Excellent time. Noah was a great entertainer. It was very welcoming. He brought in the bar and made my birthday a very special day. Jackson was excellent with our drinks at the bar, and it was very grateful and appreciative, he actually acted like he liked doing his job. I would love to come back again. David was also excellent helping us navigate the bar as well as the dance floor., I would come back every weekend if I could. The drinks were excellent, and the DJ kept playing great music. read more

Great experience and food was excellent! Service was great and server was attentive. We had the carne asada fries app, birria tacos, steak tacos, Brussels sprouts app and more. Everything was good! We were not disappointed. The bar is super cute too! read more

Excellent food! Excellent drinks! Excellent atmosphere! Great service! Highly recommend! They really took care of us!

Stopped in on Father's Day and we knew Madero would not disappoint! Top notch service from the moment we arrived until we walked out the door. We sat on the patio, very comfortable and although not too big it was spacious. The bartender was also our server and she did not miss a beat! We ordered many things, Chilaquiles with Asada, Chicken Flautas, Cantina Rolls, Quesadilla and an Avocado Taco. The Avocado Taco is delicious and very filling. Cantina Rolls were a hit, so flaky and the filling was flavorful! The Chilaquiles were a mountain of deliciousness! Filled with red sauce, egg, sour cream and meat, easily enough for 2. For Dessert, a Cookie Fundido! To add, their pricing is very reasonable. Highly recommend a visit. read more

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I have been to Madero 1899 twice. Once, a few weeks ago, at the start of happy hour with a friend, and the second time was on Cinco de Mayo in a group of three. I really enjoyed my first time there! My friend and I went on a Friday evening right at the start of happy hour and ordered their Apple Martinis, cheese quesadilla, and tres street tacos (on top of the complimentary chips and salsa!). We sat at the bar and had a very kind and incredibly attentive server, along with delicious drinks and food. I was amazed that the place was pretty empty at 4 pm, but it did eventually start getting pretty busy around 5 pm. I enjoyed my experience so much that I decided to go again with friends on Cinco de Mayo! My second time at Madero did not mirror my first experience at all. I called early in the morning to make a reservation because I knew it would likely be busy. I was told they had an opening at 7:45 pm, so I was delighted and excited to have been provided with a same-day reservation and to show my friends this cool place. This changed immediately upon walking in and checking in. When I told the hostess I had a reservation, I got a confused look, as if they didn't take reservations. This young girl then called other people over to... look for the reservation? After some time, we were eventually told that seating was first-come, first-served, which threw my group off because, had we known that, we would've planned our evening accordingly and arrived sooner. We were left on our own to find a table and did multiple laps around the restaurant, but could not find one. We even considered just ordering food to eat while standing, but eventually decided to find another place in DT Fullerton. I do want to note that there were several other groups, some larger than ours, who were also looking for a table. The night looked pretty disorganized, and there appeared to be a lot of miscommunication between staff, with no one having any idea what was going on. I wish they had planned their night more proactively. I was embarrassed taking my friends here and wasting our time. I will not be back! read more

We came to Madero 1899 Restaurant in Fullerton for Cinco de Mayo as a party of six. We've been coming here for over 13 years, back when it was called Matador, so we expected better. The night started fine, but it ended in the worst treatment we've ever experienced. A teenage hostess abruptly told us to leave because of a reservation. We asked to speak to a manager or owner, and we watched as the owner walked past us, ignoring our request. No one came to explain or apologize--just the young hostess doing damage control. We were humiliated, ushered out like we didn't matter, even after paying our bill. This kind of disregard for loyal customers is unacceptable. If you care about how you're treated, think twice before coming here. read more

