold, she looked at me and said, "ok". That was it, she didn't offer to take it back or fix it or apologize. She just walked away. And its pretty pricey for what you get. I mean come on, its Mexican food, and bad Mexican food at that. Every time I am here the service is SO bad that I literally want to get up and make my own food and grab my own drinks. The waitresses are usually too busy gossiping or texting to really notice what is going on at the tables. And how about a smile once in a while, why do all the servers seem to be here under duress? I do not get it. I also think they have WAY too many tables. They have everyone shoved in here so tight that you cant even hear yourself think. And they want you IN and OUT! They do not want you sitting around gabbing with your friends. They are so quick to take your plates and ask for you to pay. Our last waitress literally stood at the table waiting for us to take out our CC so she could kind of shove us out the door quickly. Weird, rude and not ok. The place is clean. But the parking is terrible!! They have like what, 20 parking spots? If you don't get there at the butt crack of dawn good luck parking anywhere in the vicinity. I wont be going back. I have tried it a few times and ever single time I am unhappy.
(2)Phil F.
Great bar, great atmosphere, solid food. Bartenders are super nice and pour a stiff drink. My favorite is a scratch margarita. Very nice happy hour menu, with solid food. Nachos are very good, and fajitas are my go -to dish. Order them with light oil. Seanan is our favorite bartender but the entire crew is nice. No kids allowed!! :)
(5)Dani Y.
Ahh where to begin, the boyfriend and I have been frequenting The Matador for the past few years, and have not once had a bad experience! To start off, the inside of this place is low lit/ almost intimate, with wrought iron art, stained glass, skull art and stained wood. It gives off a day of the dead theme to me, which I absolutely love. The service is always quick, and the wait time surprisingly low considering how busy the place is. I cannot stress enough how gorgeous this place is. Any way, back to to food. They have a very affordable happy hour menu, that is constantly rotating, which is great if your on a budget but would like to continually try new things here. My favorites are: Bacon Wrapped Jalapenos, Spicy Calamari, Ancho Chile Wings. The food is fresh, and very visually appealing. The flavor blends they use will have your taste buds humming! The bar is quite a work of art, with the most Tequila I have ever personally seen in one place. I favor 'Sparkle Donkey' the bartender introduced me to this smooth tasting Anejo, and I cannot get enough of it! The White Peach Sangria is my go to for a late night, after work visit. The bartenders pour fantastic drinks and very quickly and always seem to have the time to attend to you, even when the place is packed. It is 21 and over, which is a blessing in ways, it creates a whole different environment than any other place. I highly recommend this place to food lovers, late night eaters, couples, friends, anyone that wants quality food and great deals.
(5)Paul H.
Where do we start. No hostess for for several minutes. Asked if we were suppose to seat ourselves and were rudely told "no, I'm the hostess". Was sat down and was moved twice. When we were relocated the hostess got mad at the server. Asked for non spicy food and the food was too hot to eat. The meat was all gristle. Didn't have enough water to choke down our meal. I refilled it myself. Didn't get our order correct and didn't ever apologize for anything when we complained. And they ran out of lemonade.
(1)Patrick B.
I'd rate the food four stars, and the service three. Rounding up to four stars because Yelp doesn't allow you to rate a place 3.5 stars. Here's some notes on the place: 1) Excellent tacos. Fresh, good flavors. 2) Service is attentive and fast. The restaurant 'feels' like a well-oiled machine. 3) Some of the other dishes are a bit iffy. Not saying they're BAD by any means, just a bit uninspired. Particularly since the tacos are so great. All in all, I'm really glad this place exists. In Washington and Oregon it's really hard to find excellent Mexican food in a nice environment. (IE, there are lots of cheap mom and pop places that have great Mexican food, but most of the 'upscale' Mexican restaurants serve incredibly bland and Americanized food. Matador isn't perfect, but it's a huuuuuuge improvement over Azteca and Mazatlan.) I'm a little bit nervous that this place might not last, because the portions are so generous I don't know how they make a profit. And Redmond is hardly the place that people go for good Mexican food. But I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this place will be open in a year.
(4)Heather W.
Awesome happy hour and good margaritas. I always get good service and great food. The happy hour nachos are a great value. They also are great in explaining ingredients as my group of friends has allergies.
(4)Tyler E.
Very fake feeling. The waiter staff was rude, in a rush, and my food took forever to get out to me. My margarita tasted like pure margarita mix and when I asked the waitress about it she said that she personally watched my drink get made and that she couldn't bring me a remake. Hmm... I'm never going back. I'd rather go to El Toreador and pay less money for more awesome service and better drinks.
(2)K K.
Good food good service, tough on the wallet...
(4)Esther S.
My first time at The Matador was a great experience. Some friends and I went for happy hour on a Thursday night. It was busy but we were able to get a table for 4 in 20 minutes. The wait staff was friendly and quick and we were able to get our order in for happy hour before 6pm with no problems. Best happy hour I have been to in a while on the East side. Everything (food wise) is $5 per plate. We ordered the nachos, three different tacos (comes with 2 on each plate), calamari and a quesadilla and the bill came to about $30. Not bad and it fed 4 of us with lots of leftovers as well. I will definitely be going back with my hubby next time :) Esther
(4)Justina B.
My favorite place for upscale "Mexican" food - really more southwestern cuisine. Margaritas: fantastic! Fresh ingredients, great tequila selection. Get the bartenders margarita with Chamucos reposado. Or, Casa Noble reposado for sipping. You won't be sorry! Menu: You'll be pretty much happy with anything you order. High quality ingredients, great flavor. The habanero sauce is delicious!!! Service: I've never had a bad experience from the wait staff to the bartenders. Vibe: Cozy and funky. Also, the entire joint is 21 and over (extra bonus if you are looking to just be around adults). Highly recommended!
(5)Sean C.
How do you spell mediocrity? M-a-t-a-d-o-r? No? M-e-d-i-o-c-r-i-t-y? Are you certain? I could have sworn I had it right the first time. Matador is not a bad faux Mexican mini-chain destination to take a high maintenance date out for a drink in a setting that, while still sheer and sleek with dark colors and intimate lighting to match, feels slightly less fake than Pearl and corporate than Ruth Chris, but not by much on either count. Accommodation of groups of about 10 is also possible on the off days, which is why we ended up here on a lazy Sunday late afternoon. On happy hour, neither the nachos (~$5) nor the quesadillas (~$5) stood out - I'm actually at a loss to say anything about them beyond that they were consumed, starchy, and there was neither rejoicing nor revulsion. The most distinguishing experiential feeling due to my too sweet mango margarita (~$7) was that it reminded me that I haven't been to Agua Verde in a long time. In the same vein, I wouldn't veto others who felt passionately about coming here for a group outing, but I'd never suggest it. McCormick and Schmick's can get away with a happy hour where drinks are not discounted because their food is super cheap and one can easily synthesize a better than average dinner from the variety of options. Neither is true at Mediocrador.
(2)Mammlet M.
Food = GROSS Drinks = OVER PRICED And honestly, the most obnoxious Cinco De Mayo wannabe party I have ever had the sorrow of paying a cover for. I kid you not, they were playing Vanilla Ice. CRAP. The staff is generally nice. Sometimes very nice and the drinks are fine. The tequila selection is top notch, with prices to match. What kind of happy hour doesn't reduce its drink price at happy hour. DON'T CALL IT WHAT IT IS CLEARLY NOT. The decor is nice. Its a chain. The few things I have tried to eat here have been disasters. The shrimp were small listless-- practically canned in texture. PS: I am from Texas, this is not even a poor approximation of anything I would call TexMex.
(2)Mindy H.
It's a toss up between which is better. Matador or Bario. It really depends on what your looking for. Chips and salsa? Better at Matador hands down. Drinks? My husband would say Bario. Food, slightly tasiter at Matador. Desserts are better at Bario. Atmosphere? Both have very unique interiors. Service? Both are good. Price? About the same.
(3)Dennis B.
We sat at the bar, drank margaritas, and ate appetizers (chipotle mushrooms, goat cheese and butternut squash quesadillas, and bacon-wrapped stuffed jalapenos). The atmosphere was light, there were candles everywhere. Decent food - highly recommend the jalapenos. The girl next to us was thinking of applying for a job here. The bartender said 150people had applied for a single open position already...
(4)Chrissy F.
Casual happy hour with friends, co-worker's going away party, or a dinner date, Matador's got you covered! Indoor and outdoor seating, fabulous prices/options on happy hour items (though it doesn't start until 4 - most happy hours start at 3), and the best nachos in town. Margaritas are AMAZING, all kinds of YUMM.
(4)Steve W.
While it is not really Tex-Mex, it is the closest I have been able to find since I moved up here from Texas. The fajitas are tasty and the chip/salsa combination is very good. The Bartenders margarita is my favorite drink. The only real negatives are that my kids cannot eat there (over 21 all the time) and that they do not serve refried beans (I was told that in Texas they don't really serve refried beans...huh?). This is a great place to meet up with people.
(4)Omario R.
I love this place. Went and will go back again and again. I usually go for happy hour. The food is good, I usually get either the nachos/quesadillas or Wings. The drinks are ok but a bit pricey.
(5)Ashley D.
Met some girlfriends for lunch and had a great time. Waitress was attentive without hovering and offered to split our bill without being asked. I got the enchiladas picante and they were delicious; just the right amount of spice.
(5)Adriana W.
Good food, good atmosphere, and a nice variety of drinks. Plus you get chips and salsa to start. I ordered guacamole to go with the chips, which was really good! The only reason I'm giving this 4 stars instead of five, is because of limited seating, and because I told my waitress that I couldn't handle spicy food AT ALL, and my enchilada was so spicy I only took one bite, and then only ate the beans, rice, and guacamole on the side of the plate with the chips that we got in the beginning. But overall a great place, and I'll definitely be back, especially when the weathers nice and I can eat on the patio.
(4)Brenda S.
Redmond, rude staff, okay food I have always loved Matador, but today at Redmond Matadror was a very bad experience, the staff was very rude, unhelpfull, and disinterested. The food was just fair.
(1)Jocelyn L.
Cheap, fast and good food. Good service too Nice space
(3)Duane L.
Great happy hour, but the regular menu is on the pricey side. Luckily, the happy hour is 7 days a week both evenings and nights. The plates are on the smaller side, but for $5 are still a good deal. Lengthy tequila selection is ridiculous for whoever can tell the abominable liquid fire apart.
(3)Dave F.
Great bar! This Redmond restaurant has excellent food. If you liked the Ballard location, imagine a less-crowded quieter location with better service! Their carnitas are really awesome! If you like Matador, try Peso's. Toreador, across the street is a more family-friendly environment as Matador is considered a bar. (over 21, required)
(3)Benjon P.
good place for either lunch or a drink after work. for lunch i had the bbq sandwich, and it was excellent! the service was very quick and servers were very nice. i've been here a couple times after work for happy hour also, and it's a great place to chill with friends. the appetizers on the happy hour menu are really good. the only thing is that parking can be challenging since there's only a tiny lot next to it.
(4)Jenna K.
When we lived in Redmond, sometimes we thought we would get a little crazy and head to Matador...we are obviously a boring married couple. There are only a couple of bars in Redmond, and Matador by far is the best. The decor is dark and somewhat sexy. There are red candles throughout the restaurant and they have really perfected their theme. Its a great place to head to when it's late and you want some entertainment. We usually only ordered two things. The fajitas and nachos. They were both great. The fajitas are actually pretty healthy...too bad that cant be said for the nachos...but who actually wants healthy nachos? Not us, that's for sure. I would rather hop on the elliptical than eat nachos without all that yummy cheese. I could totally pass on how long it takes to get the hostess who is usually chatting it up with someone or another, but really its just as easy to belly up to the bar and order from there.
(4)Makana G.
I've been here a couple of times now and the waitstaff has always been excellent with my friends and I. The food has been delicious and fresh too. I have had their fish tacos, veggie tacos, nachos, squash quesadilla and a few other things I can't recall. Of everything I have had there it was only the quesadilla's that I was not too keen on. The tequila selection is excellent and the staff are very knowledgeable about tequila in general and the ones that they serve. Thus far my favorites I have had there are Casey Nobles Repasado and Chamucos Reposado. They are not shooter drinks like Patron, but something that you really enjoy sitting down and drinking on. I highly recommend this place.
(5)Brian K.
LOVE MATADOR. I used to drag my wife here all the time when we lived in Redmond. We usually split the Nachos, Fajitas, or Enchaladas. It can get packed late at night, especially on the weekends. We often sat the bar, which wasn't romantic, but did the trick. I wish I could clone the matador - I miss it.
(5)Robyn P.
Fun, candlelit outdoor seating, the same yummy nachos I've had at the Ballard location, and great service! I don't hang out in Redmond on a regular basis, but if I did, this is where I'd go for late night HH.
(4)G S.
Enchilada sauce is just about perfect! Chips, salsa, and guacamole were all good as well. Went during lunch and it was pretty slow.
(4)Jose V.
In town on a business trip and I was looking for some good Mexican Food. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed. The atmosphere of the place was wonderful and the service was great. The waitress was always on top of everything and the food was delicious. I will definitely be back before I head home. I am also planning a trip next year to Seattle and I am definitely going to add this to my agenda. I highly recommend this restaurant!!!
(5)Michael B.
Went in for a cocktail friday night, before going to the Frampton concert in Tacoma, the place was busy, standing room only in the bar, a cute, very blonde Hostess greeting everybody with a smile, and a welcome to the Matador. Tequila officanado's, this is the place for you, biggest selection of Tequila in the Western states, and the bartenders really know their stuff, i could be dead, and or seriously broke trying their assortment of Tequila's. as Arnold would say-I'll be back!!!
(5)Andrew K.
Quick summary - Happy hour is great, cocktails are pretty good, lots of tequila and the waitresses are young/attractive. On the pricey side for lunch and I would never eat dinner here. Know what you're going to the Matador for. Friday at *cough* 3:30? Matador. Going-away drinks for someone on the team? Matador. "It's been a crappy day and I need 2 mojitos at lunch?" Matador. Date night with the wife? Yeah, not Matador. Service is usually great, parking sucks when you need it, and the food is generally good, but a bit overpriced unless you're getting happy hour quesadillas.
(3)Rose V.
This place is fantastic. Loves:Tamarind Margarita and Chicken Tortilla Soup! Come for their happy hour.
(5)The-Hoa H.
I ventured to this place on a thursday in hopes of finding good beer. At first glance, you notice how DARK it is inside here, you literally can't see anybody from a distance, which is actually quite nice. Sets a great ambiance...Good music, not too loud and generally pretty upbeat. Lots of nice flatscreens playing sports and a FULLY decked bar with some good beer on tap! I had a couple of the mack and jacks which kicked my yellow behind. The happy hour is also great! The quesadilla was delicious and spicy :) Overall it was a pretty great experience. Service was more than attentative and friendly. I'll definitely be back!
(4)Sabrina G.
It's a good happy hour. And that's all. The drinks are still over-priced, but the food is not, and it's good. One $5 quesadilla at the happy hour price is enough to keep me full for an evening. A drink, a new tequila to try and then shoot across the street to Palmers for drinks at reasonable prices and a whole of of fun. The great thing about the Matador is they have some gluten free and a fair number of vegetarian options. Makes life easier when you've got allergic-to-everything and/or vegetarian friends to consider when deciding where to meet up for a bite to eat.
(3)David V.
Hopefully an off day, always liked Ballard location. However, in Redmond exceptionally slow service on a slow afternoon, mediocre food (if it's burned just remake it), thankfully the beer was cold and on draft.
(2)Shovel S.
I truly enjoyed dining here, the waitstaff was polite, fun and friendly, the food was fantastic, they had El Mayor Tequila (my favorite), and the prices were appropriate for the nature of the restaurant. Can't think of a way they could have been better.
(5)Alex V.
This is definitely my favorite happy hour spot on the Eastside. I took my employees here for a happy hour this past Tuesday and we had a great time. It wasn't too crowded, they had an extensive list of cocktails and tap/bottle beers, and the food selection and pricing is really, really, good (as others have mentioned). I highly recommend the happy hour nachos, any of the tacos, and quesadillas. Parking is decent if you get there on the earlier side but if the lot fills up the street parking can be sparse.
(4)Kate A.
I recommend this place for their Happy Hour prices! They have the most amazing mouth watering nachos I have ever had! The tender steak on the nachos reminds me of fresh Montana beef! My favorite drink here is the White Peach Sangria. Also the salads here are so fresh with more veggies then just lettuce. Good place to go for girls night. I am also a fan of the music playlist of this bar.
(5)Jared R.
