Huzzah! It looks like just maybe the sun has joined us in this season we call spring, kicking off the season of al fresco dining in the South Sound. Around these parts al fresco dining season is a very brief and highly coveted era. Few restaurants, save for the waterfront varieties, don't even bother with a patio during these short-lived months. The Matador is different. It is brave (natch!). The optimistic, sexy downtown Tacoma Tex Mex restaurant has its doors open to its patio on Pacific Avenue.

Though the Matador has gained a reputation for tasty margaritas and impressive nachos. Its fresh sheet options always yield big flavor, such as the Tacos Alambres ($13.95). Flour tortillas lay the foundation for ample, tender, marinated chicken breast, ripe avocado, shredded onion and jack cheese. It's all fine, dandy and delicious - but what really makes these tacos a dish to "eat now" - compared to other Mexican shelled food fare - are the crumbles of bacon.

The housemade jalapeño, cilantro crema knocks it out of the park. It's creamy, spicy and flavorful. I'd take a tub full and smother everything in this stuff!

Served up with a side of black beans and Spanish rice, this dish is filling and just plain mouth watering.

Share the nachos and save room for the Tacos Alambres. Add a tamarind margarita and a patio and you're welcome.

THE MATADOR, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily, 21 and older, 721 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, 253.627.7100