Hidden within downtown Plattsburgh, on City Hall Plaza, tasty Chipotle Mexican food is awaiting a hungry customer. While it is tucked away behind the shadows of the prime downtown hotspots, the Smoked Pepper is a hot and spicy scene, even if the weather isn't.

Smoke Pepper's picture window let's diners look out onto City Hall Place.

I heard of this “treasure of a restaurant” before through friends who had a craving for a spicy fix and a few acquaintances that enjoyed the relaxed bar atmosphere, so I decided to give the place a try. The giant green jalapeno and bold red letters “The Smoked Pepper” stamps the front window, inviting the public to test their taste buds. When we walked in traditional Mexican music set the stage for an enjoyable date.

We were seated immediately and ordered drinks. I ordered a tall glass of ice-cold water. My date ordered a Corona, complete with a slice of lime. The waitress was friendly and prompt and returned at just the right time to take our dinner orders.

The menu is extensive and appealing, and included all the Mexican favorites: burritos, tacos, nachos and all the other ‘o's you can imagine. My date ordered a chicken burrito, and while the menu options looked delicious, I had to order my all-time favorite taco salad, (for taste bud and waistline purposes). Within what seemed to be a blink of an eye, our food was served.

Nearly spilling off the plate, my seven dollar taco salad was a haven of green leaves, which was a nice change from campus leftovers. While many may argue that a salad is hardly a Mexican experience, the complimentary tortilla chips and salsa definitely were. The burrito was colossal and well worth the college budgeted nine dollars. To fully enjoy the Mexican inspired atmosphere my date ordered a house Margarita, which he described as, “one of the best around.”

Halfway through a fresh salad, and as my date finished a final bite of his chicken burrito and last sip of his margarita, I was stuffed. Without waiting, our timely waitress cleared our plates and brought us the bill. It came to $27.86. My date took care of the bill and I threw down a seven dollar tip. I finished my water and commented on the nice bar area. I wondered why the Smoked Pepper was never an option for Friday and Saturday night drinks. The restaurant was clean, quaint, and a good time, not to mention it offers delicious food.

Have you ever eaten here? Share your experience.

Restaurant Information

Smoked Pepper

13 City Hall Pl, Plattsburgh

518-566-4688

Restaurant Hours:

Lunch Hours:

Monday-Friday: 11:30-2

Dinner Hours:

Monday-Saturday: 5-9:30

Bar After Hours:

Friday and Saturday after Dinner

Closed Sundays