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ZipPicks Awards
Best Happy Hour Tacos in the Tenderloin
Best Late Night Tacos in the Tenderloin
Best Tacos in the Tenderloin
Master Critic Review
Matador
8.4
Lower Nob Hill tequila bar slinging daily happy hour with $3.50 street tacos and strong margaritas. Go for barbacoa or carnitas on house tortillas and settle into a lively after-work scene near Union Square.
Must-Try Dishes:
Barbacoa street taco, Carnitas street taco, Potato flautas
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: All-day daily happy hour with legit street-taco pricing downtown.
Who should go: After-work crews and margarita lovers
When to visit: Weekdays 4–6pm for peak deals
What to order: Barbacoa tacos; carnitas tacos; flautas
Insider tip: Grab bar seats for fastest service during happy hour.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking after 5pm; best bet is the Sutter-Stockton Garage two blocks away.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and a nice top fit the lively happy hour vibe.
Noise level: Loud during peak happy hour; conversational early evening.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for larger groups after 6pm.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; opens mid-afternoon for happy hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – veggie tacos and guacamole available.
Vegan options: Limited – can modify veggie tacos to be vegan upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas are gluten-free; avoid fried items due to shared fryer.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you're aiming for a casual, energetic vibe with tequila and tacos rather than fine dining. Ideal for relaxed conversation and people-watching.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – most seating is walk-in; arrive before 5pm to snag a bar seat or high-top before crowds build.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for kids; primarily a bar environment with loud music and limited space for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Stronger margaritas and livelier happy hour scene than nearby casual taquerias.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet dining, table service formality, or extensive vegan options.
Hours
Monday12pm - 10pm
Tuesday12pm - 10pm
Wednesday12pm - 10pm
Thursday12pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 11pm
Saturday12pm - 11pm
Sunday12pm - 10pm