Animo!: An Authentic Mexican Gem in Midtown East New York

Animo! Introduce

In the bustling heart of Midtown East, a culinary gem named Animo! stands out with its warm spirit and dedication to authentic Mexican cuisine. Located at 1004 2nd Avenue, this restaurant is more than just a place to grab a bite; it's a heartfelt promise of traditional Mexican flavors and genuine hospitality. The name "Animo!" itself, which loosely translates to "cheer up!" or "spirit," reflects the restaurant’s core mission: to provide a vibrant, uplifting dining experience. Founded by a trio of Mexican New Yorkers with years of experience in hospitality and culinary arts, Animo! prides itself on making everything from scratch—from the rich, house-made moles to the freshly baked pan dulce and handmade tortillas. This commitment to traditional methods and high-quality ingredients ensures that every dish is a true taste of Mexico, served with care and a sprinkle of optimism.

Animo! has quickly become a local favorite, known for bringing the "magic of an authentic Mexican breakfast" to New York City. The focus on morning rituals and all-day breakfast classics like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros sets it apart, offering a unique dining experience that caters to both early risers and those who crave breakfast for dinner. But the menu extends far beyond morning favorites, providing a comprehensive selection of tacos, tortas, and full entrées that showcase the depth and richness of Mexican culinary traditions. The atmosphere is a key part of the experience, with a casual and cozy ambiance that feels both elevated and personal. The interior, designed to evoke the warmth of Mexican landscapes and textiles, is a bright and welcoming space that invites guests to settle in and enjoy their meal.

Animo! is strategically located at 1004 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10022, USA, placing it in a prime position to serve the diverse crowd of Midtown East. Its spot at the intersection of Second Avenue and 53rd Street makes it easily accessible for anyone working in the nearby offices, living in the neighborhood, or exploring the city. While the space is noted by some as being "small" and cozy, it contributes to the intimate and warm atmosphere that fosters a sense of community. The restaurant's design, which features a vibrant, fluted façade and a terrazzo countertop, stands out and creates a distinct identity in the urban landscape. For those commuting, the location is well-served by public transportation, and for drivers, there is paid street parking available in the vicinity.

The restaurant's amenities are designed for a convenient and comfortable experience for every guest. The restrooms are gender-neutral and thoughtfully designed, with one reviewer noting the bathroom is "beautiful." The restaurant also provides high chairs and is "good for kids," making it a family-friendly destination.

Animo! offers a range of services to accommodate the diverse needs of its New York City clientele.

Dine-in service is available, providing a full-seating experience where you can enjoy the cozy atmosphere and attentive table service.
Delivery and takeout options are offered for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home or in the office, with convenient ordering through platforms and the restaurant's own system.
The restaurant accepts reservations, a useful feature for planning ahead and ensuring a table during busy dining hours.
Animo! features a bar on-site, serving a curated selection of alcohol, including cocktails, beer, and wine, to complement your meal.
Service is noted for being "impeccable," "attentive," and "polite," with staff dedicated to creating a welcoming and friendly environment.

Several highlights and key features make Animo! a standout choice for authentic Mexican cuisine in New York.

The menu is rooted in authenticity and prepared from scratch, with a focus on house-made ingredients like mole and tortillas, which a reviewer noted "made a big difference."
The restaurant offers an extensive "Breakfast All Day" menu, including popular items like Chilaquiles and Huevos Rancheros, as well as a selection of breakfast burritos and tacos.
Animo! is known for its "great coffee" and specialty drinks, with popular choices like the Horchata Latte and the traditional Café de Olla prepared with cinnamon sticks and piloncillo.
The in-house bakery, which creates the popular pan dulce, is a major draw, with items like the Conchas and Kekito de Pan de Elote being praised as "so fresh" and "artisanal."
The restaurant’s fast service and quick-bite options make it a convenient spot for a casual meal, whether you’re dining in or taking out.
Animo! is a place that truly caters to a variety of tastes, from those seeking a healthy option to those craving comfort food and small plates.

You can find Animo! at the following address and contact them at the numbers below:

1004 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10022, USA

Phone: (212) 837-1791

Mobile Phone: +1 212-837-1791

When choosing where to eat in Midtown East, Animo! is worth selecting for a number of compelling reasons. The authentic, scratch-made food is a huge draw. As one reviewer attested, dishes like the Sopes de Cochinita Pibil and the Milanesa de Chuleta are "so good," and the Carne Asada Ribeye is cooked to perfection. The Chilaquiles are a fan favorite, often called "the best in New York," and the restaurant's Tres Leches cake is a must-try dessert, described as "4/5, thick and moist" by one happy customer and "one of the best desserts I have ever had" by another.

The restaurant also caters to diverse palates with its inclusive menu. Vegetarians and vegans will find tasty options like the vegan chorizo tacos and the Chile Relleno. A customer with dietary restrictions noted that the staff was able to "accommodate everything," showcasing their flexibility and attentiveness.

The atmosphere and service complete the exceptional dining experience. The staff is consistently described as "super welcoming and helpful," and "attentive and polite," making every visit feel special. The casual and cozy vibe makes it a comfortable spot for a solo meal or a catch-up with friends. The unique dining system, where you order via a QR code at the table, is efficient and convenient. From the moment you step in and see the daily selection of pan dulce in the window to your last bite of a perfect dessert, Animo! provides a dining experience that is both authentic and deeply satisfying, making it a true neighborhood gem and a perfect choice for anyone looking for great Mexican food in New York City.

Animo! Food & drink

Pan Dulce
Rol De Canela $5.75
Sweet rolls, cinnamon, piloncillo syrup
Conchas $5.50
Most popular Pan Dulce. Sweet bread, vanilla or chocolate crust
Kekito De Pan De Elote $5.50
Mexican Sweet corn cake made with fresh corn kernels (GF)
Pan De Yo-Yo $5.75
Freshly baked pastry with strawberry jam center and coated with sugar.

Para Empezar
Guacamole $16.00
Avocado, serrano, chips (Ve,GF)
Granola With Yogurt & Fruit $14.50
House-made Granola, Vanilla Yogurt, Fresh Fruit(V) *contains nuts
Sopa De Tortilla $14.00
Chicken and Tomato-based broth, Crispy tortillas, Panela cheese (GF)
Avocado Toast - Animo! Style $15.00
House-made bolillo, smashed avocado, Cotija cheese, pico de gallo, cilantro (Vegetarian)
Ensalada Mexicana $12.50
Cilantro lime vinaigrette, Avocado, Queso Fresco, Fresh fruit (GF, V)
Grilled Panela Cheese $12.50

Breakfast All Day
Chilaquiles $18.00
Fried corn tortilla, sunny side-up egg, Red or green Salsa
Enchiladas Verdes $18.50
Corn tortillas, green tomatillo salsa, crema, queso fresco. Choice of Chicken or Cheese (GF)
Huevos Rancheros $16.00
Eggs sunny side up on Fried Tortillas, Red and Green Salsa. (GF,V)
Huevos Al Gusto $15.00
Eggs - almost any style. Fried, scrambled, egg whites. Accompanied with avocado and refried beans topped with queso fresco
Molletes $13.50
House-made Bolillo, Refried Beans, Chihuahua Cheese, Pico de Gallo (V)
Hot Cakes With Glorias $16.50
Fluffy pancakes filled with Glorias-a caramel candy filled with tree nuts.

Breakfast Burritos
Burrito Mañanero - Barbacoa & Eggs $19.00
Breakfast Burrito wrapped with a flour tortilla, filled with Scrambled eggs, Crema, onions, cilantro, Avocado slices, Oaxaca Cheese and Refried Beans
Burrito Mañanero - Sonora Style $17.00
Home Made Flour Tortilla filled with chorizo egg, Lettuce, Tomato, and Chipotle mayo

El Burrito
Burrito Vaquero $19.00
Steak, Chihuahua cheese, pico de gallo, avocado, refried pinto beans, flour tortilla , topped with avocado salsa and crema
Burrito De Trompo $19.00
Flour Tortilla filled with slow Roasted pastor, pina salsa (mild), Pineapple, onion, lettuce, chihuahua cheese, and avocado salsa.

Breakfast Tacos
Huevo Con Barbacoa $17.00
2 tacos Scrambled egg, Beef barbacoa, Smashed avocado
Huevo Con Chorizo $15.00
Scrambled eggs, Mexican chorizo, Corn tortilla. 2 per order
Huevo A La Mexicana $14.50
2 tacos, Scrambled egg with tomato, onion, and serrano chile. With refried beans and avocado wrapped in a flour tortilla or homemade corn tortilla.
Frijol Con Chorizo Vegano $13.50
2 tacos Refried beans, Vegan chorizo

Los Tacos
Bistec $15.50
2 tacos, Corn tortilla, Grilled Steak (GF)
Al Pastor $14.50
2 tacos Corn tortilla, Pork meat, Adobo Sauce, Pineapple. (GF)
Pollo $14.50
2 tacos Corn tortilla, Grilled Chicken (GF)

