Peppers MexiCali Cafe
170 Forest Ave., Pacific Grove
(831) 373-6892
Fusion-friendly tastebuds (rather than lenguas auténticas) seem to be the target here, but there’s an undeniable level of below-the-border sophistication in every dish, ranging from the off-the-beaten-path Jamaican curry prawns to the more mainstream Mexican chile verde. With such stiff competition in the Best Mexican category, what gives Peppers the nod? It might be the neighborly, down-home feel, the generously portioned, well prepped and beautifully plated food. Or could it be the from-scratch margaritas. They are that delicioso.