Popular taco chain defeats lawsuit over salsa that was ‘too spicy’

WorldFood
17 Mar 2026 • 5:07 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A German tourist, Faycal Manz, sued a New York City taqueria, Los Tacos No.1, claiming its green salsa was excessively spicy.
  • Manz alleged he experienced severe physical and emotional distress, including a burning tongue, soaring heart rate and gastrointestinal issues, after consuming the salsa in August 2024.
  • He sought $100,000 in damages, arguing the restaurant failed to adequately warn customers about the salsa's heat, which he found shocking as someone unaccustomed to spicy food.
  • Judge Dale E. Ho dismissed the case, stating that 'the spice is often the point' of salsa and that Manz could have easily discovered its potential spiciness through a quick online search.
  • Los Tacos No.1 successfully argued Manz's discomfort was due to his own negligence, and court documents revealed the restaurant's signage labeled the green salsa as 'medium'.

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