Tale of the Tape: El Rey


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Stephen Starr’s El Rey has taken possession of the old Midtown IV Diner on Chestnut Street but the diner DNA is very much still visible.

The Name

  • El Rey means “The King”
  • The name was inspired by name of a town in the 1972 Steve McQueen film, the Getaway
    • It was the name of the Mexican town where American fugitives were hiding

The Space

  • 1970s vibe
  • The diner booths remain as does the counter area
  • Decor is made up of found objects from flea markets of Mexico and Los Angeles
  • Artwork from prison artitsts
  • There is no public access to the Ranstead Room from El Rey

The Food

  • Former Xochitl executive chef Dionicio Jimenez is in the kitchen.
  • Where Starr’s El Vez features a culinary twist on Mexican cuisine, El Rey offers more authenic Mexican
  • menu represents Puebla and Vera Cruz regions of Mexico.
  • Menu highlights:
    • Chile en Nogada  – Stuffed poblano pepper, ground beef, almonds, dried fruit, walnut sauce
    • Tacos Arabes – Lamb tacos
    • Short Rib Torta
    • Ceviche
  • Prices range from $5 to $25
  • Check out the dinner, lunch and brunch menus below

The Drinks

  • It is a beer and tequila bar
  • Draft Beers
    • Yuengling Lager
    • Summit Great Northern Porter
    • Boulder Single Track Copper
    • Southampton Double White Ale
    • Victory Hop Devil
  • Beer is available by glass or pitchers
  • 17 Tequilas
    • Shots range from $8 for Milagro Blanco to $25 for Don Julio 1942
  • Cocktail highlights
    • Tamarind Margarita
    • Michelada
  • There is a collection of wines available by the glass or bottle.
  • You’ll have to go out and around to Ranstead Street if you want a cocktail.

El Rey
2013 Chestnut St
215-563-3330

More on El Rey

Seventies Style Mexican Diner to Open [KYW 1060 (Audio)]
Photo and Menu Time at El Rey [The Insider]

Menus

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