Last time I was here was in early June and it didn't turn out well. I've been to this one a few times and the Happy Hour is respectable and the place is nice, but this last time was an experience that just didn't sit well with me. I'm a pretty ethical person and I always try to do what is fair, especially with my customers, but getting charged $1.00 per Jalapeno (x2) to be added to my 2 Margarita's is asinine. Now some might think no big deal it's a dollar get over it, but I can't it just to ridiculous to charge for!There isn't more than 1/8 to 1/4 of a normal jalapeno used in either of my margarita's and I can buy a whole jalapeno for $.10 at the supermarket. Why in the hell am I charged 1/5 the cost of my $10 drink for a damn jalapeno?! Poor decision...... My advice don't get a margarita unless it comes with Jalapeño. There's a different Margarita on the menu for $8 that has a Chipotle Salted Rim with Jalapeno. I didn't want that one so I spent more for another Margarita......Oops guess that was a bad idea, apparently Jalapeño is hard to come by now days.
(3)Chris W.
Overview: Bland food, uninspiring drinks. Avoid. Service: Friendly wait staff, but continuously slow service. Food: I keep going back to this place hoping it will get better, but every single dish I have tried is bland and uninspiring. You might as well be eating cooked paper for all of the flavor their food imparts. The menu includes all of the standard fare, and there is a good-sized drink and tequila menu as well. It's pretty apparent that this is one of the only upscale mexican joints in Redmond, as they obviously cater to the expensive drink crowd rather than the "I'd like some good food" crowd. Summary: Go elsewhere if you want anything other than tequila.
(2)Bill W.
I've lived in downtown Redmond for about 18 months now, yet I've never ventured into the Matador until today! I had a really rough day at work and my co-worker wanted to help end it on a higher note by going out for drinks at somewhere more upscale and less rowdy, and for that, the Matador turned out to be a really fantastic choice. We arrived at about 4:30 p.m. today (Thursday), and though there were only initially two of us with two more expected to join us later, we experienced no hassle whatsoever in getting a table for four. We loaded up on Matador, Cadillac, and Top Shelf Margaritas, all excellent. We also bought two appetizers for the table; nachos were great and the stuffed jalapenos, filled with goat cheese and wrapped in bacon, received absolutely ecstatic approval from all four of us. The service was really attentive, and though the place was really busy, we still felt really comfortable during our visit.
(5)Heather P.
Super cool atmosphere! Great location-walking distance to the town center. Consistently good service (Shaina's my fav)! I could live off nachos, so it's always my first choice for happy hour!
(5)SLF F.
Unfriendly servers - almost cranky. They CHARGE for a doggy-bag! Don't bother. Food overpriced and too spicy. Too noisy.
(1)Bob R.
Overall: Fun place to grab 1-2 drinks and eat chips. Happy hour menu is the only option for food. Grab a drink, snack and finish the night elsewhere. Pros: + Decor: They have candles all over the walls, brick structure and deep strong woods. 2 flat screens over the bar. Beautiful stained glass. + Drinks: Well mixed and strong. The margaritas and mojitos are the best + Bartenders: I recommend sitting at the bar for descent service. The bartenders are attentive and work hard. Cons: - Food: Extremely mediocre. Very expensive. Only order off the really good Happy hour menu. Every day from 4pm to 6pm and again from 10pm to 1am. $4 to $5 - Evening Waitstaff: While most the girls are attractive, 1 out of 4 will be helpful. They will be uninterested in you if you aren't ordering any more or ordering from the happy hour menu. Confrontational. More than one time had a waitress bail on us for a 1/2 hour smoke break. I've had to pay at the bar numerous times or find someone - Charging for chips and salsa: I just paid 20 bucks for a drink and 5 for 2 fish tacos,,, I don't want to pay for chips because it's happy hour.
(2)Deb J.
The Matador is now one of my favorite Mexican restaurants in the area - all because of their Happy Hour when many appetizers are about 1/2 price. We haven't tried their dinners yet, just Happy Hour selections. And we've been one time. We went right when Happy Hour started and got in quickly. The atmosphere was festive and fun, with large mirrors reflecting the lighting, tall ceilings - really great atmosphere. Yet quite intimate. We tried 11 appetizers off their Happy Hour menu - yes, we came super hungry and ate and ate and ate!! That was dinner for us and we were full for days! Every one of the appetizers was delicious and so much fun to try each of the plates. We'll be back to try the nachos and re-enjoy many of their appetizers. Some of their regular priced appetizers looked really good and we'll be splurging for those. Service was good and attentive. Happy happy customers!
(5)Sarah M.
This place is AWESOME for happy hour! I had chicken quesadillas which were really good...although I went when the tomato scare was going on and they couldn't serve salsa b/c they thought the tomatoes were infected with salmonella...but the fact that they were able to still make the quesadilla taste good without the essence...sweet!! They have so many different choices of tequila here, too, if you're a tequila lover...which I am. :) The drinks are a little pricey, but definitely good. (Although I just read on here that a lot of people weren't satisfied with them...but I guess I went on a good day!) It gets a little packed during happy hour and it's kind of hard to find a seat sometimes...but all in all, if you can get a spot, it's worth it! :)
(4)Jeffrey R.
Horrible service. Copy cat bar. Pesos knock off. Nuff said.
(1)Nicholas N.
This is a standard "I'm an upscale and fancy" mexican restaurant. They have a varying menu, with the only really appealling thing being the Carnitas plate, and the staff was nice. But this place was way over-priced. They are easily marking up mediocre dishes because of the decor and pretty people inside. If you don't have any other mexican place in the area, you can go and will probably have a good time, but it's no La Pasadita Inn from denver.
(2)Nick A.
The Matador is probably one of my favorite Redmond happy hour spots. Apparently, half of Redmond agrees: every time I'm there, it's packed, weekend or week day. All of the typically happy hour menu items are just delicious. But I'll specifically recommend the chorizo quesadillas and the nachos. Holy cow, either (or both) will blow you away with the flavor, the quality (and the portion sizes). Just delicious. Chorizo to me as always tasted like dirty, too-greasy sausage. The Matador makes it sing. Drinks and beer selection are good. Parking can be kind of a pain. Also, can get busy and kind of loud. But all in all, great place.
(4)Shirley L.
This review is only for late night happy hour: Yummy food! The wings are wonderfully sauced and meat quesadillas are ridiculously scrumptious, especially when enjoyed at 12 am. The nachos are mediocre, but they come in decently large portions. The red sangria is lovely. The atmosphere is nice and what you'd expect from something named Matador on the East Side. Dim lighting with Tex-Mex themes, all dark woods and wrought iron decorations. The fireplace adds to the vibe, and the outdoor seating is wonderful in the summer. Oh, and the parking lot is pretty tiny, so you may have to hunt for parking on the street.
(4)Tiffany S.
The nachos are un-beatable. The service was amazing and the margarita's were perfect!!
(5)Cole M.
I was there just for a drink and an appetizer. I don't remember the food (which says something about the quality), all I remember is how salty it was! Salt is the cheapest way to flavor bland food, but it can kill you. I don't think I'll go back.
(2)Madeline V.
Yummy drinks and great food.
(5)Andrew A.
Good happy hour food; downside is no happy hour drink specials. $5 Happy Hour nachos are legit.
(4)Jim G.
All right. Ok, it might be one of several by the same name in the Seattle area, but I consider this place to be a great place to enjoy top-shelf margaritas or mojitos, Tex-Mex spring rolls, skillet seared fajitas, and tasty enchiladas. The prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is comfortable and inviting. The wait staff is attentive without being overbearing with pitching more drinks at you. Whenever I have a hankering for good southwestern fare I head to this place for happy hour and stick around for dinner!
(4)Mike L.
I had high hopes for this place after reading some of the reviews and referrals by some friends. My girlfriend and I finally had a night without the kids and decided to check out Matador (finally!), since no kids are allowed. We decided to check out their happy hour. The HH menu looked promising. There were a lot of things we wanted to try it was hard to choose, but we narrowed it down to the Nachos, Garlic Prawns, Romaine salad (her) and Steak Tacos. The Nachos were just okay. Shredded cheddar on top, baked in the oven then topped with Guacamole, sour cream and black beans. Nothing stood out about the dish. Our 9-year old could have made this dish at home. The Steak Tacos weren't impressive. Chopped Romaine and cubed beef (Flank?) on a small flour tortilla with a unique pungent vinegar-based sauce on top. We both liked the Garlic Prawns and my girlfriend loved her salad, but I can't give much props for a salad. After all, it is just a salad. We weren't offered any chips and salsa when we sat down, but I did happen to ask for a house salsa towards the middle of our meal. Sadly, the salsa is just plain pathetic. It's a watered down tomato paste with cilantro and a little bit of jalapeno. It was extremely mild. It would taste a lot better with some lemon juice, vinegar and preferably more heat, but then again it is Tex-Mex and you never know what you're gonna get with this type of cuisine. From what we've tasted so far, we have to give this place two stars. Good customer service, not great. We liked the environment, the rustic look and cleanliness of the restaurant, but at the end of the day it all comes down to the food. Will we try this place again? Maybe. The HH menu looks promising and there are still some items we want to try, but after a mediocre experience, it won't be high on our list of restaurants to return to.
(2)Frank c.
Great food with a seasonal menu. Kitchen is open until 1; unheard of in Redmond! Friendly staff and a decent selection of hard alcohol.
(4)Tai K.
love the enchilada picante and house magarita... they became my new comfort food in the eastside.
(4)Randi S.
I wish I could go 2 1/2 stars.. It's the Matador...seen one, seen 'em all IMO...the decor is cool, the vibe is cool, the dark haunted mansion interior is cool, therefore you have to be cool to go there.. And be served by some cookie-cutter hot, aloof, hipster waitress swathed in black.. Expensive but tasty drinks, and awesome quality happy hour..that's what draws me to the Matador. Otherwise it's kinda chain-y and predictable. It is like the Abercrombie and Fitch of bars...dark, wannabe hip, and hires the same caliber of attractive, young employees.... look beyond that and ye shall find awesome $6 happy hour nachos after 10pm
(3)Eric M.
Went here the other night (Sunday) to have a couple of mojito's and a spot of dinner. Though still hot in the evening, it was fairly pleasant outside on the patio. Service was alright but the food was excellent. I had the enchilada picante and P had blackened fish tacos. Very nicely done but P felt the tacos had a little too much heat to them. Could become a regular stop this summer w/Mojitos that tasty. :)
(4)Jeffrey G.
Not impressed. The food was ok, certainly nothing to write home about and the service was horrible. We were told it was a 20 minute wait and ended up waiting for a table for 45 minutes. I will not be going back.
(2)Vic M.
I have been to the Matador 4 times now. It can be very crowded on the weekend during primetime (7-10pm). I had the medallions recently and the food was good. Although the atmosphere is representative of the higher end of dining, I found it to be just above average. They have found a good balance between good food, a hip atmosphere and reasonable prices. I would describe the food as Tex-Mex. Being from the South it doesn't remind me of Mexican food at all. Try the chips and salsa. If you like salty chips they are the best! The booths are large and the beer is cold. This did not seem like the place to meet new people or to hang out. The bar is strictly there as a watering hole while your table is prepared. The staff is helpful but very busy. Overall it was a good experience.
(4)Tyler W.
Kind of the only nightlife in redmond, which is good and bad. Service is always great though and the bartenders rock. Late night happy hour food is the bomb but the only bummer is NO drink specials. Matador has the lockdown on late night redmond and they know it for sure. Unless you want to deal with palmers... :) Go for the beer battered prawn tacos on late night HH menu
(4)Trae S.
Love this place. We have been going here ever since it opened. Food is very reasonable. Best chips and salsa anywhere to be found. Happy Hour is fantastic and margaritas are my favorite in town. We only had two bad experiences so I'm not going to count them. One was a bad bartender but he's since gone and a waitress who refused to make an adjustment to an order. This was just weird because my husband always orders the tacos and wants one with pork and one with chicken. It was never a problem until this new waitress said they couldn't do that. He told her that he always did that before and she insisted that he couldn't do it. We still see her there but we now refuse to sit in her section. Everyone else is great!!!
(5)Murali P.
1st ..... Mad expensive. 2nd .... shitty food 3rd...... there is a line for this place for shitty food.... i don't know why. 4th ..... the waitress are annoying and only care about turning their tables. Me and my buddy was there during happy hour and our waitress was only keen on getting our checks. No going back there.
(1)John H.
Appetizers & happy hour heaven. An abundance of hot and over employed young ladies. Warms up around 8:30. Food tingles oran senses food is a sure thing. Yummy fun.
(4)Guy K.
The Matador. Always busy and usually the hub of folks drinking and hanging out in downtown Redmond. I have spent many evenings there enjoying a variety of their sipping tequilas and the atmosphere (when not insane) is really quite nice and effective... i.e. It feels a bit like stepping back in time- kind of like a themed ride at Disney but with booze. Service has always been good but then there's the food. The food at the Matador is a giant step up from Matzalan (I gave a really poor yet well deserved review to that restaurant) but lack freshness. When I think of great Mexican food there are always fresh flavors of cilantro, onion, garlic, lime. Not to mention the use of Queso and different delicious sauces. Matador does a decent job with making passable dishes that are tasty but really lack flavor and compensate with grease....something you don't mind too much if you have a pretty decent buzz on... I will also add that though this doesn't effect everyone in the same fashion it's worth noting that Matador food has given me heartburn, terrible, terrible heartburn- something I've never had anywhere else at any time. So go, have a great drink but when ordering food- beware!
(3)Ian H.
The second star is only for the cool fireplace. If your thirsty soul is looking for happy hour and you stumble upon this spot, keep stumbling. We came in after work, and were cheerfully greeted. A moment later we had drinks ordered. One drink came out fairly quickly, the other had a lengthy delay. Then we ordered food... happy hour calamari. After the order, another couple sat down next to us, ordered drinks and subsequent snacks, and then got their food and nearly finished it before our server came back to ask us if our empty drinks would like a refill, and also to tell us our calamari would be out "soon". Can't say I'm a fan. Go to Redmond's for a classy joint with attentive service and great happy hour specials, or the Tipsy Cow for a fantastic beer selection and the best burger you'll ever have.
(2)Stef M.
This place is good for happy hour appetizer-y stuff, but the entrees are nothing to write home about. The margaritas, however, ARE. Especially the tamarind margarita.
(3)Ilya B.
Great lunch place with quick service, tasty food, and good drinks.
(3)Jason W.
Good food but the services wasn't so great. Had to ask for our round of drinks. Got seated pretty quick and then it was slow to get waters, drinks and dinner.
(3)Jon L.
Visited The Matador to attend a going away lunch for a colleague moving to another group at work. The Matador has four locations and this is the only one on the Eastside. It is located in downtown Redmond near Redmond Town Center. Recently a number of condos have popped up in the area, so it was a bit confusing driving here since I wondered if I had passed it. If you see the condos, there is about a block or two till you get to the restaurant. While there is on-site parking available, it is relatively limited. So you likely need to park on the street. Though Redmond is not really a busy town, street parking was a bit of a challenge due to construction nearby. I ended up finding a space near Redmond Way about two blocks away. Seems like there is more parking away from the Redmond Town Center area. The Matador has really nice ambiance. High ceilings in a lovely brick building. There is also a patio in the back. This is probably the most Seattle-esque restaurant you can find in Redmond. The menu is considered as Tex-Mex which sounds about right. Not authentic Mexican, more like Mexican fusion. Ordered the braised beef tacos ($10.95) which looks like the beef version of pulled pork. The beef tacos had a nice slightly spicy (ancho chile) seasoning to it. The avocado slices in the tacos are a nice touch. The rice and black beans accompanying the tacos were also very good. Though it has been several years since I have visited for happy hour, they do have a good one of note here. If you are looking for a spot that has good food, ambiance and drinks in Redmond, The Matador is the place to go.
(4)Anushka B.
The best bar in Redmond!!! You bet. Love the nachos and try the spicy jalepeone margarita
(4)Dan N.
I just went to "El Matador" In downtown Redmond, WA. for a second time today and got the very very worst restaurant experience in my entire life. The first time I went there was terrible as well but I just wanted to give this place a second chance... So I came in today 08/08/2014 on my work-lunchtime with a few friends/co-workers...the waitress name Allison was very sweet and nice at first but after that, she was not professional and apologetic whatsoever. She forgot to get my order and then 30 mins later while all my friends had their food, Allison gave me someone else plate and then when I complained she just said "sorry, let me go and check on your order"...45 mins passed by and still no food, all my friends were done with their plates...I even had to ask a second waitress to check on my order, this young lady claimed that my order just got placed and they were cooking it...AFTER OVER AN HOUR???? I just left the place because I had to go back to work. Allison had the audacity to charge one of my friend for the glass of Coca-Cola I ordered, fucking $ 2.00...WTF??? I am never going back to this place. They should hire more professionals instead of those cute and young looking honeys that just got the job because of their looks and chasing after the big tippers that work and live in the Redmond/Kirkland, WA. area. El Matador in Redmond, WA. can suck it!!!!
(1)Hawaiian C.
Love the nachos with steak added to it. I get it every time! Fun atmosphere and great gathering spot with friends in Redmond. We come here weekly.
(4)Whitney B.
