Hot Jalapeno, nestled in the heart of East Harlem at 219 E 116th St, is nothing short of a culinary gem. This Mexican restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its authentic dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Customers like Rufus Mahon and Tip Tip particularly praise the chicken enchiladas and fajitas, remarking on the fantastic flavors and generous portions. The restaurant doesn't just shine in its food; the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it a perfect spot for unwinding after work, as highlighted by Joe Steele's appreciation for the happy hour specials.
Fresh ingredients and attentive service are key highlights that patrons like Katie Angelova have noted, with friendly servers ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The frozen margaritas are touted as a must-try, enhancing the already enjoyable meal. Desserts like tres leches cake and churros have even received accolades for their delightful execution. Overall, Hot Jalapeno encapsulates the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine, serving up delicious and flavorful dishes that keep diners coming back for more. It's a place where great food meets a welcoming atmosphere—truly a treasure in New York’s culinary landscape.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
No wheelchair-accessible car park
From the business
Identifies as Latino-owned
Identifies as LGBTQ+ owned
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Has no-contact delivery
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Has live music
Good for watching sport
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves happy-hour food
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Paid street parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Photos
Reviews For Hot Jalapeno
rufus mahon
Jun 17,2025
This place is AWESOME!! The chicken enchiladas and the chicken fajitas are my personal favorites, but everything on the menus is authenticly tasty!! I go every time I'm in the neighborhood. You must visit!
Joe Steele
Jun 8,2025
Great little Mexican place in East Harlem. The happy hour has drinks discounted (from 4-7pm M-F I believe) and the drinks were very tasty. We even came back the next night just for drinks. The food and service was excellent. The atmosphere was perfect and relaxing. They do have a ramp over the entrance stairs. I would highly recommend stopping by after work for some great food and tasty drinks.
Katie Angelova
May 19,2025
Amazing find! The food was fresh, delicious, and quick to come out. Portions very generous. Rosario was our server - very friendly and attentive. The frozen margaritas were tasty and strong ;) Will definitely be back.
Tip Tip
Apr 16,2025
My husband and I stopped in here while hanging out in Harlem. The food was delicious! It was very flavorful, wonderfully seasoned. We had nachos, fajitas, enchiladas, tres leches cake, & churros. The desserts were the best I've had in years! I'd definitely recommend dining here and I'll absolutely be back.
Evie Hixenbaugh
Apr 15,2025
Was there this evening and the bartender was awesome she made great drinks I wish I got her name but she has glasses-thank you!
Jean Lopez
Apr 5,2025
Drink was well made and strong. Taco de pastor was abit spicy so abit hard to enjoy but it was good. Would come back, staff was friendly too.
Catracha Escobar (Catracha100pre)
Apr 1,2025
I have visited this spot a few times before but haven't in years due to my commute. We went this past weekend and the service was exceptional! Our server informed us of the specials of the day and we ordered a new item on the menu. Drinks were decent size and very flavorful. The restaurant is clean and not too loud. Beautiful decorations and dim lightning which gave a warm feeling. We'll definitely will go back and request the same drinks but with an extra shot. Keep up the good work! So glad that you're still around in the neighborhood!
Rosa Diaz
Mar 9,2025
Supporting our Community during this Pandemic. This place was very creative and spacious. The staff was super friendly and checking on us often. Food was delish and hot. Price was economic. We were given Lemon and Mango Margaritas on the house. Thank you guys, they were delish. Will be coming back soon.
Reviews For Hot Jalapeno