In search for a new Mexican restaurant...

Last night I was on a mission - an important mission...to find a Mexican restuarant that can tame my craving for Juano's. And as Mikey knows how important food is to me, he was happy to assist.

So, we headed off to Jalapenos. When approaching the restaurant I was having a good feeling about it, the building was older and small...it appeared to be a non-chain, authentic restaurant. Walking in was so exciting for me. Mikey was laughing because it was like I was a kid finally getting the puppy I always wanted. :-) I think I almost took out a kid opening the door - I didn't even see him and I guess I just wanted to get in there and get a table before him. Don't worry, I let the kid and his family go first. (honestly, I didn't want Mikey to think I was totally psycho about food!)

We entered, it looked good - more like a Paradiso then a Juanos, but that is acceptable. We waited 5 minutes before being sat at a booth. The hostess, waiters and waitresses, bartenders were all speaking their native tongue to one another, so again I thought...good deal. So we start - of course I get a Corona...it is a Mexican beer...then they bring us the chips. This was a defining moment...the chips and salsa can make or break a place! And after trying the first one...yep, I was addicted. Their salsa was the best - right up there with Juano's. I was so relieved to finally get good salsa. I couldn't stop, they had to refill our salsa before we even ordered!

So, now that I know they have good chips I am thoroughly excited. I ordered one of their special plates - the number 25 - beef burrito, cheese enchilada with rice and beans. He left with our orders (oh, Mikey had the number 19...just in case you were wondering). I was excited and dancing in my seat. I keep inhaling the chips and salsa thinking I don't even care if I get too full, these things are good. Then before I could even get chip number 3 in my mouth our food was there.

What? Honestly? Okay, now I'm scared. The guy brings them out and warns me of the "hot plate." Okay, it was hot...but after taking the first bite, that was the only thing that was steamy hot. I did enjoy the food, it just would have been better at a higher temp.

So, all-in-all...it was a fair to good review. I know this much...we will be going back for beers and chips in the bar!

Enjoy...the next story will have to be about our shopping experience after this meal...oh does Mikey have a lot to learn about coordinating colors in a room!

Tata for now everyone!