The Donkey Inn Palatine Menu: 10 Must-Try Dishes & The Latest 2024 Specials

Are you searching for the most current and comprehensive breakdown of the Donkey Inn Palatine menu? As of December 15, 2025, this beloved Palatine institution continues its decades-long tradition of serving up classic American comfort food, pub favorites, and legendary daily specials in a warm, "Cheers"-style atmosphere. While the menu is extensive, featuring everything from all-day breakfast to signature sandwiches and dinner entrees, it's the specific, time-tested favorites that keep generations of locals coming back to this historic Illinois landmark.

The Donkey Inn is more than just a bar and grill; it’s a culinary staple known for its generous portions, friendly service, and a diverse selection that caters to every craving, whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or a full family dinner. From their famous wings and crispy tater tots to their classic Rueben Sandwich, navigating the extensive offerings requires a guide—and this is your ultimate resource to the best food and drinks The Donkey Inn has to offer.

The Donkey Inn: A Brief Profile and History

The Donkey Inn is one of Palatine, Illinois's most enduring and cherished establishments, with a history that anchors it deeply within the community. Unlike a typical corporate chain, this spot has a rich, independent heritage.

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• Establishment Date: 1932
• Location: 923 S Plum Grove Rd, Palatine, IL 60067
• Atmosphere: Described by co-owner Brian Schnell as having a "Cheers" feel—a great neighborhood bar where everyone knows your name.
• Cuisine Style: Classic American Bar & Grill, Comfort Food, Pub Favorites.
• Ownership/Management: Curated and cared for by its current owners for many years, including co-owner Brian Schnell.
• Key Features: Offers Breakfast Served ALL Day, Lunch & Dinner All Day, Daily Specials, and a full Drink Menu.
• Sister Location: The establishment also operates an Algonquin location.

The venue has evolved over the decades, maintaining its status as a local hub. Its long history in the Palatine area, dating back to the early 1930s, makes every meal feel like a step into local history.

Unveiling The Signature Menu: Top 10 Must-Try Dishes

The Donkey Inn menu is extensive, but certain dishes have achieved legendary status among Palatine regulars. These are the items that define the "Donk P Town" experience and are essential for any first-time visitor or returning patron.

1. The Legendary Rueben Sandwich

Often cited in customer reviews as a favorite, the Rueben Sandwich at The Donkey Inn is a classic done right. It features tender corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing piled high on grilled rye bread. This sandwich is a testament to their commitment to quality comfort food, often served with a side of crispy Tater Tots.

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2. The Fried Chicken Sandwich

A modern pub staple that has quickly become a fan favorite. The Fried Chicken Sandwich is praised for its perfect crunch and flavor, offering a satisfying alternative to the classic burger. It's a key part of their extensive sandwich and wrap offerings, providing a hearty, flavorful meal.

3. The Burger with Bacon and Cheddar

While the menu boasts a variety of burgers, the simple combination of a juicy patty topped with savory bacon and melted cheddar cheese stands out. The Donkey Inn ensures a quality burger experience, making it a reliable choice for any meat-and-potatoes enthusiast.

4. Famous Wings and Flatbreads

No bar and grill is complete without great appetizers. The Donkey Inn's Wings are renowned for their varied flavors and crispy texture, making them a perfect shareable starter or a meal in themselves. Their Flatbreads also offer a lighter, yet equally flavorful, option for a quick bite.

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5. All-Day Breakfast Classics

One of the unique selling points of The Donkey Inn is that they serve a full Breakfast ALL Day. This means you can satisfy a late-night craving for pancakes, omelets, or a classic eggs and bacon plate whenever you visit. This flexibility is a huge draw for locals.

6. The Daily Soup Trio: French Onion, Matzo Ball, and Chili

The Donkey Inn offers a unique daily selection of comforting soups, including the rich, cheesy Baked French Onion Soup, the traditional Matzo Ball Soup, and their hearty Chili. These are served daily and are a perfect complement to any sandwich or a warm starter on a cold day.

7. The Fish Fry Favorites: Beer Battered Cod and Shrimp Tempura

For those seeking traditional dinner entrees, the Beer Battered Cod and Shrimp Tempura are highlighted menu items. The Shrimp Tempura, for example, is served as eight deep-fried shrimp with cole slaw, fries or chips, cocktail sauce, and a cup of the soup of the day, offering a complete and satisfying seafood plate.

8. Corned Beef and Cabbage

This traditional dish, often highlighted around St. Patrick's Day, is a customer favorite that speaks to the restaurant's classic comfort food roots. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that embodies the pub's commitment to home-style cooking.

9. The Signature "Donkey Punch" Drinks

While not a food item, the "Donkey Punch" is a signature part of the experience. The bar boasts an extensive Drink Menu featuring craft beers, fine wines, and signature cocktails, with the Donkey Punch being the most famous alcoholic offering.

10. Daily Specials: The Ri"DONK"ulous Value

The daily specials—often referred to as the "Ri"DONK"ulous Daily Specials"—are a cornerstone of the menu, offering great value and seasonal variety. For example, the Monday Special frequently features a hearty Bratwurst or Polish Sausage Sandwich. These specials change seasonally, so checking their board or website is essential for the most current offerings.

Navigating The Donkey Inn’s Complete Culinary Categories

Beyond the top 10, the Donkey Inn menu is structured to offer something for everyone, all day long. Their commitment to serving both lunch and dinner, alongside all-day breakfast, makes it an incredibly versatile dining destination in Palatine.

The Sandwich, Wrap, and Entree Selection

The core of the lunch and dinner menu revolves around their extensive sandwich, wrap, and entree options. Items like the French Dip are popular, offering tender meat and savory jus. All main courses are designed to be filling, classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with a cold beer or one of their signature cocktails. The menu caters to a variety of tastes, ensuring that traditionalists and those looking for a modern pub experience are equally satisfied.

Kids Menu and Family Dining

The Donkey Inn is explicitly family-friendly and offers a dedicated Kids Menu. This ensures that even the youngest diners can find something they love, making it an ideal spot for family outings in the Palatine area. The inclusion of a children’s menu highlights the establishment's neighborhood, community-focused ethos.

The Drink Menu and Craft Beer Selection

The bar side of the Donkey Inn is just as important as the grill. The Drink Menu is extensive, featuring a robust selection of craft beers, fine wines, and house cocktails. They often feature beers with fresh herbal hop profiles and fine malt presence, catering to the sophisticated beer drinker as well as those looking for a simple domestic brew.

The Donkey Inn provides a timeless dining experience. It combines a rich local history, a welcoming neighborhood vibe, and a menu packed with beloved, high-quality comfort food. Whether you're craving a classic Rueben, a hearty plate of Corned Beef and Cabbage, or one of their famous Donkey Punch drinks, this Palatine gem delivers a satisfying meal every time. Be sure to check their daily specials for the freshest and most seasonal offerings during your next visit.