Since its founding more than 10 years ago Mexican Spice has carved out a special place in the local restaurant community, shaking up the food scene with bold flavors, culinary passion, and community spirit.
A cozy dine‑in and take‑out eatery, the restaurant has earned a reputation for delivering an unabashedly authentic taste of Mexico City.
Behind the venture is Mexico City native Jennifer Teutli, who started the eatery as a modest catering business that blossomed into a commercial kitchen making appearances at a nearby farmers market.
“Being at the market was a great way for people to get to know us and our food.”
The demand for her cuisine grew, and so did the business. Today, Mexican Spice is a vibrant and colorful little restaurant located at 149 Main St., in Chatham.
The business also has two taco trucks and a mobile Cantina truck offering homemade margarita mixers with original flavors like Spicy Tamarind and Hibiscus Mint, and has Mariachis on call. In the past year they have catered over 100 parties, including graduations birthdays, showers, golf outings, and corporate events.
The flavor of Mexican Spice draws heavily on Jennifer’s roots as an immigrant.
“I was born and raised in Mexico City, so the flavors and presentation are very important. It’s also important to note that all our staff and family is also made up of immigrants, including my manager Jeronimo, my daughter Nico, and the rest of the incredible staff that work in the kitchen.
“When we moved to Chatham I didn’t know a single person. But this amazing community took me right in and allowed me to raise my family and grow my business, and now I truly feel like a permanent and active member of this community”.
Which is why it is so important, she says, to foster the same atmosphere for anyone who works with her.
“Most of my employees come from deeply difficult backgrounds, and are also all alone, working long days but fully committed and very loyal.
“We have created our own support network within Mexican Spice. There is lots of laughter, sweat and tears, but definitely a sense of family. There is a collection of stories, emotions, experiences, miles traveled and overcoming all sorts of challenges. For us, this is the SPICE of Life!
“Mexican Spice is such a big part of my life. And after all this time, I absolutely love what I do! I love knowing that even when we are traveling we are thinking about what flavors and experiences we can bring back to share. I can honestly say that behind every bite there is hard work, sacrifice, experiences, emotions and thousands of miles travelled!”
Mexican Spice is open Monday through Saturday with indoor and outdoor seating. The eatery offers a pickup and delivery options and has a grab-and-go deli case with family size offerings.
For hours, full menus and other information, visit Mexicanspice.net.