Empellon Al Pastor

- 132 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009

Located on the famously lively St Marks Place, Empellon Al Pastor is a vibrant and essential part of the East Village's culinary landscape. This isn't a quiet, sit-down restaurant; it's a dynamic, high-energy spot that perfectly captures the casual, trendy spirit of the neighborhood. As a New Yorker, you know the value of a great spot that feels both authentic and fun, and Empellon Al Pastor delivers on all fronts. It’s the kind of place you meet friends, grab a quick bite before heading out, or satisfy a late-night craving for something delicious and satisfying. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, with a bar onsite and a no-fuss, first-come, first-serve seating policy that makes it an easy and spontaneous choice.

Empellon Al Pastor specializes in Mexican comfort food with a focus on tacos and delicious bar snacks. While the menu is concise, every item is crafted to be a crowd-pleaser. The focus on quality, paired with a lively environment, has made it a local favorite for college students and groups looking for a great time without breaking the bank. The spot is particularly known for its great cocktails and wide beer selection, making it a destination in itself for a happy hour or a pre-game get-together. It’s a place that buzzes with energy, with a clientele that knows what they're looking for: good food, great drinks, and an authentic neighborhood vibe.

The simplicity of the concept is its strength. There's a clear emphasis on serving up popular, satisfying dishes quickly and efficiently. Customers praise the "fast service," which is a huge plus in a city where time is often of the essence. The decor is trendy and visually interesting, with a cool mural wall and unique ceiling design that add to the vibrant atmosphere. It’s a testament to a great concept when a place can be both a laid-back, "not fancy" spot and a go-to for so many different people and occasions. It's truly a place that feels like a shared secret among those who know where to find the best of New York’s casual dining scene.

Empellon Al Pastor is located at 132 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009. This prime location puts it directly in the center of one of the city's most iconic and bustling streets, a hub for nightlife, dining, and youthful energy. Its accessibility is a major benefit for anyone in Manhattan or the surrounding boroughs. The restaurant sits right across the street from Tompkins Square Park, a beloved green space that adds to the neighborhood’s charm.

Getting to Empellon Al Pastor is simple thanks to the extensive public transportation network in the area. The nearest subway lines include the 6 train at Astor Place and the L train at 1st Avenue, both of which are just a short walk away. The N, Q, R, and W trains at 8th Street - NYU are also within easy reach. This makes it a convenient spot whether you're coming from another part of the city or meeting friends who live nearby. For those who prefer to explore on foot, the restaurant is perfectly situated for a stroll through the East Village, allowing you to immerse yourself in the lively street scene before or after your meal. The area is known for its "super lively" energy, which is a big part of the appeal.

With options for outdoor seating, dine-in service, and takeout, Empellon Al Pastor offers flexible ways to enjoy its menu. The outdoor seating is particularly popular during the warmer months, allowing patrons to soak in the lively atmosphere of St Marks Place. The restaurant is an ideal destination for dinner and is a popular choice for solo diners looking for a quick and satisfying meal.

Empellon Al Pastor offers a concise yet highly satisfying menu focused on classic Mexican flavors and inventive twists.

• Tacos: The star of the show, featuring a selection of classic and unique options. The "AL PASTOR" taco, made with spit-roasted pork, and the "CHEESEBURGER" taco are particular standouts, both receiving high praise from customers. They also offer "VEGETABLE SPECIAL" and "CHEF'S SPECIAL" tacos for variety.

• Bar Snacks: A perfect complement to the drinks, this menu includes crowd-pleasers like "NACHOS," which are described as a "standard, satisfying plate" that's "perfect for sharing." Other options include "GUACAMOLE," "CORN DOG," and "FRENCH FRIES."

• Signature Dishes: The menu features some unique items like "THE FLAT CIRCLE," "BREAKFAST BURRITO" (available at night), and "PORK FRIED RICE," which add an unexpected and delightful touch.

• Full Bar Service: In addition to a great selection of food, the restaurant offers a full bar with beer, cocktails, wine, and hard liquor. They are particularly known for their great cocktails, including the spicy cucumber margarita and the mezcal pina colada.

• Happy Hour: Empellon Al Pastor offers happy hour food and drinks, making it an excellent and affordable spot to grab a bite and a drink before a night out. They are known for their late-night tacos specials, making it a great option for a post-bar snack.

Empellon Al Pastor is more than just a place to get tacos; it's a destination with several key features that make it a standout in the East Village.

• Exceptional Value: The prices are excellent for the quality and portion size, especially with their late-night taco deals. Customers note the "solid spot" with "good prices."

• Lively Atmosphere and Social Hub: The restaurant has a casual, trendy vibe that draws a friendly crowd of college students and groups. It's a "very cool, underground pregame spot" and a great place to "meet friends."

• Innovative Menu Items: While a lot of their food is comfort-focused, the menu features unique creations like the "CHEESEBURGER" taco and the "BREAKFAST BURRITO" served at night, which show off their playful and creative side.

• Excellent Drink Program: The bar is a major highlight, with a great selection of beer and cocktails that receive consistent praise. The drinks are reasonably priced, especially during happy hour.

• Fast and Convenient: With quick service and a focus on late-night food, Empellon Al Pastor is perfectly suited for the New York City lifestyle, providing a satisfying and efficient dining experience.

To experience Empellon Al Pastor, you can visit their location at the following address. For any inquiries, you can use their contact information.

Address: 132 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009, USA

Phone: (646) 833-7039

For anyone in New York looking for a fantastic Mexican meal in a fun, casual setting, Empellon Al Pastor is a no-brainer. What makes it worth choosing is its ability to blend high-quality, delicious comfort food with a lively and authentic East Village atmosphere. The tacos are a major draw, particularly the signature Al Pastor and the unique Cheeseburger taco, which have garnered a cult following. Unlike more formal restaurants, this spot is all about being a place where you can relax, be yourself, and enjoy a great time with friends. The first-come, first-serve approach is a breath of fresh air, and the option for outdoor seating is a huge plus.

Furthermore, the affordability and late-night options make it a practical choice for a wide range of people and occasions, from a spontaneous weekday dinner to a weekend night out. The drink menu is a highlight, with creative cocktails and a solid beer selection that perfectly complement the food. While some might find the guacamole to be "mid," as one reviewer mentioned, the nachos are consistently praised for being a perfect sharing dish. Overall, Empellon Al Pastor offers a consistently good experience where the food is satisfying, the drinks are great, and the atmosphere is exactly what you want from a classic New York neighborhood spot. It is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a taste of the East Village's vibrant food and social scene without any pretense.

Empellon Al Pastor

132 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009, USA