This is an absolute gem in East Harlem and deserves so much more praise and attention than it gets. The food is INCREDIBLE, and every time I go I try a new dish or ask the chef to serve whatever he wants and it ALWAYS blows my mind. The way he creates the most elevated and authentic Mexican cuisine deserves an award. Come hungry, open your mind, say yes to the custom drinks, and try a variety of the tapas size portions. You'll leave happy, I guarantee it. read more

Food+Service+Ambiance=Amazing! Saw this spot on TikTok so we came by on a Sunday afternoon and were impressed! Nestor is a one man show! The El Kallejon Guac is AMAZING! Yellowfin tacos and the Huipil de Maiz was on point! Perfect portions for two people who don't overeat!! read more

El Kallejon - Huipil de Maiz - Tapas Bars Near Me - New York, New York

I've been a few times just popping in for a drink or light bite. I think the chef and owner is very creative and passionate about his work. The menu is mixed with creativity and raw Mexican food options that puts tacos to bed. The service is good, it's usually quiet so you kinda get treated like a special guest. Overall ambiance is colorful and Mexicanesque, filled with paraphernalia from Mexico. It has a nice feel. There's also a little outside , back yard area. My only complaint is that the drinks aren't strong at all ansi find it to be a bit pricey. read more

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This floor level (semi basement) Mexican oasis in east harlem is a gem!! The chef is from Mexico City and has recreated some of the comfort food and dishes from his home city. The food is all delicious and fairly priced (for Manhattan). There is an extensive cocktail list and it's all very tasty. The setting is super unique, as it used to be an apartment and now resembles a Mexican garage/love letter to Cuidad de Mexico. Highly recommend a slow, casual dinner with a date or friends here! Stay a while and soak in the vibes and history of the place. read more

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A feast for all of your senses! So much to see, live music and very tasty food. Best sangria I've ever had. Top that off with friendly and attentive service (possibly from the owner). read more

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Grossly overpriced for East Harlem 16 bucks for guacamole The principle appeared to be under the influence and had a snarky not inviting tone to his voice There's so many wonderful real Authentic Mexican restaurants in this area I definitely recommend passing on this one read more

It was good and the decorations are nice. Unfortunately, considering the portion and taste, in relation to the price, it's not really worth it. I really wanted to like this place but it's just okay. read more

El Kallejon - Tapas Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Easily one of the most fun and unique restaurants in the city. It is a straight up party. From the instant you walk through the door, El Kallejon is vibrant, eccentric, and colorful. The walls, bar, and nearly every surface imaginable are bedecked with miscellaneous baubles and trinkets. And the menu keeps the party going. Most of the food offerings are smallish, tapas-style portions. All of them are delicious and perfect for sharing. We have come a few times for dinner, but it's also great for pre or post-dinner drinks, snacks, apps, or desserts. Regardless of the occasion, it's a an awesome, lively place to bring friends. read more

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Small restaurant with very small portions of food and very decent drinks. Over loaded with decorations. Service was one of the worst the guy who take the order he messed up everything. At the end when we ask the check he had charged extra drinks and different food the check was almost the double price of what we should pay . We take the menu and check the prices of what we take at the table and our drinks we waited down for him. We did the math we add the taxes we pay and we left. Very disappointed. read more

I had an amazing time here at El Kallejon. The food is so tasty and very fresh. The service is super friendly and polite. The ambiance is super cozy and chic. 5 stars. read more

Pros Located in East Harlem Lively aesthetics Creative aesthetics Colorful aesthetics Eccentric aesthetics One of a kind aesthetics Authentic food Fresh & superb food Small business Welcoming ambiance Funny and caring chef... Enersto? Outside seating area Accommodating chef Interesting cocktails Cons Limited vegetarian option Limited menu option $$$ Best Mexican food I've ever had! read more

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The fish tacos were small but really good. The fry was perfect and just yummy. The service was good, very cute and colorful and fun inside as well. Only had a small fan so was quite hot during July. They had a restroom which was nice. read more

