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Donaji
Master Critic Review
Donaji
8.2
Oaxacan-leaning kitchen spotlighting heirloom corn, moles, and a thoughtful mezcal list. The room is warm and relaxed, with a menu that balances tradition and a few market-driven specials.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole negro with chicken, Tlayuda clásica, Memelas with asiento
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Heirloom-corn masa and regional Oaxacan staples with a mezcal focus.
Who should go: Mole lovers and mezcal explorers
When to visit: Reserve weekends; walk in early on weeknights
What to order: Mole negro; tlayuda; memelas
Insider tip: Join the mezcal club for occasional members-only pours.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—generally available within a few blocks, but weekends can be tight. No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but many guests lean slightly dressy for date night.
Noise level: Moderate—conversations are possible, though the room buzzes at peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: No wait; usually easy to walk in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several dishes including tlayudas, memelas, and market-driven specials.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 clear options, but staff can often adapt items on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn-based masa dishes are naturally gluten-free; ask staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the warm atmosphere, thoughtful service, and mezcal list make it a romantic but approachable choice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? On weeknights, yes if you arrive early. On weekends, expect a long wait without a booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—the vibe leans adult with mezcal focus. Older kids and teens are fine, but it’s not geared toward young children.
Best For
Better for: Donaji excels in showcasing Oaxacan mole traditions and heirloom corn masa, paired with one of the Mission’s more curated mezcal lists.
Skip if: If you’re looking for cheap eats, late-night tacos, or a kid-centric family meal, other Mission spots may suit you better.