Glenn C.

I have been to this tasty Mexican place, which is reopening soon enough, twice now. The inside is casual, the service is very friendly, and the food is overall very tasty, almost unexpectedly good for an area where the only other Mexican options nearby are chains such as Rosa Mexicano. The first time, I only stopped for a snack because I wanted something small for breakfast, I believe, after an appointment or something similar. I went with a Kekito de Pan de Elote, or, in other words, a little corn cake, which was maybe around $4.50. It was mildly sweet, almost like a thick custard in texture, and delicious. The corn flavor shone through, and it worked quite well with a coffee I made at home, though they do have some beverages, such as Café de Olla. The other time I was here was in early November, as they used that week to celebrate Día de los Muertos. They had a special menu, as seen in the photos, and instead of the more expensive Chamorro, which was very tempting, I went with two relatively cheaper dishes. The Pozole Rojo for $17 was a traditional hominy stew with slow-cooked pork or chicken in a red chili broth, and garnished with fresh toppings. There was also a Verde option for the same price point in a tomatillo-poblano broth with avocado and radish, but I generally prefer red pozole. I have had pozole from plenty of places, and this was outstanding. There was plenty of corn and soft, tender pork. The broth was as complex as it should be, with an earthy, slightly spicy flavor. This was excellent, and I hope they add it to the main menu when they reopen in their new, larger space. My other dish was Tamales Oxaqueños with two tamales, for $22. This consisted of steamed corn masa wrapped in banana leaves and filled with chicken in mole negro. The tamales had a good texture, being soft and less dense than the typical lower-quality ones you find in most other restaurants and antojitos carts. There was plenty of chicken inside, and the mole was complex with very mild sweetness, a good amount of heat, some bitterness, and a wide variety of spices. At least from what I can tell, this was probably the most comparable mole to my favorite at Mama Lupita's Bistro in Sunset Park, which serves outstanding enmoladas, or enchiladas con mole. This was filling and again very tasty. This is very good Mexican food for pretty reasonable prices, at least for Midtown East. I would definitely go back here for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. I look forward to going back once they reopen.

Jennifer N.

I was really in the mood for traditional Mexican breakfast. This Huevos Ranchero's really hit the spot. So perfect. Thanks for making my morning extra special.

Simon W.

I may not be able to vouch for authenticity but I can attest to a great breakfast. My server recommended Chilies Requillos which was an excellent plate. My plate came out quickly and most importantly, came out piping hot. The chips at the bottom were so fresh and crunchy. Each bite was very flavorful and certainly very filling. I actually struggled to finish as the chips were really filling. Service was friendly and on point at the counter at early hour on a Sunday morning.

Sally Z.

Service: 4/5 Food: 3.7/5 Price: $20-$30 Came for brunch, so I was expecting a larger space. I enjoyed the cute bakery/cafe vibe. Super upbeat + positive staff. What I Ordered: - Café de Olla: tastes like a red date soup my grandma makes me drink, on the sweeter side - Chocolita: thin + frothy, I thought it was supposed to be spicy, but I guess it's just cinnamon-y - Burrito Mañanero: saucy, slightly spicy, good portion - Hot Cakes Glorias: Mexican Glorias (caramel-like pecan candy) melted inside, thick + fluffy, filling

Magda G.

We woke up late due to Jetlag and we're looking for a breakfast spot. We went to another spot where breakfast was over so we decided to stop by here and lo and behold, they still offered breakfast. It was their Independence day weekend so they had cute decorations, and a special menu. We were greeted once we arrived. Everyone was pretty pleasant. It's a small place but well decorated and sitting arrangement. I will say you sit on the same table as others with a-split partition in the middle of the shared table. Made for great conversation with others. I ordered a Carajillo which is a Spanish liqueur Coffee drink. It was pretty good. I tried there a Chata latte and that was great as well. I ordered the Sonora burrito breakfast burrito and it was 10 out of 10. Very flavorful and filling. I did ask for some spicy salsa and they gave me a red and green one, which didn't bring the heat so they brought a habanero which, in my opinion, had a bit of spice. Really good though. I also took a bite of their chorizo and egg torta, and it was delicious. The bread was soft and all the flavors were amazing. I highly recommend this spot.

Wil S.

