Love it all. The white sauce is a must on the tacos, tostadas, and grinder. And of course the chips and sauce are the bomb! I literally like everything on the menu.
(5)
Joel C.
The Red Pepper is the "ultimate dive" food stop in Grand Forks. It is an institution for UND students and alums (myself included), so when my fiance and I made a weekend trip to "The Forks" for a weekend of hockey and college reminiscing, this was a necessary stop. We went around lunchtime on Saturday, when the majority of customers are stumbling here for hangover sustenance. I ordered my usual from the college days - a whole size ham grinder with taco meat. My fiance opted for the beef tostadas. Positives: -If you want a college dive atmosphere, this is it. From the food to the paper plates to the lack of forks, it is a dive, through and through. -I love my ham grinder with taco meat...it is by no means gourmet, but there's something perfect about it's simplicity. -Cheap...cheap...cheap! Negatives: -I don't recommend going here if you are not familiar with the food, or haven't lived in Grand Forks/attended UND. Go with a local or UND student/alum. Have them show you the ropes. My fiance had never been to the Red Pepper and enjoyed it for what it was - divey college food. If you go, make sure to go to the original on University Ave, not the new one on 42nd or the one in Engelstad Arena...the atmosphere makes the food that much better.
(4)
Greg D.
High prices, small portions, low quality ingredients and filthy tables. The food reminds me of what is available in a grade school cafeteria. What more needs to be said? Oh wait, there was no pepper (red or any other kind to be found). When I asked the guy at the counter, he handed me a disgustingly slimy bottle of hot sauce with enough in it for one taco. For something with "pepper" in the title, you would think peppers of some sort would be readily available. For something that is so hyped and so talked about around here...it's really disappointing. When I came here, people warned me that what passed as "Mexican food" would disappoint my West Coast sensibilities. That's an understatement in this dive. I can only assume most of the patrons are drunken frat boys late at night who can't taste what they're eating fully.
(1)
Audre H.
Cheap cheap place for the poor college student that will certainly fill your tummy without emptying your wallet. I love their grinders and enchiladas!!
(4)
Brad B.
For years, I clung to my old review of the Pepper and then one day, I decided to give it another go. Except this time, I went with a life-long Grand Forks...ite? Needless to say, he had some helpful suggestions on what to order. My order was a Ham Grinder with white sauce, hot sauce, taco meat, and heated up. I also added a Coney too, because I was extra hungry that day. The verdict? I was so, so wrong about Red Pepper. This place is great! I try to hit it up at least once a month with the same order. The grinder was great - the taco meat and the hot sauce add a nice spicy flavor to what is essentially a ham sandwich, and that combined with the soft bread of the sandwich and white sauce just combine to form one sandwich to rule them all. If a grinder's not your thing, then try the coney. I know, I was skeptical too. A chili dog from a taco joint? Don't underestimate this beast. I don't know what they put in it, but the combination of spices makes me crave one fortnightly. I was wrong about you Pepper, and I apologize. However, I'm now a convert for life.
(4)
John-Paul L.
Nobody from out of town eats here twice. Food is horrid. How can such an iconic college town restaurant serve such terrible good?
(1)
Patrick S.
Visited from out of town at my dad's suggestion (he went to school at UND), more for its historic significance than actual quality of food. It's a pretty sketchy place, and the ingredients used aren't exactly gourmet quality, but I can see why this place is successful: the food tastes good. Had the turkey grinder with taco meat and enjoyed it, despite the mildly unpleasant way it sat in my stomach.
(3)
Josh A.
I'm only here in Grand Forks for a year, and everyone said I had to try the Grinder at the Red Pepper. It was pretty good, though I'm still trying to figure out why everyone here seems to be obsessed with food that includes taco meat (seriously, every pizza and sandwich shop raves about having the best taco this and that...). I'm not sure that I will come back here often, but for the service was quick and friendly and the Grinder was pretty tasty, especially the soft bread and white sauce.
(3)
Austin B.
Anyone who's expecting this place to be nice or classy just doesn't get it. The food is served on paper plates, there's no silverware, and the service can be questionable at times. But none of that matters. This is where you come when you're craving some great fast food style tacos or grinders. I really don't even like Mexican food that much, but I still find myself here quite often. It's the first place you come when its late and you just want to stuff your face with delicious unhealthy food. As a UND student, this is one of the first places I take friends that are visiting GF, its just really good, cravable food. The tacos and cheese tostadas here are one of my favorite things about living in GF.
