Pretty boy works here and I like seeing his face. My boyfriend gets a kick out of it because I said well he's prettier than me...and it's true. And I think their food is pretty good most of the time. I eat here at least 4 times a month. Thanks jalapeno rojo .

My favorite drive through food place. I love the chicken tacos! Fast, cheap, late night food! Kinda sketchy at night outside the place. I wouldn't walk up to the window alone at night but I've never had issues driving through.

Hands down the best hangover food I’ve ever had! Used to go here all the time when I lived in San Jose (when I wasn’t hungover too lol) and their breakfast food - specifically the burrito - is to die for. Can’t go wrong with the flautas either if you’re there for lunch.

Been coming for years and only had one tiny issue, but they have been consistently good since then. They are polite, professional and make some good food-the only negative is the line gets big through their drive-through, but hey, that means they’re a five-star cost-effective quick takeout restaurant that you can get something to eat even when most restaurants are closed👍

Been coming to this place for over 23 years. Changed hands several times. The food is amazing. When I go to other Mexican restaurants I always compare their food to this place. Only one other spot I go to is as good as this. These guys have a drive thru and is open till like 11pm. You can also park and go to the walk up counter and eat on the patio. I absolutely love the carne asada quesadillas with the side of rice and beans. I really like the hot sauce. The hot sauce isn’t stupid hot and I can really enjoy the flavour of it. You will most definitely get your moneys worth here.

My Spanish is absolutely terrible and if I can say the red jalapeno then somebody knew what in the hell they were doing at this place Except for green jalapenos did it really nail that one but hey I don't know what the Spanish word is for green so perhaps I've been outsmarted again.? Pretty much all the food that they had here was Mexican food. I can't really say things like Coca-Cola is Mexican food or the water. Although it is San Jose so it's just a different kind of poison. Other than toxic water which the whole city has this place had toxically enticing meals. I went for a burrito like I always do it wasn't vegan it used to moo. Happy belated Mexican Independence Day San Ho. The numero that is Uno

The breakfast burrito was excellent! It has beans and rice AND potatoes (along with the meat and cheese and cilantro etc), which is a combination I'm not used to seeing.

Wow! La comida está deliciosa 😛 We ordered the Carne Asada Feies, a Super Burrito de Asada, and a Coctel de Camarón. Everything was so fresh and yummy. Go support this awesome local San Jose spot. I saw all women in there working hard to make delicious food for their community.

First time here. A great drive through indeed. Awesome staff and owner. I got the Chile Verde Super Burrito. I usually eat only half but it was so good I ate the whole burrito.

Probably the best Mexican fast food place I've ever had. I go here whenever I want something Good, filling, and great price.. One of my favorite places to eat. All the people who work there are always nice too. I love this place.

I had beans and rice and 2 shrimp tostadas. SO GOOD! Nothing was greasy or gives a heavy feeling. I am definitely eating here again. Though, I wish they had elotes as a side on the menu.

This is my favorite burrito place hands down! I make it a point to tell all my friends and family about this place! I'm a person that never writes a review unless the business is absolutely phenomenal and go above and beyond! This is one of those places. The staff is excellent!! It's a convenient location off of 280 or 87 freeway and has a drive thru if you are in a hurry. I am absolutely in love with the asada and red chicken but no matter what you get burritos tacos are plates, this food is the best!!

very delicious food and amazing customer service. i’ve been coming here for awhile now it it’s never disappointed me. very solid good quality restaurant that’s quick, easy, and accessible. and bonus point for the drive thru service !

Usually I drive thru to pick up dinner for the family. Great and quick place. My staples are the quesadillas, either chicken or carnitas, and the garlic shrimp. All are delicious and the drive thru is fast.

After a long day at Levi’s Stadium with my family and close to midnight , we found this place, El Jalapeño Rojo, and it was an incredible experience! The service was excellent, The food was absolutely delicious and is Highly recommended for anyone craving tasty cuisine. We'll definitely be back!

This is my go to spot, I have tried a variety of their food. It's always very good! I'm satisfied by indulging in their Delicious food.Also they have Superior friendly service. Highly recommended!