Madero 1899 - Mexican Near Me - Fullerton, California

Madero 1899 is a Mexican restaurant in the heart of downtown Fullerton. We started our evening here during happy hour (Sunday thru Friday, 2pm to 6pm) to have some food and a round of cocktails. Parking can be hit or miss. There are a few lots behind the restaurant, but they are often full. There's also a multi-story parking garage nearby on the other side of Harbor which always has spaces available. You can enter the restaurant from the front on Harbor, or from the rear where the nearby parking lots are. We sat in a booth across from the bar, and were greeted promptly. Our server quickly brought us water and complementary chips and salsa. The chips were good and fresh, and the salsa was flavorful with a light heat that creeps up on you. I had the El Captian cocktail (Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Malibu Coconut Rum, Pineapple, Orange, Cranberry, $14). It was ok, with pineapple and coconut flavor standing out, and a little on the sweet side. She had the Apple Martini (no ingredients listed, $8 during happy hour). It was definitely on the sweeter side, but not over the top sweet. The cocktails were standard bar cocktails, nothing special. They were a little on the sweet side and not sloppy boozy. For my entrée, I had the seafood enchiladas ($20). They were a little on the small side, but had a good amount of shrimp and cheese with a little bit of lobster. The rice was a little dry, but some extra green sauce made it better. I passed on the beans as I usually don't care for them. She had the three street tacos for her entrée (only $8 during happy hour) with two soyrizo and one al pastor. She enjoyed them and said they were filling. This was a great deal during happy hour. Our server Seanna took great care of us, and was very friendly. Rating: 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. We won't be in a rush to come back, but we would eat here again. Their happy hour has some good bargains. They also have taco Tuesday, tequila and burrito Thursday, and a weekend brunch. read more

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We visited on Taco Tuesday without really expecting much, since we're not typically a big Taco Tuesday family. Surprisingly, we had a great experience. The tacos were delicious, and everything was reasonably priced. For vegetarians, they offer mushroom tacos and bean-and-cheese burritos. The mushroom tacos were really good--not quite as good as Cha Cha's, but still very tasty. The bean-and-cheese burrito was okay; it was a little dry, but not bad. The rest of my family enjoyed their tacos, which were mostly meat options, of course. I'm still giving this place 5 stars because the overall experience was great, and Stephanie, our server, was very friendly. The food and drinks came out quickly--almost too quickly! We'd definitely go back for Taco Tuesday. read more

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I visit this fine establishment often and it never disappoints. I will put their chips and salsa up against any place in the OC. I've been trying to cut down, so I ordered one fish and one shrimp taco, but with lettuce instead of the tortilla. This thing was massive and so delicious. Of course the staff provided A+ customer service and a very fair price for the amount of food and for such high quality food. Hats off to the chef. read more

Stephanie's recommendations were spot on! We loved every bite. From the Carnitas that are soaked overnight to the tender chicken with plantains. We had a flan to end the night, topped with strawberries. Sooo yummy. Jorge made sure we had fresh coffee with dessert and that our experience was amazing. 10/10! Ther service was attentive and everyone helps each other. Overall ambiance was super chill and we will be back again. read more

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Keep in mind this place has happy hour on Tuesdays from 2-6 UNLESS ITS WORLD CUP then you have to spend at least $100 to sit at a table in this establishment. The staff all seemed very disorganized and not on the same page which was frustrating. Used to love coming here for happy hour and taco Tuesday for lower priced tacos and drinks. I'll never give this establishment my money ever again after being turned away because I wasn't about to spend $100. 0/5 stars. My outlook on this place did a complete 180 after today. read more

Lately, I've been on the hunt for the next fantastic Mexican restaurant and came across this place! The workers were very helpful in providing my party a table ahead of time after coming from a graduation ceremony for my friend. They even set up chips and salsa all across the table before anyone got there, which is also completely free! Once my party arrived, we then ordered our food, to which I decided on the birria omelet since I was feeling breakfast but also wanted some Mexican taste to my meal! After trying it, I found it to be an interesting combination for an omelet! I did like it for the most part, but I definitely felt like I've had tastier omelets. However, I think this omelet was enough for me to want to try other items that this place has in the menu. On top of that, I thought not only was my plate visually appealing, but was also filing. I also felt like the prices for many of the items this place had on the menu seemed pretty reasonable compared to other restaurants that I've been to. If I am feeling some Mexican food and happen to be in the downtown Fullerton area again, this place would not go over my head. read more