(5)
Jon S.
This is the best place in North Dakota to go for a sandwich......if you're drunk. The Red Pepper is a Grand Forks institution and I had went there sober and I have to say it lost the luster. If you need a late night, post whiskey with a beer chaser, food option this is the place for you.
(3)
Jessica M.
If I could give this dump negative stars, I would. I have regrettably had the misfortune of eating at this piece of crap place and was repulsed by the "enchilada" which was made up of unseasoned taco meat and lettuce on a tortilla, and thrown in a microwave on a paper plate. Did I mention I had to eat it with a plastic spoon, because they don't supply forks? I'll admit I was a little tipsy when trying it for the first time, but that certainly didn't make this crap any more edible. It repulses me that people consider this food.
(1)
K A.
I've been here a few times. The food really isn't that good. But when I feel like eating something different I'll stop in.
(2)
Beach T.
Worst 'taco' I've ever had. Period
(1)
Ryan R.
The place is unkept and slightly trashy, but it isn't trying to be anything more. This is for late nights, hangovers, and/or a pilgrimage for UND alumni/ex-Grand Forks residents. I would have to say that the unique atmosphere of the place is what makes those who love it come back. I personally enjoy it a couple times a year and always order the turkey grinder with extra white sauce. The best choices are the grinder, tostada, and the mexi burger. Make sure to put enough white sauce on whatever you order, that is where the flavor is.
(4)
Jordan E.
I've never really understood the popularity if the Red Pepper, because when I moved to grand forks I often heard that it was good, but when I ate there, it seemed like very amateur. They warm up burger patties in a microwave, and serve food on paper plates. It seems like I'm eating left over food when I go there. The pricing isn't good for the quality of food. A hot dog, and a couple of grinders (small sandwiches) and a soda is easily 10 dollars. The bottom line: The Red Pepper is a low quality (but fast) restaurant that seems to be liked for no apparent reason other than nostalgia.
(2)
Chad H.
As others have pointed out, this is a little local mom and pop's joint native to Grand Forks. I don't think anyone expects it to become a national chain any time soon. If a Chipotle restaurant opened up a block away the Red Pepper would be out of business within 6 months. A person could really rip this joint for lack of quality: cold, underseasoned taco meat, uninspired tortillas, overreliance on the use of the microwave, lack of cheese, lack of fresh ingredients, etc. But I think to do so would be missing the point of this place. It doesn't claim to be a fine french restaurant, nor does it try to be. It is cheap, mexican garbage food that is more meant for drunk college kids with the late night munchies than for the dinner plate. It kind of reminds me of White Castle. The Grinder is a Red Pepper sub sandwich that is well known around the town of Grand Forks. It is basically a sandwich like you would find at Jimmie Johns but with cold taco meat on top of the other meat(s) as what makes it different. It was disappointing to say the least but might do if I were stranded on a desert island, or if I was really hungry and nothing else was open.
(1)
Joel T.
The Red Pepper is a normal taco shop made great by a two sauces. The white sauce is really what makes this place shine and for people who like some spice the red sauce has a good favor with real kick... This place is great for a quick trip place to eat and it does not have cold taco meat... That's just someone whining about it being a old building. It might look a little run down but it has good food with great sauces
(4)
Andrea B.
The 'Pepper is a local institution. The white sauce is their tour de force. Yeah, it's a little trashy, but it's part of their charm. It's hangover food at it's best. But it's delicious even if you're not. Or if you're still drunk. Either way. Don't know what to order? Try a ham grinder with taco meat and extra white sauce on the side for dipping. Everyone likes a tostada...and the Mexi Burger is yummy too! Don't forget the white sauce. Mmmm.
(5)
Noneya L.
the tacos here make you fart, they have lot's of LARD and probably other things we don't want to know in the meat. They do not use gloves when making your tacos nor do they wash their hands after touching the cash from the prior customer and then immediately making-touching your tacos. The Scene: They make your taco, touch their nose, touch the money, ring up the cash register and then give the infested tacos to you. And then they make tacos for the next customer. God! I wish I didn't have to see all that. They should just make the tacos behind a counter where I can't see what they are doing. I'm glad I will never have a fart taco again
(2)
John S.