Breakfast Tortas
Torta Huevo A La Mexicana $17.00
Homemade bolillo filled with scrambled egg, tomato, onion, and serrano chile. With refried beans, Oaxaca cheese and avocado
Torta De Huevo Con Chorizo $18.00
House-made bolillo, Scrambled eggs, Mexican chorizo, Oaxaca cheese, Refried beans, Avocado

Tortas
Torta De Milanesa $18.00
House-made Bolillo, Chicken Cutlet, Refried beans, Oaxaca Cheese
Torta De Pastor $18.00
House-made bolillo, Marinated pork al pastor, Oaxaca cheese, Refried beans, Avocado
Torta De Queso Panela $16.50
House-made Bolillo, Panela Cheese, Refried Beans (V)

Quesadillas & Gringas
Mushroom Queso Al Comal $12.50
Cooked tortillas (corn or flour) al comal style with Oaxaca cheese and mushrooms filling. (Gf if corn tortilla)
Mushroom Queso Quesadilla (Frito) $12.50
Fried Corn Tortilla with mushrooms and Oaxaca cheese filling. Topped with Mexican crema, Salsa Rojo and Verde. GF
Potato With Vegan Chorizo Al Comal $12.50
Cooked tortillas (corn or flour) al comal style with potato and vegan chorizo filling. (Gf if corn tortilla). Vegan
Potato Chorizo (Frito) Quesadilla $12.50
Fried corn tortilla with potato and vegan chorizo filling. Topped with Cashew crema. Vegan
Gringa $14.00

Antojitos Mexicanos
Flautas $16.50
Fried corn tortilla, Guacamole, Mexican Crema, Queso Fresco. Refried Beans and Lettuce (GF)
Sopes De Cochinita Pibil $13.00
Cpchinita pibil, pico de gallo, crema, refried pinto beans, queso fresco.
Corn Esquites $9.00
Corn, Mayo, Cotija, Takis (V)

Sides
Platito De Fruta $8.00
Mixed seasonal fruit
Rebanadas De Aguacate $5.50
Avocado slices
Arroz A La Mexicana $5.00
Rice cooked in tomato broth, with carrots and corn
Frijoles Refritos $5.00
Refried beans with queso fresco
Arroz Con Frijoles $7.50
Extra Tortillas (3) $3.00

Desserts
Pastel De Tres Leches $12.00
Sponge cake soaked in Three Milks
Pastel Diplomatico $12.00
Chocolate Cake, Flan
Cheesecake De Mazapan $12.00

Salsas
Salsa Roja $1.00
Salsa Verde $1.00
Salsa De Pina $1.00
Salsa Macha $3.00
Avocado Salsa $2.00
Crema $1.00
Cashew Crema $1.00

Para Empezar
Guacamole $16.00
Avocado, serrano, chips (Ve,GF)
Sopes De Cochinita Pibil $13.00
Cpchinita pibil, pico de gallo, crema, refried pinto beans, queso fresco.
Grilled Panela Cheese $12.50

Mains
Huevos Norteños $20.00
Machaca (shredded dried beef),Scrambled eggs, Onions, Tomatoes, Peppers, Refried beans, Flour Tortillas
Chilaquiles $18.00
Fried corn tortilla, sunny side-up egg, Red or green Salsa
Enchiladas Verdes $18.50
Corn tortillas, green tomatillo salsa, crema, queso fresco. Choice of Chicken or Cheese (GF)
Torta De Huevo Con Chorizo $18.00
House-made bolillo, Scrambled eggs, Mexican chorizo, Oaxaca cheese, Refried beans, Avocado
Hot Cakes With Glorias $16.50
Fluffy pancakes filled with Glorias-a caramel candy filled with tree nuts.
Migas Con Huevo $15.00
Scrambled eggs, Crispy tortilla strips, Tomatoes, Onions, Peppers
Huevos Rancheros $16.00
Eggs sunny side up on Fried Tortillas, Red and Green Salsa. (GF,V)
Molletes $13.50
House-made Bolillo, Refried Beans, Chihuahua Cheese, Pico de Gallo (V)
Granola With Yogurt & Fruit $14.50
House-made Granola, Vanilla Yogurt, Fresh Fruit(V) *contains nuts
Huevos Montados (Steak And Eggs) $25.00
Ribeye steak, fried eggg, refried beans, enchilada verde, queso fresco.
Burrito Vaquero $19.00
Steak, Chihuahua cheese, pico de gallo, avocado, refried pinto beans, flour tortilla , topped with avocado salsa and crema
Burrito Mañanero - Sonora Style $17.00
Home Made Flour Tortilla filled with chorizo egg, Lettuce, Tomato, and Chipotle mayo
Burrito Mañanero - Barbacoa & Eggs $19.00
Breakfast Burrito wrapped with a flour tortilla, filled with Scrambled eggs, Crema, onions, cilantro, Avocado slices, Oaxaca Cheese and Refried Beans

