Reviews by Food Critics


“Mexican stuffed peppers - chiles rellenos - are nothing new to me. But a sweet filling and a cream sauce? This was really great. And it was so mild that I wondered if it was really Mexican. Called chiles en nogada, it was one of three unusual dishes I tried at Jalapeno Loco restaurant in Cudahy...A blend of chiles, nuts, and seeds, the sauce was so good that I spooned an extra helping of it over the chicken as I loaded it in to a warm corn tortilla.”
Dennis Getto, Milwaukee Journal/Sentinel March 1998 

“That’s the way moles seem to me - creamy and decadent like desserts that aren’t sweet. A chocolate sauce that isn’t sweet is about as expected as a pepper filled with peaches. Jalapeño Loco is an unpredictable pepper.”
Ann Christenson, Milwaukee Magazine August 1998 

“Call ahead or take a chance - this place serves some excellent regional Mexican items. If the outstanding chicken mole Oaxaqueño is offered as a special, order it.”
Jeff Beutner, Shepherd Express June 1998

“The consistently fine cooking and innovative menu make this visit to Cudahy always rewarding”
Jeff Beutner, Shepherd Express June 1998

Ann Christensen’s critics choice for Best Mexican
Milwaukee Magazine, October 1999

“Adventuresome diners will want to check the board before ordering from the printed menu. Jalapeno Loco serves some of the most exciting Mexican entrees found on local menus.”
Milwaukee’s Best Cheap Eats 2000

“Since Saynes is a native of Oaxaca, it made sense to feature cooking from his hometown and because Milwaukee diners (a pat on the back for all of us) are discriminating and want more than Tex-Mex, he was ready to go beyond tacos. Thus the Seven Moles of Oaxaca appeared for the first time in a restaurant on the south side.”
Cari Taylor-Carlson, Outpost Exchange June 2000

“The menu has an impressive selection of regional Mexican dishes served in generous portions. The bar is a destination in itself where they serve fine margaritas made with gold tequila.”
Jeff Beutner, Shepherd Express May 2003

“Owners Hugo and Janet were pioneers in serving regional Mexican fare such as chiles en nogada and Oaxacan moles alongside more standard fare.......After 10 years in business this kitchen continues to shine.”
Jeff Beutner, Shepherd Express June 2005

“This is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Milwaukee”
Raul Vasquez, !Aqui! Milwaukee January 2009 

Customer Reviews


“Best Mexican food in Milwaukee, we have tried almost every Mexican restaurant in the city and we were blown away by the food here. Service was the best we've ever received. Natalia was so amazing! The second I finished a drink she would be on the way to the table to ask if I needed another. The setting is very relaxing and uplifting. Will definitely be a new go-to place!”
Lexi B.

“I would give Jalapeno Loco 10 stars if the rating went that high. Their food is always hot and always delicious. We have never been disappointed in any meal we've eaten there. The senior plate lunch is a favorite and the steak and chicken fajitas are the best you'll find anywhere.”
Anna D.

“Been coming here for many years now. Introduced to it by the in-laws who have been coming for many more. This is as good a Mexican restaurant as you'll find. Run by friendly, welcoming folk, the food is authentic, fresh and tasty. The drinks taste perfect and belie their strength. Their moles are a specialty and as good as you'll find anywhere. Prices are reasonable and decor and atmosphere are wonderful. For good Mexican food in this part of town, look no further.”
Simon P.

“The margaritas, salsas, and food were THE BEST!!!! we had chicken quesadillas and chimigas. The staff was so attentive and the atmosphere was amazing! Best Mexican restaurant I've honestly ever been to. I can't say enough good things about this place!!!! Thank you for the wonderful evening and the spectacular mariachi band!”
Alissa A.

“Jalapeno Loco is one of my favorite restaurants. The food is always great, with frequent menu changes. I have food allergies and I actually have multiple choices at Jalapeno, which is not my usual state at almost anyother place I go to eat. If I find any entree that I can eat Without getting ill it is a treat. To have choices is beyond belief for me. But even more important is the courtesy and friendliness of the entire staff. It feels like going home after being away at school.”
Jane W.

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“The best Mexican food in Milwaukee!! And this coming from a Texan that eats Mexican at least once a week!!! It is amazing!! Margaritas are divine! The staff is friendly professional and nothing short of spectacular!! This is my second time here in 2 years! This will be my go to spot whenever traveling to Milwaukee!!!”
Ann M.

“Our first visit and we will be back for sure! Atmosphere was very relaxing. Soft music enabled conversation without having to raise your voice. The food... DELICIOUS! We ordered a fajita combo and chili en nogada, wow!!! Really good! The wait staff was prompt, attentive, and so courteous. Really enjoyed the whole experience and looking forward to my lunch tomorrow due to generous portions! Thank you!”
Maria S.

“AMAZING food!! These dishes were flawless. Even the rice and beans were amazing. We have been here several times and never had anything other than an excellent experience.”
Jennifer S.

“I've been to this restaurant many times and in my opinion, it's the best Mexican restaurant in Milwaukee. They always have amazing specials that cannot be found elsewhere. For instance, Chiles Rellenas Oaxaqueñas--a poblano filled with shredded pork cooked in a sauce made of tomatoes, tomatillos, almonds, capers, raisins and other spices. Delicious! Or Tamales de Verduras--filled with zucchini, potato, chayote, and onion. Or Pescadillas--deep fried empanadas filled with sword fish. All the sauces are different, nothing here is cookie-cutter as it is in so many other Mexican restaurants. And their specials are all marked as to whether or not they are gluten free (many of them are!)”
Julie C.

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