I have been here a few times and never had anything except the grinder. I don't know how the rest of the menu is but the grinder is quite good. It isn't anything fancy, but the sub roll is good, the taco meat on top of a turkey sub is great and brings some nice spice to it. I didn't bother to get it heated and I didn't bother with the white sauce though I would like to add it next time I go. Simple, straightforward and tasty. The place does a good business and if you are in Grand Forks, stop by.
(4)
Angela H.
Goddamn, I miss this place! I've never lived in Grand Forks, but when I used to live in Fargo, the Pepper was always our first stop if we went up to GF. I guess I can understand why some people don't see the appeal, but for me, this place is KILLER. I dream about it, I crave it, I LOVE it. I won't force it down anyone's throat though, if you don't like it or understand it (although I'm not sure I quite understand it), there's more left for me. ;) Much love, Pepper. You are dearly missed.
(5)
Mark S.
This place is an institution, so you've gotta give it a try, but don't expect anything too amazing. It's basically good drunk food, but might not be as good if you eat it while being anything but inebriated. The best thing about their subs is the taco meat, although it's cold which becomes really weird. It has a little spice to it, and it's really the only thing on it with good flavor. So maybe try the Mexican food instead. In any case, it's still a fun little place that has lasted that long for a reason.
(3)
Jared R.
I have made better food in my microwave at 4:30 am after drinking all night! How is this place in business?! Mexican?! I certainly wouldn't call it that. Taco bell has more authentic ingredients. The grinders leave much to be desired. One single layer of thinly sliced meat, thin cut iceberg lettuce and mayo, slopped on an uncooked 'hot-dog bun'. They offered me taco meat on it and I see why now. It certainly could have used some more substance. For the price, go to taco bell if you want tacos, and go to subway if you want a sandwich. Both will satisfy tastebuds more and both, yes BOTH probably have higher quality ingredients!
(1)
Crystal S.
Come on people, its the Red Pepper!!! This place is awesome and nostalgic, its not meant to be gourmet! Great ambiance, good food, always a great time, I love the Red Pepper!
(5)
Jerry S.
Ok. Really? Just a step below taco bell. I am not sure how they keep the lines coming in.....but....a fun vibe.
(2)
Kelly H.
These sandwiches shouldn't be as good as they are, but they are greater than the sum of their parts. Hot, greasy, spicy, messy, and satisfying. I like turkey with cheese and taco meat.
(5)
Patrick B.
My dad has raved about the Red Pepper since I could remember and not until and we all returned to Grand Forks for a wedding had I ever stopped by. He made a legend of the "grinders" he used to eat in college. He told me about the entrepreneurial college kids that would buy dozens of them during snow storms and sell them for an extra few bucks in the dorms. He said that this place was a staple at UND. It might have been, but the grinders we had were meh. I got one with everything and while the bread was great, the sandwich as a whole was a bit of a let-down. The taco meat was cold and the cheese never melted. The ham/turkey/etc was straight out of the package. Even my dad was a bit disappointed with them. This place is most definitely a college restaurant: the food is cheap and filling. One of the other reviewers suggested this place try to branch out and create franchises elsewhere. I don't think that could happen elsewhere, even other college campuses. The thing that makes this place such a landmark in GF seems to be its history. The food is tolerable at best, but its been around decades and apparently hasn't really changed. I can't say I'd recommend it if you've never heard of it before. If you have, go if for no other reason than to say you've been there. Who knows. Based on the other reviews here, you might like it.
(2)
Patrick D.
I have been back to Grand Forks twice since the flood chased me out, I have been back twice ..... both were stops off the freeway for the Red Pepper. I want to swim in a giant garbage plate.
(5)
Zena M.
Food - Cold tacos. Gross.. Service, horrible, music overbearing and loud. Awful. Why does everyone rave about this?
(1)
Traver J.
I agree with most others here. This place is disgusting. If it weren't for the drunk college students, I don't think this place would be open. The food is overpriced, the service is slower than crap and completely unorganized, and the food is GROSS. It just tastes awful. To make matters worse, after you eat the stuff, you'll taste it for a good 5 hours after you've ingested it. The location I've been to on University Ave is an old house half-ass converted into a restaurant. It's always sticky (EVERYTHING is sticky!) and if there's more than 3 people in there, it's crowded. The staff is slow and never seem to wash their hands.. take my money, turn around and make my food... awesome. The only GOOD thing I can say about this place is their 'white sauce' is pretty good.
