The Chili Pepper

167 S Main St, Orange
(714) 639-2840

Recent Reviews

Sonia Holland

I profoundly like the server that took care of my orders since he was so respectful and mindful. For sure, the best spot to eat out for heartfelt dates, family social events, and some other events. Firmly suggested!

Joshua B.

Love this place! What a great spot in Orange for Mexican food. Wish I could go there right now for a burrito!

Fine T.

I cried when I found out this restaurant closed I was born in 89 this was my father's favorite family get together restaurant since 81 . My parents split up in 1997 growing up I thought about all the beautiful memories and still do the memories I carry in my heart before my families separation and let me tell you this place was my Disneyland I can still see the chef walking around giving everyone a ice cream cone because we where loved at this restaurant. My parents where in love at that restaurant at that time and point we went there after church or when my dad got a good paycheck it was a treat a dream boat. That's where my dad met my High School sweet heart. The colors the plants the candle on the table the people who worked there are just so beautiful my memories I will forever carry them in my heart where ever I go. Thank you . Always, The Garcia Family

Kurt Weber

Lovely staff, really cool interior exterior, good food, great taco Tuesday.

Tara Bartholomew

Went here for years, introduced to this wonderful restaurant by my husband's family who were patrons for years before that. Came so often the staff new us as we would walk through the door. Will definitely miss this place, i don't know that we'll ever find a "replacement." I have to wonder: since the doors are closed for good and there are so many loyal customers who now have a Chili Pepper-size hole in their heart, would the owners consider publishing a commemorative recipe book? I for one would purchase a copy!

Olivia A.

Good food, reasonable price, friendly and great customer service. I will miss this place. Is is sooo sad to hear that it is closed. Came to this place for 20 yrs when me and my husband were dating.

Jonathan Park

A restaurant does not last 40 yrs if its not good or have a good vibe. I knew the original owners of this place and have been back to visit since I left California. Not sure who owns it now but last time I was there it was still good!! I cant imagine it being anything less now. Worth the visit.!!

Chris A.

Rest in peace beloved Chili Pepper. We went there just about every Friday night for over 20 years to kick off the weekend, along with many Christmas Eves, many Mothers days, and always on our way back into town from an out of town vacation for lunch or an early dinner. Our girls (now 17 ad 15) grew up there from the time they were in baby car seats placed in the booth or on the table for that matter. They graduated from sleeping (mostly) in car seats, to kids menus, to adult menus. I don't recall all of the names, but the staff were unfailingly wonderful every time without exception as was the food. After a short while, it was like seeing old friends and family. The Chili Pepper had a well deserved loyal following. We saw many of the same folks Friday nights week in and week out. The old Mexican restaurant joke, "see you tomorrow" as you are leaving, was not always a joke. We went there two days in a row many times, as did others. The owners and staff took obvious and justifiable pride in the place, which over the years was upgraded more or less continuously. Holidays were celebrated with decorations fitting the holiday, especially at Christmas with a life sized manger scene set up in one of the overflow rooms visible from the lobby, and lit Christmas trees in the parking lot, among numerous other decorations. It was a special place that was important to a lot of people, staff and customers alike, that can never be duplicated. Shame on you, Governor Newsom. You did this. As for the landlord that pushed the Chili Pepper out, if that's what happened, I hope the building remains vacant for a long, long time. To all my friends who worked there and who were unfailing kind, I hope you are OK. I will miss you.

arnoldg882

Great Mexican food, service, atmosphere and margaritas! The restaurant so clean you can't tell if there is glass in the windows. Very consistent, been going there for over 30+ years.

Harold Monroe

My family has been coming here since their opening 47 years ago. George, Jorge and all staff have been great and part of our family. It is so sad of their closing. We moved out of the area but would drive 60 miles fo our family get togethers here.

linda skipper

This is my family's favorite restaurant every thing about it is great the food the Decor and especially the people and service if it doesn't open up again my whole family and our friends will be so sad we wish the owner Mike and all of his staff the best you are all in our prayers?

Cat R.

The best Mexican restaurant by far! First time it was for my birthday over twenty years ago. Been going often ever since. Took our French friends when they visited and it was awesome! I am in shock... no please don't close! It's our second home! Great staff, great service, great food and super ambiance ! Didn't get to go, las time was in February 2020 and then I was sick then this corona happened... so , so, so, sad...

Lara S.

This place has been our go to for special occasions like birthdays, win or loose at our eldest tournaments, anniversaries, or just random cravings. Everybody so welcoming and accommodating. The food are awesome. i havent have the heart to tell my kids that this place is no longer. Didnt even get to have one last meal before they close for good. Thank you for the memories!

Roni C.

I am soooo sad to see this sign listed for my favorite Mexican food restaurant in Orange. I have been going there almost 30 years.

H F.

Talk on Next Door is that it is permanently closed. Please let us know if this is not true.

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