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Top picks in Paterson

Empanada spots

A handheld empanada is the quick, satisfying bite that makes the afternoon manageable.

Based on 542 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Más Q Pan Colombian Bakery image 1
Más Q Pan Colombian Bakery image 2
Más Q Pan Colombian Bakery image 3
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Colombian bakery buzzes with loud music and a very Colombian atmosphere. Chicken empanadas shine with fresh, bold flavors. Portions are small and prices high, but art-filled space adds charm.

Colombian empanadas stand out here, especially the chicken empanadas which are freshly made and highly flavorful. Meat empanadas are also available nearby and offer a solid alternative.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I had the best Colombian empanadas I've ever had."

Good to know

1

They close at 8:00 pm, but hours may vary.

2

Meat empanadas may not always be available.

3

Expect to pay around $40 for a meal and some items.

02
On The Go Empanadas image 1
Latin American restaurant

Empanadas are fresh and crispy, featuring unique fillings like cheesesteak and vegan options. Prices vary, with some specialty items costing more, and sauces come at an extra charge. Many selections sell out early, reflecting their popularity and quality.

Empanadas come perfectly fried and packed with fresh ingredients. Unique recipes like the empanada Supreme and vegan options stand out, with many made on the spot if not available.

People are saying

"These empanadas are the best I've ever had."

"The food here is amazing, especially the meatball parm empanada."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 7 pm, and items may sell out by then.

2

Empanadas cost $3.70 each, with specialty options available.

3

They charge an extra dollar for sauce, which is not included.

03
Cocina Papá Andrés image 1
Dominican restaurant

Dominican spot serves authentic Santo Domingo-style food in a family-friendly atmosphere with fast service. Yucca empanadas shine with crispy texture and rich flavor, though they take time to prepare. Ordering requires going inside, no phone orders.

Yucca empanadas stand out with their crispy texture and rich flavor. They often take time to prepare but deliver a satisfying taste consistently.

People are saying

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

"I found the yucca empanadas to be the best I've ever had."

"I found the fried food here to be the best."

Good to know

1

You have to go inside to order and wait for your food.

2

They don't accept phone orders.

3

The prices are reasonable for authentic Dominican cuisine.

04
Tropical Juice Bar image 1

Juice shop offers a pleasant atmosphere with quiet, clean surroundings and high hygiene. Empanadas are hot and crispy with a homemade taste, featuring beef, chicken, and cheese. Smoothies stand out as delicious and fresh, making it a relaxing spot with good energy.

Empanadas come out hot and very crispy with a homemade taste. Varieties like beef, chicken, and cheese are consistently delicious and enjoyed by all ages.

People are saying

"The food and service here are excellent and fast."

"I found the empanadas here to be hot, crispy, and delicious."

"The smoothies here have excellent, friendly service."

Good to know

1

The restaurant needs security to ensure the safety of its staff and customers.

2

There is no air conditioning, making the environment uncomfortably hot.

3

The place is always very clean, maintaining high hygiene standards.

05
Cafecito Restaurant image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American spot offers a family-friendly vibe with comfy couches and a welcoming patio. Empanadas boast a golden crispy pastry and rich homemade flavors. Outdoor seating and soft music create a relaxed atmosphere perfect for casual dining.

Empanadas feature a golden and crispy pastry that stays soft inside without greasiness. Flavors are homemade and well-seasoned, with a dipping sauce that enhances the taste further.

People are saying

"The coffee here is super smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced."

"It's great because they have parking available."

"The empanadas are super smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Cafecito Restaurant has its own parking lot for customers.

2

The restaurant offers an event hall for celebrations.

3

Cafecito Restaurant is family-friendly and well-presented.

06
Cositas Ricas De Paterson image 1

Small bakery serves authentic Colombian flavors in a cozy, lively spot with no seating. Empanadas are crispy and delicious, featuring meat and sausage fillings. Affordable prices and quick takeout make it a popular choice despite tight space and cash-only policy.

Empanadas come out crispy and delicious, with options like meat and sausage fillings. They sit alongside other snacks like chicharrón and pan de bono, making for a solid savory choice.

People are saying

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

"I found the empanadas here to be really delicious."

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

Good to know

1

They do not accept card payments and only accept cash.

2

Parking is difficult, so plan accordingly.

3

This place is for takeout only; no seating is available.

07
Mi Sabor Boricua Food Truck image 1
Puerto Rican restaurant

Puerto Rican food truck serves authentic dishes like El Bori chicken sandwich and crunchy empanadas with bold cheese and guava flavors. Atmosphere feels remote with a firewood aroma that recalls island vibes. Business hours can be inconsistent, affecting reliability.

Crunchy empanadas come with a strong cheese pull and bold flavor. Options include cheese and beef or cheese and guava, with the latter standing out.

People are saying

"I enjoyed authentic Puerto Rican food, especially the tripleta pressed on the grill."

"I can't stop thinking about the empanadas from the food trucks."

"The empanadas' crunch and cheese pull are amazing."

Good to know

1

The food truck may not be consistently available during posted hours.

2

Prices are on the higher side, with sandwiches costing around $15.

3

Empanadas are small and priced at $4 each.

08
NOCHES DE COLOMBIA PATERSON image 1
Colombian restaurant

Cozy Colombian spot shines with live weekend music and maracuya mojitos. Empanadas taste fresh and homemade, especially the mini ones, though chicken versions can be bland. Perfect for casual meals or quick breakfast with coffee.

Empanadas here have a homemade, fresh taste with some mini versions standing out. Chicken empanadas sometimes come cold and lack flavor, but pairing them with coffee makes for a solid quick breakfast.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and well-seasoned."

"I thought the food was so flavorful, truly authentic Colombian cuisine."

"I loved the empanadas here; they tasted homemade and fresh."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on Thursdays starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Parking is difficult to find nearby, especially after 7pm on weekdays.

3

There is no free parking available at the location.

09
Empanadas Monumental image 1
Dominican restaurant

Dominican spot shines with fresh empanadas like chicken and eggplant from a secret menu. Atmosphere stays peaceful and cozy despite tight seating. Flavors vary but yuca empanadas often impress with their unique taste.

Chicken and eggplant empanadas stand out with rich flavors, including a secret menu featuring eggplant options. Some fillings like beef are lighter, but the yuca empanadas also receive praise for their taste.

People are saying

"I found the empanadas here to be the best I had ever tasted."

"I found the food here to be good."

Good to know

1

They have a secret menu with special empanadas, including eggplant ones.

10
Delicias Dominicanas image 1
Dominican restaurant

Dominican fast food spot shines with ham and queso empanadas that burst with flavor and a cozy vibe. Mangu with stewed salami offers a comforting taste that draws fans of authentic Dominican food. Casual dining here feels warm and inviting.

Ham and queso empanadas get a perfect score for flavor. Chicken empanadas vary, sometimes dry or old, while yuca empanadas do not appeal. The empanadas come with a sauce that many enjoy alongside.

People are saying

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

"I'd give these ham and queso empanadas a 10 out of 10."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect a casual dining atmosphere with no strict dress code.

3

Takeout options are available for those in a hurry.

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