Los Tacos
Huevo Con Chorizo $15.00
Scrambled eggs, Mexican chorizo, Corn tortilla. 2 per order
Huevo Con Barbacoa $17.00
2 tacos Scrambled egg, Beef barbacoa, Smashed avocado
Al Pastor $14.50
2 tacos Corn tortilla, Pork meat, Adobo Sauce, Pineapple. (GF)
Frijol Con Chorizo Vegano $13.50
2 tacos Refried beans, Vegan chorizo

Sides
Platito De Fruta $8.00
Mixed seasonal fruit
Arroz Con Frijoles $7.50
Pico And Chips $6.00
Fresh Pico de Gallo with a side of chips.
Rebanadas De Aguacate $5.50
Avocado slices
Frijoles Refritos $4.50
Refried beans with queso fresco
Arroz A La Mexicana $4.50
Rice cooked in tomato broth, with carrots and corn
Extra Tortillas (3) $3.00

Especiales
Chilaquiles De Mole $32.00
Fried tortilla chips tossed in rich, house made mole and topped with shredded chicken, red onions, crema, cilantro, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Served with a side of refried beans. **Contains peanuts and tree nuts**

Para Empezar
Pork Belly Chicharron $18.00
Pork Belly Chicharron Guacamole, Corn Tortilla
Tostaditas De Atun $20.00
3 corn tostadas, Tuna Avocado,leeks, Sesame Seeds, Chipotle Mayo (GF)
Roasted Poblano Soup $14.50
Roasted Poblano pepper soup
Cesar Salad $14.50
Homemade Jalapeno ceaser dressing, cotija cheese, croutons
Grilled Panela Cheese $12.50
Guacamole $16.00
Avocado, serrano, chips (Ve,GF)
Aguachiles $19.50

La Comida
Carne Asada Ribeye $44.00
Marinated pan seared ribeye steak, charred shishito, chard salsa verde.
Huachinango A La Veracruzana $41.00
Pan seared red snapper, sauce made of onion, tomatoes, garlic, chiles, olives, capers, housemade red snapper broth (GF)
Carne A La Tampiqueña $39.00
Marinated pan-seared Arrachera, Queso Fresco, Cheese Enchilada, Rice, Beans Guacamole
Milanesa De Chuleta $35.00
Breaded pork chop, breadcrumbs, chipotle salsa, Roasted sweet potato Au Gratin
Chilaquiles De Mole $32.00
Fried tortilla chips tossed in rich, house made mole and topped with shredded chicken, red onions, crema, cilantro, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Served with a side of refried beans. **Contains peanuts and tree nuts**
Enchiladas De Mole Poblano $31.00
Shredded Chicken, corn tortillas, Homemade Mole, poblano, sesame seeds, crema lettuce (GF) ** Contains Peanuts and Tree nuts**
Pollo Asado Con Recado Negro $31.00
Half Chicken marinated with Recado Negro, then pan roasted to perfection. Watermelon Salad.
Enchiladas De Cochinita Pibil $29.00
Slow-roasted achiote-marinated pork, Corn tortillas chihuahua cheese (GF)
Chile Relleno $27.00
Roasted Poblano pepper, coated with egg whites, queso blanco, red salsa, avocado salsa, crema (V)
Tacos Gobernador $24.00
3 tacos sinaloa style tacos, sauteed shrimp, onions, poblano and toamte mix. chihuahua cheese, corn tortilla
Tacos Al Pastor $22.00
3 tacos, corn tortilla marinated, slow roasted pork pineapple, onions, cilantro
Tacos De Pollo $21.00
3 Tacos corn tortilla, grilled chicken, onions, cilantro.

Los Tacos
Tacos Gobernador $24.00
3 tacos sinaloa style tacos, sauteed shrimp, onions, poblano and toamte mix. chihuahua cheese, corn tortilla
Tacos Al Pastor $22.00
3 tacos, corn tortilla marinated, slow roasted pork pineapple, onions, cilantro
Tacos De Pollo $21.00
3 Tacos corn tortilla, grilled chicken, onions, cilantro.

