Jalapeno's location closes for renovations

Finding spicy salsa, enchiladas or burritos just got harder for customers in south Fort Myers with the closing of Jalapeno’s restaurant.

The eatery, which specializes in Mexican fare, has closed for extensive interior and exterior renovations, forcing customers to travel north for tacos.

“The building is outdated and we are looking to remodel the facade, the inside, but we haven’t figured out what the final plans are,” said Mark Salameh, part-owner of the restaurant that opened in 2002. “We will improve the club side and restaurant, too.”

The improvements will also include a diversified menu that might include seafood or continental items.

“We are taking advantage of the slow season but these days with the economy it’s worse,” said Salameh, noting that the restaurant might reopen in October or November.

The other two Jalapeno’s restaurants, one at Edison Mall’s food court and one on Cleveland Avenue, will remain open and no changes are planned.

In the meantime, Jalapeno’s will remain open for private functions, such as parties, weddings, or as a lounge.

“We are weighing our options and our permit is active so we have time,” he said.

The property, Salameh said, is not for sale, which is different from what has happened at that location over the years.

The restaurant has had a strong following despite a string of other eateries — Brown Derby, Tumbleweeds Olde West Grill & Bar, Fernando’s of Martha’s Vineyard, Buster Crabs and Luca Blooms Mediterranean Grill — that couldn’t keep their doors open.

“Now we hear everyone say, ‘You broke the curse,’” said Don Richbourg, a manager at Jalapeno’s during an interview when the restaurant first opened. “It’s not the location that’s so important. It’s putting in something nobody else has but people want.”