Madero 1899 - Birria Omelet - Mexican Near Me - Fullerton, California

I used to know this place as matador but they changed their name to Madero 1899. The menu is basically the same and the deals they have all week are great. I was here on a Sunday and luckily they still offer happy hour on the weekend. The atmosphere is lively and staff are really friendly and attentive. I expected the happy hour to be small portions like most places but we were completely wrong. They were large portions and we definitely ordered too much. However everything was rich and tasty. I ordered the asada quesadilla, my friends ordered the portobello and shallot quesadilla, and asada fries with three tacos asada, and pastor. The drinks were ok. We ordered the traditional margarita and draft Mexican beer. I think I would have spent a lil more on better drinks. They were more on the sweeter side. I would definitely like to come back on a taco Tuesday! read more

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We are visiting from Florida and were looking for a Mexican restaurant and this place did not disappoint. Loved the mango margarita!!! read more

They have a decently expansive menu of different Mexican dishes here. I opted for the burrito bowl with grilled chicken, which was enjoyable! My friend ordered the enchiladas and liked it as well. They also offered chips and salsa on the house to start. The chips were warm and fresh (which gets positive points from me) and the salsa itself was delicious. I came here on a Wednesday night for dinner with my friend and there was no wait. Service was exceptionally warm and friendly and several servers would check on us often and make sure that we had everything we needed. The restaurant is super big with indoor and outdoor seating. It was mostly empty when I went, but I'd imagine it would be way more lively at night. It is located in downtown Fullerton so there's parking lots nearby but the ease of parking would probably be dependent on the day and time you go. read more

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Food was good but services was bad. Looked like they were having some kind of event being held there and we felt like we were forgotten about. I had to literally go search for our waitress to order and to remind them about items we asked for. Food was good, but that service definitely drove us away. Drinks were good as well. read more

This place loses two stars because they only pour a 1 oz cocktail, and they measure it to exactly 1 oz. It's really depressing to watch. There's just too many other options in DTF who pour a way more generous cocktail at the same price or lower, and the tax is included. It's good for their margins, but having an empty restaurant because you're trying to squeeze every penny out of a $7 bottle of well vodka isn't going to build a loyal following of regulars. But admittedly, their chips are the best in town. Stop being so stingy with the well pours and you'll crush it on volume. This isn't rocket science. It's common sense. read more

Madero is in a beautiful, expansive space with a large bar and wonderful service. My friend and I met up for dinner and I had the Birria Papa Loca. It's a big baked potato topped with shredded beef birria and Oaxaca cheese. When you think of birria, you think of the juicy and flavorful consommé dipping broth yet the dish was really dry. They brought me a tiny cup of the consommé when I asked but I felt like that was a missed opportunity. The portion was huge and lasted me 2 meals. The atmosphere was cool but both my friend and I thought that the food was average. read more

Madero 1899 - Birria Papa Loca - Mexican Near Me - Fullerton, California

This place will always and forever be Matador. Sorry not sorry. This place is a brunch spot for me now. But they do have events on the weekend like showing the F1 races. I came here Saturday with my friend and we ordered a bottle of champagne and came our choice of two juices. We chose orange and cranberry. We were given the addictive chips and salsa and honestly I could just eat that. But I ordered the regular torta (not the breakfast torta) . It comes with an order of fries while the breakfast torta comes with fruit skewers with chamoy and tajin. I asked if I could have the fruit instead of the fries. My friend got the steak and eggs. She loved the steak. Said it was so tender and juicy. The staff were super nice and friendly. Very attentive to us. And there's plenty of parking out back. read more

Walking into Madero 1899 feels like discovering a secret -- exposed brick, moody lighting, converted-warehouse-meets-1920s-hideout energy. All that's missing is a password at the door. Instead, we just got seated for Sunday brunch, which works too. The chip-and-salsa welcome basket arrived fast -- thin, crisp, clearly fried minutes ago, not the sad afterthoughts you brace for. The salsa had real depth, roasted chilis and ripe tomatoes doing a tasteful tango, with just enough heat to keep things interesting. The California-style breakfast burrito showed up absolutely stacked -- meat, eggs, potatoes, black beans, all anchored by meat that had clearly been braised low and slow. The carnitas eggs benedict sealed the deal: rich, well-braised carnitas without the usual salt assault (rare among today's restaurants), poached eggs cooked just right, and hollandaise that was luxurious but restrained with the right amount. Then the churros -- prefilled with cream cheese, a nice surprise on their own. I mentioned I'm diabetic and watching my sugar, and our waitress immediately offered them without the usual sugar roll in the future, no fuss at all. They came with vanilla ice cream and a little vessel of dipping chocolate. Then the plot twist: the bill came in under $40, and I flagged what looked like a missing charge. Turns out it wasn't a mistake -- they comped the churros since it was our first visit, just to make sure we'd come back. What restaurant does that anymore? Service was warm and attentive throughout, no speakeasy attitude required -- the manager came by too, to check on us. We only tried brunch, but if it's any preview of dinner, Madero 1899 might be holding out on us in the best way. Five stars, no asterisks -- we'll be back. read more