So, I came to The Matador kind of knowing what to expect, mostly because it's in Redmond, and I had heard about other people's previous experiences. I didn't expect a mind-blowing experience but I don't think I was prepared for the disappointment I felt afterward. Being that their margaritas here are revered like it's some third nipple, I ordered their house margarita from the bartender. He had a rather dour expression but I figured that his margarita would live up to his looks: mean. Instead, he made my margarita with an alarming enthusiasm equivalent to that of a recently widowed woman. It was a pathetic margarita, a margarita that tasted like "the freshener in the men's urinal," and those are not even my words. I almost never want to drink another margarita. Not really looking to stuff our faces with greasy bar food, we simply ordered the Grilled Stuffed Jalapenos and the Garlic-Chile Butter Prawns. The Grilled-Stuffed Jalapenos is pretty simple: a jalapeno stuffed with goat cheese with bacon wrapped around it. Not something you can mess up because all of those ingredients are fine on their own. You can't really disparage the concept but the dish could have been elevated with something else other than a cot of sliced cabbage. The fact that it tasted better with ranch dressing than without speaks volumes of the execution of the dish. Let me share with you the secret of ranch dressing: it is almost never used to enhance a dish. Ranch dressing is like a dirty band-aid and is never welcomed unless on an equally dirty finger food. The Garlic-Chile Butter Prawns was a second choice to the Spicy Jumbo Prawns because I was trying to be all Miss Sensitive about my digestive system. Prawns were cooked well. The butter seemed to be cooked well and by that I mean I think they melted a couple of tablespoons of butter on the plate in a microwave, then dropped some prawns on there. It was under-seasoned and needed more salt or, I don't know, garlic-chile sauce. Call me insane but it was lacking something. The prawns themselves were not overcooked but they weren't cleaned well. That's like a lesson that should be mastered in Pre-Seafood 99, not even deserving of 101 level. Whoever is studying Elementary Seafood back there needs more time hitting the books. The only redeeming quality of The Matador is the ambiance. Good music and it's a nice, clean bar that attracts a wide array of people. You won't get many hoodlums strolling in here or teenagers who drink as if death will be knocking on their door the morning after, but you'll get the distressed author needing inspirational cocktails on my right and an 80-year-old fitness freak on my left whose skin resembles burnt cowhide. It's not ALL bad, okay? Bar food was abysmal and the drinks needed more alcohol and less ice. Probably not going to be wanting to come back unless given at least two reasons and a back massage. From the drinks I had and those two dishes alone, I am not convinced I will have a better experience with whatever else they have to offer.
(2)Steve C.
A solid place to have a drink in Redmond. I like that it's 21+, and the inside has a nice atmosphere to it. Service is pleasant and drink selection good. Can't speak for the food but I would return.
(4)Win W.
Food was mediocre. Server was inattentive and slow but I still left a 20% tip. Noticed a few days later when the charge posted to my credit card account that the total had been increased over what I had signed for; the tip amount had been changed. Absolutely not OK. Will never go back there again.
(1)Lisa M.
What's good about the place: the Margarita's and the salsa are fantastic and the hostess great at communicating about when your table will be ready. What's not so great: the service- the server was very distracted (maybe they are understaffed for a Saturday night?), never asked us about appetizers or dessert (we planned on ordering). We both felt like we were an inconvenience and they just wanted to turn the table over. We were only asked about how our food was after we were done eating and she grabbed the plate away from my friend before he was done eating an turned the leftover salsa over the chips. When I gave a reply of "just ok" in response of how the food was, she just said "oh". They really need to work on their customer service. It just seemed so unimportant to them. Ahhh, the food...I got carne asada with fajitas and it was way over done to the point of being very chewy (however, the onions and peppers were perfect). I was given literally one teaspoon of guacamole and sour cream to go with it. The place is incredibly noisy and very dim lit. During our meal, I saw the manager grab to go boxes, a few slid to the floor where there is heavy traffic and food spilled on the floor and he just picked them up and put them back on the stack (uhhh, gross????). Overall, just a poorly run restaurant.
(2)Amanda J.
We were in Redmond for a conference last week and stumbled into the Matador hoping to relax and have a late dinner. The nachos were excellent and the atmosphere is really cool. However, we felt unwelcome and as if we were a burden to our server. The chicken tacos, black beans, and rice all had unusual ingredients that made them very unappealing to us. We picked at our food and got out of there.
(3)Ruben H.
Very impressed with this location, really like the size and the feel.....just wish it wasn't so boxed in the way it is. The outside patio would be so much better if your view wasn't the alley and parking lot. I came here for a work lunch a week or so ago and was very happy with the service and food....this is also on the Passport list!!
(4)Lauren M.
Terrible customer service, especially the hostesses. They are often so clueless and rude.
(1)Kaly M.
Happy hour was so good. Five dollar nachos, cheap drinks, buzzing atmosphere. The service has always been a tiny bit lacking, but the quality and prices make up for it. My favorite thing to get here is the churros- they come with jalapeno raspberry jam, which is probably the best thing I've ever eaten. I really could just eat it straight from the dish.
(5)Stefanie F.
Overall an average restaurant. Popular based on location and basic menu serves most people sell for groups meeting for lunch. Nothing special
(3)Jeff B.
Have had lunch here, and sometimes stop by for a drink and snacks. FOOD. 3. Chips very good. SERVICE. 3. AMBIANCE. 2.5 inside, 3.5 in the outdoor patio. Very nice to have a beer on a warm day on the patio. Decent for casual group or couple dinners, but not a place I'd go for a romantic dinner.
(3)Jacqualyn S.
I went here for happy hour the other day. I had a great time. We ordered the big plate of nachos for only $5 and got two Mack & Jack's. I usually don't enjoy restaurant nachos because they are usually all chips and no toppings. But these were great plenty of cheese, beans salsa and other tasty stuff. The beer was extremely fresh and cold. They served it in a chilled mug which was very nice. I will be coming back here!
(5)Tom X.
I am a long time customer of the Matador but I don't find them nearly as good as I did when they first opened. In fact, I will no longer eat there. 1) Long waits; they are very busy these days and you need to wait a long time to be seated. 2) Parking is very bad. In fact, there was a bit of a kerfuffle in the parking lot over a spot that opened. I had to park a few blocks away. 3) They refuse to seat you until your entire party shows up. As a result we got bumped down in the list the longer we waited until everyone showed up. 4) You cannot pick your table. You get what you get and don't throw a fit. We requested an empty booth table but they told us that it is being reserved for people ahead of us on the list. What? THERE IS NOBODY ELSE PHYSICALLY THERE AHEAD OF US!? (and they don't take reservations so what gives?) 5) They were out of the good tequilas. We requested a mezcal tequila but they were out of most of them. 6) Food is average these days. But thankfully it's still better than the service. 7) They do NOT honor coupons/discounts. I had a special offer to get one free entree with purchase of another. However, they said the meal we ordered did not qualify as an entree (even though it was the same price). Hence, we paid full price in the final bill and forfeited the promised discount. 8) It's noisy. Too many people and poor sound dynamics. Although, I do still admire the decor and beautiful mirrors! 9) The prices are outrageous for average food! You can buy the same thing at any local Mexican restaurant! And most places will have the tequilas they put in the menu! 10) The attitude there is very poor. I complained to the manager and ended up getting the third degree and unfortunately I will no longer be a customer. Thank you Matador for many years of wonderful good food and service but you have lost a good customer. It appears you don't care either! If this is your idea of having fine dining in Redmond I would strongly recommend that you try something different!
(1)D. S.
Been here a few times and I am thinking for the most part the tree stars is for the whole review. Love the food as they do it nice and fresh, not your normal Mexican that's for sure. Love the variety of the menu. Not impressed with the attitudes of the wait staff as they almost seem like they are to good for the place, at least the couple I have had. Sometimes on the weekend you are going to wait awhile, anything over half hour go someplace else. Not worth that much of a wait.
(3)Natalie G.
Food is ok ordered the happy hour tacos (they come in twos) and they were just dripping with a greasy like substance but the flavor was ok. Parking is limited so carpool. The drinks were ok not discount for happy hour and they didn't taste that strong. So meh wont be back to try their full priced menu. (Their happy hour menu is pricy anyways) Decent sized outdoor seating area but careful not to be splashed on the way out they water the plants with the water left in your glass.
(3)Carolyn H.
Who would have thought there would be an amazing Mexican restaurant in the middle of the Northwest? The food was phenomenal (steak fajitas and southwest chicken egg rolls) and the drinks were just as delicious (jalapeno margarita is a must). We were seated immediately on a Friday night and had great service. Definitely will be back.
(5)Ali O.
Being gluten free (GF) it's always hesitant to go out and eat at restaurants... Especially coming from where people have no idea what GF means. The Matador was so helpful with the menu options gave me LOTS of options that they could change to make my meal GF. I ended up getting their Enchilada Rojas with the mixed veggies and no dairy. They full-on topped my enchilada with lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole and a side of black beans and rice. Delish! My boyfriend ended up getting the carne asada fajitas and said that the meat was cooked perfectly, better than some of the steak houses he's been to, and tasted delicious! Oh their house salsa is Ahhhhmazing. Love it. Our server, wish I knew her name, but was great. Kept our glasses full, salsa refilled, chips coming... I have no complaints! If you're in the Redmond area and craving tex-mex food, I would definitely recommend Matador!
(5)yulia S.
Fajitas, fajitas, fajitas!! They are fantastic! Very generous portions, and despite the fact that they are usually quite busy, the service is always fast and friendly. The red sangria is pretty great too. I've tried a couple other things on the menu, and no complaints about any of it, but the fajitas are what keep me coming back.
(4)Nancy S.
Stopped in this past weekend for lunch. The second you walk in the front door, you are greeted by a stinky smell. This is not the first time I have noticed the bad smell inside this restaurant. The bathroom always smells bad, and the area near the front entrance always smells bad. This time I sat outside on the patio. I could smell odor coming from the bathroom, which is near the wall next to the patio. This is unfortunate because the food and drinks are really top notch here. Next time, I'm going to prefer to dine else wear. I hope the management figures out where the foul odors are coming from.
(2)Mike B.
I like the atmosphere and décor. Great food and drinks. Sometimes it is a little overcrowded, but overall awesome place to congregate.
(4)Dale K.
Best happy hour in Redmond. The food is great (though the drinks are expensive). The ambiance is great, an the building is beautiful. Parking is tough -- be prepared to walk a bit as the lot is always packed during happy hour.
(5)Natalie L.
Yum! Delicious, delicious, food with large servings! I kept it simple and got a chicken enchilada and I was not let down. I also got a bloody mary and it was delicious as well; some places make really weak, watery bloody marys and this one was not the case. This place always seems to be really busy and their parking lot is always full! It took my friend and I about 10+ minutes to find parking on the street, so that's really the only drawback. Love this place and will be back!
(4)Will L.
I go to school nearby and I like to invite friends and colleagues over to grab the happy hour nachos. The deal is $5 for a huge plate of nachos. I usually add the steak to it for extra. I like to accompany my meals with a margarita, which taste great, but go down very fast (too much ice?). The ambience isn't too dark or light and I like the decor. The servers are always great at balancing how often to check on us. The one thing I hope they can find a solution to is the parking. Their parking lot is always full and I have to park quite a ways. Other than that I love this place and look forward to many more trips there.
(5)Elaine K.
Matador is one of my favorite places to go to HH. I give 5 stars for HH. The $5 appetizers are great! Lots of good choices and y favs are the fried calamari, fish tacos, chicken quesadilla, and the nachos, oh the nachos. It is a huge portion and if you don't eat a lot, it feeds three people. I give 3 stars to the regular food that is not in the HH. It is an Americanized Mexican and the rice and beans for example are not very taste. Enchiladas are not very good either. So I don't recommend this place for dinner in case you like the original Mexican food.
(4)Brett G.
Very mediocre food and way too loud to have a conversation. There are much better restaurants in Redmond to enjoy.
(2)Sarah L.
For the longest time I wanted to hate this place. I wanted to hate it because they filled the house of what used to hold my dearly departed and favorite restaurant of all time. Big Time Pizza. (RIP little buddy) Begrudgingly I was attracted to the Matador like a moth to a flame because tequila is the sweet nectar of the Gods, duh. Fortunately along with the booze, I discovered some pretty tasty Mexican cuisine. "Mexican" in Seattle/Eastside is typically a giant hot plate of outrageous portions of canned refried beans with plastic melted cheese, dry Spanish rice, and the entree (ie enchilada, taco, etc) slopped on the plate looking like a crime scene out of Dexter. Fortunately, the Matador focuses their cuisine with fresh, real ingredients. Though now a popular chain, they have somehow been able to avoid the generic feel of other lines of restaurants. Fajitas are mighty fine. Selection of tequilas and mixed drinks are on par. You won't find a blender or Mr. and Mrs. T's margarita mix here either. Their juices are fresh, tasty, and delightful. Although The Matador will never, EVER meet the standards of Big Time Pizza, I guess I will compromise and eat some Tex-Mex every now and then.
(3)Dilip R.
Awesome margaritas, Terrific Tex Mex Nachos and Juicy Burgers.. period. Love their ambience. Nothing too fancy as far as the glasses go, barely functional. But the food and the drinks are pretty good.. They have happy hour every day of the week.(yes, even on Friday and Saturday nights). Dont miss out..
(4)Jenisa W.
For a few years, I have heard the rumors about the awesomeness of this place... And sure I've noticed the brick building with the ornate decorations on the outside. I will admit, I was thinking hmmm so much presentation there can't be much behind that... Until a few days ago, (04/09/13) I had never opened those big metal doors and swept past the velveteen curtains. But the decision was made to finally visit this establishment. I just made the Happy Hour by about 5 minutes. And I found some available seats at the bar. As soon as I sat down the Bartender was there to take my drink order. Though turns out my companion had already ordered me a drink. But a very fast response time by the Bartender and I truly appreciate that given the time. I chatted with 2 people near me, who were regulars and they were both very friendly and one of them even offered to share some of her Calamari with me... And yes, I partook and it was really good! My friend captured me before I double ordered another drink, not that there is ANYTHING wrong with that! I think it's worth noting when you go someplace where both the staff and the clientele are very friendly! I noticed it and it made me feel good. And this was definitely a feel good location. It was dark, but there was lots of candle light. It was classy and yet still casual. It seemed fairly loud, but not in a bad way. In like a white noise sort of way, everyone was so engrossed with their own discussions and stories, that you didn't notice anyone else's. Which I appreciated as I doubt anyone else would want to have heard our conversation. (Regarding the reversal of a vasectomy, might have offended the other diner's!) I imagine it would work for both business meetings and definitely for dates. The Happy hour menu is good... But it does seem mostly fried. There are not a lot of healthy alternatives or options. And I will admit with a name like The Matador, I kind of expected more latin inspired food. But I guess this is more of a Tex-ish style of food. Or perhaps their own version? I ended up ordering the Steak Tacos, you get 2 for $5.00! My companion ordered the Nachos and if he made a dent... Well I couldn't tell? They were so big I think they would've safely fed 5 or 6 adults. Good to remember for my next visit. I was not super impressed with their wine list. With their proximity to Woodinville, I would've thought they might have had a few more local wine options. $7.00 for a glass of Genesis Cabernet, a bottle is about $9.99 at the store. Obviously you are paying for the atmosphere. I was ABSOLUTELY THRILLED with their bathroom facets! I had to take a picture they were so cute, like old school water pumps. I thought they were the neatest thing. And I cackled fairly loudly when I saw their wooden "RESTROOMS" sign had candles on it. Because I didn't know you could make a sign for the bathrooms romantic. And somehow they found a way. Our server for the most part was attentive, until the end when she seemed to be rushing us out a bit, we drank lots of water afterwards. So maybe she was trying to get us to buy some more drinks. I did enjoy dining here, and would definitely come back again. There are not too many really good Happy hour's that I have found on the Eastside. So good to have this option.
(3)Pat R.
Seated right away. Service overall was quick and courteous. Food was good and plentiful. We both ordered margaritas, I had the Bartenders and my DH had the strawberry, both were OK, we expected better from the rave reviews that were on Yelp. Nothing outstanding about this restaurant for us, if we are in the area again, we would probably eat here, but we wouldn't make a special trip for it.
(3)Brian D.
STEAK NACHOS --- GET THE STEAK NACHOS! Thats all you really need to know here.Even if you get them to go,they are great the next day in a toaster oven.
(4)Bethany w.
Horrible service, waited 20 minutes and left.
(1)Michael B.
My favorite bar. Food is great, especially happy hour menu. The prices have gone up, but I still go in for the wings, tacos, and other cheap eats. Service is generally good, even though they are a little disappointed at the fact that I don't drink. Parking is the WORST, though.
(5)Nick H.
This past weekend, I spent St. Patrick's day celebrating in the Kirkland area of Seattle. After drinking the night away, we decided to get some late night dinner at The Matador. This place is pretty darn awesome. It's big, spacious, and decorated with a very warm inviting feeling. It's a tequila bar, so you'll definitely be able to warm your belly...but the food here is just as fulfilling. We ordered off the happy hour menu and got a variety of appetizers to share. Among the many we tried, my favorite hands down was the habanero prawns. Yes, they were fiery...habanero anything tends to be so. But they were even moreso delicious. I also had the chorizo tacos which were also pretty darn good. The Matador isn't the greatest Mexican or Tequila restaurant I've ever been to, but for the amount we paid in the happy hour specials, it definitely filled us up.
