Lunch Break: A Passion for Pepe’s

Sampling dishes and diners in and around Miami County

Huber Heights often receives a lot of hate for its never-ending supply of fast food chain restaurants. The local town has grown to include a Wingstop, Crumbl, and a long list of other places in just the past few years. That being said, Huber hasn’t gotten rid of all authenticity. You just have to know where to look.

If you’re searching for a non-fast-food chain place to grab a bite in the Heights, look no further than Pepe’s Mexican Flavors. Smooshed in a plaza between Get Air and the dreaded BMV, Pepe’s is an adorable and quick Mexican food joint that offers a variety of tasty options for your next lunch break outing. I said it once, and I’ll say it again: I am so jealous of towns like Huber Heights and Englewood that have turned their ugly little flat plaza centers into cute family-owned diners and businesses. Yes, I’m looking at you, Foodtown and Fox’s Pizza. RIP. Despite my love for the stray kitty I saw lurking about in the former grocery store, I desperately wish we could have created space for a restaurant like Pepe’s where Foodtown now sits and rots.

All of that being said, it is what it is, and as I received my order from Pepe’s, Tipp City’s architecture was the last thing on my mind. Instead, the bursting empanada and mouth-watering guacamole took precedence. The empanada wasn’t the most breathtaking visual display. However, it was what was on the inside that counted. The croissant-like exterior was puffy and delicious, and blended perfectly when wrapped around seasoned shredded chicken, gooey cheese, and crunchy vegetables. I ordered the empanada because the picture looked different from any small beef-filled empanada I had ever eaten. Pepe’s empanada, in comparison, was huge, tasty, and what I would describe as the Mexican food version of a calzone. It was both delicious and very filling.

Although the empanada was a full course in itself, I made room for the warm and salted tortilla chips and incredible guacamole. This guacamole would point and laugh at Chipotle’s “fresh guac.” If someone told me this guacamole was single-handedly the reason Chipotle was rumored to be going bankrupt, I’d believe them. The avocado, lime, tomato, and onion mixture was seasoned with so much flavor that I debated finishing the cup with a spoon when I ran out of chips.

Pepe’s is a fun spot to grab a bite to eat when you’re passing through Huber Heights and tired of fast food. Their authentic Mexican cuisine, mixed with their kind staff and bright interior, makes for a great Lunch Break quick stop during a long week. I’ll definitely be returning next time for their guacamole and to try one of their many sweet treats.

Pepe’s Mexican Flavors, 6114 Chambersburg Road, Huber Heights.