What should I order at El Matador?
El Matador
Steak
Steak is repeatedly praised for being perfectly cooked, tender, juicy, and authentically Argentinian. Multiple reviewers highlight different cuts such as sirloin, scotch fillet, and wood-fired rib, emphasizing consistent quality and great flavor, often paired with chimichurri or enjoyed as part of sharing platters.
Churros with dulce de leche
Churros are recommended as a must-have dessert, noted for being mouth-watering and highly enjoyable even by those not typically inclined to dessert. They come with caramel and chocolate dipping sauces, enhancing their appeal.
Braised Beef Cheeks
Braised Beef Cheeks receive high praise as one of the best dishes some reviewers have ever had, highlighting its exceptional taste and quality.
Ribs
Ribs are described as amazing and delicious, with a notable 800g woodfired rib for two mentioned as a highlight.
Gnocchi with prosciutto
Gnocchi with prosciutto is specifically mentioned as a favorite dish, appreciated for its taste and portion size.
Bone marrow with bacon marmalade
Bone marrow topped with bacon marmalade is recommended for its rich and flavorful combination, described as 'yum' by reviewers.
Smoked carrot and goat cheese
Smoked carrot and goat cheese is noted for being exceptionally good, with one reviewer describing it as emotionally moving due to its taste.
Lamb backstrap
Lamb backstrap is praised for being perfectly cooked and tender, complemented by a fennel and blood orange salad.
Empanada
Empanada is highlighted for its wonderful flavors and is recommended as a tasty option.
Grilled octopus in red sauce
Grilled octopus served in a sensational red sauce is recommended as a standout dish with great flavor.
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Friday | 5 to 9:30 PM |
| Saturday | 5 to 9:30 PM |
| Sunday | 5 to 9 PM |
About El Matador
El Matador is an Argentinian, Latin American, and Spanish restaurant in Wellington, New Zealand. It is known for steak, tapas, ribeye, bone marrow, chimichurri, and churros, with reviewers also praising the wood-fired cooking, meat platters, and sharing plates. Reviews consistently mention well-cooked food, generous portions, friendly and attentive service, and a lively but comfortable atmosphere. The restaurant offers dine-in and outdoor seating, and dinner reservations are recommended.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Halal food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Organic dishes
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Frequently asked questions
What is El Matador known for?
El Matador is best known for its steak, especially the wood-fired ribeye and sirloin, along with tapas and share plates. Reviewers also repeatedly call out the bone marrow, chimichurri, and churros with dulce de leche as standout items.
What dishes are most recommended at El Matador?
The most frequently recommended dishes include ribeye, sirloin steak, bone marrow with bacon marmalade, braised beef cheeks, and churros. Reviewers also praise the lamb backstrap, smoked carrot and goat's cheese, gnocchi with prosciutto, and the meat platters for generous portions.
What is the atmosphere like at El Matador?
The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, with a good buzz, open kitchen views, and a well-decorated dining room. It suits groups and friends well, and several reviews say it also works for family dinners or a solo meal, though the space can feel snug when busy.
Is El Matador good value, and what is the price range?
El Matador sits in the NZ$40 to NZ$100 range, and reviewers often say the pricing is good for the quality and portion size. Many mention generous servings, filling share plates, and steak-and-wine specials that make the meal feel worthwhile.
Do I need a reservation or should I expect a wait?
Dinner reservations are recommended, but reviews note that the restaurant can fill quickly and may have a line because it does not take bookings. People also mention efficient seating and fast table turnover, especially early in the evening.
Is parking available at El Matador?
Yes. Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Usually somewhat difficult to find a space is available.
Does El Matador have vegetarian options?
Yes, El Matador offers vegetarian options.
Is the food at El Matador halal?
Yes, El Matador serves halal food.
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