El Jalapeño Café

Homestyle Mexican American and even speciality plates likes posole and menudo here. Reasonable prices. Local whites and hispanic clientele speaks to universality of the menu appeal. Despite the namesake, food can be ordered mild or not spicy.

Have been wanting to try this place for years and finally decided to give it a try today food was delicious and service was excellent. Will not be a regular restaurant for my family

El Jalapeño Café has been a Southlawn Plaza staple for a long time, holding on as the retail center has faded over the years. Stepping into the cafe feels a bit like a time capsule with old cafe decor going strong. We came for lunch on a Monday at about 11:45am and there were three open tables.

We sat ourselves and were greeted quickly. Service was fast and friendly here. The chips are tostitos-style and the salsa is thin but flavorful. Our entrees were served on 90s style restaurant trays.

I had the three cheese enchiladas plate and added two eggs on top. The sauce is a classic Tex-Mex type. The eggs were cooked perfectly. My partner had the No. 6 - one each of a tostada, taco, enchilada, and tamale. Based on past menu posts it looks like the cafe hasn't raised prices for at least 18 months, if not longer, and much of the menu is under $10.

The cafe seems to be standing still in time but continues to serve up a good breakfast and lunch. They're open 7:30-2 Monday to Saturday.

I had the breakfast special with scrambled eggs with chopped ham. Hashbrowns. Homemade biscuit and gravy. The biscuit was very good. I got the hot sauce in the side . Very good flavor on the sauce as well. Will be back to try lunch or dinner for sure.

Love this place, especially their breakfast specials. They always have great service and excellent food at at a very great price.