Tag: cantina

Jalapeño Inferno has been serving Mexican food for over 23 years

Mexican food runs rampant throughout the valley’s restaurant scene but it’s not that easy to find authentic Mexican cuisine. That’s why Terry and Laura Craig opened their first Jalapeño Inferno over 23 years ago in north Scottsdale. With a career in restaurant & hotel management the couple knew how to keep guests happy and it’s worked as they now have four locations in Scottsdale and Peoria.

They recently converted their Rhythm & Wine bistro at Pinnacle Peak and Hayden Rd. to the Cantina to accommodate the demand for take-out and catering. Guests can enjoy many if not all of the dishes and drinks at the Cantina as well. A DC Ranch area Cantina is currently in the works.

On the menu at Jalapeño Inferno

Scratch made food, signature margaritas and top shelf service keeps regulars coming back and draws in new guests as well. Whether their celebrating Taco Tuesday, Hatch chile season, happy hour or a the chef’s daily special there’s always something new to eat or sip on at Jalapeño Inferno.

Sip on their signature “The Boss” margarita for those who like an authentic tart taste with your trio of chips & salsa while deciding what to order next. The “Top Shelf” Ceviche has chunks of shrimp, tomatoes, cucumbers and more served in a martini glass. Not every restaurant serves tamales year round but here “The Illustrious Green Chile Tamales” is a staple on the menu. White corn masa, four cheeses and topped with green chile sauce, you’ll be glad you order it.

Sizzling fajitas never disappoint and there’s always some left to take home. “Courtney’s Burrito” could be a belt buster. The char-grilled chicken is spicy and filling thanks to the Inferno and red enchilada sauce. Choose grilled chicken or steak for your “Street Inferno Style” Tacos that come 3 to a plate served on double corn tortillas. All three dishes and others come with refried beans, Mexican rice and garnishments.

I’d say cool off with a “Jalapeño Inferno” but that brings the heat with chunks of jalapeño peppers if you want to keep pushing your limits. The “Comfortably Numb” might do the trick with tequila, elder-flower liquor and Aperol. Save room the “Burnt Sugar Caramel Flan”, sweet and creamy you’ll be back for this whipped cream and caramel topped custard.

The restaurants are open 7 days a week at 11 a.m. with Happy Hour Monday- Friday from  3- 6 p.m.

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Anoche Cantina coming to Mill Ave. in August

Bellevue, Washington based Ascend Hospitality Group is planing to open its first Arizona location in downtown Tempe later this month. Anoche Cantina will be the first of a new restaurant and nightlife concept from AHG’s Director of Marketing and Brand Design Shelby Elmore and will be the first concept she’s co-created. Located in the former El Hefe space Anoche will serve innovative Latin inspired food and cocktails including a build-your-own-margarita bar.

“We’ve had our eye on Tempe for a while and when the opportunity arose for us to take prime real estate on Mill Ave., we jumped at the chance,” said Elaina M. Morris, AHG CEO and president. “We couldn’t be more excited to bring, what we call, the ‘AHG Difference’ to the Valley and join such a thriving community.” 

Thomas Lawson, formerly of Riot Hospitality Group was brought on as AHG had wanted to partner with a local expert operator to help execute its vision.  “It’s nice to be a part of Mill Ave.’s resurgence, this is a great area with rich history,” Lawson said. “Anoche will provide a unique experience to help elevate the ever-expanding community. Through carefully crafted eats and one-of-a-kind nightlife, we look to not just breathe new life into the area but give the area what it’s been craving.”

The scene at Anoche Cantina

Anoche Cantina will have 5,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space including a shaded patio to enjoy our nice weather. Those there for the nightlife will experience a high quality sound and lighting system that will make Anoche the best party on Mill Ave. Just in time for football season, a sports bar concept from AHG, six40rty is planned for a September opening next door. Large screen TVs, lawn games, upscale bar snacks and witty cocktails will be available indoors and outdoors at the 8,000 square foot sports bar. Both concepts are looking to hire front and back of the house team members and those interested can apply in person or email Lawson at thomas@ascendhg.com.

Anoche Cantina is at 640 S. Mill Ave Tempe 85281.