El Sabroso
A hidden Ecuadorian gem in Midtown, serving authentic comfort food from a unique freight elevator entrance. Incredible value!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds for authentic eats
El Sabroso
Best Time
Beat the crowds for authentic eats
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden Ecuadorian gem in Midtown, serving authentic comfort food from a unique freight elevator entrance. Incredible value!
"This spot is more than just a great lunch—it’s a love letter to the vibrant, multicultural New York that I cherish."
🎯 Look for the Freight Elevator
The entrance is unique! Find it on 37th St between 7th & 8th Aves.
💰 Amazing Value for NYC
Plates start around $9, a steal for Manhattan!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Ecuadorian Flavors
Midtown Manhattan
Experience a taste of Ecuador with hearty, home-style dishes like guatita and goat stew.
Incredible Value
265 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018
Enjoy generous portions of delicious Latin American comfort food at prices that are hard to beat in NYC.
Family-Run Charm
Garment District
Discover a warm, family-run operation serving soulful dishes prepared with love and expertise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hidden Gem Alert: The Freight Elevator Entrance
Menu Availability & Seating
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Look for the Freight Elevator
The entrance is unique! Find it on 37th St between 7th & 8th Aves.
💰 Amazing Value for NYC
Plates start around $9, a steal for Manhattan!
🗣️ Bilingual Service
Friendly staff, often bilingual, make ordering easy.
🚶♀️ Primarily To-Go
Limited seating; best for a quick, delicious meal on the go.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Look for the Freight Elevator
The entrance is unique! Find it on 37th St between 7th & 8th Aves.
💰 Amazing Value for NYC
Plates start around $9, a steal for Manhattan!
🗣️ Bilingual Service
Friendly staff, often bilingual, make ordering easy.
🚶♀️ Primarily To-Go
Limited seating; best for a quick, delicious meal on the go.
❓ Menu May Vary
Popular items can sell out, so be flexible with your order.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Sabroso is celebrated for its authentic, delicious Latin American comfort food and incredible value, offering a true taste of Ecuadorian cuisine. While the unique freight elevator entrance and limited seating contribute to its charm, some visitors note menu item unavailability and higher prices than expected for the ambiance. Despite minor drawbacks, the flavorful dishes and warm, family-run service make it a highly recommended hidden gem.
"Earlier today I had a craving for hispanic food so I wished to try this particular spot, which reminded me of another spot that used to be in the area years ago. What I received was not only disappointing, it made me feel completely disgusted. The gentleman at the counter was very dismissive, given a very street-style demeanor. He did not seem to speak Spanish, and when I ordered in Spanish, he reiterated the dishes in English. Aside from not having half of the menu when I had ordered, the rice was clumpy and the chicken was very undercooked. Avoid this place at all costs! They are not even graded so beware!"
Euphemia Stones
"Sin sabor. I was craving Ecuadorian food. Decided to get the seco de chivo (goat stew). My abuela made this for me all the time. Unfortunately, this had no flavor, mostly bones and the rice was soggy. Delivery was very quick though."
Steve Siegel
"The dishes here show culinary expertise! Every dish represents their commitment to quality. The workers handle tasks efficiently and politely. The restaurant maintains steady performance. My next meal will feature different selections."
Caro Geffroy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Sabroso is located at 265 West 37th Street, between 7th and 8th Avenues in Midtown Manhattan. It's easily accessible by subway, with several stations nearby including Times Sq-42 St (N, Q, R, W, S, 1, 2, 3, 7) and 34 St-Herald Sq (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W).
The entrance is a bit unique – it's through a freight elevator! Look for the unassuming door on 37th Street.
The subway is your most economical option. If you're already in the Theatre District or nearby, walking is also a great way to discover the area and save money.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required for El Sabroso. It's a casual restaurant, and you can walk in to order.
Operating hours can vary, and it's best to check their social media or call ahead. Some sources indicate they are open for lunch and dinner, with potential evening events.
There is no dress code. El Sabroso is a casual eatery, so come as you are!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
El Sabroso serves authentic Latin American comfort food, with a strong emphasis on Ecuadorian cuisine. Popular dishes include guatita (tripe stew) and seco de chivo (goat stew). +1
While many dishes are meat-centric, it's worth asking about daily specials or sides like rice and beans, which might be suitable.
Prices are very reasonable for NYC, with plates often starting around $9. +1
Yes, El Sabroso is primarily a to-go spot with limited seating, making it ideal for takeout.
Yes, many of the staff are bilingual and can accommodate orders in Spanish.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique freight elevator entrance and the vibrant, authentic food make for interesting photo opportunities.
Dishes like the guatita and seco de chivo are visually appealing and represent the authentic Ecuadorian flavors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great way to introduce kids to diverse flavors in a casual setting. 💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Lunch Crowd
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique El Sabroso Experience
Visitors often highlight the incredible value for money, with generous portions available at prices that are a welcome surprise in an expensive city like New York.
Despite its small size and unique entrance, El Sabroso has garnered a loyal following among locals, office workers, and curious tourists alike. It's a place where you can savor dishes like guatita (tripe stew) and seco de chivo (goat stew), prepared with the care and expertise that comes from generations of culinary tradition.
Navigating Menu Availability and Value
Despite potential menu limitations, the value proposition at El Sabroso is consistently praised. With plates often starting around $9, it offers an exceptional deal for authentic Latin American cuisine in Midtown Manhattan.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit