Haven't been here in a few years and wanted to eat outside. The Good: The food was hot and the salsa and chips were good. The Bad: Just about everything else. #1- The food is not very good, authentic or tasty. The refried beans and rice were the worst I've ever had. #2 - Nobody that I ate with enjoyed their meals, which consisted of enchiladas, burritos, and tacos due to the bland taste. I don't understand why they get their name. Should be called the blandest food in town. #3 - Our waitress left at key times and returned way too late (nobody had a refill glass of water after getting their food), waited at least 15 minutes to get the bill after she knew we were done and gave us take home trays. #4 - My daughter said the bathrooms were dirty as well. #5 - My wife was given a sangria in a marguerita glass...even though there's a difference in the glass sizes. It felt like they ran out of glasses and were short on dishwashers. I just won't be back unless its for the chips and salsa. read more

I wish I could give 0 stars! I have been here quite a few times without any problems; but this time, I was so outdone! Anyway, last night, my family and I went out for an outing to enjoy ourselves. Everything was going great...when we were seated. Subsequently, everything went downhill. Our server, Pera, came and took our order (mind you we had a party of 8). We were very specific on what we wanted. After a while, our food arrives and here comes the first problem. My father ordered the two item combo, chicken tamale and beef enchilada. However, he received the chicken tamale, but was given a beef taco on a flour shell. I ordered the AYCE tacos. The first plate consists of three tacos, all other tacos thereafter come in plates of two. For my first order of tacos, I specifically asked for all beef tacos, 2 hard shells and 1 soft corn tortilla shell. However, out comes 3 hard shell tacos. But, I felt it was not a big deal because I could get soft shell tacos the next go round. My dad, on the other hand, informed our server of the mistake on his order and repeated the order to her. She took his food back to the kitchen to correct the mistake. She returned the food, but it was still incorrect. Instead of a beef enchilada, he received a chicken enchilada. For sanitation reasons, instead of returning the food, he told the server to just bring the beef enchilada on the side. The server was so incompetent that she needed assistance from a male server for just my dad's food ONLY (because of the consistent mistakes)! Moving forward, I asked for another plate of tacos. My mom asked if she could have one, and of course, I told her sure. Then, a short time later, the manager and our server, Pera, comes to the table and the manager says to me that I cannot share my food. I asked him why not? He stated that the AYCE tacos are for one person only and they will have to charge us for the taco I gave my mother. So, I asked, "I can't give someone one of my tacos that I am paying for? You guys need to state that policy on your advertisement. I searched and it is no where to be found." The manager's reply, "You can't feed the whole table." What a dumb statement! How can I pass out tacos to a table of 8 when I only had 5?! That's just ridiculous! My mom and brother became involved stating how stupid it is to charge someone for a policy they are unaware of. The manager's response, "That's how it is anywhere you eat." We proceeded to tell him that we eat out all of the time, and my brother has eaten all over the world. In my experience, AYCE establishments that don't allow sharing have their policy posted at least in fine print. I am a business owner myself, therefore, I respect other people's business policies if given/provided. Being the policy was not stated ANYWHERE, how do we know it wasn't made up at that moment?! So, everything calms down for a short while and the manager leaves. However, we didn't get a chance to tell him about the consistent mistakes with our orders. So, again, we asked for the manager. We proceed to tell the manager about the mistakes with our orders and that should compensate for something-we shouldn't be charged for the taco on the principle of a policy not posted and for the mistakes. The manager's response, "People makes mistakes." PEOPLE MAKE MISTAKES!!! So, no reprimand...no apology?!?! Wow! As this debacle is happening, our server, started saying things about us to other employees WHILE THE MANAGER WAS STANDING THERE. We mentioned it to the manager, and not once did he confront her about it. But, I see why because employees are only as good as the manager. The manager was unprofessional and so was his employee. Then, my brother mentioned that our server stated to him that the manager was watching us on camera-that's how he knew about my mom getting 'A' taco. So wait...we were being profiled while eating??? Who does that?! I guess Jalapeno's does! Because we were just turned off and disgusted, we decided to ask for our checks. We look at the check, and there you have it, the charge for one taco was on our bill. The manager could have not charged for the taco in the spirit of customer service (again, a policy we wasn't aware of and the mistakes). But, it's cool...my family and I won't be back, and I will tell others to stay clear. The food was pretty good, but this situation left a bad taste in our mouths. read more