El Kallejon - Fish tacos - Tapas Bars Near Me - New York, New York

We came late one Friday for cocktails. The owner greeted us very warmly upon arrival. We ordered drinks, guacamole, and customized the queso without shrimp. Very cozy vibes. Loved the bench seating in the back. Would recommend for date nights, catching up with friends, bringing out of towners, and bonding with colleagues. Everything was so fresh and obviously made with love. Staff is really kind, as well. Will def be back!! read more

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Food was so good and creative, the restaurant was so nice and authentic and the service was wonderful 10 out of 10! read more

I stumbled by this cute restaurant while waiting for my reservation at another nearby eatery. I went in looking for a quick cocktail to pass time. The establishment is very cute and modest. It gives the vibe of a very small family owned business. My waitress was the cutest and very polite. While I was there, I had a cocktail and an "entree" We did wait a while, but I did not mind. With the eclectic decor, I felt I was abroad on holiday. The space is very small and intimate. Date night perfect. My cocktail was different and house crafted. And when my "entree" arrived, I was a little surprised as it was a small plate. Only now that I am writing this review do I see this restaurant listed as tapas.I did not mind the portion being smaller but not what I expected for a shrimp and crab quesadilla. My friends entree the same. It worked out perfectly for us because we originally did not go in for dinner, so this was the perfect appetizer. I will say the fish tacos were really good. I really enjoyed the experience and would go back. The only suggestion I would give management is to either include gratuity or find a system that after a person pays, they can sign and add tip. It felt awkward with the tip situation. Not only do I recommend but hope to return soon. read more

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I came here a while back and I did not complete the review. This place was absolutely delicious. The food was delicious and he even gave us samples of other things on the menu. The flatbread was very good and a great option for sharing. The flatbread had the right amount of ingredients. The drinks were very good and I would definitely be back. I look forward to returning and trying other items. Their smoked fish tacos are amazing; it is very small but is very flavorful. They also have postcards and it is a very nice concept. The interior has a nice vibe and colorful. I believe they have outdoor dining but it was cold and we preferred to sit inside. read more

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Well, this was a lovely surprise. Thoughtfully crafted dishes with a Central or D.F. Cuisine heritage feel. ¡El sabor! The charming owner was there and attended to our late night visit, as if we were the only people in the world. Cool and clever decor, the whole experience was great. I wish I had taken pictures. Will be back soon. read more

Decided I wanted to get a drink after work as there was no rush to come home and my coworker found this out near by and I wasn't too familiar with the place even being a local for the area. I was like ets go , it had good ratings let's give it a try! The restaurant is in the block next to another restaurant but you wouldn't think to come down this block regularly as it's right around the corner from 116th. The place wasn't busy when we got there and found seating quickly. This is a typical Mexican place, the menu is very refined and wants you to explore your taste buds. We got their speciality drinks , appetizers and pates and I can honestly say I was blown away with house the calamari was not your average calamari. The flavors were amazing and the fried fish with fries had some zest to it. We were truly amazed at how the chef puts flavor to his meals. Definitely recommend to anyone in the area. The place also does get more busy after 6ish and service was limited to two people but they did an amazing job. It was truly an authentic Mexican experience! read more

Delicious food, fantastic staff and service, and super fun, original decorations. The staff were so attentive to our needs and requests. The food was super tasty, especially the smoked fish tostadas, and the coffee satisfied our coffee snob friend. The decorations are super cute and there are so many fun things to look at as you eat. A great local spot! read more

This place is still amazing! Nestor the owner is very into the details and constantly looking for ways to reinvent the menu. We tried a delicious flan with avocado puree that was light and creamy. The cocktails are really good. I'm looking forward to the summer when they open up the back patio. This is my favorite Mexican spot in East Harlem. read more

El Kallejon - Menu - Tapas Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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My friend and I decided to check this place out last night for drinks and dinner. First of all, the decor is fabulously adorable.... even the bathroom is cute. We sat at the bar and the owner (manager) was very nice and helpful; we each had 3 drinks (mezcal based) during our meals. Great salad, guacamole and tacos (fish for her, vegetables for me). Strange street, gotta say ..... as David Johansson says..... funky, funky but chic. Can't wait to go back! read more

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Néstor the owner is always welcoming and his dishes are delicious. I would go more but the day I m off there closed.