Breakfast for Dinner
Huevos Nortenos $27.50
Torta De Huevo Con Chorizo With Fries $25.00
House-made bolillo, scrambled eggs, mexican chorizo, oaxaca cheese, refried beans, avocado, and side of fries.
Classic Chilaquiles $24.00
Fried corn tortilla, sunny side-up egg, Red or green salsa, choice of chicken or al pastor. Avocado

Sides
Arroz Con Frijoles $7.50
Ensalada De Casa $6.50
Fries $7.50
Ensalada De Nopal $7.50
Handmade Corn Tortilla (3) $3.00
Flour Tortilla (3) $3.00

Salsas
Salsa Roja $1.00
Salsa Verde $1.00
Salsa De Pina $1.00
Salsa Macha $3.00
Avocado Salsa $2.00
Crema $1.00
Cashew Crema $1.00
Mole $5.00

Classic Coffee
Latte $5.50
Espresso and frothed hot milk topped with a little foam
Cappuccino $5.50
Espresso and frothed hot milk topped with extra foam
Iced Coffee $5.50
Chilled brewed coffee poured over ice
Assorted Teas $5.50
Hot water and assorted tea flavors from Rishi.
Americano $4.50
Classic coffee beverage. Espresso and hot water
Brewed Coffee $4.00
Brewed hot coffee

Specialty Drinks
Horchata Latte $7.50
Espresso, House-made Horchata
Latte Con Vainilla Mexicana $8.00
Espresso, Mexican Vanilla Syrup
Café De Olla $5.50
Coffee prepared in a clay pot, cinnamon sticks, and piloncillo
Moca Maya $7.00
Espresso, Mexican Cacao, Cayenne Pepper
Chocolita $5.50

Jugos Frescos
Jugo Verde $9.00
Nopales, orange, celery and pineapple
Jugo De Naranja $8.00
Freshly squeezed orange juice

Aguas Frescas
Horchata $5.50
Cinnamon spiced rice milk
Jamaica $5.50
Iced hibiscus tea.
Tamarindo $5.50
Watermelon $5.50

Soda
Topo Chico $5.00
Jarritos $5.00
Mexican Coca Cola $5.00
Acqua Panna $4.50
Diet Coke $4.50

Animo! Details

Service options
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Great coffee

Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Offerings
Alcohol
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Small plates

Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating

Amenities
Bar onsite
Gender-neutral restroom
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy

Planning
Accepts reservations

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Parking
Paid street parking

Animo! Photos

Animo! Location

Animo!

New York New York County New York 2nd Avenue

1004 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10022, USA

Animo! Reviews

An average rating of ★4.9 from 375 user reviews.

pastrieschilaquilesconchascafe de ollahot chocolatevanillabreakfast tacohuevos rancherospan dulcehorchata latte

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

This was my first visit, and overall, it was a pleasant experience. However, the seating was not what I expected, you will be sitting really close to other people, the place is small, which might not be ideal for everyone.Ordering is done through a QR code, and the food is brought to your table, which was convenient. The cappuccino was good, but the brewed coffee was too bitter for my liking. The vegan Chiroso tacos were tasty, while the huevos rancheros were average. The tortillas are not traditional Mexican tortillas; they have a texture more similar to naan. Tres leches cake was 4/5, think and moist. The bathroom is beautiful.
March 18 · Sony Veliz
My friend and I got the restaurant week deal! The food was so good and the service was impeccable! The waitstaff was very attentive and polite. Our favorite was the Sopes de Conchinita Pibil (pork sopes) and the Milanesa de Chuleta (pork cutlet with sweet potato gratin). The guac was good too! Thank you!
August 11 · CA Beriana
I loved this restaurant! My husband and I had passed by a few weeks before and looked at the menu and immediately felt interested! The food did not disappoint! Everything was very flavorful, not too spicey and delicious! The mocktail was so refreshing! And the servers were very friendly and welcoming! Definitely coming back 👍🏼
August 23 · Yessenia Castilla
I’ve been coming here for breakfast on a weekly basis and it’s so authentically delicious. The staff is super personable and friendly. They recently opened up for dinner; both drinks and food are equally amazing. This is definitely my favorite neighborhood to visit and bring friends.
August 22 · Yuna Gu
This is our second time and honestly, we loved everything. The portions were good and the food in general tastes amazing. The drinks were also perfect, we had the cadillac and the piña margaritas absolutely a 5/5. We ordered a couple of tacos (al pastor were our favorite), nothing is extremely spicy and that is a plus for me. As antrees got the cochinita enchiladas and the carne asada and let me tell you the steak was cooked perfectly as we wanted (medium rare). We saved some room for dessert and it did not disappoint either the mazapan cheesecake was amazing!! Perfectly balanced. The staff is very friendly and attentive.We're definitely coming back!
March 16 · Juan Sebastian Quintero Niño