Readers JK and John Paul let me know that Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant at 254 Orange Avenue, an icon in Goleta since 1958 that closed after a kitchen fire in December 2020, reopened today to nearly a full house during their very first lunch. The eatery used the unexpected closing as an opportunity to do an extensive two-year remodel, including putting on a new roof. Hours are Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m.-9.p.m. I am told there have been a few changes to the menu but it remains mostly the same. Call (805) 967-0313 or visit pepesgoleta.com.
The remodeled Pepe’s in Goleta. Photos by The Restaurant Guy
yes!!!
I was not a big fan of the Brunch Buffet, but was bummed to see it gone. Chili Verde still as awesome as ever.
Stopped by last night. Was really hoping that their legendary reputation for poor and SLOW service would have changed after the long closure. Nope….
Tables were empty but a line out the door for people waiting to be seated. Woman in line in front of us said she’d been there 10 minutes and that the staff was avoiding eye contact.
I love the yelp review from 2 days ago where the guy waited so long for his food he walked across the street to Taco Bell, got a snack, and came back to his table.