(1)
Jesse Z.
Great place to come in for super cheap food that is very good for the price. I recommend extremely cold days and late nights.
(5)
Joshua H.
I'm not sure why I never thought of the idea that you could put taco meat onto a sandwich, but now that I've been to Red Pepper it seems quite natural. Great value for your money on the chips and salsa also.
(3)
Drew B.
My name is Justin I'll eat anything at all One 'garbage plate' please (I was SOOOO excited to try the Red Pepper. I'd heard such great things about it... but my reaction upon eating there is... This is the restaurant that GF is known for? Are you KIDDING?!?! A Grand Forks Institution it may be, but a restaurant with good food, it is NOT! To give you an idea of the quality of food that is offered: you can order something called the 'garbage plate', which is the scrapings of left over food from their sandwich assembly line. The Red Pepper sells something called a "grinder" sandwich. Mistakenly, the people of GF think that this is some unique sandwich that was/is sold nowhere else on earth. It ACTUALLY originated out on the east coast during WWII. Workers who ground the metal off of ships were called 'grinders', and the local italian sandwich shops made sandwiches to cater to these workers. Thus, these sandwiches were henceforth called 'grinders'. Sorry, GF residents... My synopsis: Visiting the Red Pepper is advisable only if you are EXTREMELY drunk, and your taste buds aren't quite working properly anymore... Not recommended.)
(1)
Jeremy J.
I understand this place isn't meant to have a gourmet menu, and when I stopped in for lunch while visiting the area on business on a local's recommendation, I didn't expect anything extraordinary. But I truthfully found the tex-mex to be on par with a Taco Bell preparation and the service was dreadfully slow and uninspired. I couldn't even find a fork in the place--only plastic spoons availed themselves with which to consume my enchilada. The ambiance had a nice flair to it, but beyond that I can't say that I'd go out of my way to return.
(2)
Chalyse W.
Personally, I'm not a huge fan. But I also am pretty sure that I am the only hometowner that doesn't LOVE this place. Saying that, I still enjoy going to the place with the right group of people after a night out. The atmosphere is really something else, and the 42nd street restaurant really just isn't the same. Remember that it won't help to ask for a fork, they can't help you!
(2)
erik h.
Yes, the best in Midwest "Mexican" food is still there, waiting for you to stumble in and gorge yourself on mediocre but tasty grinders smothered in white sauce (whatever the hell that is). It's comforting how little some things change, isn't it?
(3)
Catherine K.
Super Cheap Food - For a Super broke me (circa 2001-02)
(4)
Steve B.
Like something straight out of a cliche-filled movie, The Red Pepper is your local college restaurant. Frequented by college kids during the day it is a happening place that is only outdone by the stoner-kids that come in after dark to converse with the stoner employees. Offering cheap tacos, cheese tostada's, and their famous grinders, The Red Pepper is a local institution that has remained small while expanding its influence throughout the mid-west. It is true the food is the bastardized Mid-Western version of real Mexican food, but to North Dakotans it is the closest they want to be to ANYTHING Mexican. The food is good, it is worth checking out the different crowds that eat here. Definitely an institution that visitors to ND should check out.
(4)
Jane D.
What they serve here is not food. Not even my brother -- who considers week-old cold pizza a delicacy -- could stomach the vile pile of crap he was given. Imagine a few ounces of cold, vomit-like slop wrapped in a stale tortilla. I don't understand how they can find people who will buy "Mexican" food that is far worse than any south-of-the-border style dish said culinarily-challenged brother would whip up in a dorm kitchen (with a $1 per person budget and a 10 min. time limit). Hell, if I had a few sticky tables and a microwave I could make it in the restaurant business in this town, by the looks of it. Also, what the hell is "chip sauce"? Beavis and Butthead were unable to answer this question, but still gave me the are-you-a-moron stare from behind the counter when I asked. Everything about my experience here was disgusting beyond words. I know better than to expect much from exotic (i.e. not burgers) food in North Dakota, but the horrors I witnessed at The Red Pepper have caused a sort of culinary PSD that will have me packing my lunch whenever I'm in town. ZERO STARS!