I love this place. Love the shredded chicken hardshell tacos (are so good). The breakfast burritos are the best I have ever tasted ever. The food there is made with a lot of love. I go to this restaurant every chance I get. They are small place but everything there is a work of art. Place has the best food in the area. Friendly customer service. I would like this place 10 stars.

My family and I make this a Friday night dinner location. The food and service is excellent. We know when it comes to good food this is the location to go to. Just tried the birria plate last night and my wife had the garlic shrimp plate, can’t go wrong here. Thanks for all the great service and friendly environment.

Not gonna lie, the food is pretty good! People complain about the worker attitude here but honestly, its a drive thru at a fast food restaurant. What do you expect? This ain't In n Out or some other perky food chain. I think they are very nice. Quick, convenient, reasonable prices. Nice to see a family owned business in DTSJ.

We love the prices, food is pretty good,my horchata was very watery, the amount of food served was decent size, and staff wasn't very polite and were rushing us while taking our order, and when we ask for condiments the woman slammed the window and handed the items to my daughter in a very rude way.

I’ve been here 3 times so far, and each time the food has never failed. Their asada is seasoned and cooked to delicious perfection. It’s criminal how fat the regular burritos are. Special shout out to the cook, Lore.

I love this place. Great food and super convenient hours. I eat here 2 or 3 times a week. And they have a drive thru for rainy days or if I am in a hurry. The wet burrito is my FAVORITE :D

This is by far the best Mexican food I’ve ever had. If you even a little bit hungry, you should do yourself a favor and order everything they got. Personal favorite was the super burrito. Great portions and great service. 10/10 will be coming again.

Lorena makes the best Mexican food hands down 🙌 always friendly and nice service!

The torta here is soo amazing and you gets your money worth

Seriously yummy. We ordered chicken enchiladas verde.. the chicken was very flavorful, as was the sauce. There was a LOT of cheese on them. A little too much, but I just picked a little cheese off. Still hit the spot! We also got a chimichanga with al pastor. It was filled with meat and the perfect amount of cheese, fried to absolute perfection. Plus there was pineapple inside 🤤 Salsas were good too. Horchata had good flavor but needed a little more creaminess in my opinion. Overall, I'll definitely be back!

The best Veggie burrito in town with reasonable price. Never had a meat smelling on my burrito that will make me throw up.

El Jalapeño Rojo is a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal. The food is fresh, flavorful, and consistently well made. Service is fast and efficient, which makes it perfect when you’re on the go. The drive-thru is a huge plus and super convenient. Portions are solid and everything is well packaged. Definitely a reliable choice when you want good Mexican food without the wait!

My wife and I have been passing by this place for almost 3 years after our daughters swim lessons and have always wanted to stop by and grab some food here but never come around to it. We finally decided to drop by and grab something to eat here. And we have been missing out for so long. The service is quick and people very nice and the food is amazing. Carne asada burrito with red and green salsas on the side was my pick. The Sonora hot dog is also amazing! We are definitely coming back here!

Drive through or street parking (few spaces). My go to are the carnitas nachos. Friendly staff. I also get the bacon wrapped hot dog when the craving hits.

Posting a picture of the current hours. It's also a walk-up / drive through joint. No indoor seating. This place has killer quesadillas with delicious guacamole to go with them. If you want to take it to the next level order with extra cheese. If your looking for some good fast and affordable Mexican food. Swing by here.

Chill spot. Nice shaded eating area. Fish taco and sope veggie was fire. 🔥

Best taqueria in downtown in my opinion. Very good food and very good service! Try the Mexican style cheeseburger, it will not disappoint.

My family and I have been coming here for 6+ years. It is our go to place when we want Mexican food. The food is always delicious, fresh and they are generous with their servings. We have tried just about everything on the menu and have never been disappointed. I also believe their prices are very affordable. The customer service here is magnificent! There has never been I time I have gone and experienced other. We love how it's always clean and maintained. It's nice that there are multiple ways you can order. They have the walk-up window, Call in ahead and our favorite the drive-thru. We recommend this place to all and know you will never be disappointed!

