59 Years of Tradition

Mexican Restaurant & Bar with 500 Tequilas

The Great Tradition Continues

The doors to El Matador opened in Costa Mesa, CA at this exact location in the spring of 1966, and for over 50 years we’ve served the same quality Mexican food created from original family recipes. Our Tequila Wall of Fame boasts an impressive collection of over 450 different tequilas, and we are passionate about educating our guests about the art of tequila! Whether it’s your first visit or 100th, we’re so grateful to have you with us and hope you enjoy your experience at El Matador! Bienvenido!

About El Matador

Guest Reviews

"I loved the atmosphere. It reminded me of family. Very relaxing. The Chile Verde Nachos are a strong recommendation."

★★★★★
- Adrian Lopez
"The food was great! From the chips and salsa to our main course! I ordered the tacos and they did not disappoint!"

★★★★★
- Mike Anson
"Service and food are outstanding !! The owner Greg even came to our table to see how everything was ! Definitely the place to go for GREAT MEXICAN FOOD. margaritas are delicious!!!"

★★★★★
- Dana Mcphillips
"Food and drinks are great and come at a great price! The outdoor seating is perfect too with the heaters! The food and drinks come super fast! Never had a bad experience here."

★★★★★
- Erika Reyes
"My food was fantastic! The carnitas was delicious and the meal was so filling. Definitely recommend it! The service is fantastic with multiple refills of chips and salsa."

★★★★★
- Sebastian Peter
"Awesome food! Best margarita in the world like for real. Huge tequila and mezcal selection. Great service and atmosphere."

★★★★★
- A.M.
"Best Mexican food in Newport Beach. This place has been here forever for a good reason. Fast friendly service. The food tastes fresh and clean. We had the best shrimp fajitas ever. Great drink selection."

★★★★★
- David Castle
"The food, margaritas, and service are always great! It is our favorite Mexican restaurant in the Newport Beach/Costa Mesa area!"

★★★★★
- Darla R.

Taco Tuesday Deals

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59 Years of Tradition

Mexican Restaurant & Bar with 500 Tequilas

The Great Tradition Continues

"I loved the atmosphere. It reminded me of family. Very relaxing. The Chile Verde Nachos are a strong recommendation."

"The food was great! From the chips and salsa to our main course! I ordered the tacos and they did not disappoint!"

"Service and food are outstanding !! The owner Greg even came to our table to see how everything was ! Definitely the place to go for GREAT MEXICAN FOOD. margaritas are delicious!!!"

"Food and drinks are great and come at a great price! The outdoor seating is perfect too with the heaters! The food and drinks come super fast! Never had a bad experience here."

"My food was fantastic! The carnitas was delicious and the meal was so filling. Definitely recommend it! The service is fantastic with multiple refills of chips and salsa."

"Awesome food! Best margarita in the world like for real. Huge tequila and mezcal selection. Great service and atmosphere."

"Best Mexican food in Newport Beach. This place has been here forever for a good reason. Fast friendly service. The food tastes fresh and clean. We had the best shrimp fajitas ever. Great drink selection."

"The food, margaritas, and service are always great! It is our favorite Mexican restaurant in the Newport Beach/Costa Mesa area!"

Taco Tuesday Deals