Taqueria el matador — Restaurant in McAllen

I went to dinner with my good friend, we went to the Taqueria El Matador. It is located on Bicentennial just 1 block south of Business 83. The place was like stepping into a time machine and being transported back to the 70's or early 80's. It reminds me of the types of restaurants that were the norm back then in the RGV. Even the tables took me back, anyways, we ordered our drinks, they didn't have unsweetened tea so I settled for a diet coke. My friend ordered the Jamaica tea that is ubiquitous here in the RGV. I ordered the Trumpo tacos and a baked potato, I also ordered a cup of beans but I never received them. My friend ordered the Pozole and the synchronosada taco. My tacos arrived and they looked real good were delicious, they came with diced pineapples, grilled onions, and chopped cilantro on the side. There were three different salsas in bottles to choose from, the usual green and red, and there was one red that was really mild and lighter in color. The lighter one wasn't as good as the other two. The baked potato, I ordered with butter and sour cream only. I liked that the potato came with tostada chips, this was a first for me, and I enjoyed scooping my potato out with them. My friend wasn't too crazy about his Pozole, he ended up taking it to go. He really liked the Synchronosada taco, he gave me a piece and it was cheesy good. All in all it was pretty good but not great, but the portions were good for the price. Would I recommend it, yeah, but stick...

I miss the 75 cent taco Tuesdays. I really do. I would order a lot more if they had it, but now I have to dial it back. But it's okay. I'm actually spending less now than before, so win-win, I guess. The food is great. My girlfriend has been looking for a great taco place and we finally found one. She's picky because she wanted something closer to "real tacos" from home. She gives the stamp of approval and we come here like once a week. So often we recognize the staff. We don't talk, but we always see the same waiters there. They are great and super courteous. You can't go wrong with any of the taco specials they have. I've tried some new ones and always been happy. I will say, though, that sometimes the lemons they give you can be a little dry or you may want a few more, but if you let them know, they are always quick to get you some more. The parking lot may be a little bumpy, but trust me, as you leave, you'll be a happy, well-fed person. The meat is amazing. Try the pastor with some pineapple....

My recent visit to taqueria el matador left me deeply disappointed and frustrated. Despite arriving before others, we were ignored by the waiter who prioritized tables that arrived after us. The slow service was exasperating, especially during our precious lunch hour which was squandered away in anticipation.

The blatant disregard for customers’ time and the lack of attention from the staff were unacceptable. This experience has left me with no desire to ever return to taqueria el matador. I believe it’s crucial for the management to reflect on these issues and consider making changes. A restaurant’s success relies on providing not just good food(which we didn’t try because we never got service) , but also excellent service. Sadly, taqueria el matador fell short on both fronts during my visit. I sincerely hope they take this feedback to heart and make the necessary improvements for the sake of their...