Just a good ol taco joint nothing to fancy but good and value is the best not an arm or leg to eat there options good outdoor seating good salsa Rojo

First time here. Breakfast burrito for lunch was delicious. Outside seating in shade with morning glory flowers was super pleasant

Great late night hours, and excellent food. Don't come here expecting fancy digs, exquisite ambiance or table service. Think, taqueria food served old school Wienerschnitzel style. Primarily a drive-thru place, but a small parking lot and outdoor tables are available. Good selection of food, largish portions and fair prices.

Over the past five years, our family has consistently patronized this Mexican Taqueria restaurant drive-through. Each visit is marked by exceptional customer service and a warm and respectful atmosphere. Lorena frequently ventures out of the establishment to order our rice and beans with cheese. The restaurant’s ambiance is truly exceptional. 𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓃𝓀 𝓎ℴ𝓊 𝓈ℴℴℴℴ 𝓂𝓊𝒸𝒷!!!𝒢𝓇ℯ𝒶𝓉 𝒞𝓊𝓈𝓉ℴ𝓂ℯ𝓇 𝒮ℯ𝓇𝓋𝒾𝒸ℯ!!

This is My Ultimate Favorite to go place in San Jose! Everything is absolutely Delicious!! My favorite are the super chicken taco’s! And the ladies here are so sweet and Amazing! Always make me laugh and even though they’re super busy they’re always so kind! This place is a Must! Once you try it you will Definitely be coming here forever!

El Jalapeño Rojo has some really good food. My absolute favorites are the super nachos with meat and the super quesadillas. Lorena, who is the cook, is amazing. She already knows exactly how I like my food, which makes the experience even better. She’s super nice, friendly, and clearly puts care into what she makes. I highly recommend coming in the evenings after 5 pm when she’s there.

Arturo Moroyoqui

I like this spot for a quick bite. They have some of the best burritos in the area, especially for the price. You could get a fat burrito for less than $12, except they add lettuce to it (guácala) so you gotta ask them not to.

CB9 Dragon

5-star for what it is. Sure they may have gotten a couple of my past orders wrong but nothing they couldn’t fix. No complaints here. Drive thru Taqueria open til 11?!? Lets go

Olga Whinehouse

Been coming for years and always hits the spot! Tostadas are my go to! Avocado is always fresh

Terri Brown

I can't believe I've lived here all these years and never tried this little drive in. Outstanding food - very authentic, reasonably priced and caring service. Thank you for a great authentic meal before I move out of California tomorrow.

Harrison Harrison

A hidden gem. Authentic take-out. Drive-thru or walk-up counter with limited outdoor tables. The food is excellent and, for the San Jose area anyway, reasonably priced.

Brenden Mackay

Having a drive thru at an excellent taqueria is awesome. The food was amazing. I got a wet burrito and I'll be going back soon. It was great

Ethan c

First time here. We ordered fish tacos, beef tacos, and super nachos. These fish tacos are moreish, fresh, and crispy. the super nachos are generous. Horchata and pineapple drinks had good flavor. great food，good price， food ready fast and delicious. If you like Mexican food and close to downtown San Jose, you must try this place

Henry Pena

If you’re in San Jose and would like some fire 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Mexican food , go stop by El Jalapeño Rojo (EJR) . The flautus are delicious and the fish tacos were bomb ! Plus , The agua Fresca de piña hands down is the freshest drink I’ve ever had in San Jose. The prices are right and the taste reminds you of mom’s home cooking. I really appreciate the cooks and team. I hope you like the recommendations when you stop by.

+1

The service is great and their shrimp tacos are amazing. It's an interesting set up, and I always like going. "be nice or leave" is posted there on the drive thru window so be nice or leave lol.

I love this family run joint. Great food quality, even if they dont have La Victoria's orange sauce. Always friendly service and tasty Salsa Verde means I'll keep coming back.

Lady at the drive thru has a poor attitude. Makes me wanna take my business elsewhere. Came back (January 13) and the Same lady was on her A game. Good experience overall.

Review caveat: I really love this place, and that may endear me on the food review. Some of the best Mexican in downtown San Jose. The prices are pretty good. Staff is super friendly. Open late. Burritos are terrific, with good chicken and very reasonably sized for the price. The red and green sauces are spicy and decently flavorful, though I prefer the green sauce better. Both the horchata and jamaica are really good, could just be a premade mix though. Tip-if the drive through is too busy for you, you can park right in front on the street and get your order quicker through the walk up window.