(1)
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Address :1011 University Ave
Grand Forks, ND, 58203
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Late Night Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
Justin B.
Love it all. The white sauce is a must on the tacos, tostadas, and grinder. And of course the chips and sauce are the bomb! I literally like everything on the menu.
(5)Joel C.
The Red Pepper is the "ultimate dive" food stop in Grand Forks. It is an institution for UND students and alums (myself included), so when my fiance and I made a weekend trip to "The Forks" for a weekend of hockey and college reminiscing, this was a necessary stop. We went around lunchtime on Saturday, when the majority of customers are stumbling here for hangover sustenance. I ordered my usual from the college days - a whole size ham grinder with taco meat. My fiance opted for the beef tostadas. Positives: -If you want a college dive atmosphere, this is it. From the food to the paper plates to the lack of forks, it is a dive, through and through. -I love my ham grinder with taco meat...it is by no means gourmet, but there's something perfect about it's simplicity. -Cheap...cheap...cheap! Negatives: -I don't recommend going here if you are not familiar with the food, or haven't lived in Grand Forks/attended UND. Go with a local or UND student/alum. Have them show you the ropes. My fiance had never been to the Red Pepper and enjoyed it for what it was - divey college food. If you go, make sure to go to the original on University Ave, not the new one on 42nd or the one in Engelstad Arena...the atmosphere makes the food that much better.
(4)Greg D.
High prices, small portions, low quality ingredients and filthy tables. The food reminds me of what is available in a grade school cafeteria. What more needs to be said? Oh wait, there was no pepper (red or any other kind to be found). When I asked the guy at the counter, he handed me a disgustingly slimy bottle of hot sauce with enough in it for one taco. For something with "pepper" in the title, you would think peppers of some sort would be readily available. For something that is so hyped and so talked about around here...it's really disappointing. When I came here, people warned me that what passed as "Mexican food" would disappoint my West Coast sensibilities. That's an understatement in this dive. I can only assume most of the patrons are drunken frat boys late at night who can't taste what they're eating fully.
(1)Audre H.
Cheap cheap place for the poor college student that will certainly fill your tummy without emptying your wallet. I love their grinders and enchiladas!!
(4)Brad B.
For years, I clung to my old review of the Pepper and then one day, I decided to give it another go. Except this time, I went with a life-long Grand Forks...ite? Needless to say, he had some helpful suggestions on what to order. My order was a Ham Grinder with white sauce, hot sauce, taco meat, and heated up. I also added a Coney too, because I was extra hungry that day. The verdict? I was so, so wrong about Red Pepper. This place is great! I try to hit it up at least once a month with the same order. The grinder was great - the taco meat and the hot sauce add a nice spicy flavor to what is essentially a ham sandwich, and that combined with the soft bread of the sandwich and white sauce just combine to form one sandwich to rule them all. If a grinder's not your thing, then try the coney. I know, I was skeptical too. A chili dog from a taco joint? Don't underestimate this beast. I don't know what they put in it, but the combination of spices makes me crave one fortnightly. I was wrong about you Pepper, and I apologize. However, I'm now a convert for life.
(4)John-Paul L.
Nobody from out of town eats here twice. Food is horrid. How can such an iconic college town restaurant serve such terrible good?
(1)Patrick S.
Visited from out of town at my dad's suggestion (he went to school at UND), more for its historic significance than actual quality of food. It's a pretty sketchy place, and the ingredients used aren't exactly gourmet quality, but I can see why this place is successful: the food tastes good. Had the turkey grinder with taco meat and enjoyed it, despite the mildly unpleasant way it sat in my stomach.
(3)Josh A.
I'm only here in Grand Forks for a year, and everyone said I had to try the Grinder at the Red Pepper. It was pretty good, though I'm still trying to figure out why everyone here seems to be obsessed with food that includes taco meat (seriously, every pizza and sandwich shop raves about having the best taco this and that...). I'm not sure that I will come back here often, but for the service was quick and friendly and the Grinder was pretty tasty, especially the soft bread and white sauce.
(3)Austin B.
Anyone who's expecting this place to be nice or classy just doesn't get it. The food is served on paper plates, there's no silverware, and the service can be questionable at times. But none of that matters. This is where you come when you're craving some great fast food style tacos or grinders. I really don't even like Mexican food that much, but I still find myself here quite often. It's the first place you come when its late and you just want to stuff your face with delicious unhealthy food. As a UND student, this is one of the first places I take friends that are visiting GF, its just really good, cravable food. The tacos and cheese tostadas here are one of my favorite things about living in GF.