I was seated out on the patio. I was out there a good 10 mins and two couples were seated after me. The waitress immediately came and took their order. She walked pass me and I stopped her and told her I've been sitting for quite some time and no one took my order. She said ok and walked off. I clearly should've left but I let it slide and that was my fault. I shouldn't have gave them another chance to give bad service again! So, a minute later another waitress comes and takes my order. I'm guess the waitress told her I was waiting. I ordered a margarita. After receiving my drink she asked if I was ready to order something I say no. I was there for a good hour and 20mins. I see ppl who came after me eat and leave. I'm sipping on my drink and think hmmm guess she forgot about me. I'm done with my drink look around for my waiters or Any waitress at this point and it seem like they all disappeared. Finally the guy clearing tables pops up and one other waitress. I tried to get their attention but was ignored. For 20 mins it was like I was a ghost. I pulled a highlighter out my purse and wrote on a napkin(attached pic to this review) I got up from my seat and left out the restaurant and no one noticed. The hostess wasn't even at the door. I walked right to my car sat in the parking lot and called in and told the manager exactly what happened all the way down to me leaving the note. The customer service absolutely sucked from the moment I sat down. I should've been left. The first time I ever felt like because I was black I was treated this way. I DON'T RECOMMENDED THIS RESTAURANT TO ANYONE. CUSTOMER SERVICE IS NONEXISTENT read more

Jalapenos - I left this napkin on the table before I got up and left - Mexican Near Me - Schereville, Indiana

See all

Being that we are new to the area my family decided to try Jalapenos' on a Friday evening. While the service was prompt and efficient throughout the entire meal, the quality of the food feel short. My husband and I ordered the combination fajitas and an order of the appetizer portion guacamole to share. Our 4-year-old ordered the kids quesadilla which came with a slice of watermelon and fries - he enjoyed his meal. While the fajitas consisted of a very generous portion, the guacamole was flavorless and extremely small for the $9.00 price. Furthermore, the menu description stated the guacamole is served with chips. Perhaps it is my fault for assuming it would come with a basket of chips but regardless I feel it's important to note that it came with literally only 5 chips served in the guacamole. I also didn't like how your first basket of chips and salsa is "complimentary" and after that they charge you $0.99 for additional ones. My husband ordered a frozen mango and strawberry margarita - our waitress brought him only a mango one and never recognized her error. Overall, for a $50 bill for three people I would expect better quality food. We will not be returning - in my opinion Chipotle has better quality food at a fraction of the price. If you are looking for authentic Mexican food, I'd advise looking elsewhere. read more

Pretty good food, excellent service, and wondeful decor! My most memorable experience was when I came on Father's Day. There was a long wait time, but the owner came out and chatted it up with the patrons as we waited. I come here when I'm in the mood for some good, authentic mexican food with a pleasant dining experience. I've entertained out-of-town guests at this restaurant, coming from Houston, Denver, Jacksonville, etc., and they really like the food and ambience! read more

Still afraid to go b/c twice poor customer service in past. The food wasn't bad, just poor waiter hospitality.