This is a small roadside place bigger than a kiosk. Its almost under the underpass at San Carlos and 87 so stopping there is an issue to consider in terms of safety. Their food is average, but their service is above average and friendly. Unlike other cabins like it, this place has a nice shaded and clean outdoor seating area. Because of that feature and their friendly service i gave them 4 stars otherwise they would get 3 stars.

Good cheap food, but too much salt.

I stopped by thinking it was a different establishment but since I was there already, I drove up to the menu & ordered a chile verde burrito. The layout is similar to the old Wienerschnitzel on Story Rd. They have a nice variety of items to choose from. The prices are good, the service is fast and the burrito had good flavor. The customer service was excellent I will be going back to try the spicy shrimp plate.

I ordered a carne asada regular burrito. I was impressed with the size of the burrito because I did not get a super I was expecting a smaller burrito but it was actually quite large. I finished half of it for lunch and then have for dinner. The little sauce containers they gave were a little bit small but they're hot sauce is really good. They put a shade over there seating area which is nice but I did not sit there this time around. Quality food at a more than reasonable price. Thumbs-up from me.

Randomly stopped here as I was driving by and was glad I did. It has a drive thru window in the center which was a huge surprise. I ended up ordering a few tacos which were overall pretty good and then ate them on their patio. I don't believe there is any indoor seating here. The fish taco was the standout for me and came recommended by the person who took my order. I thought the fish taco could use a bit more fish, but the flavors were on point. I particularly liked the creamy spicy sauce which really boosted the flavors on this taco. The other tacos I had were decent but didn't really stand out to me as much as the fish. I found the meat to be a bit dry in the other tacos, but the salsa provided a fresh and spicy hit.

Outdoor dining only. The prices are OK. Carnitas tacos were real good for on the go snack

PRICES Increased across-the-board in April 2025, from $12.99 for a CHilito (burrito), to now $14.99, for even shredded chicken, or any other filled wet burrito. Tariffs are NOT to blame, same basic staff of mainly 2, no location improvements, so why?

Great food and location. It's is clean and neat inside and out.

I like this place it has drive-thru. If you want to get something fast or have kids and you don't want to get them down and waste time, this has been my place to go. Food quality is good but a little pricy. The only thing that I don't like is the customer service from the lady that's always at the window through the drive-thru. She seems like she's always serious never get a smile from her, she seems like she is not happy with her job. They have a sign that says be nice or leave for costumers but I thinks the lady on the drive thru window should follow what it says...

Pretty good place for quick tacos and Quesadilla. Love their Avocado Salsa

Aguilas America

Had an asada torta really big was good just needs more meat for the price its good

srinivas kurmapu

This to-go style Mexican restaurant is a gem in the heart of the office district. Perfect for busy workdays, you can quickly place your order, grab your food, and be on your way in minutes. The menu offers fresh, flavorful Mexican favorites that are satisfying without slowing you down. If you’re lucky, you might find a parking spot nearby and grab one of the benches outside to enjoy your meal in the open air. It’s a simple setup but great for a quick lunch break. Whether you’re picking up food between meetings or just craving something fast and tasty, this spot delivers exactly what you need.

Went there because it was open after a show downtown. Food was alright, prices are decent, the drive thru makes it easy to get a quick bite. I understand it's a compact place, but many food trucks beat this place in quality and price.

I had a thought it was all right I wasn't too heavy or anything but he was okay the lady was kind of rude

The service is just so so,. sometimes they are super rude. Also I think it depends on whose cooking cause sometimes the food is really good and sometimes it's not. But great thing is, it has a drive thru! So if you're hungover on a Saturday morning you can drive thru there and get your food!!. It will suffice!

Food is good not the best but it's passable. I ordered the Steak chimichanga and it was good. Lots of meat and toppings with generous portions rice and beans on the side. The only bad thing is they didn't take the time to seal. The horchata is not original it's the fake kind so if your looking for authentic Horchata don't order it. I like the drive thru option!

