When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
Little Donkey
Why Little Donkey is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Little Donkey is a popular Mexican restaurant originally located in the charming neighborhood of Homewood, Alabama. It is well known for creating a lively and inviting dining atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends. The restaurant features a bustling dining room full of energy and bright, breezy patios that provide pleasant outdoor dining options. Little Donkey’s culinary highlight is its dedication to freshness and authenticity — they make their tortillas by hand every day, grinding corn for masa and preparing flour tortilla dough on site. The menu also boasts fresh salsas, slow-cooked smoked meats, and seasonal vegetables, delivering a satisfying fusion of Mexican and Southern flavors. The bar complements the food with an extensive craft cocktail menu, local beer selections, wines, and unique homemade beverages like horchata and hibiscus (Jamaica). Whether you're looking to enjoy flavorful meals with friends or relax with creative drinks in a lively setting, Little Donkey’s blend of quality food, inviting ambiance, and friendly service makes it a standout destination in the Birmingham area and beyond with additional locations including Montgomery and Greystone.
Here's what people think of Little Donkey
As of recent, Little Donkey holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2089 reviews.
Customer reviews of Little Donkey reflect an overall positive dining experience, as evidenced by its solid 4.4-star rating from over 2,000 reviews. Many patrons praise the restaurant for its vibrant atmosphere and standout fresh food, especially the hand-crafted tortillas and flavorful salsas that enhance every meal. The variety in cocktails and drinks also receives frequent commendations, appreciating the creative options and quality local selections. Guests often highlight the lively ambiance and attentive service which enhance the social dining experience. However, some negative feedback emerges regarding inconsistencies in service and wait times, especially when the restaurant is busy. A few reviews mention that management and staffing could be improved to better handle peak hours, and some feel that pricing is on the higher side for portions served. Despite these critiques, the majority of reviews conclude that Little Donkey delivers a flavorful, fun, and authentic Mexican dining experience, making it a popular choice for groups and casual outings alike. Overall, the reviews indicate a well-loved local spot that balances quality food and a fun social atmosphere, with room for service improvements as it continues to expand.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Brett Murphy Hunt
The atmosphere is nice, but the food is very very average. The Bangkok noodles and octopus were overcharred, such that none of the other flavor notes came through almost at all. An extra star for gluten free consciousness. But it was a two star experience in terms of the culinary side. And very pricey for tapas. If you end up here with a group of friends, it won’t be the worst thing, but don’t waste a date night.
C and M Zimmerman
The food went so fast that I didn’t have time to take pictures of it. Little donkey has got a cool vibe with a large interior space that looks a bit like a stripped down factory, giving it some urban hip sensations which are augmented by the steady stream of good Rap music. It is pretty dark in there and it feels kind of like a club, but the food menus, served tapas style, has got a lot of great flavors and innovation, and everything disappeared very fast. The cocktails were also very good. Iberico pork steak was excellent. The tuna tostadas were very savory and delicious and the tuna was very fresh. On the whole, this place is pretty expensive, but they work hard to earn it.
Brigitte Bakalar
The food at Little Donkey is so unique and flavor forward! It’s delicious and always a fun time and I really appreciate how often they change the menu while still keeping some of their star dishes like the fried rice and the miso cacio e Pepe! This post was made in connection with a Toast promotion.
Gloria Ha
I came here for dinner on a Monday without a reservation and got hightop seating for a party of 4 (regular tables were all occupied). Overall the serving sizes exceeded expectations for a small plates place, and there were some great flavors! Great, would get again - The Bangkok street noodles had a wonderful smoky flavor and a good amount of pork. - The mushroom fried rice was really good! Nice variety of mushrooms and perfect rice texture and flavor. - The grilled octopus was cooked very nicely. Okay, wouldn't get again - The salmon crudo was fine but nothing special. - The empanada was pretty mid. - The crispy pork belly was not what I expected. Felt more like a salad and the pork wasn't that good compared to the Bangkok street noodles. It's not a cheap place -- if we had gotten 2-3 dishes per person as was recommended, we would easily have spent over $50 per person (most dishes are $17 to $25). But the portion sizes for the rice and noodles were larger than I expected, and those two dishes were quite scrumptious. I'd come back!