(3)Maria C.
I usually go to the location in West Seattle but I was in the area and saw it so we decided to stop in. I liked it! It's got a nice outdoor seating area with a fire and appropriate decor. Inside you'll find the usual Matador decor including the hand carved bar, tables, etc. Order a Mac and Jacks and it'll be a good night! :)
(5)Wendy F.
Went for HH last Friday with a girlfriend. It is packed and glad she snagged a table early. The building and atmosphere is great but it is a brick building which makes hearing someone across the table difficult. Great selection of drinks. I had a Corona Light and my friend red wine. we shared a few appetizers like garlic shrimp, tacos, etc. I didn't like that the sour cream was in the taco, should've asked before hand I guess. Anyhow, it was decent but if I had to wait to get in, I would go elsewhere.
(3)John V.
I really like the food here. The happy hour menu is a steal. The steak is pretty tasty and I love the shrimp. Good variety of dishes and great beer selection. Outdoor seating is limited, but nice when you can get it. The wait staff is pretty good, but I have been there a few times when bartenders have been fairly rude. I would have give it a 4 otherwise.
(3)Carol F.
Delish! Great service, wonderful food! I had one of the speciality margaritas, husband had micro- brew beer-fantastic! Chips and salsa were fresh and fantastic. I had pastor enchiladas: highly recommend! Husband had chicken fajitas and niece had verde chicken enchiladas. We all loved our dishes and can't wait to return!
(5)Paul L.
Microsoft Prime 2012-2013 Ole Ambiance: 4 Food: 4 Value: 3 The most 'hip' restaurant in Redmond is now on the prime card. Matador is a very good American-Mexican place, meaning it's got your blacked shrimp tacos. The ambience is pretty legendary, as it is considered one of the most fashionable places in Redmond: candles everywhere and fire place right in the middle. They are famous for serving up some of best margaritas around. Aside from the scratch (meaning no pre-made mixers) margaritas, they also have infused tequila and some really top shelf stuff. I like the place, though it's never really a good deal because you can't really eat there without drinking something and it just gets expensive from there. The best time to go would have to be at happy hour, 4-6, when you can get a drink for cheap and take advantage of the food.
(4)Josef M.
Went here for lunch... the carnitas were really good, very tender and had a nice flavor. The service left a little to be desired. Oh well, the grub was fine, it's an okay place for lunch, not sure if I'd go back for dinner though.
(3)Tiff W.
About once a year I forget my last experience at The Matador and go back. I don't get why they are so popular. The service is always mediocre and snooty. They are too heavy handed with peppers. As an example, last night I ordered veggie enchiladas and all they had in them was peppers! They get the third star only because I like the nachos.
(3)Misty N.
Delicious and HUGE happy hour nachos for super cheap! Plus amazing sangria served by super friendly staff. My boyfriend and I randomly walked in here since we were getting hungry and left with a smile and full belly! I am not much into Tequila, but they are a Tequila bar so naturally they have very impressive list to choose from! I would recommend anyone to come here!
(5)Jose P.
Nobody comes to Matador for the quiet, intimate ambience and culinary experience. This place is designed for locals to get drunk. Margaritas are very good and so is the añejo selection. The chips are hit and miss but I liked the brisket sandwich and the green enchiladas as the type of things you get when you want to drink and talk and eat. Place is loud and crowded, and they don't take reservations (frustrates non locals) so send someone in advance. Everything is very spicy.
(4)Debi H.
Went there with a group of friends to celebrate a birthday. Both the drinks and the food were great! Seating on the deck is pleasant, although some tables are too close to the street for my liking. We ordered and shared several different appetizers during happy hour--nachos, which were MASSIVE, fish tacos, calamari, and chile pepper wings. I was a little disappointed with the wings because they were pretty scrawny and not spicy enough. Drinks were well done, not too strong, not too weak. We got fabulous parking by chance, but parking would normally be a pain. Our server was very patient and responsive, even though we were kind of challenging come bill time. I will be back!!
(4)Mrs. T.
If you love tequila, then this is the place to be. It's a great place to get together with friends and have a drink and some appetizers for happy hour from 10pm - 1pm. They have the best Jalapeno Margarita that I have ever had. It has a nice kick to it.
(5)Christine Z.
I don't typically do the Eastside - it's not my scene, but last weekend, I was in Redmond for a chiropractic seminar. After spending 8 hours analyzing xrays, practicing technique and hearing about the latest research, we were all ready for some stiff drinks and some grub from some place close - The Matador fit the bill... So, 10 of us file in and head straight to the long table in the far corner of the bar. The corner was large enough to fit our large party, and far enough removed from the rest of the bar that we didn't feel like people were crowding our space. I always had a full margarita before I even finished the one I was working on... I always appreciate when a bartender or server has a fresh drink ready and waiting for me before I'm even through with my drink! We ordered a lot of appetizers off their HH menu... nothing really stood out as anything special. But when each of the appetizers you order is $5, it's pretty much a steal (especially if you're getting their nachos!) Our server was real good about checking in with us periodically, without being overbearing. I wouldn't go out of my way to go to The Matador in Redmond, especially when the Ballard location is a stones throw away from my house... if you are in the area, though, this Matador is OK!
(3)Kay C.
I had been to the one in Ballard but it was awhile ago. For some reason, even though they opened this location a long time ago, I still hadn't been. It was pretty busy on a Fri night, but we were seated quickly enough for a group of 6. I had the chicken burrito with picante sauce - what a steal at 9.50! It was sooo much better than all your other options around the area (uh like Azteca!!?) and so good. Very filling. Right amount of spice. Only thing was the salad was lacking but then again, you're not ordering the burrito for the salad. Also it's a great deal if you have Passport or Prime card! Only drawback was I expected a better margarita (somehow though the one in Ballard was better @ this) but it was fine. Can't wait to come back!
(4)Christina G.
I've never been disappointed with Matador & I keep going back. Keep in mind the pros & cons: Pros: -Great atmosphere -Good people watching -Great margaritas -Huge tequila selection -Really good food -Good Service -Outdoor patio with firepit Cons: -Always SO busy, so hard to find a place to sit (or sometimes even stand) in the bar -Long waits for a dinner table -A little on the expensive side
(4)Andrea W.
Pretty good food, great margaritas. I will go if I'm in Redmond jonesing for a cold drink and some Mexican food.
(4)Amy M.
Great Nachos and very good white peach sangria :D Good atmosphere with candles, big screens, etc. I would definitely go back.
(4)Pete B.
I went here for a Friday lunch with work colleagues and we ate at the outside tables in the back. It was a quick lunch but the fish tacos I had were great. Spicy and not dry. i will definitely go back for more of those.
(4)Jessica E.
This place is so good for lunch and the Mango Mojito's! are delicious!
(5)Frank G.
Absolutely loved this place. Cool atmosphere and really great food. Sat at the bar and everything Ian suggested was terrific -- great bartender by the way. Goat cheese-filled peppers wrapped in bacon and their tortilla soup were both fantastic. Can't wait to go back -- will be there every visit to Redmond.
(5)Nicole B.
I think this is one of the best happy hours around the eastside. The drinks are not happy hour prices but these are some of the best margaritas! The food is a really good value and the nachos and wings are delicious! I really enjoy the overall decor inside as well. Cool vibe.
(5)Chandler H.
Visited on a very busy Friday night. Wife had the braised carnitas, and I had the habanero chorizo enchiladas. Both were excellent. Margaritas were good too. The only slightly disappointing element was dessert. We shared a banana crown, and while good, was not as good as the rest of the meal.
(4)nathan d.
Went here on Cinco De Mayo and had an awesome time. Good service, food, and atmosphere. What else can you ask for...
(5)Eli K.
Context: I'm stuck in Redmond (read as middle of nowhere) want a drink with friends and in a place with a wide selection of booze, a boisterous dark atmosphere, and well priced happy hour food. Here it is folks, pretty much the only game in town. Or at least the only venue within walking distance from my friend's place so we can get sloshed with full happy bellies and get home safely. This is the "in" place for the twenty/thirty something Redmond crowd. With a parking lot almost always packed, the Matador is like its sister locations simply a fun place to hang out. I like the food here but am usually 5 or 6 shots deep into Ireland's pride Jameson, so I don't know how well you can trust my taste buds. My friend ordered a round of Kamikazes and instead of a shooter we got something in between a shot glass and a pint glass full of yellow stuff. 2nd time around it was reddish. odd. So parking sucks, but there's always street options. Food is good, but coming from a potentially unreliable source. Drinks are good as long as your drinking straight tequila or irish whiskey as I do. And it doesn't matter b/c its basically the only game in town for me, so I'm going here no matter what. food is served super late eveyr night. big bonus!
(4)Amanda Y.
We met my bestfriend who lives in Issaquah here for dinner one night because she really wanted to go here. I'd never been and neither had my roommate so we had some issues finding the joint since we're not really familiar with Redmond, but when we did we were happy. I got a BBQ chicken sandwich of some type and it was awesome. Service was friendly and prompt, my only complaint is at the end of our meal our waitress asked my roommate if he wanted another drink (he was clearly intoxicated when we arrived and had ordered like 3 or 4 doubles there) and I looked at her and very sternly said, "no," she brought him one anyway. Thanks a lot bitch. So we got home and he puked up his dinner because he was so drunk and that last drink just did him in. Overall though, four stars, great food, good service (save the drink incident) and awesome atmosphere. My seat in the booth could've been more comfortable, I felt like my butt would've hurt if we sat there too long. We'll be back now that we know there's one closer to home in Ballard.
(4)Jerry M.
Really good late night happy hour. We ordered one of everything and were pleasantly surprised. Nice low lit invironment for a hot date.
(4)Erin B.
nachos. amazing. wish they had a margarita happy hour...
(4)S C.
FANTASTICALLY DELICIOUS FOOD! Excellent quality and affordable prices. If you like food with a kick you must check this place out. Our waitress was super sweet and not overly attentive.
(5)Yolanda N.
Happy hour is Pretty Awesome here and its always busy! I would recommend anyone who is looking for a mellow place that wants good food and drinks to stop by here sometime! But don't expect it to be cheap this is Redmond but its well worth the $$$! :)
(4)David W.
Great late night happy hour. Delicious appetizers.
(4)Josh H.
Had excellent service here. The tequila selection is HUGE, and the drinks are great! The restaurant was busy, and the food was great! Tried the carnitas and got a huge portion, enough to take home and have 2 more meals from it! The spring rolls are great, not your typical asian style. I would go back again and again and again. They also use recyclable to-go containers...woot!
(5)Etienne H.
The Matador offers good food but it's quite salty. overall the place is pretty loud, they should install some sound buffers on the ceilings. and parking can be a pain
(3)doug k.
Met some friends here for drinks on 3/19 and was very pleased. The happy hour food specials were great. The house made chorizo tacos were very tasty, just the right amount of spicy. We also got the huge nacho plate and my friend got some calamari, both of which were quite tasty. The margarita's were very good as well, I could actually taste the tequila which is pretty rare for happy hour drinks. I did not order off the dinner menu so I can't speak for any of the entrees. This place is strictly 21+ so don't try to go there with your kids. I am kind of bummed about that...my wife and I want to go back but it might be a while.
(4)Aleia S.
You NEED to eat here! Not only is it beautiful all through the building (including the bathroom) but it was friendly, fast and soooooo delicious! My husband had some high end Tequila and steak while I had the Chardonnay Sangria and Portabello Quesidilla. My goodness it was so good. I do not think it was pricey. I thought it was reasonable especially considering the amazing fresh quality (yummmmmmy guacamole!)
(5)Jon L.
On behalf of the yelpatonian community, I took a couple drinks for the team and braved the eastside's finest plastic abercrombie warriors for a sampling of the decor, fluids and patrons of the newest Matador. Some observations in no particular order: - If you've seen the other matadors, you've got the idea. It's a hell of an ambiance upgrade from big time pizza, but I still think of strawberry waffles at Sweetwater when I was 5 when I'm there - I was wondering where all the belltown beauties were that I knew were hiding somewhere on the east side. This place attracts them like moths to a flame. - Good tequila list. My buddy had a damn smooth one for asippin. - They have a list for all the tables, bar area and restaurant. So, when hanging out in the bar with no open tables, you'll get massive evil eyes if you snag a table as someone leaves. Ya know, the way you'd do in any normal bar. : | Might be good on a weeknight, but I have good reason to continue to commute to Seattle for a decent bar.
(3)Stan B.
This is my favorite restaurant in Redmond. Its always crowded, but still worth the wait. Great free chips and salsa to start the meal. Also, great happy hour specials on food and drinks.
(5)Julia Z.
We tried to go here tonight. It looked great, it smelled great, and it was clearly busy. Too bad it's 21 and over only, INCLUDING the restaurant, something I've never seen outside Las Vegas. It's REDMOND, for crying out loud! What a bummer to not be able to treat a teenager to a special meal. We will NOT be back. They were very snotty about the 21 and over policy when I asked about the wait for a table. Even without a teenager in tow, we will skip the atittude problem. I am really sorry that Redmond lost a great family restaurant (Big Time) when it was replaced with this poseur. By the way, this is a Ballard-based chain; other locations are in Tacoma and West Seattle. What did Redmond do to earn this honor? LOL
(1)Samantha W.
You know what? I'm thrilled that I can go out to a place and NOT have to deal with kids....that kicks ass and I'll tell you why: I'm a mom and I love my lil chica and she dines with me everywhere but I love the fact that I have an adults only place to mingle and hang out without the atmosphere of a nightclub. The younger kids can go to Coho Cafe with mommy and daddy, or the library or the skate park. Me? I can get dressed up like the Whore of Babylon, not fight 520, and forget for awhile that I have real responsibilities. It's sort of nice. Food is good and since I used to bartend/serve here when it was Big Time, I'm loving the new look. This building, also, is seriously haunted. Seriously.
(4)J M.
I have had Tex-mex in many places, but I was surprised to find something so good here in the Northwest. Matador has extremely quick service, and delicious specials. I would argue the specials are better than the original menu items. The chips they serve complimentary before the meal are fresh and tasty.
(5)Steve B.
Friday night - the place is heaving - even the patio is full and its only 60F outside. The high ceiling amplify the throng of voices. Like other reviewers I agree that visually there is loads of eye-candy - the building, the soft-lit wall art, the clientele, the waitresses, even the tables are art in themselves. (Go and you'll understand) Definitely a place to be see and be seen. Lots of different experiences to be had too - adhoc at the bar, alfresco on the patio, stools and tall mid-tables, comfy booths, in the adjacent dining room is a quieter restaurant-like experience. The bar area was packed to almost standing room only. We threw a couple of margaritas down our throats in the bar while waiting 20mins or so for a table. Be prepared to wait even at 9pm or later for a table. The food is regular TexMex fare. Tasty, good spice and heat to it - not offensive. We jumped straight to entrees. Definitely +1 for the Carnitas. Lu had reinterpreted paella which was equally good. Came away comfortably stuffed. Our waitress was great, prompt, funny - kept the drinks coming. Went home happy nothing to complain about.
(4)Lauren H.
My husband and I decided to try The Matador on our way home from golf last night. He really wanted a rib eye steak or a burger, and I really wanted Mexican food, so what to do? The Matador was a great solution! He had the spicy rib eye there, and he said it was a "taste explosion"--he was happy to report that the meat was SUPER spicy with the chile butter sauce. I had a safe option, the Red Chile Enchilada with shredded chicken. It had to have been one of the best enchiladas I've had (maybe in the top three)! The chicken was tasty (didn't taste like frozen chicken, like most of the enchiladas I've had), there was just enough cheese on the top, and there was plenty of tasty pico de gallo all over it. It was delicious. My only complaints are that I wish they put more cheese inside the enchiladas and more sauce over it--the sauce was skimpy and just baked on. The chips and salsa we received at the start were some of the best I've had as well--the salsa was spicy with a grilled flavor and the chips tasted honestly fresh. The ambiance was sexy, but too pretentious for my taste. The people in the restaurant portion seemed like casual famalies, but the 'kids' in the bar portion seemed like snobs. The staff was so-so... a bunch of attractive young women that didn't look like they wanted to be there. Not too friendly. Overall, I'd highly recommend The Matador's food as a refreshing alternative to your typical Mexican or South Western restaurant.
(4)sean o.
Do yourself a favor and order the nachos. Get the steak. Its real steak. Its real good and with a dos equis amber, its really good. Great to see something new open up in the far east of Redmond.
(4)Alex T.
10PM-2AM Happy Hour. If you're up late, hungry, in Redmond and don't want to resort to a fast food drive-thru menu, go to Matador. $4, $5 tex-mex. I'm from Texas, so I know I'm not going to enjoy the food, but it's decent enough and goes down well with Mac and Jack's :)
(3)Geoff B.