Food/ Service/ and drinks top Notch! Especially on the east side of Harlem. It's definitely a gem.

Very friendly owner. Great place for a date. Drinks and food were really good. Would definitely come back. read more

El Kallejon - Tapas Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Great spot to catch up with friends over drinks! First things first, the decor here is amazing, it felt so homey and really expressive of the Mexican culture. I was in awe looking at all the corners filled with knick-knacks, art and other things! Both the food and cocktail menus are very interesting. They have a "Mezcaleria" which means they have all kinds of tequilas available. I can't recall the name but I had the most yummy Mezcal drink with chillied mango and a friend had a crazy refreshing cucumber cocktail. For food we only got to try the guacamole but it was delicious and made fresh. I went on a slow Saturday evening and the staff was nice enough to give my friends and I a round a complimentary flavored tequila. Note they have both outdoor (back/front) and indoor seating. Def. recommend stopping by if you're in the area! read more

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This is without a doubt my favorite restaurant in New York - always delicious, always fun! Nestor, the owner, is a warm host and a genius chef, I have never EVER been disappointed when ordering "surprise me." Best food, best atmosphere, best team!! Pro tip: don't skip on the guac or one of their signature cocktails - always worth it! read more

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If you're not that hungry but want to try tacos in an intimate cozy environment this is the place. The decor is beyond quaint and authentic. Simply inviting and warm. But the food cannot feed a hungry girl. Nope, it cannot. read more

El Kallejon - Fish Tacos, Adobo chicken Tacos - Tapas Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Breaking silence to chat about this gem that I accidentally stumbled across. Once we entered the "fiesta" began with Latin spirited (not too loud) music resulting all of us having uncontrollable feet and hip movements. We arrived during happy hour. The owner greeted everyone and bartended. Wow we were served amazing drinks that would even take the edge off a samurai sword. The food also did not disappoint. It was tasty and well presented. The servers were nice. So why a missing star, well the meal took a little longer than expected. I know freshly cooked food takes longer but . . . . But make no mistake, I will be back with more friends and this time it will not be accidental. read more

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One of the best and most authentic restaurants I've ever been to! Come to East Harlem for everything, and especially this place. Nestor will greet you and share his most delicious Mexican special recipes. Everything is a work of art and a culinary masterpiece. Seriously. We had the El Kallejon specialty drinks and both types of fish tacos! read more

El Kallejon - El Kallejon Guac - Tapas Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Very straight forward menu ! Not any vegan options on the menu explicitly but they are very accommodating!!! The quesadillas have 3 vegetarian option and I just removed the cheese and sour cream and it was super filling. Great prices too !! read more

Pre-pandemic review because there was no other way I could tell you about the insanely colorful, kitschy, decorative lollapalooza inside--though I pray to Jebus that they re-open and you get to see all that rainbow for yourself. This is probably the best Mexican restaurant I've been to in the city so far. Everything was phenomenally fresh and delicious, from the Vuelve a la Vida, to the Tacos del Barrio, to the hearty, homey guac. And. The. Drinks. Sweet Vishnu, they rival the best I've had in Mexico itself. You've got to get the signature namesake, made with tequila, fresh lime, artesian tamarind chili cascabel marmalade, and pineapple chili candy. La Frida is a darker, deeper cocktail made with cava, crème de cassis, jamaica, rose petal infused, and berries. And the Charanga & Jarana hits that sweet and tangy middle spot with Charanda, muddled, lime, mint, orchids, fruit of the season, and elderflower. Best part? The service is so sweet and friendly, you might just wind up with free drinks. They gave us a delicious elderflower-laced concoction on the house because they wanted to test it out--and they liked us. Mi corazon! read more

