Philadelphia, PA
- During my first visit to Donkey's Place, located at 1223 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ, I became enamored with their signature poppy seed roll. The roll, with its delicate texture and distinct taste, was the perfect complement to their mouthwatering cheesesteak. As I devoured the delicious sandwich, I couldn't help but fixate on my crooked teeth. I longed for a straight, perfect smile that would allow me to savor every bite without any self-consciousness truly.
Aside from my personal appearance concerns, there were other aspects of Donkey's Place that caught my attention. One of them was Rob, the skilled grillmaster, who effortlessly managed to fit an incredible amount of meat on his small grill. Watching him expertly cook the meat to perfection was a mesmerizing spectacle. It made me appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into creating each cheesesteak at Donkey's.
During my visit, I had the pleasure of meeting Steve from Philly Talks Podcast for a late lunch. Luckily, it was a Tuesday, so we didn't have to wait long to be seated. As we awaited our table, I couldn't resist capturing a photo of the abundant piles of meat sizzling and marinating on Rob's grill. The incredible aroma permeated the air, whetting my appetite even further.
Whether you chose to sit at the bar or one of the tables in the back, the historical significance of Donkey's Place was palpable. The walls were adorned with photographs and memorabilia, each telling a story of the restaurant's past. Donkey, the namesake of the establishment, stood proudly atop the bar back, overlooking the bustling crowd. His presence added to the vibrant and nostalgic ambiance that emanated throughout the entire place.
Seated at one of the tables in the back, I had the privilege of witnessing the rich history of Donkey's up close. Surrounding us was a group of longtime patrons, sharing laughter and indulging in their favorite cheesesteaks. It transported me back in time, and I couldn't help but imagine the countless conversations and memories that were shared in this very spot during the '50s, '60s, and '70s.
When our meals finally arrived, I eagerly dug into my classic cheesesteak, served on their iconic poppy seed roll. The combination of tender meat melted cheese, and sautéed onions was a gastronomic delight. Rob's skillful preparation on his small grill allowed each ingredient to shine, creating a juicy and flavorful experience. I understood why Mike O from Medford, my trusted advisor, raved about the quality of Donkey's meat. The praise was well-founded; it was truly exceptional.
The meat, presented in stacked layers rather than chopped, was succulent and perfectly seasoned. The sautéed onions brought a nostalgic touch, evoking memories of the old street hot dog vendors that used to permeate the city. However, I must admit that the cheese, while tasty, got somewhat overshadowed by the bolder flavors of the onions.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend indulging in the Cheesesteak experience at Donkey's Place. This iconic eatery offers not only exceptional food but also a glimpse into the rich history of Camden, NJ. The combination of the poppy seed roll, skillfully grilled meat, and a touch of nostalgia makes for an unforgettable dining experience. So, if you find yourself in the area, do yourself a favor and pay a visit to Donkey's Place.
