El Jalapeno Mexican Restaurant

We wanted Mexican food, and this place popped up on our search. It was actually our 3rd choice. Place 1 was so busy their lot was full. Option 2 was a bit pricy. Once seated, waited maybe 3 minutes as they finished wiping off our table, the prices were a bit higher then we wanted, but we were hungry. OMG, the waiter was super friendly, made a few suggestions based on questions we asked, and even showed us a better value for our dollar. Food was out in short order, we hadn't even finished the chip basket. The portions were awesome, definitely worth the money. Including tip 2 of us ate for $45, no alcohol, but we did get an appetizer, and as we piled our extra food into carey out containers, they offered us togo drinks (no charge). We will DEFINITELY be going back, taking the parents as well, and maybe even our neighbors who love Mexican food as well.

I mainly stopped in here as it was directly across the street from my hotel, and I wanted to pick an independently owned or mom-and-pop kind of restaurant. Friendly and courteous and professional staff. The choriqueso was generously sized and way better than what you would find at chipotle. The veggie burrito had freshly-grilled vegetables. The margarita menu looks enticing and this looks like a chill spot to relax.

I gave El Jalapeno 5 stars for the service and atmosphere. Our server wasn't just friendly; he really loved his job and it showed. Let me add that we had a party of 20. Not only were they able to accommodate us (with a reservation), but the server was excellent at remembering orders, keeping track of who was on which bill and showing that he actually enjoyed the challenge! Also a quick heads up for the superb 32-oz horchata and the fact that there were many other great options that weren't pop or alcohol. Oh, and with all that it was still quiet enough for good conversations. No pesky TVs or piped-in music. Highly recommend. I would go there again anytime.