El Matador

Jennifer

These people take their salsa seriously! Came here with family and was blown away by how delicious the food was. My two tests for Mexican food are the chips and salsa and the tacos. El Matador meets---nay, exceeds---on both counts! Their Spanish rice also has flavor which is unusual for most Mexican joints. Their regular salsa is substantially hotter than other restaurants and their hot salsa...WOW. Great meals, great service, great food.

Cameron M

As a long term existing restaurant, practically landmark status in Costa Mesa, it was OK overall, but I was expecting more. My dining experience started with a strawberry daiquiri, as I had not had one in years, and house chips and salsa.  The was no discernable taste of rum in the drink, but that wasn't terribly important on this visit as I didn't order it to get tipsy.  The chips were good and the salsa had the perfect amount of spiciness that would appeal to nearly all palates. Upon recommendation (the menu labeled it a staff pick), I ordered the pork carnitas plate.  The presentation was nice and perhaps that prematurely inflated my expectations.   The rice had good flavor and the beans were rich to the taste and topped with a generous portion of melted cheese.  The carnitas, however, was unimpressive as compared to what I've eaten at other places.  The meat was bland and tasted as though it needed a salt rub before cooking.  Likewise, at a different restaurant where this dish is a customer favorite (for comparison), they cook the carnitas with citrus that adds to the flavor while creating a caramelized crispy coating to the exterior of the cooked meat that is served.   In comparison, in both depth of flavor and texture, this carnitas plate was not special in any way.  I would not recommend it as I'm sure other items are probably better.  Disappointing as compared to expectations, but by no means a terrible dining experience.

Lois Primeaux

This is probably our favorite local Mexican restaurant that serves more 'traditiona' Mexican food. You'll get your big plate of rice/beans and enchiladas here. There are other good ones in town but they are more 'modern' style. This is a great place for Sunday brunch too.

Jenn Wright Quazza

I love taking my family and friends here! Fun childhood memories of moments I'd be in awe, gazing at their 'lollipop tree'. Friendly Hostess and super nice staff were attentive during the busy dinner rush, felt like old times. Authentic Mexican food menu keeps me coming back, but my favorite is their crunchy Tacos,😋!! If ever down by Triangle Square in Costa Mesa, swing by this restaurant. Off street meter parking, and one handicap parking spot to accommodate outdoor patio dining.