ANIMO Our sport is food. We tend towards comfort and homestyle be it Korean or Mexican or Italian. Just passionate about eating great food. We share places we have enjoyed and rate them within the range of their reach. About every so often we come to an outstanding place that takes us to Nirvana. This place is that! I'll add more details later today....but folks the food is given passion from the level of the waitperson introducing us to things we never knew we must have! So much is made on premise from their bakery items to their horchata! Example: We requested a black coffee and she asked if we would like to try one of their special drinks and then described what we might like to try...Cafe De Olla. Now will always be looking for some when I'm out. If you just want bread don't come here....because you will be given a freshly made this morning slice of heaven called a Bolillo. And authentic? Well, I ordered a side of rice....because that is a tell-all....and it was perfect. I almost cried when I took my 1st bite into my chorizo-ridden burrito...straight up to the back of the nose...exquisite! We are going back for mole this evening! https://www.instagram.com/animo.nyc?igsh=MW5vOHA1YXVvcXlndg==

Alan S.

There are some dishes whose presence on the menu alerts me to the quality and authenticity of the establishment. For Mexican brunch and breakfast joints, that dish is molletes. It's a humble dish that when done well can be exquisite. With the right mix of quality bolillo, refried beans and cheese, it can make for a decadent yet simple breakfast. Animo's rendition was very well executed. The cafe de olla was also nicely spiced, and the space is pleasant and airy for a casual brunch.

Edson S.

This is the best Mexican food I've had in Manhattan. Although the UES is slightly out of the way, I would gladly return to feel like I'm home. The staff is friendly and the food is amazing.

Tom S.

Just returned to Animo since their expansion. Well done! The space is much larger but still intimate and welcoming. The staff is amazing, especially Diana. The food? Incredible! They haven't missed a beat! Try their brunch, and order one of the best lattes in midtown east.

When Ánimo first opened in Midtown East in October 2024, I was excited simply because the neighborhood doesn't have many early breakfast spots. I frequent this restaurant a few times throughout the week, and I rarely miss a weekend. Whenever family and friends visit me, I bring them to Ánimo. It is no doubt one of my favorite restaurants. Yes! The food is that good! The owner and staff clearly take pride in creating a warm, welcoming experience. Whether you are a familiar face, a new guest, or grabbing a quick to-go order, you are always treated like family. The service is attentive without being overbearing, and the team runs the dining room smoothly--even when it's busy. Even after the recent remodel, the service continues to be well-coordinated, with staff who offer thoughtful recommendations. The space is bright, modern, and inviting. It's perfect for a casual brunch, a quick coffee stop, or an elevated date night ... not to mention that now with the warmer weather, I am looking forward to their outside dining. I was very happy to see many of the original staff return. The service continues to be attentive and well-coordinated, with staff who offer thoughtful recommendations. As a repeat patron, what sets Ánimo apart from the rest is that the new dishes along with old favorites, reflect the made-from-scratch dishes that are consistently fresh, well-seasoned, and thoughtfully prepared. This is their foundation. Dishes that delight your tastebuds, highlighting flavors from different regions of Mexico. Their Tacos de Huevo con Barbacoa, Tostaditas de Atún, and Huachinango a la Veracruzana are masterpieces. Portions are satisfying, cocktails are superb, creative and balanced. Their Horchata Latte and Chilaquiles Mezcalita are must haves. For the quality, location, and experience, pricing feels fair. I am so proud to have Ánimo in my neighborhood! Whether you're stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Ánimo is a neighborhood gem and an impressive Mexican dining spot in Midtown East.

Samantha C.

Absolutely loved Ánimo! The chilaquiles verdes were some of the best I've had and they didn't skimp on the portion size. I added al pastor, which was delicious. The latte con vainilla was also delicious. Tried a cinnamon role as well, make sure you have them warm it up. In addition to the delicious food, the atmosphere was great and the service was top notch. Pricing was reasonable. Would absolutely return next time I'm in the city! Highly recommend to anyone looking for a tasty Mexican breakfast.

Wow. Was wondering if the very high rating would live up to the hype. But this is some very tasty Mexican food. Down the whole menu this is satisfying food with really nice ambiance, and quick and friendly service.

Stephanie T.

I found this place through an Instagram reel. The horchata latte was on point. I loved the torta de milanesa. The breading was different from other milanesas. The sandwich is good on its own that you don't even need a sauce. I ended my meal with hot cakes as dessert. It was delicious! The hot cakes had pecans in the middle. They were fluffy and not too sweet. The service was lovely as well, the waiter was very attentive. I'm recommending this spot to friends and family because of how great it was!