Mmm-matador

The happy hour nachos at the Matador may well have been one of the major inspirations behind Ballard Nacho Review. These tasty tidbits cost $7.50 during less-happy hours, but are an unbelievable $4.00 from 4-6pm and again after 10pm. You even have the option of adding steak or chicken, either of which would push the regular price up over $10.
Enough about the price, let's get down to discussing the substance.

Location: The Matador, 2221 NW Market Street, Seattle, WA 98107

Date: 12/8/2007

Ingredients:
chips
cheddar and jack cheese
black beans
pico de gallo
sour cream
guacamole

Evaluation:
It's telling that the place is packed for happy hour even with all the drinks at full price. These nachos are a hit, from the fresh thin crunch of the chips to the even distribution of elastic cheese to the wonderfully fine chop of the tomatoes, onions and other pico de gallo elements. The black beans assert their presence nicely. The guacamole has better promise than execution, with little more than a token spoonful to scrape off the top. The spiced sour cream is a nice addition and seems to go further than the guac.
As mentioned, there are no drink specials for happy hour, but this self described tequila bar has a fun variety of margarita options, several local and Mexican beers on tap and an almost freakishly fruity sangria. Other food specials we've sampled include $5 beer battered shrimp tacos and $4 chicken quesadillas. Both are satisfying and well worth the price.
Readers not close to Ballard will be happy to know that The Matador Restaurant/Tequila Bar has established several other locations in the few years they've been established. They can now be found in West Seattle, Redmond, Tacoma and even Portland, Oregon.