El Rey Restaurant Review
2013 Chestnut St. (20th St.) 
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Philadelphia, PA 19103
215-563-3330 | Menu
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| At the intersection of retro diner and shady Mexican border town, you'll find El Rey, Stephen Starr’s Mexican spot in the former Midtown Diner space on Chestnut Street. Starr may be the muscle, but the real star of this show is chef Dionicio Jimenez (formerly of Xochitl). Jimenez mines home-style regional Mexican flavors in dishes such as spice-kissed short rib enchiladas and chiles en nogada made with slow roasted poblanos stuffed with spiced ground beef, almonds and dried fruit, then topped with walnut sauce. Tender cabrito, or braised goat, is a specialty of the house. On the lighter side, ceviche or a whole roasted fish with chipotle and lime will take you to the coastal towns. Say "yes" to the very good margaritas---try the tamarind---or sip fine tequila, with a side of sangrita. Make time, before or after dinner, to visit the Ranstead Room---either by walking down a hallway or accessing the door that says RR on Ranstead Street. Dimly lit and sexy, Ranstead serves craft cocktails, fresh juices and house-made mixers in a lounge setting reminiscent of a sassy speakeasy. |
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