Peppers Mexicali Cafe
170 Forest Ave., Pacific Grove (831) 373-6892, pepperspg.com
Peppers’ menu is colorful, much like the food of the ’80s. Except back then having reds (like Red Dye No. 40) and greens in food, meant it was processed and it may or may not cause health problems. Luckily, that’s not the case at Peppers. Colors on Peppers’ plates come from fresh produce (often locally sourced) and golden brown crispness. Those colors are combined on plates like swordfish fajitas, mushroom artichoke enchiladas and their “very spicy” chile verde pork. Also another update from the ’80s, they have a full bar that serves famously delicious margaritas. Get out of here with your tequila sunrise.