El Donkey Introduce
Welcome to the vibrant world of New York's culinary scene, where every corner holds a new and exciting flavor. Among the bustling streets and iconic landmarks, you'll find a true gem for lovers of authentic Mexican cuisine: El Donkey. Nestled within the legendary Chelsea Market, this spot has carved out a reputation for serving up delicious, no-frills food that captures the heart and soul of traditional Mexican cooking. Whether you're a local seeking a new go-to or a visitor looking for a genuine taste of the city, El Donkey offers a warm, casual, and incredibly satisfying dining experience.
This isn't your typical sit-down restaurant; it's a place that thrives on a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on what truly matters—the food. Popular with both breakfast seekers and lunch crowds, El Donkey is a perfect choice for those who appreciate a quick, high-quality meal. It’s the kind of place you can grab a bite to eat solo without feeling out of place, making it an ideal destination for a spontaneous food adventure. With its reputation for fast service and friendly vibes, you'll find yourself coming back for more of their flavorful offerings.
From savory small plates to hearty comfort food, El Donkey brings a piece of Mexico to the heart of Manhattan. The menu is crafted to deliver big flavors in a manageable format, perfect for a quick snack or a fulfilling meal on the go. Let's take a closer look at what makes this spot a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic Mexican flavors in NYC.
Finding El Donkey is part of the fun. It's conveniently located inside the iconic Chelsea Market, a bustling hub of food, shopping, and culture. You can find this culinary hotspot at 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA. Its position within the market makes it a fantastic starting point for a day of exploring the area, whether you're heading to the High Line, wandering through the Meatpacking District, or just taking in the sights and sounds of one of New York's most famous indoor markets.
For those concerned about accessibility, El Donkey is ready to welcome everyone. The location boasts a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all guests can easily enjoy their delicious food. The central location in Chelsea Market makes it easily reachable via various public transportation options, and it’s a short walk from many of the city’s major attractions.
The surrounding neighborhood is a vibrant mix of historic architecture and modern energy, making the journey to El Donkey a treat in itself. Whether you arrive by subway, bus, or on foot, you’ll be immersed in the unique character of Chelsea before you even step inside.
El Donkey understands that New Yorkers are always on the go, which is why it offers flexible service options to fit your schedule.
- Takeout: Perfect for a quick lunch break or a delicious meal to enjoy at home. Their efficient service ensures your food is ready in a flash.
- Dine-in: The casual, inviting atmosphere makes it a great spot to sit, relax, and savor your meal. While it’s not a formal dining experience, the communal vibe of Chelsea Market enhances the experience.
- Quick Bite: Specializing in food that is delicious and easy to eat, El Donkey is the ideal spot for when you need a fast and satisfying meal.
- Small Plates: Explore a variety of flavors without committing to a single large dish. This is a great way to sample different items from the menu.
- Breakfast, Brunch, and Lunch: Whether you're starting your day with a flavorful breakfast or grabbing a midday meal, El Donkey has you covered. It's a popular choice for all three dining occasions.
The focus here is on convenience and quality. The menu is simple but packed with authentic taste, ensuring that no matter what you order, you're getting a genuine Mexican experience.
What sets El Donkey apart from other eateries? It's a combination of unique qualities that make it a local favorite.
- Fast Service: One of the most praised aspects of El Donkey is its speed. The staff works efficiently to get your food to you quickly without sacrificing quality. This is especially appreciated by the busy lunch crowd.
- Popular for Breakfast: Many people consider El Donkey their go-to spot for a morning meal. Their breakfast options, like the Chorizo Con Huevo, are known for their great taste and hearty portions, making them a perfect way to start your day.
- Authentic Offerings: The menu includes classic Mexican items like quesadillas and mulas with a variety of fillings such as Carne Asada, Pollo Asada, and Adobada. The flavors are authentic and well-loved by customers.
- Casual Atmosphere: The vibe is laid-back and welcoming. There's no pressure here; just a friendly place to enjoy good food.
- Good for Kids: If you're visiting Chelsea Market with family, El Donkey is a great stop. The simple menu and casual setting are perfect for younger diners.
- Comfort Food: The food at El Donkey is a warm and comforting experience. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good from the inside out.
