El Kallejon

"This is the best Mexican restaurant I’ve been to in NYC... And I’m speaking as someone born and raised in NYC. Please don’t waste your time on places that serve inauthentic food. This place offers fresh and delicious dishes and incredible drinks. I have certain dietary restrictions and the chef crafted a meal specifically for me at a very fair price. Make an effort to come to this place! The vibe is impeccable. As a writer, I loved this spot for writing, drinking and eating absolutely delicious and healing food. Support this business. They are truly the best!"

"I have a hard time rating this place because it truly was a nice dinner, great atmosphere and unique experience. However, I can't help feeling a bit blindsided and overcharged for the "omakase." The assortment consisted of some variation of the items already on the menu, he simply selected them for us. Charged $480 for 5 people to share maybe 10 small plates (would be considered appetizers in any other restaurant). We tried to ask more about it and were told there would be "lots of food, family style" but even getting extra chips seemed to be a big ask. The drinks seem interesting on paper, but the flavors are underwhelming and judging by how I felt after 3 of them, I am highly skeptical of the alcohol content. In the end, this is a no for me. Definitely bigger bangs for your buck in this neighborhood."

"It's not often that I give a restaurant all five across the board but if anybody deserves it it's this place. This non-traditional but super authentic Mexican restaurant is probably the best Mexican food I've ever had in my life. Every single dish was delicious. The chef comes out and talks to you and is willing to make dishes to your liking. This place is so cute and fun and the atmosphere is so cozy you might never want to leave. If you go to one restaurant in 2024 this should be it."

"El Kallejon is cozy, but full of flavor and boldness. Nestor loves food, and surprised me with delicious handcrafted specialties like baby shark tostadas. He even has brains and escargot on his menu! The food and drinks here are spectacular. I can’t wait to go back."

"The service and atmosphere were nice! However, the food was 5/10 and way overpriced in my opinion. 3 appetizer like dishes and 2 happy hour drinks $95+. Waiter/owner asked if I wanted chips and guacamole dip as I sat down, which made me think it was complementary, however it is not. Be mindful of that! Overall, the owner/waiter was awesome! The restaurant is nice inside. Very authentic! The owner really enjoys cooking and takes pride in his dishes. I trusted his recommendations, however, I wasn’t too impressed with the food!"