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Loved by locals

Empanadas in The Heights

Empanadas that actually taste like a meal, not just a quick snack to tide you over.

Based on 505 Opinions
+502
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Updated April 2026
01
Galeria Cafe image 1
Galeria Cafe image 2
Galeria Cafe image 3
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Cozy cafe with tasteful decor and an open, spacious layout offers a relaxed atmosphere ideal for quiet work or casual meetings. Outdoor seating complements the warm, inviting vibe inside. Frequented for its homemade Latin American dishes and friendly environment.

Authentic Colombian cuisine shines with fresh, pescatarian-friendly Latin American soul food. Dishes taste like they come from Hispanic parents, offering phenomenal, home-style flavors.

Empanadas come fresh, flaky, and crispy, with a standout beef filling and unique green plantain options. They pair well with coffee and cappuccino for a solid breakfast choice.

People are saying

"I thought the empanadas here were fire."

"The Cafe owners and staff are so friendly and welcoming."

"I found the food here to be absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices for coffee start at $1.50 for a double shot of espresso.

2

The cafe offers a menu of breakfast and lunch items with Colombian flair.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

02
La Bodega Latin Cuisine image 1
Dominican restaurant

Old-fashioned bodega style blends with modern decor and Dominican family history murals on the walls. Warm, family-friendly atmosphere fills the clean, newly renovated space. Low merengue music plays softly while a small market offers authentic Dominican products.

Dominican food here is fresh and delicious, prepared by an actual Dominican woman. Meals offer excellent flavors and a strong focus on uplifting the community.

Empanadas have rich fillings like beef and Pernil, served with generous portions. They pair well with cafe con leche and deliver consistent flavor every visit.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"It's a gorgeous and cozy restaurant with a warm, vibrant atmosphere."

"I found the empanadas here to be the best in New Jersey."

Good to know

1

La Bodega Latin Cuisine has been a community staple for over 30 years.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of authentic Dominican dishes.

3

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

03
Torta Truck image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food truck offers flavorful tortas and tacos with a homey atmosphere and enjoyable music. The interior feels cool and adorable, though seating is limited and it can get warm inside. The spot draws a crowd for its authentic dishes and casual vibe.

Food arrives hot, fresh, and on time with consistent quality. The menu features authentic Mexican dishes including a notable Birria Ramen, all offering very good value.

Birria empanadas come with a side of consomé. Mini empanadas appear alongside mini tacos, offering variety. The empanadas have a decent birria filling and are part of a diverse menu including tortas and tacos.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and delicious, especially the tacos."

"I noticed the tortillas had the best bite, crunchy yet chewy."

"The food here is authentic, delicious, and super fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but catering services should be booked in advance.

2

Torta Truck is a BYOB establishment, so bring your own drinks.

3

There is limited seating available, so plan to eat on the go.

04
Heights Deli & Grill image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Spacious and clean breakfast spot with affordable prices and plenty of seating. The atmosphere feels warm and inviting, energized by friendly service. Known for fresh empanadas and light cheesecake, it offers a satisfying experience throughout the day.

Food here is fresh and flavorful with a clear sense of care in every bite. Prices stay affordable while maintaining great quality and taste.

Freshly made empanadas stand out with beef filling and a delicious taste. Prices have increased to $1.50 each.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious."

"The Lunch Spot staff, especially the girl in the green shirt, were super friendly."

"I found the freshly made empanadas to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The deli opens at 7am and closes at 7pm, six days a week.

2

Expect no wait times as there is usually plenty of open seating.

3

Empanadas are now priced at $1.50 each, up from $1.

05
Rumba's Cafe image 1
Cuban restaurant

Small space with Latin-inspired decor creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere filled with outgoing locals. The environment often feels crowded and noisy, adding to its energetic vibe. The cafe offers an affordable dining experience with a strong Cuban cultural presence.

Cuban food stands out with excellent quality and great prices. The dishes consistently deliver strong flavors and solid value.

Empanadas de queso y guava stand out with a sweet and savory mix. The empanada de res offers a hearty, authentic flavor. Coffee pairs well with these quick, tasty snacks.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The breakfast service here is always friendly and attentive."

"I loved the empanadas here, especially the queso y guava."

Good to know

1

Most plates at Rumba's Cafe are under $10.

2

Daily specials are available, changing each day of the week.

3

Expect longer wait times on weekends for brunch.

06
Irma’s Café image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant with homey atmosphere and art on the walls. Serves fresh Salvadorian and Mexican food, including highly regarded tacos and pupusas. Limited indoor seating encourages takeout, with daily specials and affordable prices on some items.

Food features authentic Mexican and Salvadorian dishes with a homemade taste. Items like milanesa sandwiches and flautas stand out for their flavor and quality.

Chicken empanadas come with a simple filling and are reasonably priced. Beef empanadas include many vegetables like corn, carrot, potato, and red pepper, which some may find overwhelming.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes homemade."

"I loved the birria tacos; they did not disappoint."

"I found the empanadas to be good."

Good to know

1

The café offers a 4 for $10 taco deal on Tuesdays.

2

Expect limited indoor seating, so arrive early for dine-in.

3

Takeout and delivery options are available for convenience.

07
Dulce De Leche Bakery image 1

Bakery offers a cozy, bright atmosphere with a bustling, friendly vibe reminiscent of an Argentine pastry shop. It draws a steady crowd for fresh, flavorful pastries and has seating with free Wi-Fi for casual work or dining.

Freshly baked goods stand out with delicious pastries and tart desserts. Food offers great value alongside a wide range of quality options.

Soft, perfectly flaky crusts define the empanadas here, with a variety of flavorful fillings like beef and chicken. They warm up well and come at a good price.

People are saying

"The tres leches cake was soft, moist, and creamy."

"I found the food here to be delicious and of excellent quality."

"You have to try their empanadas; they're perfectly flaky and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult; plan to arrive early.

2

Order custom cakes at least 3-4 days in advance.

08
El Sabroso image 1
Puerto Rican restaurant

Puerto Rican restaurant with no air conditioning and an open kitchen that lets food smells linger. Atmosphere feels comforting despite the heat and difficult parking nearby. Known for fresh, affordable food with standout dishes like pernil and empanadas.

Authentic Puerto Rican food shines here with dishes made fresh and priced affordably. The food stays consistently delicious and offers great value every time.

Beef and cheese empanadas stand out here, with options including both beef and chicken fillings. The empanadas come alongside other dishes like alcapurrias and pernil, making for a hearty meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I thought the beef and cheese empanadas were the best around."

Good to know

1

Finding street parking is difficult around the restaurant.

2

Prices at the restaurant are reasonable for the area.

3

Expect to smell like cooking oil after dining here.

09
Mike's Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers quiet atmosphere with generous portions and affordable prices. The menu features traditional dishes like tamales, huaraches, and enchiladas with fresh ingredients. Family-run vibe creates a caring, hardworking environment.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with a homemade feel. Dishes arrive warm and tasty, making takeout a solid choice.

Chicken empanadas stand out with rich flavor and tender filling. Cheese empanadas often taste old and spoiled, limiting enjoyment.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and tasty."

"I found the tamales here to be good and affordable."

"The fajitas had way more vegetables than chicken."

Good to know

1

The menu features daily specials including tamales and enfrijoladas.

2

Prices for menu items are displayed on the restaurant's exterior.

3

Portion sizes may not be sufficient for larger appetites.

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The Heights, Jersey City

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