Executive Chef Sam helped open El Chile Pepper in the summer of 2011, with a vision of creating Ridgecrest's Mexican dining experience. Trained at The Culinary Institute of Michigan, The International School of Culinary Arts and the School of fine eating, Chef Sam infuses every dish he creates with his extensive knowledge and passion for perfection. Chef Sam started his career as a Chef for the Cordon Bleu, a well reviewed restaurant located in Michigan. Once word of his tasty signature dishes got out, offers from many well known restaurants landed on Chef Sam's plate. Although he had an affinity for the Cordon Bleu, Chef Sam knew that greater challenges and opportunities awaited him in Anytown, USA.

In 2011, Chef Sam began a career as head chef for El Chile Pepper. He was given room to experiment and created quite an eclectic menu. However, he never lost sight of his passion for authentic Sonoran cuisine. He knew that in order to create the dishes he wanted to share with the world, using only the freshest ingredients available, he would have to establish this  restaurant.

Chef Sam opened the doors of El Chile Pepper in the summer of 2011. Before he created his first dish, he vowed to use only the finest ingredients and prepare each dish with an infusion of passion and creativity. Critics have been raving ever since. Diners agree...EL CHILE PEPPER is Ridgecrest's best Mexican food and has been voted, "BEST BURGERS IN TOWN!"

El Chile Pepper is committed to serving only the finest foods, made with the freshest ingredients. All of our dishes are made fresh daily. Our traditional decor and friendly Staff are second to none!