Been coming here for a long time. It's probably the best little miniature Mexican restaurant that has a unique, drive-thru style. Very convenient for me when I am starving. Great place. I hope they approve on their menu for this coming up 2024 New Year. Bc

First off let me start off by saying I like the location and they had outside seating which is pretty cool because San Jose's usually hot had a little drive-thru which is pretty nice if you're in a rush very tiny little Mexican spot I'm very picky with Mexican food I've been in many places and it just not good not with that being said I got a el pastor burrito and Coke in the glass the flavors in the burrito were okay they weren't bad but they weren't great which is I guess a decent rate the red salsa was a bit salty and had that marinara taste to it a lot of places do that I don't know why the green salsa was better balanced and had a better kick than than the red salsa I asked for limes they were very dried out with no juice the cashier that I had was very friendly I couldn't see inside the building but what I could help me outside was a very clean place so assuming very clean on the inside I would definitely go back and try something else I thought it was a little weird they didn't have tacos on their menu everything except tacos oh well I gave three star because I thought the food was decent and as I was sitting there a lot of people in the drive-through so I can see other people agree with what I think if you live nearby it's perfect to ride your bike or walk up to this place

Maria Carroll

I am extremely disappointed with the service at this place. We have been coming here for years now but incomplete orders have started to become a reoccurring theme. I would recommend that you have them read your order back to you before you pay. Even if the staff gets grumpy. They always seem to be speaking to the cashier/window attendant while you place your order. Full attention should be placed to one task at a time, either tell your coworker to wait a moment or tell me to wait a moment to hear them out. Very unfortunate as this is (WAS??) my go to for hard shell tacos and other specialty items that they provide.

Medusa

It's insane that having 9+ cars waiting in the drive thru plus people in the front ordering food, this place can only afford to have two workers? Mind you, they take care of the front and the drive thru plus cooking and cleaning all by themselves. They are actually great at their job but I'm sure they are not paid enough and that this place must definitely can pay another worker to help. Very bad experience witnessing this, because, mind you, is not a cheap place.

Brendan Chia

Food was good, outdoor is fine, however they charged fee for paying using credit card 💳 service was OK, really there is no service. Clean after your own mess. Parking 🅿️ is limited to 2 - 3 cars only. Mainly to go orders.

+4

Food was just ok, that of which you might find on a taco truck in the middle of a field. Much to be desired. Also the woman taking orders at the window seems like she's late for a hair appointment. I don't like being rushed when I'm trying to pick out my food, or when I asked for Chile salsa her answer was in the bag. Can I get a fork, "in the bag" and shut the window. All in all I'll give it a two star. I might try something different next time, if there is a next time. Its funny because they have a sign hanging on the wall. "Be nice or leave" what about a sign promoting good customer service?

Food has no meat in it, they’re stingy.

Wish I had not spent my money here , if you believe this food is good , you don’t know what good is

The only thing positive about this place is the lady took our order. (Incorrectly mind you) We ordered 3 burritos one with no cilantro one with everything and one with no sour cream they made all three the same? What? My friend was picking out the cilantro out of his. Lol. Pops just ate his and later told me it was the worst burrito ever. And me (the guy that wanted everything on it cuz I ain't picky) also thought thought it was one of if not the worst burrito I've probably every had.(don't even get me started on how it gave me acid reflex, which by the way I don't suffer from) sorry folks I can not recommend this place.

Joseph Rob

Good food bad service you ask the price they tell you the price but then there's a fee for credit card my card was off by 10 cents the lady said sorry can't help you even though ask the price at the window even though I was told one price and was only off by 10cents two days before Christmas like im asking for a hand out ? Would have changed my order or ordered something different whole reason of asking price

Service was low par the cashier didn’t even want refund for a regular burrito that she made super. Allergic to dairy, yet she wanted us pay for another one. This place is sad that’s why I tell people don’t come here n when they do I tell them don’t get mad when disappointed 🤷‍♂️warned you 😂

My family and I were regulars until the disgusting, rude, racists service we received today. The owner took our drive thru order incorrectly. We requested no cheese 3 times on our burrito and of course we had cheese on our burrito. When we went back to my surprise the owner refused to remake the burrito, argued, and actually even declined the refund. The owner then said to return the burrito for the refund. We happily gave back the incorrect burrito. Here’s some advice when customers are ordering SLOW DOWN, LISTEN, REPEAT the order and DO NOT RUSH OFF THE MICROPHONE. Also good customer service is the staple for any business, you just lost a family of customers who have been coming for years and never ever complained until today. Also thank you to the nice young lady who helped us at the window the owner can learn from her!