This place has awful service, and to make matters worse the waitress charged me for another persons bill, the food is only mediocre, take my advice and pass on this place. read more

Steak, bacon, and peppers signature dish was great, and so were margaritas. But the entire place - inside and out - needs to be blasted with a power washer. read more

Yelp could be a useful app if the people posting the reviews weren't so critical. Had I used the app first I would have never came here. I'm glad I didn't because the food was very good in my opinion. I had the Burrito jalapeño and I thought it was fantastic. I can't understand the negative comments. People are human and make mistakes. I've been to good restaurants and had bad service but there is no reason to rate them one star. Some people on here need to get over themselves. read more

Great atmosphere and service and food was delicious! Definitely will be back. Steak is wonderful

Hello, This was a mess! Myself and a friend went out on 7/24/2014 at about 8pm. We walked in and was not greeted, matter of fact no one was at the the front hotess' table; because all the hostess were in the corner looking and talking amongst themselves...never greeted. We sat down only to never be waited on, no menus, no water, no utensils, no hello..just cold stares.. We even had tons of waiters and waitress walking past us purposely turning their heads. After 40 minutes and two songs from the live band. I informed the hosted of the situation and was told that we were not serviced because we were not seated by them. We were then waiting again,...still no service, but a very indifferent young lady came to the table with chips, no salsa...slammed it on the table and walked away! We then notified the host to contact the manager....which he replied through third person...That HE WAS BUSY! We continued to wait, after some time he came out learning of the problem only to state, " well you weren't served because you were not seated...I guess that meant no service. We expressed no one would address us , which this was only our second time ever coming to this restuarant which I don't believe we were seated before. He stated we could have have found them, that they were around. He was right, they were around the corner talking to each other. The manager was defensive as he apologized...but defended poor service...We will now meet him on Face Book so that poor training or whatever the issue it can be addressed. He eventually stated, "well did you want us to take care of your?" We then chose to leave....I thought all money was green, but the hands that held the money was not the same. We will let all know how blantantly disrespectful your staff and yourself were on 7/25/14... if you care to call... read more

Food is usually pretty good. Need to season the meat more or at least offer some new choices with a little heat. Try the Rita's Tacos, Deep fried goodness. Try the Citrus Steak tacos for something a little different. Enjoy the outside patio area when the weather is good. Beware the large Margarita in the Fishbowl if you are driving. If you are the passenger... indulge. read more

Their *Surf & Turf* (Mar Y Tierra) is some of the best! A great place in Northwest Indiana for Mexican Food :) Fantastic staff, reasonable prices, etc. Love the place! read more

Love this restaurant!! Wonderful wait staff--very polite and accommodating. The food is delicious and the portions are very generous. Their Margaritas and drink specials make it the perfect place to meet up with friends. read more

Myself, my fiance and a group of friends ate there last Friday. The service was mediocre at best. The waiter forgot our drink order and we had to politely remind him. I did appreciate that he took an item off our bill we did not care for (the queso dip). However, a few hours after eating there, I became very ill to my stomach. (Thankfullyl no one else in my party did, but I was the only one to order a seafood dish. ) Now, I cannot say with 100% certainty that the restaurant made me sick, but the timing of my sickness would support that hypothesis. My fiance called and asked them if they would refund my portion of the dinner ( a little over 30 dollars) and they refused. They did offer him a discount on our next visit. WHAT? I'm sorry, but even if your food didn't make me sick, your poor customer service and mediocre food would deter me. No, I didn't go to the hospital and have myself tested for food poisoning , but we weren't asking to get rich, just a refund. They could have done in the spirit of good customer service. But no. So thanks but no thanks, Jalapenos, I'm leaving you alone. read more

The enchilada poblenas is one of the best dishes I've ever had in my life. I don't understand how this place is not getting better reviews. It is definitely worth a try. read more

I'm not a fan of this place at all. The food is less than stellar--and with all the other Mexican restaurants in the Region, why settle for anything less than delicious? It's only saving grace is the outdoor patio and live music they feature throughout the summer. Also, their margaritas make up for crappy food. read more