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I keep returning to Madero 1899 for a nice family time with great drinks and food. Service is never stingy with their chips and salsa and the salsa literally tastes homemade and not from a jar. Red enchiladas with short rib are good. I've tried their mole and for those who always ask, 'is it sweet or spicy?' It is sweet. Cilantro rice and amazing. Their wings and Brussels are always a good start for us. Papa loca is good, definitely plan to share it. Only hit and miss is that sometimes our food comes out a little cold. read more

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It wasn't my plan to go clubbing this Saturday night but with the music blasting and the no cover charge I said why not and went in. It was early in the night, around 1030pm when I arrived. There are two entrances. One in the back ally which is the main one and one in the back which is off the main road. The back entrance which is by the main road (or at least it feels like it gives more main road energy) is closed after midnight I believe the bouncer said. He said it's the secret entrance as most people go to the alleyway. There's a dance floor surrounded by couches, an outdoor patio with a bar and picnic style benches, and the largest area which has a full length bar and multiple bartenders, booths, and a narrow path where people dance and mingle. Drinks were super affordable and strong. I paid 25 bucks for a tequila soda and whiskey meat. Prices had me feeling like it was 2003 again. The music for the two hours I was there was a mix of Pitbull, Lil Jon, reggaeton, and Karol G. It got about halfway packed by time I left. It was a good time. During the day it converts into a bar and brunch spot. read more

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The place has a nice ambience - plenty of booth seating, which is wonderful and spacious. I like how the music was not too loud that you couldn't hear each other. The lighting was fine. I must mention something about our waiter, something was so off with him. Not once did he smile. He forgot our cutlery, utensils, and napkins but was nice to bring it as soon as we asked him for them. He had such a stoic face and an expressionless personality. It's almost like either he hated his job or there's something going on in his life. It was all reflected on his face. That totally took away from our good experience. The food was good. They are very generous with their meat portions which I'm very grateful for. However, it was hit and miss with the food. The Carne Asada street tacos were absolutely delicious but the short rib "gourmet" tacos were horrible and tasteless. Also, I must say that their "gourmet" tacos only come with lettuce and pico de gallo. I don't understand what's gourmet about it. Gourmet is equivalent to deluxe and just two items does not make the food gourmet. It makes the food average. The filet mignon fajitas were good. Love the presentation. Don't know if we will return - maybe if we have a different waiter. read more

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Do not sleep on these lunch specials. They all come with homemade chips (you can always tell), and some really tasty salsa. Honestly, my lunch was so good that we can back a second time within a week so I could try another special. Love that they have a soyrizo option that you can sub in for tacos or burritos at no additional charge. I really liked the house salsa, honestly more so than the ones that came with my taco. That may just be personal preference but the brown salsa was a bit watery for me. Not a problem though, because servers are quick to refill the table salsa and I'm happy to just use that. Guacamole was great. Hubby doesn't like it, but they put it on the side for him so I could get twice the deliciousness. I really liked the taco and salad option. It came with a salad loaded with cotija cheese and jicama with a chipotle ranch that was lick your fingers good. Definitely not phoning it in on that house salad! I preferred the taco/salad to the breakfast burrito, but probably just because that option was more standard compared to what you can get just about anywhere else. Hubby's chilaquiles were a hit, but he felt like he'd recommend one of the other lunch options since it just ends up being a ton of chips for one sitting. They also have a happy hour that we have enjoyed before, and thoroughly enjoyed. The patio area is lively and fun, and the inside is dark and serious with comfy booths and bar seating. Something for everyone for sure. Highly recommend visiting this spot if you need a cheap and tasty lunch, or a quick margarita. read more

Had an amazing experience at Madero! We started with the chips and salsa, which were fresh and super flavorful, definitely a great way to kick off the meal. The Mexican street corn was delicious, perfectly seasoned and packed with flavor. We also tried the street taco flight, which was a fun way to sample a variety of tacos and each one was really well done. For our main, we had the steak à la plancha. It came out medium well even though we had asked for medium rare, but the steak still had great flavor and was enjoyable overall. The service more than made up for it though. They were very attentive! Dessert was the perfect finish. The chocolate flan was rich and smooth, and the churro cake was absolutely incredible. Overall, the food, service, and atmosphere made for a fantastic dining experience. Thank you Angelina. We'll definitely be back! read more

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We found ourselves back in Fullerton over the weekend to hit up the cigar lounge a few blocks away for the UFC fight and my boy's bday. We decided to grab dinner at Madero 1899 since the reviews were on point and also because it was so close that if anyone drank too much, no one had to drive to the cigar spot. *Also note that it took a while to park since there are a bunch of bars around. They have paid parking meter signs but the machines weren't working so you should be fine unless things change by the time you read this review* As we arrived, we let the host know that our reservation was at 7:30p but we were an hour early, however, it wasn't a problem. The host had the busboys clean a table and got us a seat right away, and it was cracking from there. The cantina is nice with an old school Mexico vibe and about four or five TVs above the bar area showing fights and sports. There was another section to the side that looked like they were hosting a private party (so the place is good for private events). Our server arrived (he was super cool) and took our order for drinks and food . Went with an al pastor, fish and steak taco. While my boys got enchiladas with rice and beans. I also ordered an orchata with D'usse cognac and they ordered an El Capitan. I'm not going to lie, my drink was good but I should have rocked with that El Capitan because them tropical flavors of pineapple, orange and rum was magic to my tastebuds. Every taco was on point and their guacamole was probably some of the best guac in my life! The reason for this was because I think they squeezed an extra few lemons in the mix making it juicyyyyyy! Anyway, we'll for sure be back since we are planning on hitting the cigar lounge a lot more often. Madero is the real deal! Shout out to our waiter! I wish I caught his name. I'll get it next time! If you're looking for some authentic Mexican cuisines and strong drinks with a dope vibe, check this spot out! OOOOO 5 out of 5 Afros read more

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Came back for happy hour with my dad and got some house margaritas for $8, great deal, great tasting margaritas! Their chips and salsa is great, flavorful and not too spicy at all, it's the best way to start the meal. Obviously I had to order the Enchiladas de mariscos with green sauce because they are THAT GOOD! Thanks for attentive service! Our waiter was great and very kind. read more

Madero 1899 - Enchiladas De Mariscos - Mexican Near Me - Fullerton, California

I was just at the Mother's Day Brunch and it was amazing! There were so many mom's being treated special today and it made me feel so warm to see all the love in this space. The workers and owner are always so kind to me and my family when we come. read more

Madero 1899 - Brunch bowl is the best! - Mexican Near Me - Fullerton, California

Came to Madero 1899 in downtown Fullerton for a funeral reception and had no idea they offered a separate private room for events or banquets. From the moment we arrived, everything was handled seamlessly. They had a dedicated bartender for the event along with a buffet-style luncheon prepared for guests. The tables were beautifully set with linens and wooden chairs, and the staff was extremely attentive--clearing tables promptly, checking on drinks, and making sure everyone was comfortable. Although it was a sad occasion, the warmth and professionalism of the staff truly stood out and were greatly appreciated. I would highly recommend Madero 1899 not only for the food, but also for hosting events. read more

We hadn't been here in a minute and decided to try out another taco Tuesday and it didn't disappoint, even with the name change this place has been around in downtown Fullerton for many many years and I believe the food has only elevated overtime as has the service. They've got great plush booths and a lovely outdoor dining space. Service is friendly. read more

I came to Madero to taste their food, mainly for my friends wedding lunch. The service is amazing and the ambience is also very nice. I love that they have lights and the food is just very delicious. I also really enjoyed their salad and grilled vegetables I had tacos and also fajitas with green salsa. Everything was amazing. read more

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friend made reservation for her birthday dinner. Ambiance: this place is awesome for larger gatherings. I was in a party of 12, and there were a few other graduation dinner celebrations going on. Service: our waitress was incredibly nice and so friendly! She was so helpful and brought out flan for the bday girl. Food: The shrimp tacos were mind blowing. Like almost best I've ever had. The cabbage on it gives it such a nice refreshing crunch and the sweet mango salsa paired so well. They don't skimp. The shrimp ceviche was almost as delicious and sooo refreshing too with a lime kick! Mmmm. The carne asada fries don't disappoint but definitely hefty. Again, they don't skimp on portions. It was prettyyyy salty. They give complimentary chips and salsa which was nice! I definitely recommend this place if you want to celebrate something or just want a yummy bite before heading out for the night. read more

Madero 1899 - Shrimp Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Fullerton, California

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Ok I came here for the Brazil F1 race and oh my god 10/10 experience. We sat outside in their super cute decorated patio. They had some really good drinks and on top of that I think I transcended after taking a bite of their salsa. I got their breakfast bowl situation (sorryyyy don't remember the exact name) and i was so excited to find out they had soyrizo!!! a win for the vegetarians. The bowl was great and our server was so sweet and attentive too considering how busy it was from the f1 event. Can't wait to come back here if they hold another one!! read more

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We were in Fullerton (we rarely go out there) and my husband's friend recommended this place to us... We got there just in time; shortly before 2pm (they have lunch specials that end at 2pm). And bonus: Happy Hour started at 2pm. Gotta love a good "double dip"! ;-) I got the 2 taco plate and he got the chilaquiles. Both were excellent! It's been a while since we've tried a different Mexican restaurant that we really enjoyed. The lunch prices were pretty reasonable too. We would definitely go back! read more

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Went here for lunch and had such a great experience! The food + drink quality is fantastic and the prices are very fair. The seasonal agua fresca was horchata (with free refills!) and the ceviche was super fresh!! The staff were also super friendly and lovely :)) Thank you for the great experience! read more

Madero 1899 - Shrimp Ceviche - Mexican Near Me - Fullerton, California

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Just came across this place by accident. I'm so happy I did. My husband and I wanted to try something new. Everything was so good. The service was excellent. We even got to watch some football in the patio area. The food is delicious, the serving sizes were enough to share and the prices were reasonable. Even though I don't live in the area I will be coming back. Maybe to try happy hour. Thanks to Jose our amazing waiter that gave us recommendations. read more

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The food is delicious. Drinks are great. Service is okay if youre not up for much of a conversation but they are usually always busy. The environment is so fun and great music playing read more

What a great little find this restaurant is! Located in downtown Fullerton it's on the smaller side so having a reservation might be helpful. This particular day we got there so early so there was plenty of seating. Lucky for us it was also happy hour! I must say their happy hour is quite fantastic. Tonight I went with the lemon drop martini and then we split the happy hour nachos with added grilled chicken...It was plenty of food for two. My friend had one of their happy hour tacos, and I had a fish taco off the regular menu which still was only $8.00. I thought it was perfect. Both tacos were so big you didn't need two! If you're in Fullerton, I would say this is a great spot to stop! read more

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My 5 girlfriends and I had bunched the other day. Two of us had the bloody Mary, which were delicious. Then we each ordered our own dish. I ordered their steak and eggs. The eggs were perfect, the potatoes were very salty but I ate them anyway, and the steak, which was ordered medium rare, had a portion of it that was very rare, so I didn't eat it that part. One of my friends ordered the French toast. She said it was delicious. The other gals informed me that their dish was good. I think overall, this place offers tasty food. I was the anomaly with my brunch dish. I'm okay with it. I want to come back to try the French toast. Oh, by the way, the service was wonderful. Our server was very nice and very attentive. He made sure our water bottles were constantly renewed. I appreciated him so much. I'm going to check out the dinner menu to see what they have. I like their vibe and their food seem pretty good. read more

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My boyfriend suggested coming here for happy hour, and we had a lovely time. The ambiance was amazing and very welcoming. Our bartender, Amber, was incredibly friendly and really completed the experience. We ordered the Cantina Rolls, Madero Burger, and Tres Street Tacos. Everything was fresh and packed with flavor. The prices were reasonable too. We'll definitely be coming back. read more