Excellent food! Street tacos were amazing! Waitress was great! Wonderful ambiance. Give this place a try if you are looking for a good night out with incredible dining and drinks!! read more

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 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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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

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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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

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

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

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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We recently hosted our committee thank-you lunch here for the second year in a row, and once again, it was a wonderful experience. The food, service, and atmosphere were all excellent, and everyone truly enjoyed themselves. Jose was incredibly professional, attentive, and welcoming throughout our visit. His outstanding service made the experience even more special, and we greatly appreciated his hospitality. A special thank you as well to Leanna, the Events Director, who was amazing to work with. She was patient, organized, responsive, and made the planning process so easy from start to finish. Thank you again for such a great experience. We highly recommend this restaurant for both group events and dining out! read more

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

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

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

Came in today for a few cocktails and it was absolutely delicious!! Our server was Angie and she was just the cutest little peach. Such a bubbly personality, genuine, personable, and super knowledgeable with the menu, Just what you would want in a server. She really elevated our experience. We got a skinny spicy margarita and it was perfect, shout out to the bartender. Can't have enough good things to say about this place, will definitely be back!! read more

Brought my mother for Mother's Day, such a great experience. The food is fantastic. The service is quick and friendly. We will definitely continue to return. 5 stars across the board. read more

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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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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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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Had a great time today for Mother's Day! I have only been here a couple times, never on a holiday. Our server Angelina was very attentive and had such wonderful energy. The food was great and the drinks amazing!! I would definelty come back with my family next year. read more

Chef Dave is so welcoming and nice . Easy getting in and ordering. Great service. Like how they are attentive and always come to see how their guest are doing. read more

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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Came for Mother's Day brunch and it was fantastic! The servers and staff are so friendly and attentive. The food is always satisfying and the brunch gave everything and more. This is forever my go to when it comes to having a good time with great food and drinks. 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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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

I came here with my friends and family as we usually do on any festive day and was asked to leave by the host because they had a reservation! What was upsetting of the whole situation is that The host's exact verbiage "hi, we have this table reserved for a reservation so I was just wondering if you guys can..." (hesitantly stopped and used circular hand motion so I could fill in the blank) and I asked "leave?" And she said "yes! Sorry" I look over at my husband and family distraught. What kind of respectful establishment says that to a loyal customer? Then to make matters worse, we asked for our check and the waitress, who was very kind by the way, asked if everything was okay and we said "you were fantastic but we didn't appreciate being told to leave while we're still enjoying our desert and drinks." she then says , "I'm sorry about that let me get the manager" and you know what?!? He sends her back to our table and she tells me" I'm sorry it's chaotic right now but you guys can hang out if you want" as the owner is standing within 10 feet from us! When I tell how dismissed that made us feel to be denied to speak on our discomfort with the situation it was embarrassing on another level He did not even give us a courtesy apology, or an explanation like "hey guys I'm sorry we didn't communicate to that that we have a 2 hour limit" or..."we messed up by double booking" they gave us nothing! Top it off: as we're gathering our things: the table next to us ordered shots and the owner brought them out to them and we thought... "okay here comes" Nope! Just put their shots down on their table, didn't even make eye contact with us and walked right passed us. If you have a reservation for THAT specific table that should be communicated prior to us sitting down 2. If there is a time limit on table service that should ALSO be communicated prior to sitting down 3. If a guest who is consuming is asking to speak to the manager the very least a manager should do is acknowledge our concern. though the service started great, it ended by tainting anything positive we've experienced at Madero or even Matador as previously known. When I say we have been there regularly for the last 10, and my husband 15 years, I'm talking countless birthdays, mothers days, ST Patrick's, 5 de Mayos, World Cup games, baseball games etc. It was our go-to Sunday brunch spot. We were there almost every Taco Tuesday in the summer because my son loved loteria.well now we will not be returning and I will be sure to deter anyone I know from going to this establishment. read more

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

Wow. The service (Matthew) was excellent and our lunch was delicious. Tacos and a Margarita! The Rita was topped with a watermelon popsicle . On a busy Cinco De Mayo holiday , Im so glad we chose this spot. Easy to park as well. We ll be back read more

This place is always great! Everyone that works here is always nice and willing to help. Food is great! The staff is always up front with you if they are booked. They will try to get you sat and will let you know if you need to be out at a certain time for people with a reservation. 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

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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This restaurant was recommended by a local friend. We came from Fort Worth to do the Disney thing and she said this was a place that had great food and service and was one of her favorites. It is now one of ours. At 630 on a Thursday evening, we were immediately greeted and seated. The staff were attentive and friendly. The food and bar drinks were outstanding. We had brisket flautas, fish and filet mignon tacos and chicken mole and all tasted great. The margaritas were excellent as well. Highly recommend this restaurant to anyone wanting a fun and relaxing experience. read more

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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In terms of food and service, amazing! My sister and I took Mom out for early Mother's Day and we had a fantastic experience. The tacos, Chile Relleno, and Fajitas were all cooked so well and our server was so courteous, friendly and accommodating (I arrived last and didn't catch her name but she was great). So, 5 stars for what a restaurant should execute. Here is where Yelp sucks. I will never return to this restaurant, ever! The glorification of Bullfighting is sickening. I've seen it in Spain and it is literally the slow and torturous murder of animals. I will miss the great food at Madero 1899 but not enough to ever return. There are plenty of other restaurants with great Mexican food that don't promote the inhumane slaughter of Bulls. So sorry but I couldn't help it. Take down those stupid Matador items and maybe we will return. read more

It's a mixed bag. Nice little Mexican place in downtown Fullerton. The decor is great, parking is rough. But it's downtown so that's not a shock. Service was competent but not friendly. Food came out fast and was decently priced. Carne asada street tacos were fantastic, the specialty tacos (short rib) were kind of bland. Lot of protein, but little flavor. And a sad sprinkle of iceberg lettuce and a few pickled onions were the only toppers. I'd return, but I'm in no hurry read more

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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