Our History
A Family Legacy of Mexican Cuisine
The Beginning
Chet's father, Harry Bigelow French, established a tortilla factory in Escondido, California. Young Chet worked there after school delivering tortillas. Customer demand led Harry to open Cocina Del Charro, a Mexican restaurant adjacent to the factory.
A New Chapter
Chet and Shari married after meeting at "The Crazy Burro" in La Costa, California. They purchased the Poway location of Cocina from Harry and continued the family business.
Moving to Idaho
Seeking mountain living, Chet and Shari sold their California restaurants and relocated to Sandpoint, Idaho with their children Kelsey (4) and Tanner (2). Shari taught skiing at Schweitzer Mountain Resort while Chet managed the household.
Jalapeños Opens
The first Jalapeños Restaurant opened on Cedar Street in Sandpoint. The founders financed the venture by selling Shari's Volvo and maxing out credit cards - a true leap of faith!
New Home
The restaurant relocated to a renovated historic Elks building on 2nd Avenue, converting the former basketball court and lounge into the beloved dining space we know today.
20 Years & New Ownership
Jalapeños celebrated 20 years of serving the Sandpoint community. Shortly after, Justin Dick and Dave Vermeer, both experienced local restaurateurs, purchased the establishment from founders Chet and Shari French while maintaining the existing menu and dedicated staff.