Hannah
I had a girls’ dinner date here and loved the vibe! The dim lighting at night creates such a cozy atmosphere, and the cocktails (and mocktails) were on point. We went with a bunch of tapas-style dishes: ceviche, burrata, scallops, roasted carrots, cauliflower, Bangkok street noodles, and the pork belly. Almost everything is shareable, and the food came out quickly. Everything was delicious, but the standout dishes were the scallops, ceviche, and roasted cauliflower! Definitely recommend. The portions left us feeling satisfied, not overly stuffed. For dessert, we tried the cookie dough, which was a total surprise—one of the best things I’ve had in a while! It comes with a generous scoop and a side of white cream with chocolate chips. The presentation was super fun, too, with a baking beater for decoration. All in all, a great spot for quick bites and drinks, whether you’re with friends or on a date night.
How to reach Little Donkey
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Why Little Donkey may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Little Donkey with your friends?
Choosing the perfect spot to gather with friends and family for a memorable meetup can be a challenge, but Little Donkey stands out as an exceptional destination that effortlessly blends great food, a welcoming atmosphere, and versatility for group enjoyment. With a solid rating of 4.4 from over two thousand reviews, it clearly earns its reputation as a favored locale for socializing. The lively, casual vibe at Little Donkey makes everyone feel comfortable, whether you’re catching up over drinks or sharing a flavorful meal. Their menu is diverse enough to please a broad spectrum of tastes, from hearty traditional Mexican dishes to inventive fusion meals that surprise and delight. The ambiance is both inviting and spacious, ideal for groups of various sizes without feeling cramped. Whether seeking a relaxed place to unwind with a margarita or an engaging environment to celebrate a special occasion, Little Donkey provides the perfect backdrop that encourages laughter, connection, and quality time.
What makes Little Donkey’s atmosphere perfect for group meetups?
The atmosphere at Little Donkey strikes a fine balance between casual comfort and trendy vibrancy, making it an ideal setting for group gatherings. Unlike places that feel too formal or too chaotic, Little Donkey offers an inviting space where groups can interact freely without worry. Their seating arrangements are well-thought-out, allowing for both intimate conversations among smaller groups and lively exchanges in larger parties. One distinctive feature is the blend of indoor and outdoor seating options, so groups can choose an environment that suits their mood—whether basking in fresh air or enjoying a cozy, dimly lit interior. The restaurant often exudes a friendly neighborhood vibe, where the staff are approachable and attentive, adding a personalized touch to the experience. Moreover, the background music and overall noise levels are conducive to conversation, ensuring that the social aspect of meetups remains front and center. This welcoming environment encourages guests to relax and linger, turning ordinary outings into memorable get-togethers.
What kind of activities and options does Little Donkey offer for groups?
While primarily a restaurant, Little Donkey offers more than just great food, providing activities and group-centric conveniences that enhance the social experience. The menu itself serves as an interactive playground—groups delight in sharing the range of appetizers, tacos, and signature dishes, turning meals into communal events where discovering new favorites becomes a shared adventure. Their drink offerings are extensive, with expertly crafted cocktails like margaritas and a selection of cold beers that appeal to diverse palates, perfect for toasting occasions. For those who want a relaxed afternoon, the outdoor seating area doubles as a casual hangout spot that works well for extended conversations or even small informal celebrations such as birthdays or reunions. Some locations have happy hour specials and group dining deals that make hosting more affordable while ensuring ample servings. The attentive staff often accommodates special requests or dietary needs, making it easier for everyone in the group to enjoy their time without hassle. These thoughtful touches elevate Little Donkey beyond a typical dining spot into a dynamic social hub.
Why is Little Donkey’s food ideal for sharing in groups?
Little Donkey’s menu is specially designed with bold flavors, generous portions, and variety that make it outstanding for group dining. The mix of Mexican classics such as tamales, brisket tacos, and nachos invites shared sampling, encouraging groups to order multiple dishes and enjoy a vibrant culinary experience together. This communal style of eating fosters a warm atmosphere where everyone participates in tasting and discussing the food, enhancing the social element of meetups. Large portions ensure that even bigger appetites are satisfied and leftovers are common, which can be a plus when you want to extend the gathering beyond dinner. Customers often praise the quality and freshness of the ingredients, highlighting how the diverse yet thoughtfully crafted flavors — from succulent meats to crisp chips and house-made salsas — keep everyone engaged and pleased. Pairing the food with their exquisite drinks, such as their famous margaritas made with fresh lime and quality tequila, completes the meal perfectly, making Little Donkey a crowd-pleaser for groups who appreciate both substance and flavor.