(5)Jon S.
This is the best place in North Dakota to go for a sandwich......if you're drunk. The Red Pepper is a Grand Forks institution and I had went there sober and I have to say it lost the luster. If you need a late night, post whiskey with a beer chaser, food option this is the place for you.
(3)Jessica M.
If I could give this dump negative stars, I would. I have regrettably had the misfortune of eating at this piece of crap place and was repulsed by the "enchilada" which was made up of unseasoned taco meat and lettuce on a tortilla, and thrown in a microwave on a paper plate. Did I mention I had to eat it with a plastic spoon, because they don't supply forks? I'll admit I was a little tipsy when trying it for the first time, but that certainly didn't make this crap any more edible. It repulses me that people consider this food.
(1)K A.
I've been here a few times. The food really isn't that good. But when I feel like eating something different I'll stop in.
(2)Beach T.
Worst 'taco' I've ever had. Period
(1)Ryan R.
The place is unkept and slightly trashy, but it isn't trying to be anything more. This is for late nights, hangovers, and/or a pilgrimage for UND alumni/ex-Grand Forks residents. I would have to say that the unique atmosphere of the place is what makes those who love it come back. I personally enjoy it a couple times a year and always order the turkey grinder with extra white sauce. The best choices are the grinder, tostada, and the mexi burger. Make sure to put enough white sauce on whatever you order, that is where the flavor is.
(4)Jordan E.
I've never really understood the popularity if the Red Pepper, because when I moved to grand forks I often heard that it was good, but when I ate there, it seemed like very amateur. They warm up burger patties in a microwave, and serve food on paper plates. It seems like I'm eating left over food when I go there. The pricing isn't good for the quality of food. A hot dog, and a couple of grinders (small sandwiches) and a soda is easily 10 dollars. The bottom line: The Red Pepper is a low quality (but fast) restaurant that seems to be liked for no apparent reason other than nostalgia.
(2)Chad H.
As others have pointed out, this is a little local mom and pop's joint native to Grand Forks. I don't think anyone expects it to become a national chain any time soon. If a Chipotle restaurant opened up a block away the Red Pepper would be out of business within 6 months. A person could really rip this joint for lack of quality: cold, underseasoned taco meat, uninspired tortillas, overreliance on the use of the microwave, lack of cheese, lack of fresh ingredients, etc. But I think to do so would be missing the point of this place. It doesn't claim to be a fine french restaurant, nor does it try to be. It is cheap, mexican garbage food that is more meant for drunk college kids with the late night munchies than for the dinner plate. It kind of reminds me of White Castle. The Grinder is a Red Pepper sub sandwich that is well known around the town of Grand Forks. It is basically a sandwich like you would find at Jimmie Johns but with cold taco meat on top of the other meat(s) as what makes it different. It was disappointing to say the least but might do if I were stranded on a desert island, or if I was really hungry and nothing else was open.
(1)Joel T.
The Red Pepper is a normal taco shop made great by a two sauces. The white sauce is really what makes this place shine and for people who like some spice the red sauce has a good favor with real kick... This place is great for a quick trip place to eat and it does not have cold taco meat... That's just someone whining about it being a old building. It might look a little run down but it has good food with great sauces
(4)Andrea B.
The 'Pepper is a local institution. The white sauce is their tour de force. Yeah, it's a little trashy, but it's part of their charm. It's hangover food at it's best. But it's delicious even if you're not. Or if you're still drunk. Either way. Don't know what to order? Try a ham grinder with taco meat and extra white sauce on the side for dipping. Everyone likes a tostada...and the Mexi Burger is yummy too! Don't forget the white sauce. Mmmm.
(5)Noneya L.
the tacos here make you fart, they have lot's of LARD and probably other things we don't want to know in the meat. They do not use gloves when making your tacos nor do they wash their hands after touching the cash from the prior customer and then immediately making-touching your tacos. The Scene: They make your taco, touch their nose, touch the money, ring up the cash register and then give the infested tacos to you. And then they make tacos for the next customer. God! I wish I didn't have to see all that. They should just make the tacos behind a counter where I can't see what they are doing. I'm glad I will never have a fart taco again
(2)John S.