Today I went through the drive thru and there was a immature woman working the drive thru and was completely rude and ghetto. I have never experienced that here,she got our order wrong and is a hard headed person. This will really ruin a business. Normally we are greeted and are not talked over. We always have a pleasant experience and they always get our order right. I thought she was a complete bych!

The food here needs some love , extra love !!!the meat had no flavor , nachos didn't have much cheeses on it , the nacho chips were stale , the beef on my wet burrito and nacho tasted like it could have been reheated (not fresh) the wet burrito tortilla taste like the ones that you eat when you are in elementary school (public)this is a good place to visit when you are drunk on a late night and want to drive through a drive thru and have no where else to go (taco bell)

Worst burrito I’ve had in a while. Cold, old meat, no flavor. Asked for no cheese, it had tons of cheese. It tasted like it was made an hour in advance. I knew something was off when it took them less than 5 minutes to make. At least it was cheap.

I frequent here alot and I've found sharp pieces of tooth picks in my Sonoran Hotdogs twice now. I will be taking my money elsewhere.

Jaelyns Momm

I’ve been coming here with my family for over 6 years. The service has always been mediocre but the senoras did their best and we still spent money. However the service lately has been shocking and disgusting. The treatment you receive after paying money to this establishment is mind blowing and completely insane. The entire time crystal was irritated with us trying to order then she was rolling eyes at the window closing windows on our face , she then threw salsa at my husband for asking her for extra salsa and asked her what her issue was. She said she was fine and if we didn’t like it we should come back at night and not during the day. We asked for her name she said it was Crystal and then asked us in Spanish would we like her to write it down. She’s doesn’t give a damn and knows she gives horrible service.. Save your money unless you like being treated poorly and like you’re a bother for spending money at their business. This place is family owned and I’m sure the owner has already lost money because of crystals attitude . Reading the comments below there’s many others who possibly have had to deal with crystal and her bad attitude I hope this helps others . Don’t waste your time, there’s far Better authentic Mexican food places that want your business and appreciate you and your money. !!

Erika Espinoza

Just bought 3 orders of chicken flautas. Mind you it was 50 bucks . Asked for extra sauce got only 2 little ones for 3 orders ok . Asked for toppings on the side . Only got lettuce no sour cream or guacamole, and servings just keep getting smaller. So disappointing because this place has some good food .

Simronjot Singh

Absolute garbage customer service, asked for ketchup she offered one packet. Asked for more she cursed at me under her breathe in spanish. For owner purposes this happened with your staff in the morning

A A

This place has really gone downhill. My super burrito was had no meat in it. It was more filled with beans, barely any rice. Don’t waste your money here, I won’t be buying anything from this “Mexican restaurant” anymore.

Kay Lee

I don't know why every time I buy food from here, after eating, I get diarrhea every time. And recently I bought Flan, but the Flan has a spoiled smell. Please pay attention to the quality of the food. It should not be sold if the dessert is spoiled.

Pedro Filipe Abreu

Avoid. Read the other comments about service. They are true. These are uneducated people with no respect for clients. My family has been coming here for many months now mostly out of convenience and always felt the bad attitude but dismissed it since it’s a quick grab and go. But today they messed up the order and marked as veggie the fish burrito. When I asked about it they insinuated that I was trying to profit by having eaten 1/5 of the burrito before noticing and told me to give it to my wife since she’s my wife and that would be okay. When I asked to redo both since the veggie one (marked as fish) looked off and when tried to bring her attention to how serious this mistake is since I could have allergies, she went completely nuts and started to say she refused service. Eventually I was able to get the fish one redone but then she said not to come back. I even tried to reason and apologized if I sounded too angry but she closed the window on my face and my wife’s too. I can’t really express here how low level this interaction was. Probably the worst I’ve experienced at any restaurant. Best way to describe is how other folks put it - felt like ghetto. But I’m glad she’s refusing service since it’s the way I for sure won’t be coming back.