How does Little Donkey’s service enhance the group dining experience?
The service at Little Donkey plays a pivotal role in making group meetups smooth and enjoyable. Reviewers frequently commend the staff for being friendly, professional, and attentive, which is especially important when dining with multiple people whose orders and preferences may vary widely. Servers like Chapel, mentioned by guests, exemplify this commitment to great service by being personable and efficient, offering menu guidance and ensuring that large orders are handled promptly. Good service reduces wait times and manages the flow of the meal, allowing groups to relax and focus on each other rather than logistical frustrations. Although there are occasional reports of slower service or miscommunication, these appear to be exceptions rather than the rule. When the team functions well, it creates a welcoming environment that encourages return visits and positive word of mouth. This reliability and customer care are crucial in transforming what could be an ordinary dinner into a seamless and memorable social occasion for everyone involved.
What kind of group sizes and occasions suit Little Donkey best?
Little Donkey is adaptable to a broad range of group sizes, from small circles of close friends to fairly large family gatherings or casual business meetups. The restaurant’s spacious layout, both indoors and out, allows for comfortable seating arrangements without feeling overcrowded. For more intimate gatherings, quieter corners and cozy spaces provide a sense of privacy, while bigger groups can be accommodated with collaborative seating ideal for lively conversations and collective dining. Its casual but stylish environment suits many occasions, whether celebrating a birthday, a reunion, or simply catching up over the weekend. Additionally, the approachable yet sophisticated menu fits diverse age groups and preferences, making it easy for families with kids and adults alike to find something they enjoy. The availability of group-friendly offerings like sharing platters or combo deals further enhances the appeal for special events and makes planning simpler. This versatility makes Little Donkey an attractive venue for nearly any social occasion requiring a balance of great food, good drinks, and a convivial atmosphere.
How accessible and convenient is Little Donkey for hosting meetups?
Conveniently located in popular areas such as Homewood and Montgomery, Little Donkey offers easy accessibility for groups coming from various parts of the city. Ample parking options and proximity to main roads simplify arrivals, especially for those traveling with family or in multiple cars. The restaurant’s reservation system also helps in managing group meetups by reducing wait times and guaranteeing adequate space. For casual meetups, the option to enjoy outdoor seating in pleasant weather adds even more convenience and appeal. Moreover, operating hours typically cover evenings and weekends, prime times for social gatherings, so planning a meetup can be flexible to accommodate different schedules. The combination of location, parking, reservation availability, and welcoming atmosphere means coordinating a group event here is straightforward, reducing stress for hosts and attendees alike. This level of accessibility ensures that Little Donkey is not just a great dining choice but also a convenient destination for socializing with friends or family.
What makes Little Donkey stand out from other Mexican restaurants for group events?
Little Donkey distinguishes itself from other Mexican restaurants through its blend of consistently fresh, flavorful food and an unpretentious yet stylish environment that encourages socialization. Unlike venues that focus purely on quick service or traditional fare, Little Donkey offers a creative menu that balances innovation with familiar favorites, delivering dishes that excite the palate but remain approachable. Many reviewers highlight the quality of the food’s flavor profiles and the substantial portions, which are perfect for sharing and communal dining. The restaurant’s commitment to lively, friendly service further enhances the experience, making guests feel valued and welcome. While some competitors might struggle with accommodating groups comfortably, Little Donkey’s layout and atmosphere facilitate easy conversation and connection. This thoughtful combination of culinary creativity, service excellence, and ambiance tailored to group dynamics positions Little Donkey as a standout choice for hosting memorable get-togethers with friends, family, or colleagues.
In sum, Little Donkey is an excellent place to rally with friends because it offers a rich social experience through its flavorful food, vibrant yet comfortable atmosphere, accommodating service, and convenient location. Whether you are planning a casual hangout, a special celebration, or simply want a spot where everyone can enjoy diverse Mexican-inspired dishes together, Little Donkey delivers with hearty portions, refreshing drinks, and a hospitable spirit that keeps groups coming back for more.