I have been here a few times and never had anything except the grinder. I don't know how the rest of the menu is but the grinder is quite good. It isn't anything fancy, but the sub roll is good, the taco meat on top of a turkey sub is great and brings some nice spice to it. I didn't bother to get it heated and I didn't bother with the white sauce though I would like to add it next time I go. Simple, straightforward and tasty. The place does a good business and if you are in Grand Forks, stop by.
(4)Angela H.
Goddamn, I miss this place! I've never lived in Grand Forks, but when I used to live in Fargo, the Pepper was always our first stop if we went up to GF. I guess I can understand why some people don't see the appeal, but for me, this place is KILLER. I dream about it, I crave it, I LOVE it. I won't force it down anyone's throat though, if you don't like it or understand it (although I'm not sure I quite understand it), there's more left for me. ;) Much love, Pepper. You are dearly missed.
(5)Mark S.
This place is an institution, so you've gotta give it a try, but don't expect anything too amazing. It's basically good drunk food, but might not be as good if you eat it while being anything but inebriated. The best thing about their subs is the taco meat, although it's cold which becomes really weird. It has a little spice to it, and it's really the only thing on it with good flavor. So maybe try the Mexican food instead. In any case, it's still a fun little place that has lasted that long for a reason.
(3)Jared R.
I have made better food in my microwave at 4:30 am after drinking all night! How is this place in business?! Mexican?! I certainly wouldn't call it that. Taco bell has more authentic ingredients. The grinders leave much to be desired. One single layer of thinly sliced meat, thin cut iceberg lettuce and mayo, slopped on an uncooked 'hot-dog bun'. They offered me taco meat on it and I see why now. It certainly could have used some more substance. For the price, go to taco bell if you want tacos, and go to subway if you want a sandwich. Both will satisfy tastebuds more and both, yes BOTH probably have higher quality ingredients!
(1)Crystal S.
Come on people, its the Red Pepper!!! This place is awesome and nostalgic, its not meant to be gourmet! Great ambiance, good food, always a great time, I love the Red Pepper!
(5)Jerry S.
Ok. Really? Just a step below taco bell. I am not sure how they keep the lines coming in.....but....a fun vibe.
(2)Kelly H.
These sandwiches shouldn't be as good as they are, but they are greater than the sum of their parts. Hot, greasy, spicy, messy, and satisfying. I like turkey with cheese and taco meat.
(5)Patrick B.
My dad has raved about the Red Pepper since I could remember and not until and we all returned to Grand Forks for a wedding had I ever stopped by. He made a legend of the "grinders" he used to eat in college. He told me about the entrepreneurial college kids that would buy dozens of them during snow storms and sell them for an extra few bucks in the dorms. He said that this place was a staple at UND. It might have been, but the grinders we had were meh. I got one with everything and while the bread was great, the sandwich as a whole was a bit of a let-down. The taco meat was cold and the cheese never melted. The ham/turkey/etc was straight out of the package. Even my dad was a bit disappointed with them. This place is most definitely a college restaurant: the food is cheap and filling. One of the other reviewers suggested this place try to branch out and create franchises elsewhere. I don't think that could happen elsewhere, even other college campuses. The thing that makes this place such a landmark in GF seems to be its history. The food is tolerable at best, but its been around decades and apparently hasn't really changed. I can't say I'd recommend it if you've never heard of it before. If you have, go if for no other reason than to say you've been there. Who knows. Based on the other reviews here, you might like it.
(2)Patrick D.
I have been back to Grand Forks twice since the flood chased me out, I have been back twice ..... both were stops off the freeway for the Red Pepper. I want to swim in a giant garbage plate.
(5)Zena M.
Food - Cold tacos. Gross.. Service, horrible, music overbearing and loud. Awful. Why does everyone rave about this?
(1)Traver J.
I agree with most others here. This place is disgusting. If it weren't for the drunk college students, I don't think this place would be open. The food is overpriced, the service is slower than crap and completely unorganized, and the food is GROSS. It just tastes awful. To make matters worse, after you eat the stuff, you'll taste it for a good 5 hours after you've ingested it. The location I've been to on University Ave is an old house half-ass converted into a restaurant. It's always sticky (EVERYTHING is sticky!) and if there's more than 3 people in there, it's crowded. The staff is slow and never seem to wash their hands.. take my money, turn around and make my food... awesome. The only GOOD thing I can say about this place is their 'white sauce' is pretty good.
