Atlantans can’t seem to get enough of taquerias or sports bars, so it was probably only a matter of time before someone combined the two concepts.
The new Red Pepper Taqueria has plenty of flat-screen TVs, tap tables with self-serve beer, and a contemporary Mexican menu that also features spicy Buffalo wings ($7.95) and a big cheeseburger with seasoned fries ($10.25).
The look: Located in the former Artuzzi’s Italian Kitchen space at the corner of Briarcliff and Lavista, the redo has the feel of a cozy cantina, with a long bar and a variety of seating options, including cafe tables and booths with beer taps. A covered outdoor patio seems more spacious than the main dining area, and has TVs, too.
The scene: One Sunday evening, the crowd was a buzzing mix of couples at the bar and families at tables. Golf, men’s and women’s basketball and motor sports commanded attention on multiple channels, while percolating Latin pop music blared from speakers in the ceiling.
The menu: Starters range from a salsa trio with tortilla chips ($2.50) to beef brisket sopes with black beans and pickled cabbage ($7.75) and ahi tuna crudo with plantain chips ($7.75). Among the 10 different tacos ($3.25-3.50), there’s organic tofu with oyster mushrooms, blackened Georgia trout with chipotle remoulade, and grilled skirt steak with guajillo salsa. Larger plates include chicken mole ($12.50) and sizzling fajita skillets ($12.50-$14.50).
The drinks: Tequila and beer rule at the bar. Signature Margaritas are served on the rocks in Mason jars. The Skinny ($8) is a straightforward mix of Herradura blanco, agave nectar and fresh lime juice. The recent beer list included Bell’s Two Hearted Ale and Terrapin Hopsecutioner IPA.
The extras: On the kids menu, choose an entree, such as a taco, burrito or quesadilla, with rice and a beverage for $5.50. Look for live music on Thursday and Saturday nights.
Dining out
Red Pepper Taqueria, Atlanta
11 a.m.-midnight, Mondays-Sundays.
Starters, $2.50-$7.95; soups and salads, $3.75-$10.50; tacos, quesadillas and enchiladas, $3.25-$11.50; entrees and fajitas, $10.25-$14.50, desserts, $4.25-$4.50.
2149 Briarcliff Road, 404-325-8151, eatredpepper.com
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