If you have a love for authentic Mexican cuisine and you enjoy spending less than a fortune for a meal, then I have the place for you!
Jalapenos, a family owned and operated eatery in the Western Branch section of Chesapeake, bypasses the prepackaged food that’s typical of quick service restaurants, and brings the comforts of Mexico to the suburbs. The wait staff, in addition to being super friendly and accommodating, are extremely efficient and you don’t wait forever to get your food. For these reasons, this is easily my most favorite restaurant in Hampton Roads.

So accolades aside, what sets Jalapenos apart from other Mexican restaurants in the area? I’m so glad you asked!

Authenticity is key and is worth mentioning time and time again. How do we determine authenticity? Well, think of your grandmother. In most cases, grandmother’s cooking was the epitome of your culture, no? Well, I took my very good friend with me to dinner (and hey, he just happened to be Mexican) and, what do you know, Jalapenos passed the grandmother test. By George, we’ve got a winner!

I can also thank Jalapenos for expanding my repertoire when it comes to Latin cuisine. Growing up, I distinctly remember avoiding any restaurant that doesn’t base its menu around burgers and fries. Eventually, I inched into drive thru tacos and nachos. Fast forward to the 2005, when I first discovered Jalapenos; being newly adventurous, I stepped into the restaurant ready to bite the bullet and try something new. Being new to the cuisine, I asked my now favorite waiter (Hola, Miguel!) to suggest a dish. Thus began my love affair with Enchiladas Poblanas.

Before I continue, please know that not all Enchiladas Poblanas are created equal. Only Jalapenos serves the dish with a delicately balanced Mole Sauce, a sauce that contains, wait for it, CHOCOLATE! Now, coming from someone who doesn’t like chocolate, the inclusion of this ingredient in a savory dish of chicken enchiladas didn’t sound appetizing at all. But oh boy, the combination of the two is absolutely genius! And, while I’m quite aware that Jalapenos did not invent the dish or the sauce, they’ve certainly perfected it.

And did I mention the infectiously happy atmosphere? It’s impossible to have a bad day while you’re at Jalapenos. Between the brightly colored walls, Rivera inspired tabletops and occasional live band, there’s an air of emotional abandon that literally forces you to leave your problems at the door.

I tell everyone that I know about Jalapenos, and I encourage everyone to go there at least once. I promise, once you go, you’ll make it your business to become a regular.