Another new eatery! It's just impossible for me to keep up. Pepito's, it seems has been created for those who don't always want a huge dinner, or perhaps for those who want a change from Mexican food. It's a small place with a small but varied menu. The service is friendly and prompt. I had heard from several people that the food was excellent and, while I've only been once, I have to agree. Four of us ate together and, unfortunately for this column, the others all had the hamburger which they all enjoyed. I had a Philly cheese steak sandwich which I had never eaten before (remember I come from north of Philly). Wow, was it scrumptious! Thin slices of tender rib eye are smothered with fried onions, mushrooms and then the melted cheese all on a fresh baguette and served in a basket. All orders come with fried potatoes or onion rings: I asked for half of each so I could try both. Can I use the crummy word, "yummy?" The fries probably have a proper name and I should have asked what it is. They are not French or home fries but cut in a sort of woven design then deep fried. MMmmmm.
Because I called ahead for my take out order, they gave me a photocopy of the menu, and I didn't have to borrow one, or try to take notes surreptitiously. You can choose, for $56, The Pepito, which is a beef tenderloin sandwich. A barbequed pork loin sandwich is $48. There is also a bbq chicken for $48 and my next choice, Alaskan salmon sandwich at $58. Vegetarians will be pleased that there is a veggie and cheese for only $42. My companions had the Angus burger but ehere;s also, for the very hungry, the Royal which is a half-pound of burger, done as you like it, for $58. Remember all come with those unique fries or onion rings. For two pesos more you can have cheese added to your burger and for only five pesos, bacon.
Dessert? I don't often eat them but couldn't turn down a Haagen Dazs ice cream bar. Beverages include Starbucks' Frappucino (in a bottle) and A&W Root Beer (in a can) and there are several beers and wine. I did notice the glass was larger than in some places and costs $35.
There are a few tables inside in case of bad weather but the outside tables all have easy-to-move umbrellas to keep us in the shade.
Pepito's is located next to the Waffle House on the highway on Ajijic's east side. Open 11:30 to 6 except Saturdays when they'e open 12 to 5:30. Don't ask. I don't know why the half-hour diference. This is Mexico! They're closed on Sundays.
BITS AND BITES
Let's hope this doesn't become a trend but recently a friend and I went to El Guayabo, the restaurant at the end of the restaurant pier. It's always been my fave for molcajete. Well, when we were presented with our bill, the tip was included. This was not a hand-written bill but one generated from a cash register. The amount was not more than we would have left but how presumptuous! The size of the tip is for the customer to decide. Good service, good tip. Am I wrong?
