El Rinconcito Tepeyac

- 381 E 138th St, Bronx, NY 10454

Introduction / Overview

Nestled in the vibrant Mott Haven neighborhood of the South Bronx, El Rinconcito Tepeyac stands as a beacon for authentic, homestyle Mexican cooking. For New Yorkers craving traditional flavors that extend far beyond fast-casual fare, this restaurant offers a vast and appealing menu that covers everything from hearty morning meals to substantial, comforting dinner plates. As a truly local establishment, the restaurant provides a cozy, casual, and slightly trendy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for groups, solo diners, and families looking for a delicious and affordable meal.

El Rinconcito Tepeyac distinguishes itself by offering an extensive variety of classic Mexican dishes, ensuring there's something for every palate. The menu is structured around traditional categories, including 'Desayunos' (Breakfast), 'Aperitivos' (Appetizers), 'Tortas' (Sandwiches), and 'Platillos' (Plates), showcasing the breadth of Mexican gastronomy. The restaurant is particularly known for serving a 'local specialty' and is highly popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, demonstrating its role as an all-day dining favorite in the area. Patrons often highlight the fast service and the quality of the coffee, making it an efficient choice for a quick bite or a relaxing meal.

In addition to the extensive food menu, El Rinconcito Tepeyac is committed to offering flexible service options to fit the busy schedules of New Yorkers, including outdoor seating, delivery, and takeout. While the establishment may also include self-catering accommodation as part of its broader offering, the restaurant component is clearly a key feature, bringing genuine Mexican hospitality and flavor to the community on East 138th Street. This is the place to find your favorite comfort food, healthy options, small plates, and of course, a great selection of vegetarian choices.

Location and Accessibility

El Rinconcito Tepeyac is conveniently situated at 381 E 138th St, Bronx, NY 10454, USA. This Mott Haven address places it in a dynamic and easily reachable part of the South Bronx, making it a practical dining destination for residents and visitors alike.

The location is highly accessible via public transportation, being a manageable distance from major subway lines in the area, which connect the Bronx to Upper Manhattan and other parts of the city. The area is well-served, making it an easy and familiar journey for local patrons. While specific details on physical accessibility (like ramps or elevators) are not provided, the general neighborhood accessibility and the focus on serving the local crowd contribute to its convenience. The restaurant offers various dining settings, including the option of outdoor seating, which is a highly valued amenity for New Yorkers seeking a comfortable, casual place to dine. Furthermore, the restrooms include a gender-neutral option, reflecting a modern and inclusive approach to amenities.

Services Offered

El Rinconcito Tepeyac provides a complete set of dining services designed for flexibility and convenience, catering to the diverse needs of the Bronx community.

• Dine-in Service: Offers full table service and seating in a casual, cozy, and quiet atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed meal.
• Takeout and Delivery: Provides convenient options for customers to enjoy their authentic Mexican food at home or at work.
• Outdoor Seating: A valued amenity allowing patrons to dine outside when the New York weather is pleasant.
• Catering: Available for larger orders and events, bringing the full flavor of their Mexican cuisine to any gathering.
• Accepts Reservations: Allows for easy planning, especially for groups, by accepting reservations.
• Full Meal Service: Serves all main meals of the day, including Breakfast (Desayunos), Lunch, and Dinner.
• Kid-Friendly Options: The restaurant is good for kids and provides a dedicated Kids' menu.
• Flexible Payment: Accepts Debit cards and NFC mobile payments, providing modern and convenient transaction options.

Features / Highlights

The heart of El Rinconcito Tepeyac lies in its comprehensive menu and the commitment to serving authentic Mexican specialties.

• Authentic Mexican Specialties: Features a wide range of traditional dishes beyond the typical Tex-Mex fare, including Huaraches ($8.00–$10.00), Sopes ($3.25–$4.50), and Chilaquiles ($16.00–$19.00).
• Extensive Taco and Quesadilla Menu: Offers a variety of taco fillings like Bistec, Pollo, Carnitas, Barbacoa, and Birria (ranging from $4.75 to $5.50), alongside numerous Quesadilla options, including a vegetarian Quesadilla De Hongos (Mushrooms) for $10.00.
• Classic Platillos: Serves hearty main courses such as Bistec Ala Mexicana, Carne Asada, Cecina Con Nopales, Chuletas En Salsa Verde, and the traditional Mole Poblano, all priced affordably at $16.00.
• All-Day Breakfast: The 'Desayunos' menu is available, featuring traditional Mexican breakfast items like Huevos Con Chorizo, Huevos Rancheros, and Huevos A La Mexicana, providing a robust start to the day for $16.00.
• Variety of House-Made Beverages: Features a selection of traditional 'Aguas Naturales' like Agua De Horchata and Agua De Jamaica, available in small and large sizes, plus Mexican Sodas and natural juices.
• Great Coffee and Fast Service: Highlighted by patrons as a place for a quick bite with excellent coffee, making it ideal for commuters and local workers.
• Vegetarian Options: Provides specific vegetarian choices like the Quesadilla De Hongos and a Regular Salad, along with healthy options and comfort food.

Contact Information

To visit, call in an order, or make a reservation, here is the necessary contact information for El Rinconcito Tepeyac:

Address: 381 E 138th St, Bronx, NY 10454, USA

Phone: (718) 401-8314

What is Worth Choosing

For New Yorkers searching for a genuinely authentic and extensive Mexican dining experience in the Bronx, El Rinconcito Tepeyac is a standout choice that merits a visit. It is not just another taqueria; it is a full-service restaurant that offers a deep dive into Mexican culinary tradition.

What makes this spot worth choosing is the sheer variety and authenticity of its menu, particularly the ‘Platillos’ and the availability of all-day breakfast. Instead of just grabbing a quick taco, patrons can enjoy a full, traditional Mexican dinner. Imagine a cold morning in the city being warmed by a plate of Huevos Rancheros, or a comforting evening with a plate of Mole Poblano or Bistec Encebollado. These are substantial, homestyle meals that deliver on flavor and value.

The menu selection, from the many types of Tortas (Mexican sandwiches) to the diverse Aperitivos like Flautas and Huaraches, encourages exploration beyond the familiar. It’s an ideal place for a New Yorker to expand their knowledge of Mexican cuisine in a casual and unpretentious setting. Furthermore, the commitment to serving local specialty dishes and providing great coffee elevates the experience from a simple meal to a true taste of local culture.

While a single customer review mentions a less-than-perfect experience with specific dishes, the extensive menu and overall popularity for all three meals of the day suggest that the consistency and quality of the core offerings are a key draw for the local crowd. The fact that the restaurant is popular for solo dining and provides fast service makes it a reliable and efficient option for any New Yorker on the move who refuses to compromise on flavor and authenticity. Choosing El Rinconcito Tepeyac means choosing an affordable, comprehensive, and truly local Mexican food experience in the heart of the Bronx.

El Rinconcito Tepeyac

381 E 138th St, Bronx, NY 10454, USA