International Hot and Spicy Day highlights some of Yuma’s hottest salsa

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Some like it sweet, but for spice lovers, International Hot and Spicy Day is the perfect excuse to turn up the heat.

Plenty of local restaurants are known for their bold and spicy salsas, and two spots in particular stood out for delivering some of the hottest options in the city: Taco Salsa and Alvara Dos. The owners and staff shared what makes their salsas so intense - and which ones customers dare to try.

According to the restaurants, achieving that level of spice requires the right ingredients - especially the chiles.

At Alvara Two, owner Jesus Alvarado shared his two hottest options: chile serrano with chopped avocado, and a pico de pajaro and tomato based chile.

For Taco Salsa Restaurant, their spiciest option isn't even listed on the menu, but made upon request. It's main ingredient is red chile peppers and also includes some vinegar.

While some salsas are designed to challenge even seasoned spice lovers, others are more approachable - and customer favorites vary. Binney said Taco Salsa patrons tend to play it safe.

“They mostly go for the jalapeño salsa, but, a lot of our older customers go for the red salsa because it’s mild,” she said.

Whichever salsa you choose to indulge in to enjoy International Hot and Spicy day, you can't go wrong when trying the abundance of options in Yuma.