I used to work down the street from here and would often times go here with co-workers for happy hour. I'm not much for the Redmond type of crowd but the draw of Matador is their very cheaply priced Happy Hour food. You can't beat a mountainous plate of nachos for $4. I'm writing a book on bar nachos around the US and would rate Matador's about a 3.5 out of 5. There's a short list of other cheaply priced finger foods as well. The artmosphere of Matador is obviously Southwestern and the interior is pretty lavish with lots of dark woods and dim lights. It can get pretty packed out on a Friday or Saturday night so be prepared and if you're with others, it's sometimes tough to chat over the din of the place. My only reccommendations would be to couple the happy hour food with some drink specials, which there currently aren't any drink specials. Also, as a connosieur of nachos...it sucks when you get down to the soggy chips, I'd pay more for better chips. The Tamarindo mixers are pretty damn good, I'd suggest that to start out with.
(3)Eric W.
So they have great nachos and some tasty drinks, but it's overpriced and overly salty for the multiple times I've been there. The Matador burger was overcooked at medium. I guess their redeeming factor is their happy hour and being one of the few bars in Redmond. Also, their parking is usually pretty full.
(2)Ivan B.
The happy hour food is awesome; the margaritas are great, the tequila flights - even better. Bacon-wrapped goat cheese-stuffed jalapeño peppers are one of my favorites there. I like the atmosphere in both rooms - the bar and the dining room, the wait staff has always been extremely friendly. One night we sat at the bar and the bartender was great too. The negative: some of the main courses are somewhat bland and lack flavor, like the beef fajitas. The patio is also not very inviting. My co-workers and I used to go there for lunch once a week and every time we were very happy with our choice.
(4)Emma G.
love love love matador. i especially love their happy hour. my husband and i frequently enjoy their HH nachos, wings, quesadillas, and... my favorite... BEER-BATTERED SHRIMP TACOS. oh, they're heaven in a tortilla. i don't even think there's cheese on them. shrimp, salsa, lettuce, and some of the house chive sour cream. DELISH. at dinner time, their habanero enchiladas and fajitas are also very tasty. oh, and i could drink their salsa by the gallon, and they never hesitate to keep it coming when i need my little black salsa dish refilled.
(5)JAC C.
The Food is always consistently wonderful. The Drinks are always strong. The Décor and ambiance are great. It is a little expensive but that hasn't stopped us from making this one of our frequent spots.
(4)Nicole W.
Best Happy Hour in Redmond! My boyfriend and I had our first date here! Fun atmosphere, the bar can get loud but they have an outdoor space that is nice. Try the TexMex Spring Rolls... OMG they are amazing!
(4)Andrew W.
We found this place while we were exploring our new area to live. Now I knew about it from other people but never tried it. My wife and I had a Friday night off so we thought we would have a date night. As we were getting ready she suggested Matador! I was like "hell yeah". I thought it was Mexican, but to my surprise it was more of a tex-mex style! When we got there it was packed and standing room only in the bar! We found a spot at the middle bar and ordered a couple libations. All I have to say is WOW!!!! The drinks were GRRRRRRRREAT! Perfect pour in our book. All alcohol and a splash of Red Bull for color!! Yes folks they still have real Red Bull! Cilia was our server in the bar and was excellent. Megan, who served us in the dining room,was amazing. We didn't have to wait to order and the chips and salsa came to the table promptly! We started with the stuffed jalapenos which had roasted garlic and goat cheese in the middle, then they were wrapped with hickory bacon and grilled!! WOW, Caliante!!! My wife had the enchiladas verde with carnitas, she said they were the best she had in forever. I had the braised carnitas which is pork marinated with orange, all spice, cinnamon, and then braised slowly. It is accompanied with black beans, rice, pico, guacamole, and house ranch. The pork was so tender you could split it with a fork. They offered both corn and flour tortillas to put this goodness together. I was pleasantly plump by the time we were done and still had some to take home. I strongly suggest this place for great food, good service, and STRONG drinks!!! Ps. Most places have a wine list in a separate book, well Matador has a separate book for just Tequila!! Over 75 different tequila's to choose from. The most expensive shot was the Don Julio!
(4)lee m.
I have to say, when I went to the Matador before it wasn't half bad, but my experience last night blew me away. We went to the Matador to watch a Basketball game, and when we walked in they were watching another basketball game. The hostess, who was awesome and friendly, talked to one of the bartenders and asked if we could change it to the game we wanted to watch. They got it changed for us and all was well. Now, another bartender walks up, after about 10 minutes and changes it to a baseball game. So the guy with us from Texas goes up and asks to put it back on the basketball game we've been watching for a while now. Bartender says, "i have a guy at the end of the bar that was watching the game and he was here first." So our guy points out that there are 300 games a week in baseball, and it's a play off game for basketball. So why not let us watch. He then gets a SERIOUS attitude and says, "that's just the way it is..". So our guy that really wants to watch the game comes back, and says he's being an arse about it. So I then talk to him again and try to ask him to reconsider. Playoff's, 5 guys eating dinner versus one guy at a bar watching a baseball game that is just a run of the mill game. He gets a major attitude, and turns all nazi on me about it's his call, that's just the way it is, etc. So we ended up leaving because of the poor service, and the attitude of the bartender. Even when we talked to the "manager" at the time, she never even offered to make it right.. Now I know this sounds lame and all over a basketball game, but it was the playoffs and the tv was on basketball for over 20 minutes in total from the time we walked in, to the time they changed it back to baseball. And even when we poitned that out, the bartender just got more and more attitude. It amazed me that he couldn't sympathize with a guy from Texas trying to watch his team considering it would of been their finaly game had they lost.. The reason for the post is the way we were treated, not the basketball game itself. From the bartender to the manager, POOR service, and it amazed me that something wasn't done.. I doubt we would of stayed even if she had offered to make it right but she didn't even try to fix the situation. What happened to the customer is always right?? We ended up going to Matts' Rotisserie and Oyster Lounge spent over 300$ on food and got to watch the game.. If you're looking for customer service, Matador is *NOT* the place to go..
(1)Arthur R.
I did not eat here, but did drink. It's Sunday and what else is there to do in Redmond. The food looks okay. Not incredible. Lots of tequila and drink selection. The decor, ect is decent. Waitresses are decent to look at. Bartenders pour short consistently. The beer was cheap. Very close to Redmond TownCenter.
(3)Gregory M.
Had dinner and a couple of extremely wet drinks tonight. The atmosphere and service from 8:00 to 10:30 was exceptional. I did eat at the bar so I had a captive bartender to tend to my needs. I will give Lucas the bartender 4 horses for his superb service. Glass was never empty and made me feel invited to the campfire. Food was spicy.....which is the way I prefer most things. Some people might want to bring a roll of Rolaids and Tums. Again Great Place. Will definitely visit again.
(4)K K.
Steak Nachos were good. The Top Shelf margarita was good too. Service was Excellent (we sat in one of the booths across from the bar). We will be back but we will skip the calamari, it was overly chewy.
(4)Rick E.
I have been here many times, but I have seen a few people get sick from eating the food. I kept going, but eventually it happened to me too, so I wonder if they have an issue in the kitchen. I like the decor, I like the bar, and I love the spicy food, but I'm a bit worried about the getting sick thing. Anyone know why they were closed for a few days this past week?
(3)Allison H.
This is my favorite place to go in downtown Redmond for happy hour, meeting up with friends, drinks, whatever! Sometimes it's hard to get a table (especially on the patio), but the chorizo tacos more than make up for it, and the prices are reasonable. The parking lot is almost always full, but there's plenty of street parking nearby.
(4)Shaili G.
Love their happy hour selection!!! Totally worth going there late at night for it. Also has good selection of beer. They have plenty of parking behind their building and also around on streets.
(5)Pete C.
Really tasty margaritas, good food, and a ambiance to give it class.
(4)Brandt D.
Happy Hour is a great deal on the food. The chipolte wings are my favorite with a Mac & Jack amber.
(4)Andri P.
Probably the lowest review of the restaurants that I have given so far. Anyway, the only nice things about the restaurant, is the place itself. I like the architecture and the atmosphere of the place. It's dark and feel kind of private. But all the foods that I ordered were just fine. It's very usual. nothing special at all. Some of them are even too salty. But anyway, something that I recommend to order if you go there is the nachos. I have to admit that they have a good nacho. It's a big order too, so you can split among you. :)
(2)Heidi L.
The food is yummy and when they say spicy they mean it, which is a big plus in my book. The happy hour menu has excellent food specials... if you can get them. I've gone here twice for the 4-6 happy hour and have yet to be served food during that time. The first time I arrived at 5:15 and waited an hour for a table. The waitresses said they couldn't serve us food while we were standing, so we missed the whole happy hour. They did give us chips and salsa to eat over by the wine case while we were waiting, but they wouldn't let us order off the happy hour menu when we finally did get to sit down... and we couldn't have water until 6:30 because they'd run out of water glasses, which is kind of a problem when you've been eating chips and salsa for 45 minutes. The second time I arrived at 4:30, standing room only, waited for a table until 5:30 then gave up and went to El Toreador next door. I'm not entirely sure how one is supposed to go about successfully participating in the 4-6 happy hour at this place... perhaps the winning strategy is to arrive at 3, stake out a table, and then order food at 4? I've had much more success with the late-night happy hour (10-1 weeknights iirc). The crowd is thinner and more mellow. Much easier to get a table, and the pours seem more generous too.
(3)Kristen B.
I've been back to the Matador a handful of times since my previous review and have been less than impressed. Not only are the margaritas lacking alcohol and exceeding in ice, but even the ever popular nachos have gone down hill. This place is always poppin, even on a weeknight, which is a good sign. Maybe the increase in customers has caused a decrease in quality of both service and food. The past few visits here have left me more sober than I would like, having to pee (from the watered down ice filled margaritas) and my palate yearning for more. I may wait a bit until returning, but hopefully on my next visit, The Matador will provide a more enjoyable experience.
(2)david c.
Went for a late dinner and they had a great late happy hour menu. Food was fresh and portions were excellent. Nice place in Redmond!!!
(5)Julia R.
Glorified bar food! My husband and I had dinner last night here. I started off with a margarita, it was good and their drinks are fairly priced. I ordered the enchiladas rojas with the veggie mix inside. I don't eat dairy so the roja sauce was the only one I could have. The waitress brought my food out, I took a bite and noticed it was not roja sauce. They gave me the verde sauce, which has dairy in it. After waiting 35 minutes just to get a table, I now have to have my food sent back and remade. But it gets worse. The food came back pretty quickly and I managed to scarf it down out of sheer hunger. What I've learned from not eating dairy is that when something is not covered in cheese, you can actually taste it! So my enchiladas were pretty bad. The veggie mix had no flavor and the veggies were way overcooked. Not to mention they were covered in lettuce. I couldnt even see what I was eating. The beans were good enough but the rice was nasty. It literally tasted like day old white rice. I had to eat a few bites just to make sure they were serious. Yeah I guess if you've had a few this food is tolerable, but I guess thats why the waitress kept pushing beers on my husband!
(2)Dave G.
Last Friday night I went in for my first time to eat, our order of tacos was way to spicy and hot worst meal I have had in a long time. Asked to speak with the manager who was working behind the bar waitress went and talked with him he looked over at our table and just went back behind the bar? We went to leave and he finally had to come over because I refused to pay for the meal without talking to him. His attitude sucked! He was a complete jerk with zero customer service skills...............I paid for the meal, we had not even touched our drinks so he was kind enough to not make us pay for them. We will not be going back.........first and last time at The Matador!!!
(1)Jen B.
PROS: -Yummy margaritas. Strong drinks. -Nice atmosphere. -Decent Happy Hour. -Good addition to Redmond. CONS: -Parking here is not fun. The spaces in the parking lot are kind of awkward and are small. Street parking is sometimes available. -The wait staff could be friendlier, or at least listen to your answer to THEIR question. They always seem distracted... -The prices are a bit more than I would want to pay regularly. OVERALL: Matador is a pretty good choice for some post-work drinks with friends.
(3)Chris O.
Nice place. Good steak tacos. Good chips and salsa. Good selection of beers. Good happy hour. The romaine salad is boring and not flavorful.
(4)Franz L.
The food is pretty good, one of the only places in Redmond that offers late nite dinning. They have a good and cheap late night happy hour I think almost every night starting around 10pm. Last couple of time the wait staff was pretty bad, they just seemed out of it and not very caring. I have a feeling management at this place pays low and treats their staff not so nice. Chipotle wings with their dipping sauce is pretty good along with their Carnitas on the Texas sized nachos. I think if they send the staff and management to boot camp, this place would be a 4-5 star joint again....
(3)Christine Y.
Matador proved to me that I have a black hole in my stomach. I went for Happy Hour with my friend and shared the Tex-Mex Spring Rolls ($5) and Fish tacos ($5). Then we ordered a House Salad ($6.95) from their dinner menu. Proceeded to eat most of the chips and salsa (free, duh!). Was still hungry so got the steak tacos ($9.25) on the Specials Menu with mango-pineapple salsa. Mind you, I shared all of this.. but probably could've eaten something else had it not been for the fact that I had totally gone over my budget. What's wrong with me? Service was great, decor is nice. 3 shining yelp stars!
(3)Peter S.
Only had HH food and not sure why else I would come cause I love it! Their nachos are ginormous! Quesadillas are delicious! Steak tacos are on point! Had nothing but good service every time I've come. Only knock is that I came to watch a few games here, and this is definitely not the place or crowd for that. At least I got a little empathy from the bartender who shared my gripe of blah Seattle sports fanfare....well, at least in Redmond.
(4)Benjamin L.
What do you get when you mix awesome Tex-Mex favorites with cool chic bar restaurant? You get the Matador! All the deliciousness, none of bland/boring environment of a standard Tex-Mex restaurant. This place is has amazing house margaritas (according to my wife), great beer selection, and a wonderful grown-up environment! The wife and I often come here for date night. The energy from the crowd is great. Now the food. Bomb huge nachos, variety of enchiladas, AND a solid burger to boot. You just can't go wrong when you come here...except perhaps the line...it cost of awesomeness is that there is often a wait for dinner, hence 4 stars and not 5.
(4)Al L.
So impressed by their food and service! Suprising, inventive, pleasing. Can't get enough of it.
(5)John B.
Love the food and atmosphere. They serve food until 100 am the entire menu wow. And if I didn't say it before girls, girls, girls!!
(4)Hitesh P.
I love the food. This place is awesome.
(4)Mimi L.
I come here once in a while to watch football games. It's not the most exciting place to watch games with the crowd here, but to be fair it's not a sports bar. The whole place is 21+, we've gotten kicked out of here before when someone didn't bring ID with them. Happy hour here is okay... not my favorite place, but it's not bad either. A lot of people like the nachos, which are a really huge portion. I'm not a huge fan of them though, I think it's because they don't have meat or jalapenos. I usually like calamari, but I didn't think it was that good here either. The chipotle mushrooms were good, but it didn't taste like chipotle at all. I have a high tolerance for spicy food, but I honestly didn't taste a hint of spiciness... The sangrias are tasty, but it tastes like there is no alcohol in them. The fajitas are mediocre... My friend ordered them and when she said that to me, the waitress overheard and came over to inquire, although she didn't offer to do anything about it. The carne asada is really good, it's pretty much the only thing I order when I go here now. You can order it for lunch as well, but substitute rice for the mashed potatoes. It's a little pricey, but worth it. This place would've been 3 stars, but the carne asada brought it up to 4.
(4)Kave F.
Let me tell you about my awesome lunch experience at this piece. Me, my wife and my 8month old son walk in for some nachos at about 11:30 in the afternoon. I'd been telling my wife about the matador for months and how good the nachos are. Too bad because within seconds of walking in we were told we had to leave because it was a bar and we could have our 8 MONTH OLD SON in there. Never mind the fact he can barely hold a sippy much less that the sign clearly states restaurant AND bar....either way I will not recommend this place after that ridiculous embarrassment and will be urging others to go elsewhere. Sorry we almost messed up your 'vibe'...
(1)Ninette C.
I think this is the closest thing to nightlife in Redmond. Haha. This is much like my review of the Matador in Ballard except that I like the ambience and location of that one better hence the star difference. I still like the habanero prawns best but I also enjoy the fish tacos, the shrimp tacos, the margaritas and the mojitos. If you're in Redmond at night, I'd go with this for drinks!
(4)A B.
NO KIDS ALLOWED!! While I am totally fine with this in theory (even as a mom) I think it should be made abundantly clear since most tex-mex chain restaurants are family friendly. Met my family there for a bday celebration only to be turned away with my little guy so we ate elsewhere close by. Then later saw another large family with several children in front of Matador, presumably waiting for a table, kinda sad.... Irritating part is they used "we have a full bar" as an excuse for not allowing kids (so do a lot of restaurants) - just own it that it's your preference to not have kids around and I'd have more respect, yo.
(3)Manda S.