- Credit Card Payments: They make paying easy by accepting all major credit cards.
These highlights make El Donkey a reliable and appealing option for anyone looking for a satisfying, unpretentious meal in the heart of NYC.
To get in touch or learn more about their offerings, you can contact El Donkey directly.
- Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA
- Phone: (212) 256-0343
Please note that this is the main phone number for the business. They do not accept orders via mobile phone. All information regarding their location, hours, and menu can be obtained by visiting the Chelsea Market or calling the provided number.
El Donkey stands out not because of extravagant decor or a complex menu, but because it delivers on a simple promise: great, authentic food, fast. What makes it a standout choice for anyone in New York City is its commitment to flavor and efficiency. For starters, the location is unbeatable. Being inside Chelsea Market puts you right in the center of one of the city's most exciting food and retail destinations. You can easily combine a delicious meal with a day of sightseeing and shopping.
The focus on simple, well-executed dishes means every bite is full of flavor. Customers rave about the authentic taste of the salsa that accompanies their burritos and the high-quality ingredients used in their quesadillas and plates. The Carne Asada and Pollo Asada options are popular, but the Nopal and Especial plates offer unique flavors that are worth trying for a more adventurous palate.
The "no-frills" approach is a huge plus for many. You’re not paying for a fancy dining experience; you’re paying for the food itself, which is both flavorful and affordable. Whether you're a student, a professional on a quick lunch break, or a family looking for a casual meal, the price point and quality are a winning combination.
As one customer review highlights, the burritos, though small, are packed with taste, and the salsa is described as "very flavorful with a nice spice." Another review praises the breakfast options, noting that even if you arrive early, you'll find a delicious meal like the Chorizo Con Huevo. The consensus is clear: while it may not be a high-end, special-occasion spot, it’s a reliable, delicious, and convenient choice that consistently satisfies. The fact that it's "popular for breakfast, lunch, and solo dining" speaks volumes about its versatility and appeal to a diverse crowd.
Ultimately, choosing El Donkey is choosing authenticity, convenience, and a truly satisfying meal. It's a local favorite for a reason, and it’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of real Mexican comfort food in the heart of New York City.
El Donkey Chelsea Market
Quesadillas and Mulas
- Carne Asada $4.75
- Pollo Asada $4.50
- Adobada $4.50
- Nopal $4.25
- Especial $5.75
On a Plate
- Nopal Plate $7.00
Comes served with cactus, beans and cheese.
El Donkey Details
Service options
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Fast service
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
Atmosphere
- Casual
Crowd
- Locals
Payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
El Donkey Photos










El Donkey Location
El Donkey Reviews
breakfast burritocostbaconsalsavendorssizechorizospicytacos
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Just a cart outside of the regular restaurant selling very skinny burritos. $6 a burrito but tou definitely need at least two. They are tastey and the salsa that comes with it is very flavorful with a nice spice. I got the a la Mexicana and the machaca. If I had to pick the mechanic was the better one but I did enjoy both. I wouldn't say drop everything to get here but if you're in the area and want to check it out I definitely would recommend.
January 31 · Matthew BlewittI got Chorizo Con Huevo. I was there to early and many vendors weren't open. It was small but the taste was good. So, i think it will be okay if you come there early and try to get breakfast first before hit the other foods.
January 15 · Vie LieAlmost don’t want to write a review to keep this place a hidden gem!Killer breakfast burrito, but not one you may be used to. It’s thinner but super flavorful. My personal go to is the beef and egg. Just works so well together.Don’t skimp out on the salsa. Super flavorful and has a nice kick. You could dunk a shoe in it and it would make it taste good.Burritos cost about $6 a pop. Pricy but worth it from time to time!
November 07 · Saddmun AhsanThey don’t make enough burritos to make this seem like anything more than a marketing trick; it’s hardly worth braving the tourist trap which is Chelsea Market for a burrito that runs out hours before their published closing time...the irony is that the burritos are made in that kitchen there...so rather than make more to meet demand, they close. I won’t be back.
November 09 · Chris SandemanThe California (bacon, egg, potato) is great. The size is perfect for eating on the go. I’d recommend getting two. Enjoy!
October 21 · David Dearman
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