The colorful entrance of the Smoked Pepper

 

A quiet walk along City Hall Place on a mild Thursday night brought me to a small Mexican restaurant, the Smoked Pepper. From the outside the red and green logo helped to entice me and because the menu looked appealing, I decide to put the Smoked Pepper to the test.

Inside, colorful tapestries and bright artwork stand out proudly on the white walls, and old-fashioned wooden beams divided the small room; nicely complimenting the gray stone wall behind the bar.

The small square tables and wooden chairs left me feeling cramped, but the atmosphere from a full restaurant and enthusiastic staff made up for the lack of space.

The quesadia asada – a tortilla with cheeses, sweet onion, spinach, chilies, mushrooms and roasted potato, tasted great, and the side order of rice and beans which accompanied the chimichanga, a chicken dish with peppers and chilies, left me full…but wanting more.

The unexpected delight however was the chicken enchilada, which had dried chili and chocolate, mixed with usual herbs and spices.

If the huge plate of nachos with cheese and shredded beef didn’t get you hooked, then your main course definitely would, especially with the specials, which include soup, two main dishes, and a drink of the day. Nothing seemed to leap out and grab me though; there didn’t seem to be any ‘simple’ foods. Instead, I found an array of spicy, elaborately named dishes that all seemed somewhat similar.

My only criticism of the nachos is the cold cheese scattered on top – it would have been that much nicer if it had been melted. Oh, and when you’re eating some spicy food, a free refill would have been nice.

Good value for your money at about $12 a person, the Smoked Pepper’s friendly service and lively atmosphere makes this Mexican restaurant a place I’d happily return to.

If you come here with an open mind and a healthy appetite, you will leave with a satisfied smile and change in your wallet.

What’s the spiciest thing you’ve ever eaten?

 

Ratings: Seating comfort: Price: Food: Service: Atmosphere: Overall: