Jimi'z Southwest Grill -CLOSED

Are Redding diners curious and adventuresome or fickle and capricious? They enthusiastically anticipate a restaurant's opening. They even stand in line to sample the newest local cuisine. But what happens after the initial nosh? If the lunch crowd at Jimi'z Southwest Grill is any measure, they will be back. Jimi'z Southwest Grill is in one of Redding's circular buildings in the Park Marina Village, at 2633 Park Marina Drive.

Jimi'z Southwest Grill

With its round buildings and Trading Post facade, the vintage Park Marina Village reflects the straightforward cuisine and casual attitude at Jimi'z Southwestern Grill. While the shingled outside is rustic, the interior is western chic. The exposed beams lend a sense of natural style to the light-filled restaurant. The menu is a mixture of dishes inspired by Mexican food, bar snacks, and sandwiches. There are tacos, fajitas, and chili rellenos. Appetizers like Beer Battered Mushrooms and Hot Wings are also included with hamburgers and sandwiches. Country music can be heard playing when passing the kitchen. Think eating home-style cooking in the Southwest.

Jimi'z Owners Jim and Nanette Shaw

As I was anticipating regional cuisine inspired by Mexican food, I was confused by the deli sandwiches. An experienced restaurateur, Nanette explained that the eclectic menu includes former customer favorites. It seems the Cuban Sandwich is also very popular with Redding diners. Jimi'z bread is made by the former tenant, Homecraft Bread, a promising start to any sandwich. As I wanted to experience the uniquely Southwest aspect of the restaurant, I ordered, on separate occasions, both the Indian Tostado and the Breakfast Sopapilla. 

Jimi'z Indian Tostado

At lunch, I was given the choice of the last two available tables. With windows for walls, every seat has a view. Chips and salsa appeared on the table, along with menus, shortly after sitting down. The spicy house-made salsa will be a favorite with garlic lovers. The tostado was constructed on Indian Fry Bread. It came with options: chili, pulled pork, chicken, shredded beef or veggies. I ordered the chili, which combined with the dense fry bread, was verging on guilty pleasure territory. 

Chips and Salsa

Always on a quest for new breakfast venues, I was intrigued to see Jimi'z has a breakfast menu. It includes omelets, pancakes and house-created Corned Beef Hash, along with Mexican inspired breakfast items. I ordered the Breakfast Sopapilla and coffee. My Sopapilla was stuffed with exceptionally well-prepared scrambled eggs and bits of bacon. It was topped with Jimi's specialty chili sauce, both red and green.  The generous plate was filled out with pinto beans and potatoes. Those who relish an honest cup’a joe, will enjoy the refills of hot coffee with their breakfast.  

Breakfast Sopapilla

Jimi'z has a neighborhood energy. The restaurant opens early and closes after dinner. Jim is in the kitchen and can make most dishes vegetarian, including the burgers. The vegan selection is limited, but the black beans are a yummy start. Nanette is planning some redecorating that highlights work by local artists. A large covered dining patio should be completed in time for summer dining. The inside restaurant seating accommodates smaller parties in the front, as well as large gatherings in the back. Check out Facebook for Daily Specials. 

Western Chic

Breakfast and Lunch selections are below $10. Dinner items go up to $18.99 for Steak Mojo Fajitas. Breakfast is served from at 6AM to 11PM. The Southwest Flair menu begins at 11pm and Jimi'z Specialty Entree menu is served after 5PM. Takeout is available from 7am to 9pm.