The Whistlin' Donkey

- 641 McLean Ave, Yonkers, NY 10705

Introduction / Overview

Nestled in the heart of Yonkers, along the famed "Emerald Mile" of McLean Avenue, **The Whistlin' Donkey** stands out as an essential destination for anyone in the New York region seeking an authentic Irish pub and restaurant experience. It is not simply a bar; it’s a vibrant cultural hub that seamlessly blends the convivial, cozy atmosphere of a traditional public house with the refined offerings of a full-service restaurant. This dual identity—as both a welcoming neighborhood bar and a quality eatery—is a significant part of its appeal to locals and traveling visitors alike.

The establishment is renowned for its commitment to classic Irish hospitality, featuring a menu built around comforting, high-quality fare, including classics like the All Day Full Irish Breakfast and Homemade Shepherd's Pie. Complementing the food is a top-tier beverage program, highlighted by a **Great beer selection** and, notably, a fierce local reputation for pouring perhaps the best pint of Guinness in the state. Furthermore, patrons consistently praise the **Fast service** and the genuine warmth from the staff and regulars, making it an immediately refreshing and friendly environment for a weary traveler or a local group. Whether you are coming in to catch a sports game, enjoy a great cocktail, or sit down to a hearty meal, The Whistlin' Donkey offers a casual, cozy, and distinctly New York-Irish experience that has earned it a fiercely loyal following.

Location and Accessibility

The Whistlin' Donkey benefits from a prime location on McLean Avenue in Yonkers, which is the epicenter of one of the New York metropolitan area's most vibrant Irish-American communities. Its address places it perfectly to serve residents of Westchester County and visitors coming from the Bronx and other parts of NYC:

641 McLean Ave, Yonkers, NY 10705, USA

The pub is easily reached via major roads and is situated in a bustling, accessible commercial area. For those driving, **Paid street parking** is available nearby, which is a key consideration in the crowded New York environment. Accessibility for all guests is prioritized, with the premises featuring a **Wheelchair accessible entrance** and a **Wheelchair accessible restroom**, ensuring comfort and ease of access for every patron. As a popular meeting spot, its location on McLean Avenue also makes it convenient for public transit users, placing it firmly within the area known for its cluster of Irish-themed businesses and social venues.

Services Offered

As a true Irish bar and restaurant, The Whistlin' Donkey offers a comprehensive range of services, blending a dedicated pub experience with full table dining:

• Full Food & Drink Menu: Offering a wide array of choices, from traditional Irish comfort foods to American pub staples, alongside a full selection of **Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine**.
• Dining Options: Provides **Table service** for those looking for a sit-down meal, but also offers **Food at bar** for casual drinkers and solo diners.
• Takeout Service: Convenient **Takeout** options are available, allowing patrons to enjoy their favorite dishes at home.
• Reservation Acceptance: The venue **Accepts reservations**, and in fact, **Reservations are required** for certain times or group sizes, making it an ideal choice for event planning or large group gatherings.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts major forms of payment including **Credit cards** and **Debit cards**, though patrons should be aware of a potential small surcharge on card purchases, a common practice in the NYC area.
• Amenities: Includes essential comfort features such as clean **Restrooms** and complimentary **Wi-Fi** for guests.

Features / Highlights

The Whistlin' Donkey distinguishes itself with several high-value features, making it a competitive and beloved spot in the New York bar and restaurant scene:

• Unrivaled Guinness Pint: A major highlight cited by customers is the quality of its stout, with one reviewer offering to "dare you to find a better pint of Guinness in the states." This is a significant draw for enthusiasts of the classic Irish brew.
• Exceptional Food Quality and Variety: The menu is a highlight, featuring high-demand items like the "amazing" Corned Beef Reuben, alongside a full range of appetizers, signature burgers (like The Whistlin' Burger and Yonkers Burger), and authentic comfort dishes (Shepherd's Pie, Bangers & Mash, and Irish Style Fish & Chips).
• Outstanding Beverage Program: Beyond beer, the bar boasts **Great cocktails** and a **Great wine list**, appealing to a broader audience than a typical pub.
• Warm, Inclusive Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as a perfect mix of **Casual, Cozy, and Trendy**, with a staff and regular crowd that make "weary travelers" and local **Groups** feel immediately **welcome**.
• Dedicated Sports Viewing: The pub is a great venue for watching **Sports**, offering a lively atmosphere perfect for catching a match with friends.
• Family-Friendly Options: The inclusion of a **Kiddie Corner** menu (Sausages & Fries, Mac & Cheese) makes it a welcoming spot for families to enjoy a meal before the late-night pub crowd arrives.

Contact Information

To plan your visit to this renowned Yonkers establishment, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 641 McLean Ave, Yonkers, NY 10705, USA

Phone: (914) 423-4900

What is Worth Choosing

For New York users planning a visit to The Whistlin' Donkey, what is truly worth choosing is the quintessential Irish comfort experience. Your visit should center around the food and the famed pint:

First, you must **Challenge the Guinness Claim**. Order a pint of Guinness—it is clearly their pride and joy. The locals believe it’s the best, and sampling it against your own favorite New York-area pour is an essential part of the experience.

Second, **Indulge in the Signature Irish Comfort Food**. The Corned Beef Reuben is a universally lauded choice, described as "amazing" and "delicious." For a deeper dive into the Irish pub experience, choose a traditional Comfort Food like the **Homemade Shepherd's Pie** or the **Bangers & Mash**. The All Day Full Irish Breakfast is also an outstanding choice, offering a hearty, authentic start to any day or a satisfying mid-day meal.

Finally, **Embrace the Social Atmosphere**. The Whistlin' Donkey is renowned for its friendly crowd. Whether you are dining **Solo** at the bar or gathering with **Groups** for a sports game, make a point to interact with the staff and regulars to experience the true warmth of Irish hospitality in Yonkers. Considering the popularity and the reservation policy, it is highly recommended to **call ahead to make a reservation**, especially during peak dining hours or on major sports days, to ensure you secure a table in this beloved McLean Avenue spot.

The Whistlin' Donkey

641 McLean Ave, Yonkers, NY 10705, USA