El Kallejon is a cozy and authentic restaurant serving delicious food and cocktails. The bartender and waitress were friendly and attentive. It's not inexpensive, so for us, it's a place for special occasions. I've been twice and enjoyed myself both times. Ordered: Sangria blanco ($10)- white wine mixed with tropical fruit. If you like fruity and sweet drinks, you will enjoy this one. Mango mambo ($12)- a traditional margarita with added mango flavor. It had a good amount of tequila. Guacamole al Kallejon ($14)- adding pomegranate seeds to guacamole is brilliant. Adding shrimp makes it even better. The portion was a little on the small side. Tostaditas de Huitlacoche ($9)- crisp tortillas topped with flavorful sautéed mushrooms. The order came with three. Tacos pescado ($12)- these were the real winner. I would eat these fish tacos everyday if I could. The crisp fried fish wasn't greasy and was topped with red cabbage and crema. I'm dreaming about this dish. El Kallejon isn't a cookie cutter Mexican spot. It's an intimate restaurant with personalized service and top-notch food. I recommend visiting for an experience you won't regret or forget. read more

El Kallejon - Fish tacos - Tapas Bars Near Me - New York, New York

More of a drinks place than a full scale restaurant, but alright food at reasonable prices and has a nice and cozy environment. All in all an alright place though the service is sometimes slow. read more

This is a Must Go To! We had the most sublime meal ever! From the Omakase selection we had a dish called Maria Sabina? The unctuous and umami flavors surround your senses and blow you away! Wild mushrooms, goat cheese, huitlacoche, shiitake mushrooms, and truffle oil on a flatbread.The Fantastic fish tacos were great! Little bites of crunchy yet tender fresh fish with fried beans, avocado, cabbage with a side helping of sauce whose heat sneaks up on you.As for the mains we had Huipil de Maiz -Soft corn tortilla, 4 cheeses, mild tomatillo sauce, greens, crema, with Huitlacoche Y Shiitake Mushrooms. The flavor of the corn popped, the unctuousness and umami huitlacoche and shiitake covers your mouth like a food of the Gods! The main I ordered was the protein of the day, a filet of fish smothered with a red sauce of olives, onions and magic!Accompanied by small purple potatoes, a fresh green onion and fries. This was also fantastic! If you want inventive cuisine that tantalizes your palate prepared with the freshest ingredients,then make your reservation to El Kallejon! The Chef/owner is a genius worthy of Michelin stars! Atmosphere- friendly and no pretentiousness. We can't wait to go back! read more

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The most authentic Mexican food in the area.Delightful atmosphere enhance great flavor and imaginative offerings. opt for mole and you can't go wrong! great selection of cocktails to enhance your meal read more

Excellent food and service. Drinks are also very good. Very nice atmosphere, Great for a date or just meeting up with friends!! I highly recommend for all occasions. read more

Really Really Really enjoyed el Kallejon. It has a soeak eeasy feel because you have to walk down some stairs to get to it but it's ultimately very welcoming and festivee. Every thing we had was delicious, the guacamole , salmonn dish, and the flatbread breads we had (not pictured) were good. I will say that the plates are small if you're looking to both eat and drink the bill can start to add up quitE quickly. They have a variety of cocktails that are delicious and for a small fee you can substitute the spirit of your choice. I will say that they are cash only and the bar. And once we were paying for our food our waitress asked that we tip her in cash. So you may want cash on hand. I will def be back and can't wait for my next visit ! read more

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This is a Gem in the heart of Harlem, which you wouldn't even ever imagine a place like this in this neighborhood. A Must Go! El Kallejon is a cute cozy tapas bar, perfect a after work meet up with coworkers or friends, with the most artisan drinks you'll ever have. The tapas are flavorful, excellent pairing with the drinks. The place itself is a vivid Mexican culture space. Full of colors, nice music that adds up to the ambience of the place. The owners will make you feel more than welcome. read more

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The tacos were AMAZING, the owner was extremely nice, and the mezcalitas did not disappoint. They also play the World Cup on tv if you're looking for somewhere that does right now. Honestly might be the best Mexican food in the city that I tried so far. One of the tacos had whitefish which is very hit or miss, and usually I would only order from a Jewish deli, but they were so good and fresh. read more

It's a crime that this place isn't better known. Admittedly, not in a cute little neighborhood, but the vibe is so authentic, space is warm and welcoming, and the food and drinks are unbelievably good. Nestor, the chef and, I presume, owner is beyond creative with new takes on cocktails and small plates (lamb barbacoa tacos tonight - so good!). Do yourself a favor, make the trip to El Barrio with some friends and check this place out. read more