I discovered some fun at The Matador while checking out Dia de los Muertos festivities around Tacoma. It only seems natural that this hip, downtown Tacoma tequila bar would host a little something for the Day of the Dead. After all, the Mexican-based holiday is meant to honor those dear to us who have passed with altars, marigolds, sugar skulls and the favorite food and drink of the deceased. The Matador had all this, lending a festive vibe to the already suave ambiance.

The celebration was also the perfect excuse to imbibe in modest amounts of tequila and munch on one of my favorite late night snacks - The Matador's the Chipotle Mushrooms ($8.95). Oh man, I drool at the thought of those cute little button mushrooms sautéed with a magnificent sauce, a delectable matrimony of white wine and a chipotle garlic butter making it rich and full of flavor with a kick of heat. Topped with cotija cheese and served sizzling in a flaming hot skillet, the dish includes toasted baguette slices perfect for soaking up the excess sauce. Though it's meant to be an appetizer - ideal for sharing - I opted for the $4 steak option and called it dinner.

Chipotle Mushrooms is not for the faint of heart, but I, for one, call it delicioso!

THE MATADOR, 11-2 a.m. daily, 721 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, 253.627.7100