I'll admit - I have been leery of this place since it opened. It's caddy-cornered to my favorite restaurant of all time - and I was surprised the opportunity presented itself that I would pick Matador over El Toreador (we had just been to El T the night before, I was too embarrassed to re-enter within less than 24 hours, and we were in the neighborhood). And so it goes. Went here for lunch: Hubby got the steak sandwich and I got the Texas-sized Nacho's with shredded chicken. Both dishes were surprisingly good. The nacho's were, as advertised, Texas-sized - and came with black beans, pico de gallo, sour cream and guac (which I requested on the side). Plenty of flavor, a good amount of tang, and of course ridiculously filling. The steak sandwich was great - what really made it was the carmelized onions and peppers that it came with. I still think it's a little strange to eat french fries at a Tex Mex restaurant, but there ain't nothin' wrong with that sandwich. Service was good, ambience was great. Will definitely visit again.
(4)John M.
This is one of my favorite places to go in downtown Redmond. Good food in a great setting.
(3)MaMa Spatula H.
Went for lunch and left disappointed in not only the food, but the cost. The friendly waitress casually asked if we wanted guacamole with our chips and salsa. Sure! We then ordered our calamari app and asked to have some vinegar as our dipping condiment. Later checked the bill and realized we were charged $5 for the guacamole and $.50 for the vinegar. Whaaat? Food is mediocre, but then again, it is Redmond.
(2)Allie S.
As I was waiting for the guy I was going out drinking with to show up, I texted him: "If I knew this place only had beautiful people I woulda suggested Taco Del Mar." It's true. I feel like I should have snuck in through the service entrance after not meeting their super!hotness requirement [they weren't mean to me, they were just intimidatingly beautiful, that's all!]. But that's okay, because in the end? It was so worth it. My only experience prior to this was at the Matador in Ballard, when I didn't realize you had to be 21 to eat there regardless of time of day. I was 19. D'oh. Came post-happy hour... I know, I know. Counter intuitive, as I'm a stingy college student looking to save money, and all that jazz. But this was just for drinks, so hey, I'll only have one, right? I'm not a lush, I can conserve money, right? Um... not so much. One vodka-cran in [delightfully strong, and the cranberry juice didn't taste like cranberry juice cocktail, which is a definite plus] we ordered a plate of fries. Wow. Those are some good fries -- make sure you ask for a side of the housemade ranch. Yep, another thing I wouldn't expect to do at a Tex-Mex/Tequila bar: order vodka and fries. But it was a good combination. So as we needed to order more drinks to justify sitting in a booth, I ended up taking the server's suggestion and getting a tamarind margarita. Holy mother of pearl... I am not a tequila fan. I don't even really have a clue of tamarind is. But damn, that was a tasty drink. Had some banana-coconutty dessert thing which I've completely forgotten the name of [see, told you the drinks were strong!] and it was good but obviously not memorable enough to out-last the intoxication. Had a bite of my friend's passion fruit sorbet which was basically beyond amazing. The check was reasonable and we didn't even get any dirty looks for taking up a booth for two hours [although eavesdropping on the people next to me, they had already been there through all of happy hour as well as the two hours we were there, so I guess we weren't the worst campers!]. Regardless: High fives to you, Matador! Thanks for keeping my water glass full.
(4)Jacquie P.
Finally tried the food! And saw the inside of the place in the light of day! It's really a beautiful space. Crab cakes and BLTA with fries for lunch on the patio. Surprisingly good. Service was confusing...again...but my happy tummy and the sunny day made up for it.
(4)N M.
Good place to hang out when you are bored....it is always full of people
(4)Morteza G.
I used to like this pace very much but recently I got mix feelings about it. This place can get too crowded and noisy during peak times and weekends, but you can find it pretty quiet and cozy at late nights. I also like its decorations and lightening which give this place a nice atmosphere. The portions are generous and they are relatively inexpensive (especially if you have prime card). You should not expect any spectacular dishes here as almost everything is average quality bar food (if you are unlucky, your meal may end up on the wrong side of average). I suggest this place for hanging out late nights with friends and having some drinks and snacks, but not for a full course dinner.
(3)michael H.
Was the interior designer of this place a witch? Hmmm, note that the staff are all dressed in black. I love it. I like this place. Fresh food, homemade salsa, high end tequila, yeeeeeeah! Do the Anejo Flight if you're drinkning tequila. The Don Juilo 1942 is IT! Save it for last. Staff here is top notched. Bartendars know their tequila, and the girls know what they're doing. If you're under 21, you'd better not enter. They will beat you down with a witches broom the moment you enter. I've witenessed this on numerous occasions. Adults Only. Oh yeah. Mostly 30 something crowd here but very attractive. Go, Enjoy, and have fun.
(5)Matt Z.
I was skeptical at first. A random Mexican place in the middle of downtown Redmond. As it turns out: some of the best food I've had in the Seattle area! The Margaritas are great (and I don't really like Margaritas), and the Red Sangria is just amazing! I thought the food was overpriced at first, but then I considered the portions. The nachos were enough to feed two people easily, and the cheaper food items offer plenty of food for one person to eat. My recommendation: spend most of your money of their delicious drinks and you will not be disappointed!
(5)Taylor H.
One of my all time favorite places to eat and hang out. They are usually busy at night but the wait isn't long. The drinks are great and the food is even better. Can't go wrong with the steak fajitas. Recommend!!
(5)Heidi F.
I came here on an Eastside-bound Friday night, hoping to find the epicenter of Redmond's TGIF-inspired good times. The meat-market vibe of Matador's Ballardian counterpart was missing (good thing, except it was a bit too tame for my mood), and instead had a much more grownup vibe. The Matador is a solid Happy Hour choice. While I'm never blown away by the food, the $3, $4 and $5 plate prices are oh so right. There is an unfortunate lack of drink specials; however, their pours are reasonably generous and their margaritas are great. Service? Ahh. Here is my main bone of contention with The Matador. It seems that every cocktail waitress here has been schooled in the You Are Cute, and Therefore Do Not Have To Be Courteous Nor Efficient Academy of Waitressing. Hey Waitress - I get that you are cute, but how bout that glass of wine you were going to bring for me? The ambiance is Matador's strength: it's just the right kind of dark that makes you feel a 'lil bit sexier and the big fire pit casts a romantic flicker. I love a good romantic flicker. All in all, a well-priced Happy Hour standby.
(3)J P.
This place may be great for happy hour, however, my husband and I were very unimpressed when we went there for dinner last night. The atmosphere is LOUD so beware of that when you're not sitting in the bar. The most important part of this review though is regarding the food. My husband ordered the steak medallions. Let's just say that this was the WORST dish he has ever had. Literally the steak was so tough and fatty, he couldn't even cut it with a steak knife. He had to chew on it forever and then just swallow it. It was like they used the leftover bad meat for this dish. And I'd like to add that my husband is NOT a picky steak person. He likes fat (he thinks it adds flavor), this was different. This was the bottom of the barrel crap steak that he has never experienced before. Hopefully this was just a bad shipment of meat otherwise they should be embarrassed to serve this quality of meat. We would have said something but we were in a little bit of a hurry so we decided to let it go. I don't think we'll be going back, I remember the Matador being way better than this in the past. Whatever you do, beware of this dish!!
(2)Joey S.
I've been here a few times and love it. Being from Southern California I'm no stranger to good Mexican food but when I came here I was pleasantly surprised. The food was super flavorful and they did some combinations I've never seen done in Mexican food that work.
(4)Melissa C.
I've been back to Matador a few times since writing my last review (which was delayed). If you insist on visiting during the late afternoon/sunset, position yourself so you're not facing the windows. I almost went blind. Menu items I've tried: - White peach sangria: It's refreshing, not too sweet or peach-y. Be warned: it's not very strong. I'm a lightweight and didn't even taste or feel the alcohol in this. - Roasted tomato chicken polenta soup: This soup is very spicy, but very good. It could use more polenta as I barely saw or tasted any. It's full of protein with huge chunks of chicken. - Grilled carne asada enchiladas roja: I always request no beans and double the side of rice as it's excellent. The enchiladas have a wonderful flavor; the roja sauce is a smoky red sauce that isn't spicy. I would, however, complain about the lack of carne asada in the enchiladas. Some bites were completely void of the steak. Also, I love their sour cream - it has dill or something in it, it's a nice twist - very refreshing. - House salad - It's just meh. A LOT of greens, 3 slices of dry cucumbers and 2 grape tomatoes sliced in half. Heavy on the dressing. I wouldn't order it again. - Steak quesadilla (lunch appetizer only) - Delicious! Crunchy tortilla, perfect amount of gooey, melty cheese. It was 1 tortilla (so half a normal-size quesadilla). This, combined with a soup, provided leftovers and kept me full for hours, though not that heavy, "Oof, I ate too much and need to unbutton my pants," full feeling.
(3)Heather F.
The Matador is a solid place to go for fun ambiance, great drinks, a beautiful bar and a delicious (if uninspired) Tex-Mex menu. From my experience, the bartenders and waitstaff are kind, quick and helpful.
(4)Elliotte B.
Tex Mex at it's best, great happy hour food specials, a great menu where every dish is extremely tempting, exhaustive tequila list, tons of drinks including several unique margaritas, very friendly staff that has never let me down, very quick with the salsa refills! I've only gone in the evenings and the place always has a great ambiance, whether you're taking a date, family or friends, and have the urge for Tex Mex on the east side, this place is what you want. One minor gripe is the happy hour does not include drink specials.
(5)Kristin W.
Nice atmosphere. Good food & drinks.
(3)Kate B.
I have only been there for happy hour but I would definitely go back. We were stuck on the Eastside and it was hot so, of course, a patio and a margarita were in order. I am not a huge tequila fan but their selection is *huge*. I got the house margarita which was not too sweet and in a big pint glass. Nice! The boy got his without the triple sec (I think they called it scratch?) which really cut down on the sweetness. We weren't too hungry but the deals were so good we got the taquitos which were a steal for $5. They were very tasty with a yummy spicy oil-ish dip in addition to a creamy, avocado dip. They were served over cabbage that had some kick to it and added a little bit of veggies to the fried goodness. A return trip is definitely in order so I can try the tamarind margarita and some of the other tasty treats. For happy hour, por supuesto.
(4)Dane D.
Great Happy Hour.. Awesome food.. a little expensive but it's a chill atmosphere with kick ass waitresses and bartenders.. I always get the steak tacos and habanero prawns when it's HH. I've heard that it's too spicy for some people.. so, if you're a pussy, probably shouldn't eat here. It's really not bad at all though.
(5)Ryan P.
Great atmosphere, a little trendy yet unique for a suburban bar. Happy hour was a good deal for the appetizers, but the food portions are small, except the nachos. The drinks are way overpriced (no discount on drinks for happy hour).
(3)Paul T.
It's all about the happy hour here for the food. While they do not have drink specials for happy hour, the food specials are amazing. The nachos were piled high with fresh toppings. I highly recommend the steak with it. Also tasty? The southwest spring rolls. Great place to hang out, stuff your face with fantastic food and enjoy some tasty drinks.
(5)Damian L.
My wife and I love to go here for dinner, the food is very good. The only reason I'm not giving it 5 stars is because the sometimes go too far with the spice. Sometimes I had trouble eating the food because it was damn hot, even if I never order the "super hot" stuff, I can't imagine how hot that may be... So enjoy the place but be aware :)
(4)Casey Y.
Amazing $5 nachos (taste and amount) and a great selection of cocktails and drinks. Go with friends during happy hour, leave happy. Drinks are a bit too expensive- isn't very sociable for a bar either. Go with friends
(4)Chris F.
I work for the Evil Empire and this place takes the Prime Card, so we eat here once a week ... now, I was raised in Texas, so maybe my standards are a bit different, but I've read through the reviews here and haven't seen an honest one yet ...so I'm going to post one. The food here is slightly above average, but what keeps most guys coming back is the staff... Attractive women serving lunch? Happy hour with a couple hotties? Pretty much a no brainer for the tech industry and the real reason you find such positive reveiws. Now, if you really want to know about the food ... the salsa tastes good, but it's not hot. More of a picante than anything else. the tacos normally come greasy ... the burritos are pretty standard but good quality (as long as you get the sauce on the side so it doesn't drown) ... finally, matador does pretty well braising their meat ... if something braised is on the menu, take a shot. normally you'll be happy with your choice.
(3)Francisco A.
This place makes some of the worst Mexican food I have ever had and it is stupidly expensive. The decorations are nice, however, and they have Dos Equis Amber on tap. Also, they have more tequilas than Tijuana has STDs, so it's a decent place to get so drunk your tongue goes numb and the food becomes edible.
(1)Dan N.
Happy hour Nachos were good, tacos ok, drinks were awesome but they dont have any drink specials for HH. It's a good place, I would come back for the drinks but not so much the food.
(3)Jessie C.
Great happy hour! Or rather, I went to their late night hours but same thing. A friend and I split the chicken quesadilla, it was great! Pretty good helping for only $5. The sour cream-esque sauce was interesting (in a good way). For drinks we went with the mojitos and house margarita. The margarita was really yummy and surprisingly pretty strong. The mojito on the other hand, was extremely minty; it felt like I was just eating mint leaves. A bit of a set-back. If I was just rating based on food, 4 stars hands down, but the drinks sort of threw me off. Overall, service was pretty nice and the atmosphere and decor of the place was great. I'll be coming back again.
(3)Picky P.
Huh. This past Friday night, Matador in Redmond was like a cross between a frat house, and Fight Club. Totally not what I was expecting... Having been to other Matador locations, I was expecting basically the same thing: your typical meat market, maybe a little bit geekier patrons, decent food, decent drinks and a head-spinning selection of tequila. What I was not expecting: super-low happy hour prices (yum!), Bob Marley's Legend on repeat (thus the frat house feel) and a front row seat to a table-crashing brawl that brought out Redmond's finest in full force. Broken glass everywhere, people taken away in cop cars. The admin assistants drinking sangria at the table next to us were so thrilled they practically peed their pants....and I just kept thinking...Redmond?? REAlly???? But about the restaurant: the happy hour food was really quite good, and only $4 or $5 a dish....perfectly priced for getting really fat, really fast! Service was a little odd. I've read reviews on here saying the staff is inattentive...I'd have to say, if anything, I have the opposite complaint. It seemed like the waitress was stopping by our table literally every 90 seconds. It was quite odd, and quite annoying, although she was really nice.
(3)Shane L.
The Matador is often one of my first choices when trying to come up with Happy Hour ideas around Redmond. The bar staff has always been friendly and I've lucked out in terms of getting there when it's neither too crowded or completely dead. They have happy hour from 10 to 1 making it an appealing late night choice for the East Side where everything tends to be closed by 9. I think my favorite item for happy hour is their Texas Spring Rolls. You don't get a lot but I they're pretty tasty. The happy hour prices aren't too bad and I approve of their beer selection. It's not a bad destination for lunch either; I think some of their entrees are a bit on the pricey side, but I was pleasantly surprised by their steak fajitas and their other food is tasty as well. Things can be pretty crowded for dinner though.
(4)Taylor C.
Thumbs up for the atmosphere and the happy hour. Great bar food selections late at night and a large drink selection. The late night happy hour only pertains to food but thats enough for me. Best bet for late night in Redmond
(4)Oliver P.
Those of you who read my reviews (god knows why?!!?) will notice that, like many, I wish yelp would bring in 1/2 stars. There are so many times where you truly struggle to go 3 or 4 ya know? This is one of those times...I don't think Matador is a 4 star spot...but most certainly not a 3 so...you get a 4 Matador! Sat outside a few weeks ago...a little dead and I don't remember if they pumped music out there but...just no vibe...fire was not on etc. The drinks I think are just average...if someone were to open a Mexican restaurant and send away for a 'Mexican Style Drinks Starter Kit' their menu is what you would get. Am I the only one who does not feel it necessary to have like 7 different margaritas? The normal marg, the one with the chambord floater etc etc...just make a really good margarita! Ok...so the food....I had the carnitas plate and it was amazing! Tons of tender, flavorful pig and everything I needed to make my own fajita style tortillas! Service was pleasant also... Oh, last thing...why no weekend brunch?!!?
(4)Katie C.
I got kicked out of here at lunch today. -_-; I met 3 friends for lunch. We ordered our drinks (just sodas and water, nothing alcoholic). The waitress comes back, puts my diet Coke in front of me and gives me a weird look, and asks to see my ID. I ask her why, since I'm not planning on drinking. Apparently you have to be over 21 to even eat in here, since it's a bar. I told her my husband had my ID in his wallet and he wasn't there, and that I'm 25. But I have didn't have my ID- so they made us leave. Seriously, I am 100% supportive of carding people when it comes to alcohol, but I'm 25, and I look 25. I haven't been carded for actual alcoholic drinks in months (and I absolutely don't mind when I AM carded!). Why did this woman decide to card me, knowing I look over 21 and most importantly - that I was only there for a burger and a coke? She had a very strange, insincere attitude about the whole thing. Ah well. The burgers at Red Robin are better than anything this place fixes anyway!
