Pepper’s on Centre Street in downtown Fernandina Beach may have the finest location on Amelia Island. Situated at the top of Centre Street, with its large footprint and agave cactus growing along its edges, it is as grand and in demand as you might expect.
Some of us remember its humble origin, when the original Pepper’s opened its first shop a few doors down from the old Food Lion. How special it was having good Mexican food on the island! Recently, Anthony, the general manager, talked with me about Pepper’s journey. When photographer Lilly Sheetz joined us, I was glad because she eats there often.
Recently, Pepper’s has elevated. The menu feels more polished. A few new dishes have been added, and less popular ones have been taken off. But don’t worry, if you crave something from one of the previous menus, even the eight-page one, they are happy to make it for you. Just ask.
Holy ‘Mole, that Tex-Mex Guacamole is special, with bacon, corn, and queso fresco! A great start to our meal. My dinner of Pollo Lémon was as good as any lemon chicken I’ve ever had, including Italian and Greek versions. Stop in and check out the new menu. If you come on Taco Tuesday, you can enjoy
taco flights.
Did you hear Mexican cuisine has overtaken Italian as the preferred cuisine with Millennials and Gen Z in the U.S.? They are not as enthralled by Italian food as their Gen X and Boomer forebears are. Mexico is global indeed: the Spanish were the first Europeans to settle in Mexico, followed by Italian and French people. French influences were subtle, and they have blended into the Mexican use of sauces, cheeses, and slow cooking techniques. But, in the end, however, there is one thing that is uniquely and without question Mexican: tequila.
Pepper’s has many fine premium tequilas, but in a labor of pure devotion, Pepper’s makes its own tequila. With the highest percentage of blue agave from the state of Jalisco, they are rightfully proud of their smooth Blanco, rich Reposado, and complex Añejo. Whether you are one of the young tequila drinkers seeking a clean drink or a major mature Margarita maven, Pepper’s bartenders are happy to help you hone your tequila-appreciation.
Drinks were one of the highlights of our time together at Pepper’s. The Blood Orange Margarita is Lilly’s go-to favorite, she says. If a Piña Colada, a Tequila Sunrise, and a Margarita got together, it would be Pepper’s signature Tropical Margarita. My new favorite is the jumbo La Reina, which comes with its own tiny Grand Marnier bottle to pour in myself to smooth the flavors. Pro tip: If you don’t see your favorite on the new menu, look for your favorite signature drinks to reappear seasonally or simply ask the bartender.
Through the years, Pepper’s has been there for my friends and family alike, all regular island visitors: one cousin rented the special event room for her bridesmaid’s lunch; my daughter met a friend on the porch to reminisce and people-watch; other cousins caught a World Cup match at the bar; and cousins with children spread out in the dining room. Each found their Pepper’s. Find your Pepper’s.
Pepper’s is located at 530 Centre Street. For more information, visit www.pepperscocina.com.