The bar area is awful, unless you enjoy overly crowded places where you can hardly move, then by all means, but it's not for me. The restaurant area is awesome though. I dined there for the first time last year and the food we had was delicious. It's Mexican food, but not really your usual, traditional kind, so if that's what you want go somewhere like "El Taco Real" or "El Ranchero" or "Burrito Mundo". This place is more geared towards wilder concoctions with a kick. Their portions are quite generous, you'll probably be needing a take home container for nice leftovers. They have good Margaritas and Pina Coladas as well. read more

Such good food! I always seem to forget about this place. I tend to not go north on 41 for food for some reason. The family suggested this because we were going to jaks warehouse after. Decent prices. Lots of room for large groups. Great food. If you are looking for Mexican food then you should try this place. read more

Luv this place. I could stay here all night. The drinks and food are great. They have an outside area, I need to check out as well.

very busy but average anglo-mexican food. there are better places in NWI for more authentic mexican. Garibaldi's, Taco Real and pretty much any mom & pop on the east side or East Chicago. read more

When this place opened up years ago, I thought they had something good going. I think that they only tried serving good dishes the first year or two. After returning years later to catch up with some old friends, I thought I was going to puke! Disgustingly horrible dish and the rice wasn't even Mexican, it was a combination of bland carribean? flavor-like rice. I can't really explain it. I have not had the interest to ever return here again. read more

Always a good mexican meal. I usually have Rita's tacos and they never disappoint. The margaritas are delicious as well, and not watered down like at some restaurants. read more

Stopped for lunch and was underwhelmed. First, nothing worse than walking up to a podium with a sign blazing "Please wait to be seated" and then standing there for 10 minutes waiting for a human being to at least acknowledge my existence. I was solo and all I wanted was to eat at the bar and watch ESPN. After getting seated service was pretty good with a young man eager to help. but then the double restaurant whammy happened. Bad service / bad food. I had a menu but the server disappeared for an extended period of time . not his fault He was trying to serve tables and the bar ...hopeless. I ordered Chicken enchiladas. The chicken was the pre-frozen cubed crap you would expect from Taco Bell. It actually might have been drier. Sauce was forgettable and the meal was horrific Take a pass. read more

Good food! Great for groups, too! Got in on a Sunday evening around eight or so with 10 people. The staff was great and got us seated right away. read more

We used to come here after they first opened up, then for no real reason took a break, so we haven't been here for years. It's still the same, great decor, food is good not great, tables and chairs are definitely showing their age. The chair I sat on was a little unsteady from being pulled across the textured floor, and the table rocked back and forth more than a bunch of grandmas in the maternity ward of a large hospital. Waiter was a little creepy, all in all ok but not a 5 star experience. read more

Went with the family on a Sunday afternoon. Nice ambiance. Efficient and courteous server. Having Three Floyds beer available was a big plus, especially Zombie Dust and Gumballhead. The salsa served with the chips came in the tiniest bowls I've ever seen for salsa. Had to keep asking for more. The food was very good. Everyone liked what they got. My one daughter who studied in Mexico said the Mole was very good. I had the Burrito Jalapeno and liked it. Prices were a little higher than most Mexican eateries I have patronized but not exorbitant. Food came fairly quickly. I would return. read more

I've always liked jalapeños. The food is good service is good too. I have never had a bad meal at this restaurant.

This was my 2nd visit and I knew I had to leave a review this time because the food and service was absolutely amazing. I had a platter with carnitas, shrimp, steak and chicken With rice and beans for under 20. The meat was so tender and carnitas just fell apart on my fork. This is definitely my favorite restaurant in the area hands down! read more

