The Matador Bars & Clubs in Santa Fe – GayOut Guide
Gay Bars & Clubs LGBTQ+ Friendly

The Matador

Google (488) 4.3
What reviewers say

Visitors often praise the Matador's lively atmosphere, friendly bartenders, and enjoyable food like nachos and burritos. However, some guests have reported issues with inconsistent food quality after renovations, overpriced or weak drinks, and a lack of cash-only payment options with high ATM fees. One reviewer also described a disturbing incident with another patron that staff did not address.

86
/ 100
GayOut Score
G4.3
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Address
116 W San Francisco St, Santa Fe
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About this place The Matador

Located just a short walk from Santa Fe's historic plaza, The Matador offers a refreshingly different vibe in this upscale New Mexico city. Situated in a basement setting, this venue celebrates punk and metal culture with authentic vintage posters and décor that reflect the edgy spirit of the scene. It's a welcoming LGBTQ+ space that stands out in Santa Fe's landscape, providing an alternative to the more mainstream nightlife options you'll find elsewhere in town. Visitors can expect an atmosphere centered around punk and metal music, attracting those who appreciate rock history and counterculture aesthetics. The venue's commitment to displaying classic punk memorabilia creates an immersive environment that honors the music and culture. If you're traveling to Santa Fe and looking for a casual, unpretentious bar experience away from the polished downtown scene, this is a solid choice for an evening out. The Matador is conveniently positioned near the plaza, making it easy to find while exploring the city's central area. Whether you're a longtime fan of punk and metal or simply curious about local LGBTQ+ hangouts with character, this basement bar offers authentic Santa Fe hospitality with a rebellious edge.

Opening Hours

Closed
Monday 17:00-02:00
Tuesday 17:00-02:00
Wednesday 17:00-02:00
Thursday 17:00-02:00
Friday 17:00-02:00
Saturday 17:00-02:00
Sunday 17:00-00:00

Features

Gay-friendly (straight venue) LGBTQ+ Happy Hour Casual Food served Pub/Tavern Walk-ins welcome

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Community Reviews

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Google Reviews

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4.3
488 reviews

Based on 488 Google reviews.

Brian Carpani, GeckoMediaGroup
Brian Carpani, GeckoMediaGroup Jun 2026

Friendly service with great music and the drinks are affordable. Cash only.

Kathryn Lucas
Kathryn Lucas Jun 2026

Enter at your own risk. I was almost attacked by 2 dogs immediately upon walking in. Didn’t see anyone behind the bar but barely had a chance to look because the dogs came sprinting and snarling and barking across the bar. I barely had time to get out and shut the door. When I shut the door I heard the dogs jump up against it. I’m a huge dog person so it takes a lot for me to get scared by dogs but this was terrifying and incredibly irresponsible of whoever operates this bar.

Shane Monroe
Shane Monroe Jun 2026

It won't be for everyone but the drinks are cheap, the music is good and has a great vibe with dvds playing on the TV and cool art and decorations on the walls. It is cash only (there is an ATM on premises). Bartender was attentive and personal.

George Popson Jr
George Popson Jr May 2026

This is a below the street dive bar, but it's awesome. Great party vibe, great variety of music. It's for 30 something crowd but all ages welcome. $5 domestic bottled beer. Very small bar and it gets jam-packed, get there early to get your spot!

Blake Suss
Blake Suss May 2026

If you're looking for the diviest of dive bars this place is for you. Fun memorabilia everywhere. Unfortunately my wife didn't feel comfortable cause all the stares from the majority male clientele. We left before even ordering a drink, which the bar tender didn't seam to be in any hurry to take our order.

Prospers
Prospers May 2026

People here are very nice 👍

Jessica Cespedes
Jessica Cespedes Apr 2026

Epic dive bar!! Such cool decor, friendly bartender, good bottled beer selection (and Santa Fe Brewing IPA on tap), free darts. Music was rocking and we sat at the bar, so much to observe while you have your drinks. Highly recommend you check them out for a drink!

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Last updated on 3 August 2026

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