The Matador, a restaurant and tequila bar with locations in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, has opened its doors in downtown Charleston. The concept, which serves Mexican cuisine and a selection of agave spirits, is located in the former Sticky Fingers space at 235 Meeting Street.
The opening of Matador Charleston represents the brand's first location on the East Coast and in South Carolina, as well as the brand's 10th location overall.
This adult-friendly restaurant, which welcomes guests over 21, will offer a variety of weekly specials including a twice-daily happy hour and “Top Shelf Tuesday,” offering half-off any tequila spirit over $16. Cocktail enthusiasts can choose from a wide variety of margaritas, ranging from the classics to unique flavors like Blackberry-Habanero, Cucumber-Jalapeño, Tamarind-Ginger and Blood Orange.
Complementing their collection of tequilas, mezcals, and other authentic agave spirits are dishes ranging from nachos to salads and sandwiches to classic burritos, enchiladas, tacos, and more. Boasting over 4,500 sq. ft. of upstairs event space, those of all ages are welcomed to gather at Matador Charleston for private parties and banquets.
From 4 pm to 6 pm and 10 pm to close, the restaurant will offer a daily happy hour featuring food specials such as Grande Nachos, Grilled Stuffed Jalapeños and Street Tacos. Appetizer highlights include Queso Con Chorizo with melted three-cheese house blend, creamy habanero sauce, pico de gallo, cilantro, and queso fresco; and Ahi Tuna Tostadas with avocado, agave ponzu sauce, chipotle mayo, green onion, and finishing salt. During lunch and dinner, guests can choose from entrees such as the Braised Carnitas with pork shoulder, Mexican black beans & rice, pico de Gallo, hibiscus pickled onions, guacamole and cilantro-lime sour cream with flour or corn tortillas; and a lineup of delicious Burritos with choice of Poblano Carnitas, Habanero Steak, Verde Chicken or a vegetarian Beyond Burrito option. Lighter fare includes soups, salads and bowls, while desserts – such as the Matador Choco Tacos – are a great way to end any meal.
“After growing up in the Carolinas, I've always dreamed of coming back home to open a restaurant, and Charleston felt like a natural fit for The Matador,” said The Matador Owner, Zak Melang. “Our team has put in countless hours perfecting our food and drink offerings with the freshest ingredients and flavors, and we can’t wait to share our top-notch program with the people of Charleston and beyond.”
Matador Charleston will be open every day from 11 am to 12 am with daily happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm and 10 pm until last call.
To learn more about The Matador, visit their website and follow along @thematadorsouthmatador_restaurants on Instagram. Guests can also download the Thanx app to sign up for The Matador's loyalty program.