(1)Hans G.
I only had one drink here, so I've no right to review it, really. The red sangria was good. The waitress was inauthentic even by Redmond standards.
(3)Christine M.
Pros: Great happy hour food $4-$5, great service at the bar-top, attractive bartenders and waitresses, great decor, great ambience, quick service and food, strong drinks, best place in Redmond, great date spot, fun, popular, late night food-happy hour 4pm-6pm and 10pm-1am, and the biggest selection of tequilas I have ever seen-105 (who knew tequila was sipable?) Cons: Happy hour is only on food, must be 21+ in bar and restaurant, have heard waitresses can be snotty and slow, but always sit at bar-top so not sure on that, and it is on the pricey side, so if you are trying to be cheap this is not the place unless you just get happy hour food. Recommendations: anything steak (esp. tacos), HH shrimp tacos, best wings I have ever had, nachos (huge!), enchiladas (3 flavors, picante if you like spicy), calamari, any of the margaritas (great sweet and sour), and of course any of the tequilas!
(5)Tiffany N.
I have two words...HAPPY HOUR!!!!! They have a $5 menu from 4-6 and then again 10 til close! You must try the braised pork tacos, they are delicious with just the right amount of spicy. And being that they are a tequilla bar try some. Their tequillas are among the most smooth and flavorful that I have tried. I highly recommend the bartenders margarita, the float of grand marnier and splash of crandberry make for a delicious combo. The wait staff are super friendly and know you if not by name then by order if you frequent as much as I do. I think I will miss this place the most now that I have moved. I could drink all night and walk the 2 blocks home.
(4)Chris C.
Wow! Just wow!!! I went here for a late lunch with my SO and we were both extremely impressed with the food. First impression - odd decoration. Not bad, just very interesting. Kind of a Tex-Mex Goth look with skeletons and bright colors. The cow skull made me think of the famous Georgia O'Keefe painting. Even the bathrooms had unique decor all the way down to the right triangle, farm-style sink with a well pump style faucet. Then we sit down and were promptly greeted, seated and beveraged. After our order was taken, the server didn't come back to check as often as I'd like, which is the only reason I knock one star off. The complementary chips and salsa were fantastic. The chips were as thin as they dared being without being so thin they break every time you scoop some salsa. The salsa had a very fresh taste with the perfect amount of heat. Not enough to truly burn, but just enough to realize it's been chile peppered. Then the food came. Most Mexican style restaurants seem to tame down everything so it really has no spiciness to it at all. But the food did have a touch of heat, which I loved. The flavors mixed were unique, but very well done. My SO and I were both very impressed with the taste of the food, so we exchanged bites of each others entrees and hers was every bit as good as mine was. No let downs in the flavor department at all. All in all, this place is DEFINITELY worth a try and we'll be going back.
(4)Adine L.
awe, i'm so sad to read the reviews of people who had a bad experience here! my matador trip began when we had a business lunch. immediately, i was happy with the service. they took our drink orders and hung back while we chatted for a bit then took our orders when we were ready. our associate has a lot of food allergies, and the staff was happy to cater to her off-menu specifications (carne asada with just salt and pepper; no garlic or onion -- she was allergic!). when the waitress spoke to the kitchen and realized the meat was pre-marinated with garlic and onion, they offered another option: salt and peppered prawn skewers with asparagus! yum! my boss and i ordered the steak sandwich, which was heavenly. i really enjoyed it! the combo of the marinated steak pieces, caramelized onions, sweet pepper and cherry tomato relish and cilantro with chipotle mayo on that yummy fluffy bun... well, in any case, the fact that i remembered all that stuff is even further proof that it was the bomb. after we ate, there was no rush trying to get us out as we had a long discussion. the service was attentive but not suffocating. and they carded me in the bar! i'm gonna go try happy hour and i'll report back :)
(4)Jason O.
The best part of our experience here was the decor which was fantastic! Beautifully done, I must say! However, with that said, the food was bland and the drinks were way, way over priced! Don't get me wrong, I know a restaurant needs to make money but $14. for a silver margarita is outrageous! Service was mediocre too. They have a lot of potential though if they were to tighten it up!
(2)David X.
Great happy hour! Everything on the happy hour menu is $4 or $5. And it's not like you get a handful of peanuts either - they give a legitimate amount of food, The nachos in particular are a huge serving by itself when independent of price, but it is even more grand in the light of its $4 price. The other items we tried were all very good as well, including the tacos, quesadillas, chicken wings, and calimari. Would come back again to try some tequila! Just be aware that you need to be 21 to come here.
(4)K M.
Consistently good restaurant, usually order the enchiladas verde or pulled pork sandwich. Great place for after work or Friday night drinks in Redmond.
(3)Joey J.
Great place for lunch or late drinks. Busy as all get out practically anytime you want to go. Partida Blanco margaritas on the rocks are my staple drink here. I love the Tex-Mex Spring Rolls and the Spicy Chicken Sandwich.
(4)Farah F.
Came here for barnight. I wasn't drinking, so I was perusing the menu for food. Ended up just ordering the calamari, which was really good. Tasted other people's stuff, too, and the food was really, *really* good. Only complaint: service was slow. *SIgh* I would come here again though for the food.
(3)Zach G.
$5 happy hour steak tacos are the tits.
(5)S. P.
Been here many times and I have never received great service from the girls. May times they are not very friendly. I began sitting at the bar and every times i receive great service! David (think he goes by Deek) is by far my favorite because he is genuinely nice without being fake. He is one of the most humble bartenders I have ever seen and that is was makes him unique. He just seems like a GOOD GUY which is hard to find in a bartender! If he isn't working, I often leave. The food is awesome too! the nachos are the best i've had, their black beans are to die for. I gave it a 3 because their drinks are very pricey and WHO DOESNT HAVE DRINKS ON HAPPY HOUR? thats just unheard of these days. That is one thing that keeps me from going there when I just want a cocktail and a snack. The place is almost always busy which is probably because their food is very well priced. Maybe jack up the HH prices for food a dollar or so to allow for happy hour drinks??? Great ambiance too, very romantic and gorgeous. Also, WIFI is a must these days! Again....in redmond, who doesnt have wifi? + The patio is beautiful!!!!
(3)Katie K.
Happy hour here is awesome! The $4 nachos were so good! I haven't seen a bar bill so cheap in a long time. The only thing I didn't like was that it was a little too dark inside.
(4)calamity chang c.
weak margaritas, unless i need to be in aa? food is ok, service is average, nice interior.
(2)Thomas O.
The food is relatively basic southwestern fare -- tacos, tostadas, salads, nachos, fish -- but Matador has plenty of charm. The atmosphere is a bit dark and Gothic -- shrouded in red velvet curtains, stained glass, and lit by candles -- and I like going there for happy hour sometimes. Everything on the happy hour menu is $5. Which gives you an opportunity to sample a wide variety of finger foods. The drinks are pretty strong (I'm not much of a drinker, so I can't comment about the variety of tequilas), grab a margarita (mmmm), and the service is average to good. I mostly go there for the atmosphere, and the fact that it's close.
(5)john f.
we headed to matador for a little pre-bar margarita . . . . . we headed back to matador for a little post-bar margarita (and nachos). the Cadillac was delicious as well as the house. the restaurant is well-designed with a cozy, dark brick situation and a warm patio arrangement. but the real spectacular thing about this joint is the happy hour that's split before and after dinner. making pre and post-partying that much more affordable. it's worth planning your night around. definitely a must go. ADVICE: don't jaywalk in front of the bar. a cop chased us inside.
(4)E. P.
Yum yum yum! I brought a bachelorette group here for dinner and it was great. We were a table of 8, but didn't have a long wait. Service was fast and attentive; dinner and drinks were delicious. I recommend the white sangria, asparagus, chipotle mushrooms, and rojo enchilada with mixed veggies. The waitresses were patient and helpful with my grandmother who has a lot of dietary restrictions. The only snafu was my aunt was stung by a rouge bee that had come in through the patio door! But the staff was very helpful supplying ice to cool the sting. I look forward to returning for dinner with my husband. Very cool, dim atmosphere. And I love that I didn't have to go to Seattle to get it!
(4)J J.
El Matador is definitely where the beautiful people go. That is why you can always find me there at least once a week! It's the total place you can go to unleash your inner elitist, or if your like me....just be yourself! Dress up or down, but please don't come in your socks and sandals. Waitresses are expectantly bitchy but nice eye candy for the fellas.
(5)Adam T.
Margaritas and Mojitos are soso. Nachos were too salty. Entrees nothing to get excited about. Ambiance is entertaining for Redmond. Waitresses are everything other reviewers have made them up to be, fun times! Redmond's finest stake this place out Thurs-Saturday nights. Embellish a stumble getting into your car and you will get an escort+.
(3)Richard S.
Went here for the first time. Service was excellent. My Tamarind Margarita and my partner's Mango margarita were very good. We split a spinach pear salad which was very good and a tad spicy. After the salad I was expecting my red chile enchilada to be a little spicy (even if the menu read that it was mild) and was disappointed. Live and learn.
(3)Regan T.
You can't beat the price on food during happy hour, but their drinks are over priced and the vibe in here can be too club-like for someone just looking to relax and enjoy a drink.
(3)Andy W.
good food service very sweet waitresses please go here some time its worth every penny i just dont like Redmond this is why 4 stars all those dumb one way streets so i guess minus one for location.
(4)Erica S.
best nachos ever!!! and especially at hh. yum!
(5)Gamaliel A.
The best chips and salsa, EVER!!!!!! The nachos are great and the red sangria has to be one of the best around.
(5)Kristen W.
They have a really great Happy Hour and they do it twice a night 4-6 and 10-1pm. We love going there late after a movie and getting appetizers. The haberno prawns and stuffed jalapenos are excellent. The enchilladas picante and the tamles are also really yummy. They have good beers on tap, but their mixed drinks are sometimes lacking.
(3)Carly L.
If you have been to the other Matadors, this is pretty much the same idea. The beautiful people of the Eastside like to flock here.... and I was one of the people flocking there this past Saturday. So, yes, I dressed up in a dress, heels, and took part in my friends bday celebration. The lighting and ambiance.... nice. I probably looked like Giselle to the men in there with how dim the lights were. Service... not bad. Our food came rather quickly, as did our drinks. (we were sitting in the bar area). My food wasn't bad...but not so great that I was blown away by it. My general opinion of this place, is its not bad, but I think I am kind of over getting dressed up to go get a drink. You know what I mean?
(3)Kiko L.
My friend and I met at the Matador for drinks for a happy hour. The place was packed and on the patio there was a really boring looking private party so everyone was squeezed inside. The food was tasty with a happy hour price but not the drinks. My friend had a pricey OK Margarita and I had Guinness. We had a couple of drinks there but I kept getting rubbed up against by this creepy older guy who was talking really loud with his friends and I was ready to leave. It seems a lot Microsoft people frequent there after work but the scene is not for me.
(3)ron p.
This place makes me sick! Obviously due to their immense popularity they feel that customers are never right. I was there recently during their popular happy hour and sat by the fireplace pit in the Ballard location. Between the two of us, we compiled a tab over $100 however when I pointed out a mistake on our tab, the waitress quickly became defensive and incredibly unprofessional. Even after asking for a manager on duty her response was "Are you serious?!?". The mistake was several food items got accidentally rung in as full price when in fact they were ordered during the happy hour discounted price. However the waitress was adamant their computers are correct and that we were just flat out wrong in placing the food order during non-happy hour times. Even after I pointed out our beverage tab was a hundred dollars, her response was you are responsible to the pay the entire bill. WOW! Unfortunately her lack of foresight not only caused her to lose a handful of regular customers, her tip suffered too because she was too proud to admit she made a mistake!
(1)Nancy W.
Love the Matador!!!! The margaritas are FANTASTIC!!! I live in Texas and I have to say that the food at the Matador is better than any mexican food we have here!!! The Matador is always on my list of places I have to go when I am visiting my daughter and her husband!!! The decor is great as well! Terrific place to go and spend an evening with great food and great friends, and oh yeah, GREAT Margaritas!!!
(5)ZeeEmEss H.
Great atmosphere! The best side dish is the Stuffed Jalapenos wrapped in bacon. The best entre is the Carnitas with rice and beans. It's not on the menu, but my wife's favorite drink is the Key Lime Martini. I'm a beer guy, but that drink tastes great, like a dessert! Only negative is that it gets crowded... often
(5)Drew R.
Best ribs in town... not a big tequila drinker but when you're there you feel compelled to try as many as possible. Love this place.
(5)Jonathan G.
Terrible experience. It occurred 2 years ago but it's still memorable. I went here for dinner, and the server accused me that my NY driver's license was fake. Then, the manager come over and berated me. I didn't even order any alcohol.
(1)Adrienne S.
The happy hour prices are unbeatable! I don't know if I would come here any other time. The happy hour menu is very similar to the regular dinner menu. Always a fun place to go for tex-mex food and tequila/margaritas! The restaurant is always crowded but the wait is not long. The outdoor seating is great for summer.
(3)jonobie f.
I was sad when Big Time closed, but Matador is SO much better. I moved here from Austin and hadn't ever found any really good Mexican restaurant. This delivers - they have a tomatillo sauce that rivals any I had in Texas. FANTASTIC. As a downside, the menu isn't huge. There are a lot of sandwiches on it (not particularly interesting to me for a dinner at a sit-down place). But the fajitas, and verde enchiladas are enough to keep me happy.
(4)Adam M.
Good bar to watch a football game especially if you come during happy hour. Inexpensive beer and $4 appetizers. It was empty when we came so seating at bar was completely open. There was four of us. Good service. The inside is also very visually appealing with weird large photos and metal sculptures. Easy parking. Finally some good restaurants opening in Redmond
(4)Denise E.
Seriously, the nachos are great (with steak). The tamarind margarita is a great twist on my favorite drink. The staff is great. Whenever we go there its packed but have never had to wait for a spot at the bar. Its a great place to people-watch too. I'm glad there is a cool hang-out deep on the east-side. They also serve food until they close at 2! They live up their recent accolade: best tequila selection. I recommend sitting at the bar. Ask for Ryan, he will take good care of you!
(5)Korry P.
Not worth the wait. What a waste of space. They should have moved to Kirkland. Won't last a year in Redmond. Bad food and a lot of bad attitudes. This place may stay open late but it's only a 1 star business.
(1)Fraser S.
It's not too often that a new restaurant/bar that is open to 2:00 a.m. opens up on the Eastside. As such, I had to give the place a shot and will certainly be back. I was there for happy hour and enjoyed appetizers that ranged from $5.00-$6.00. Bottom line food was great, solid service even when it was crowded and of course the beer was great. Place was packed for a Wednesday after work so this place definitely is the new place to be in Redmond.
(4)s p.
Whats with all these rave reviews ? really ? Its ok, just your average chain. The nachos are plentiful and the food is not bad, just not super fresh and yummy. I kind of enjoyed the food while I was there but was sick on getting home- threw up. It may have been the shrimp. The water could use some filtering, tastes oily. The margaritas are not very good and the mojitos are watered down. I prefer the margaritas at el toreador next door.
(3)Brad S.
The Matador is a welcome addition to Redmond and the Eastside. A true bar and a true tex/Mex place. The only other true bars around here are so disgusting I wouldn't dare set foot, and there really is no other true tex/Mex. The wife and I celebrated her birthday here in December. We did have to wait for a bit, but no worries as the bar was ready and willing to serve us. The atmosphere is a blend of old and new, as the exposed brick wall gives it a rustic feel but the plasma TV's on the wall remind you that you are in the 21st century. The place is intimate almost to a fault, as it was difficult to carry on a conversation without hearing the conversation of the couple closest to you, but that was okay because it forced us to meet some people we would not have otherwise met. The food was very good - I had a steak and the wife had fajitas. Yeah, it was a bit of the abercrombie crowd but then again, back in college, that was me. (1/23/12) - I want to tweak this one a bit as I've eaten here a number of times since then (including last night). I still love the atmosphere of this place. My wife loves the margaritas. And this is a great place to go for a happy hour and appetizers. But I've never eaten here and not been very disappointed with the entrees. Last night, they didn't even have the trout that I initially ordered, so I went for the beef medallions, and they were disappointingly dry and bland. Downgrading from four stars to two.
(2)Mr. S.
Very oily chorizo tacos. Made me think of the BP oil spill. I recently visited for lunch and ordered the chorizo tacos with black beans and rice. My order was brought out and the tacos were dripping out, not a little but a great amount of, oil. When (my waitress) came by again, I asked her if the chorizo tacos are normally this oily here. She went back and asked and shared with me that she was told they could be. The two tacos dripped enough oil to cover half of the side of the plate where the tacos were sitting next to the rice and beans. I am usually not very picky, but this lunch was definitely not what I was expecting. I thought this was not typical of The Matador and felt the need to take time and share my experience with the management so I went to their website and wrote an email to management. I did not get a response after a week. If you don't mind a really oily couple of tacos and the lack of response to your feedback, this place is for you.