(1)Jesse Z.
Great place to come in for super cheap food that is very good for the price. I recommend extremely cold days and late nights.
(5)Joshua H.
I'm not sure why I never thought of the idea that you could put taco meat onto a sandwich, but now that I've been to Red Pepper it seems quite natural. Great value for your money on the chips and salsa also.
(3)Drew B.
My name is Justin I'll eat anything at all One 'garbage plate' please (I was SOOOO excited to try the Red Pepper. I'd heard such great things about it... but my reaction upon eating there is... This is the restaurant that GF is known for? Are you KIDDING?!?! A Grand Forks Institution it may be, but a restaurant with good food, it is NOT! To give you an idea of the quality of food that is offered: you can order something called the 'garbage plate', which is the scrapings of left over food from their sandwich assembly line. The Red Pepper sells something called a "grinder" sandwich. Mistakenly, the people of GF think that this is some unique sandwich that was/is sold nowhere else on earth. It ACTUALLY originated out on the east coast during WWII. Workers who ground the metal off of ships were called 'grinders', and the local italian sandwich shops made sandwiches to cater to these workers. Thus, these sandwiches were henceforth called 'grinders'. Sorry, GF residents... My synopsis: Visiting the Red Pepper is advisable only if you are EXTREMELY drunk, and your taste buds aren't quite working properly anymore... Not recommended.)
(1)Jeremy J.
I understand this place isn't meant to have a gourmet menu, and when I stopped in for lunch while visiting the area on business on a local's recommendation, I didn't expect anything extraordinary. But I truthfully found the tex-mex to be on par with a Taco Bell preparation and the service was dreadfully slow and uninspired. I couldn't even find a fork in the place--only plastic spoons availed themselves with which to consume my enchilada. The ambiance had a nice flair to it, but beyond that I can't say that I'd go out of my way to return.
(2)Chalyse W.
Personally, I'm not a huge fan. But I also am pretty sure that I am the only hometowner that doesn't LOVE this place. Saying that, I still enjoy going to the place with the right group of people after a night out. The atmosphere is really something else, and the 42nd street restaurant really just isn't the same. Remember that it won't help to ask for a fork, they can't help you!
(2)erik h.
Yes, the best in Midwest "Mexican" food is still there, waiting for you to stumble in and gorge yourself on mediocre but tasty grinders smothered in white sauce (whatever the hell that is). It's comforting how little some things change, isn't it?
(3)Catherine K.
Super Cheap Food - For a Super broke me (circa 2001-02)
(4)Steve B.
Like something straight out of a cliche-filled movie, The Red Pepper is your local college restaurant. Frequented by college kids during the day it is a happening place that is only outdone by the stoner-kids that come in after dark to converse with the stoner employees. Offering cheap tacos, cheese tostada's, and their famous grinders, The Red Pepper is a local institution that has remained small while expanding its influence throughout the mid-west. It is true the food is the bastardized Mid-Western version of real Mexican food, but to North Dakotans it is the closest they want to be to ANYTHING Mexican. The food is good, it is worth checking out the different crowds that eat here. Definitely an institution that visitors to ND should check out.
(4)Jane D.
What they serve here is not food. Not even my brother -- who considers week-old cold pizza a delicacy -- could stomach the vile pile of crap he was given. Imagine a few ounces of cold, vomit-like slop wrapped in a stale tortilla. I don't understand how they can find people who will buy "Mexican" food that is far worse than any south-of-the-border style dish said culinarily-challenged brother would whip up in a dorm kitchen (with a $1 per person budget and a 10 min. time limit). Hell, if I had a few sticky tables and a microwave I could make it in the restaurant business in this town, by the looks of it. Also, what the hell is "chip sauce"? Beavis and Butthead were unable to answer this question, but still gave me the are-you-a-moron stare from behind the counter when I asked. Everything about my experience here was disgusting beyond words. I know better than to expect much from exotic (i.e. not burgers) food in North Dakota, but the horrors I witnessed at The Red Pepper have caused a sort of culinary PSD that will have me packing my lunch whenever I'm in town. ZERO STARS!
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