Seems like everyone either loves it or hates it & it makes total sense!! I loved it but now hate it. The first time I ever went there, it was fantastic! The food was delicious (had chicken enchiladas) and the waiter we had was freaking awesome, attentive & personable. But two weeks later we went back and it was one of the worst experiences I've ever had! The food wasn't as good as before but our waitress was just horrid. We had to ask for her almost every time we needed something b/c she never checked to see how we were. Finally, when the bill came I saw I was charged $1 for the insanely tiny cup of sour cream I got. Now of course, $1 in the grand scheme of things isn't crazy but it was the principle! First, she should've told me there would be an extra charge (it's no where on the menu!) and the amount I got for $1 was a true ripoff (less than a tablespoon). I voiced my concern but she just shrugged, so I asked for the manager. Would you believe he was a complete jerk about the whole thing?! He made it seem as if I was the dummy for NOT expecting a charge, then insisted that I might have been offended if the waitress told me that the sour cream would be an extra charge. He went out of his way to argue with me about a $1 charge, refusing to see it from my viewpoint. Would it have bankrupted the restaurant to remove it and let me know next time I'll be charged?! He basically ended the conversation with something like, well that's the way it is and I'm not taking it off your bill. So much for trying to please your customers! I left a message for the owner so I could tell him how horrendously I was treated, but never heard back. I tell everyone I know what happened and urge them to take their money to a place that will want you to return. I will never walk through those doors again. read more

My brother and I stopped in for lunch at the bar. The bartender's service was questionable. The burritos are huge and well worth the price. If you do not order a drink at the bar, the complimentary chips and salsa are $1, that is what the bartender charged us for one refill. The only reason why we asked for a refill, was because we waited over 20 minutes for our food to arrive. read more

Another great meal at Jalapeños. Great food and excellent service. Our server Trevor was awesome!

My friend and I went to celebrate our birthday and what was to be a happy occasion turned into never again. When we arrived the hostess asked how many, no smile, no effort to make us feel welcome. Red flag alert but we continued. It went down hill from there. The waitress was awful! Never stop to ask if we needed anything. Had to flag her down, food was overcooked to the point that I took it ALL home. When I mention to Pera that I was missing something she left and didn't come back, and when she did she had the check and I needed a box as my food was no longer hot to go along with it being terrible. My friend didn't fare any better. read more

Manager was rude, and argumentative... 'Told me to tell my friends and family never to come back to the restaurant'... No problem, the manager is the worst part of this establishment, and it actually shows... There food and service use to be awesome, but has declined drastically... Not only that but the manager is prejudice, and a very nasty person... The last time I had an issue with this restaurant I didn't say anything because everybody else was nice, and despite him being prejudice, confrontational, and completely lacking customer service skills I still enjoyed the food... That won't ever happen again... And now, I'm telling you FRIENDS AND FAMILY not to waste your money there... The owners need to step in and get that guy out, because the restaurant has declined at a steady rate over the years... I will not go back, and I will be letting everyone know to do the same... I wish I could give 0 stars because that's exactly what they deserve after that encounter... read more

I was there over the weekend to celebrate my best friend birthday. The service sucked but the food was good. Once our lunch was served the waitress didn't check up on us. We has to ask the bus boy for extra tortillas for my fajitias. Then she brought a comp piece of cake which was nice but we weren't even done with our lunch and then had to waiver her down to order a round of margaritas. I doubt we will go back. read more

The food was incredible!!! My husband and I were pleasantly surprised at a last minute dinner decision. We will be back soon!!!

Went for lunch today! With wife and son, we say there for literally 20 mins with no service! Not even a "hello I'll be with you soon" horrible service! I could see if they were busy, but there was only 4 or 5 other guests. read more

Best Mexican food in the area. HANDS DOWN. The chorizo con quest is AMAZING! I always get the authentic chicken enchilada suiza with red sauce dinner as my meal and it is perfect every single time. read more

Love this place! One of my favorite places to eat! My favorite is the Citrus Steak Taco Dish! I get it every time I go! Yum!

This is one of my favorite Mexican restaurants to eat at. Eat their salsa...it is amazing. I usually get either beef enchiladas or spinach enchiladas, both fantastic. Try to save room for the fried rice cream, though it isn't easy. And ask for Ovi. He's an amazing server!! read more