(1)Marla S.
Love the happy hour! Great prices and yummy drinks. Friendly people. Wish I could take the kids for dinner though!
(4)Mikhail H.
I like that where ever I go and find a Matador I am guaranteed great service, good food and a nice atmosphere. This location is consistent with the other spots as well. This is not the best Tex Mex but as a whole package I must say that they deliver!
(4)Adam R.
While I think it's a bit on the pricey side, the food we ordered was great. I really liked their salsa for the chips. We also ordered the jalapeño appetizer which was recommended and certainly worth it, besides you can't go wrong wrapping something in bacon! I really enjoyed the atmosphere and service which are always important to me!
(4)Alex L.
We struggled to get in to this restaurant, but did enjoy the meal when we finally did. I didn't feel great the next morning, but that could have been the rich Chorizo and clams. Very tasty food. It was a bit loud and I really wish they accepted reservations.
(4)Patrick K.
Good happy hour. Nachos are good and shrimp good but can be very spicy depending on how you order. I took off one star due to the challenging parking situation.
(3)Sara M.
Stopped here last week with some co-workers for Happy Hour. It's considered 'Tex-Mex' and I must say, I was really impressed with the quality, quantity and pricing. I enjoyed the Tex Mex Spring rolls and my co-worker ordered the Texas size nachos which were seriously great and so big a few of us shared them. I don't drink so I didn't order anything I can recommend but I know they have plenty of local brews both on tap and the mixed fufu drinks looked very refreshing too. The server was very attentive and often checked back with refills or offers to put more orders in but she wasn't insistent and never rushed us out. Parking is a bitch but there are options for free street parking and spaces with closed businesses close by. I give this place an A (at least for HH) and I am really looking forward to my next visit.
(4)Ben F.
Good place for happy hour deals. Food and drinks are good. Nachos dish is very large!
(4)Diana C.
Food is decent, happy hour is nice, options for outdoor seating, large enough to handle bigger groups of friends if necessary, and mostly friendly staff. I'll give it a solid 3.5-4 stars depending on the day you go in. I've had some servers that are pretty good, and other that make you want to leave quickly, so I guess if you have good company it's not a really big deal. The happy hour menu is pretty good, I would suggest going earlier than later if you want to actually snag a seat. It's a pretty darkly lit place so it's more romantic than buddy buddy. Parking lot is a nice touch, but it can fill up quick so if you're used to Eastside standards for parking, this may bug you. One of the only really lively places in the evening as far as Redmond goes so I'm sure I'll be back soon!
(4)Dennis D.
Okay... I've been back.... a LOT. And while you definitely can get stuck waiting at the door during a rush... or late night, it's usually worth the wait. Just be sure you're with friends if you DO wait. If not, just saddle up to the bar (if you can find an open seat). I'm totally convinced they now have the best chips and salsa in Redmond (now that LasMargaritas has remodeled/re-branded and serves crap for chips and salsa :-/ ). Bad for Las, Good for Matador. Probably good for you too, since Matador's is good too. I've really got to try their chilli sometime, but I always seem to be unable to pass up their Diablo prawns. I'm a sucker for spicy, so if you're the same they'll hit the spot and then some. (Matador! Make a chip dip with that sauce! Come on! It's AWESOME!)
(4)Kate S.
A Suburban fraternal twin of the Ballard location i've frequented. Not as sexy -- but also missing the snooty service. So the Redmond Matador is the uglier, slightly more awkward but nicer sibling of the two I have been to. Honestly, I don't know why I would come here outside of happy hour. $5 texas sized nachos that are really too much food for even two nacho-loving, ravenously hungry people to share. Plenty of cheese, black beans, and guac to go around. Tap list is lacking -- and I have to say I get sort of depressed thinking my Mac & Jacks cost more than my ginormous plate of nachos did. It did come in a frosty mug and was quickly refilled when asked. A great place for happy noshings and gossip in the burbs -- and on the busline back to town. So why not make a pit stop after work?
(3)Albert W.
Food is okay... I think most people come here because the waitress who work here are very attractive. As far as the food itself, hmm.. nearly $10 for a burrito or 3 tacos? Hmm.. I could make a case since the meat is of decent quality and you're paying for the ambiance but to be honest, that didn't stand out as much as the first point -- waitresses.
(4)Emilee H.
Really love this place - cool atmophere and fun menu. My boyfriend and I eat here often. Service has always been prompt and friendly - and food is consistently delicious. Highly recommended for the unique decor and tasty fare!
(5)Brad C.
I'm a huge Mexican food fan, coming from California I'm used to the real deal. Walking in I thought this was going to be some crappy "fusion" place but I was totally surprised. It's awesome! The food here is done right, very good. When they advertise something as hot, it's hot! I love that. Service is great, the place looks awesome. Downsides? The parking sucks, it's always packed and since we now have a little one we really don't go anymore. I miss it, it's probably the bet restaurant on the East Side.
(4)Jen C.
The food was delicious and came to the table quickly. Our waitress, Kara, was very friendly and gave great recommendations about food and desserts! We will definitely be returning in the future and hope we can request her as our server! Thanks for making our rare (new baby:) night out enjoyable!
(5)Lei L.
Came here before a show at Marymoor Park. We were seated and served really quickly. I am torn with the quality of food at the Matador. Good selection of dishes and pretty good portions. Their mojitos are really yummy and can't go wrong with any of those.
(4)Mark L.
This place has A LOT going against it but the few things it gets right truly makes this place amazing! The parking sucks during lunch or dinner. The service always seems to leave you waiting and wanting such as last night I went there with a party of 10 and it took about 15 minutes before out waitress got our drink orders and checked our I.D's. I ordered my beer and everyone else their's but when she came back she gave everyone else their drinks then asked me for my I.D again and ask what I would like to order. Sadly things like this seem to happen all to often there. I know! I know! I'm making this place sound horrible so why the hell would I give it 4 stars?! The Happy Hour here is f*#king AMAZING!!!! The variety in the HH menu is outstanding and the steak taco's here are honest to god the BEST I've ever had. They don't even offer any drink specials during happy hour because the food alone make it worth paying $10 a margarita! The decor is very hip and modern. Large mirrors and iron skulls with lit candles seem to be everywhere and give it a very hip and swanky feel. The tequila selection is the best I've found anywhere in the greater Seattle area so if your ever in the mood to try that "tequila with the worm that we had on spring break in Cancun back in 99 with a funny name!" then this is your place!
(4)Lisa M.
I love this place! They have amazing margaritas and the Nachos are heaven! I've been in several times and have always had a very friendly waiter/waitress. I will be coming back for my birthday. Great place to go with friends for Happy Hour!
(4)Rj S.
Good spot for margaritas and tapas. The service is a little slow, mostly because they are busy. They should hire more staff to keep things moving. My wife and I enjoy coming for happy hour and late night after movies since the kitchen is open late and the atmosphere is fun. It can be tough to find a parking spot which is frustrating. We've driven off a few times and went elsewhere since there was no place to park.
(4)Chenda N.
the matador has a few locations in the seattle area but there are limited tex/mex options in redmond. by default you can head here if you are looking for nachos, tacos, thank goodness the food is good because this place wouldn't be my first choice (poquitos in seattle is great place to try). everything on the menu from apps (nachos are the BEST with steak), drinks (good variety of sangrias), and main courses (tacos and salads) is pretty good so you can't go wrong here. the servers are pretty snooty and something else seems to be on their mind besides their job but the bartenders have always been down to earth.
(4)Emily A.
Came to Matador Redmond for dinner. There was a wait, so we put our name on the list. Decided to go outside and walk around, and told the hostess that we would be back in 25 minutes. Came back and the hostess told us that the "list hadn't moved." Looked at the list and she had crossed our name off and said we left. Not only did she tell us we had to wait another 20-30 minutes, but she was incredibly rude about it. Will not be returning to this location, if ever to Matador again.
(1)Pooline N.
Fabulous happy hour. Food is delicious, service is fast and always friendly. Great drinks as well
(4)Ty R.
This place has absolutely become a staple in my life. I truly do love going here and apparently so does the rest of Redmond. It's packed almost constantly. The Happy Hour is among the best in Redmond. There aren't really any drink specials, but the food specials are insane. The Nachos for $5? Don't even think about not trying them at least once. They are amazing. The wings are actually tremendous as well. Just stay away from the tacos. They are just not good. The beer is cold. It's always served in ice cold mugs. The wait staff and bartenders are awesome. No matter how busy they are, they are attentive and courteous. If a TexMex place doesn't have good chips & salsa, you can forget it. Their chips and salsa are great! Mostly anything on the menus is excellent. We keep going back to the Matador Burrito though. It's a fave. Parking is always a bummer and trying to get seated is rough going. They also never show the Mariners games. Do yourself a favor and get there around 4:30 or 5 for the happy hour. You can probably park and have some seating options plus take advantage of HH.
(4)Kat S.
Great spot for happy hour and girls night out. Love that it is 21+ and has pretty decent food, too. Had the 3 Tacos on special and ate the whole plate. My only miff was $2.50 for a side of sour cream. Yikes.
(4)Christine S.
AH-MAZING happy hour! It's a bunch of stuff for $5 and it's all so delicious! We had the quesadilla, nachos, shrimp tacos, and spring rolls. I enjoyed them all except for the tacos, but that's only because I don't like shrimp. My gent friend loved them though so they must be good! Service was excellent and attentive even on a busy night!
(5)Regina C.
Today we had a birthday lunch with for girlfriend and there were 8 of us. Sometimes I get worried about big parties and good service. Today our service was near PERFECT. Only bad thing is we had one check it would have been good to split it up, but it's ok. I had the spinach salad, with jullien pears, slivered toasted almonds and cotija cheese (dressing on the side). I added a grilled chicken breast. The chicken was grilled perfectly the pears were just so tender without being mushy and the toasted almonds were perfectly toasted. salad $7.50 added chicken $3.00 glass of chardonay $7.00. a perfect lunch. All my friends had awesome lunches too. On,e the birthday girl had the butternut squash quesadilla she LOVED it.
(4)Bryan K.
Really amazing food and service. I have always had a great time at the restaurant and enjoyed the food. I get the stuffed Jalepeno app every time I go. I would like to give them 5 stars but Im stuck at 4 because sometimes when you go in it smells like stinky wet towels (management please fix this), which I know Im not the only one who thinks this. Fix the smell and its a 5 start joint. Still worth a try though. :) BTW--- its the only place in Redmond Kirkland area you can get food till 2 am. SUPER plus!
(4)Robert G.
This is our usual lunch place near RTC. Food and service are pretty good, with a couple of servers that are awesome. Nice atmosphere. So far, I haven't found a better overall experience place in the area. Recently, all the personable waitresses seem to have left, so it's likely we will try and find another regular place.
(3)Ganesh V.
There is an evident change of management with customer service and food going down hill. Being regulars to Matador, we were very unhappy with our recent visit. We were lectured on knowing the dish ingredients before ordering and the overall tone was very defensive and non-service oriented. Such a disappoint.
(1)Shelby J.
Love it! I love the Matador. This is my standard location because, well it's closest to where I live. I love the decor inside Matador, lots of rod iron, stained glass, things that remind me of dia de los muertos, and lots of candlelight. I love the food. The chipotle mushrooms are spicy, savory and just downright tasty. The goat cheese quesadilla is quite possibly my favorite. Usually on the fresh sheet with a seasonal vegetable, I've had it with both the butternut squash and the zucchini. (the butternut squash one was my favorite... YUM YUM!) I'm also a fan of their taco plate, particularly with the blackened white fish tacos. I like the style of their rice, and I love that it comes with whole black beans. I've come here multiple times to meet up with friends for girls night, a small night with friends, or just with my boyfriend. And been pleased by both the food and ambiance each time. It's definitely louder if you sit in the bar, but I feel like that's expected. I'm perfectly fine with it. And the consensus from all my friends is that these are some of the best margaritas and sangrias in the area.
(4)Cori L.
Great Mexican food, nice atmosphere, located in a quaint little downtown in Redmond. I had a burrito but everyone's food looked amazing. I would definitely go back to this place.
(4)Robert P.
The food is overpriced and always just passable. I still go for happy hour and an appetizer, but avoid for full meals.
(2)Shy A.
Bumping it up 1 star because while being grumpy and really down in the dumps last night I came here with a few friends and indulged in their awesome nachos and some* drinks and suddenly I felt completely whole, again, for the moment. We posted at the bar and got great service from the bartender, had a few laughs, talked about random ideology and the intricate but necessary maneuvering and sometimes manipulation through a constant state of a quarter life crisis. Nachos and shrimp quesadillas on HH are always the bomb and for $4-$5 a pop you can't go wrong...Drinks are still pricey-really no cut backs on those....but, what can you expect?
(3)Mike P.
Solid choice for happy hour, the food was pretty good and the place has great feel to it. Not sure how to describe ti any better. I will say, even during happy hour the wait staff was fantastic and did a great job. We had the calamari, steak tacos and fish tacos - all the food was good. We saw the nachos going by us and next time we are getting a plate of those. The food was a great deal, maybe we missed the dirnk specials but the HR drink prices did not seem to HRish again it was out first time so maybe we missed it. Even so we will be back.
(3)Christy P.
Matador is definitely the perfect name for this place. Candles and hanging torchlights set against rustic brick walls give it a Latin castle-like flare. As our hostess came to seat us, we followed her down a dark corridor - and I almost expected to see Antonio Banderas or Dantes from the Count of Monte Cristo come popping out of the corner. Wow. I gulped.... And here are my ratings: Atmosphere (romantic appeal): 5+ Food: 4 (Hubby's was a 5++) Budget Friendly: 4 (5+, if you have a Passport card!) Fun and unique: 5+ (LOVED the candles, torches, and fire pit against the brick wall. And, the doors to the kitchen were amazing!) Memorable: 5 (I can see why people wait for this place)
(5)Colin D.
I found the matador when I was looking for a good place to go get nachos after Black Raven was kicking us out around 10 on a Friday night. I punched nachos into Yelp on my phone and found this place. We drove over and found parking easily (I guess there are *some* benefits to being in Redmond) and we went in to find the late-night happy hour in effect which meant nachos were $4 without meat and $6.50 with any meat including the house-made chorizo which is amazing. I've been back 3 times now and it's always stunning how big the nachos have and how amazing a deal they are. The top-shelf margarita is also pretty damn tasty, though not the best I've ever had. This is a great place to hit up for happy hour, especially if you're stuck on the east side of the lake for whatever reason.
(4)LB D.
With a great Happy hour and yummy food this is a tummy teaser for sure! Service however needs improvement. insist on adding 18% gratuity to bills of 6 or more ( sometimes 5 or more) but not holding their employees accountable to give matching service. Will give them a try again in a couple months for update.
(3)Jordan N.
Great for bar food. Good service. Not sure I would like it for a dinning experience though, a bit greasy.
(4)Karen F.
I go here for the yummy chorizo enchilada and the butternut squash quesadilla starter (a nice switch for Meatless Monday!). I'm not a big fan of tequila, but I am a fan of Matador's sangrias... very easy to drink! The quesadilla is barebones: you get your 4-slice quesadilla, and on the side, a dollop of sour cream and a dollop of guacamole. No garnish, no frills. Not the prettiest dish presentation-wise -- I felt like my dish was from a cafeteria in some big, gray institution -- but it was quite tasty: goat cheese, butternut squash, caramelized onions and more cheese (Monterey Jack). The enchiladas are also not a gorgeous dish: you kind of have to dig through the guacamole/sour cream/pico de gallo toppings to find your enchiladas but they are tasty. The portions are huge, which makes the prices more reasonable: the quesadilla starter ($8.75) was entree-sized and the enchilada entree ($11.95-13.95) was 2x-entree-sized. Service is really friendly and attentive and the brick/dark iron/stained glass decor is cool. Not-so-great things: Parking is in a small lot with entrances/exits on Cleveland St. and Leary Way and gets full quickly. The wood floors are either very slick or very slippery, depending on the day. When you open the doors to Matador, you're immediately hit with a STRONG boozy smell and it's not good. From the outside, the place smells great (like grilled beef) but the inside smells like hobo. Maybe crack a few windows open?
(3)Anne F.
Went for happy hour on a Wednesday, extremely popular place! Was impressed with the service. The food wasn't all that great but everything on the happy hour menu is $5.
(3)Jess M.
Love, Love, Love this place! We went last night for dinner. It was my 30th birthday. We all had a great time! Vegetarian friendly. Food was great, service was awesome! This was refreshing as we went to Purple on Saturday in Kirkland, and the food was just mediocre and the service was terrible. Outside patio was so nice.
(5)Joseph C.
I live down the street from Matador and stop by once or twice per month. They have great happy hour specials (hint: nab the wings) and a good selection of beers on tap. I've always been happy with the food but the service can be hit or miss depending on who you get. They tend to be slammed after 5PM so be prepared to wait, especially on the weekends and parking is a pain. Otherwise, check it out.
(4)