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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Paterson

Empanada places

The simple comfort of a warm, flaky crust filled with savory ingredients.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
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Updated May 2026
01
On The Go Empanadas image 1
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Latin American restaurant

Empanadas come fresh and crispy, filled with unique recipes like cheesesteak and meatball parm. Prices vary, with some specialty options costing more, and sauces are charged separately. The spot offers a traditional style with a variety of selections, often selling out before closing.

Food here stands out for its empanadas that taste extremely delicious. Other dishes match that quality, making the menu consistently great and family-owned.

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.

02
Cocina Papá Andrés image 1
Dominican restaurant

Dominican restaurant offers authentic Santo Domingo-style food with a family-friendly atmosphere and fast service. The space feels welcoming and safe, attracting those who enjoy traditional dishes like empanadas and tostones. Ordering requires going inside, as phone orders are not accepted.

Food features Dominican seasoning and stays very fresh. Fried items stand out as high quality and flavorful.

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.

03
Cafecito Restaurant image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant offers a modern and cultural environment with comfortable couches and a welcoming patio. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and homey, creating a peaceful and inviting vibe. Outdoor seating and enjoyable music add to the relaxed experience.

Food features delicious flavors and exquisite quality. Service complements the meals with excellent attentiveness.

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.

04
Más Q Pan Colombian Bakery image 1

Colombian bakery with loud music and a very Colombian atmosphere. The space features beautiful works and offers delicious empanadas that stand out among similar places. It closes early and serves small portions relative to price.

Food tastes consistently delicious with a focus on Colombian bakery items. Service supports the experience well, making it a good place to eat.

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.

05
Cositas Ricas De Paterson image 1

Small bakery offers authentic Colombian flavors with a cozy, lively atmosphere and cash-only policy. Space is tight with no seating, making it a popular spot for quick takeout. Affordable prices and a wide variety of treats draw steady crowds despite limited parking.

Food here is consistently fresh and made to order, with a focus on Colombian cuisine. Portions offer good value, combining lightness with great flavor and quality.

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.

06
Tropical Juice Bar image 1

Juice shop offers a pleasant atmosphere with quiet, clean surroundings and high hygiene standards. Empanadas and smoothies stand out as delicious and crispy, often described as homemade quality. The place maintains a relaxing vibe with good energy and music.

Food features freshness and delicious flavors with a focus on smoothies. Quality remains consistently good across dishes and drinks.

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.

07
Mi Sabor Boricua Food Truck image 1
Puerto Rican restaurant

Puerto Rican food truck offers authentic dishes like El Bori chicken sandwich and flavorful alcapurias, though some items vary in quality. Atmosphere recalls island vibes with firewood aroma and a sense of being remote. Business hours are inconsistent, affecting reliability.

Authentic Puerto Rican food shines with fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. Cheese and beef empanadas stand out, offering a taste that rivals other Caribbean options.

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."

"I enjoyed the authentic Puerto Rican food here."

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
El Rey Latin Food image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant with newly remodeled look and colorful mural decor creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Music adds to the pleasant, welcoming vibe where traditional dishes like arepas and stews offer a homemade flavor experience.

Food features delicious and fresh flavors with excellent service that enhances the dining experience.

Empanadas come with a crispy shell and a savory beef filling paired with tangy aji sauce. Some versions include chicken or more potato, but meat content varies.

People are saying

"I found the arepas here to be super delicious."

"The food here is delicious and has a unique flavor."

"The empanadas here are super delicious and crispy."

Good to know

1

The prices of the daily specials are reasonable and vary each day.

2

Portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean and pleasant environment.

09
NOCHES DE COLOMBIA PATERSON image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant offers a cozy family atmosphere with live weekend music and vibrant Spanish tunes playing alongside sports on TVs. The space feels small and intimate, welcoming both casual diners and special occasions. Cocktails like maracuya mojitos and Margaritas stand out as highlights.

Food features perfectly cooked meat and consistently excellent dishes. The menu offers very good flavors that pair well with great drinks.

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.

10
Delicias Dominicanas image 1
Dominican restaurant

Dominican fast food spot offers a comforting atmosphere with mouthwatering empanadas and delicious mangu with stewed salami. The place draws people looking for authentic Dominican flavors and a casual dining experience.

Authentic flavors and impeccable taste define the food here. The menu offers delicious Dominican dishes and tasty smoothies with above average quality.

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.

11
Empanadas Monumental image 1
Dominican restaurant

Dominican restaurant offers freshly made empanadas with a secret menu featuring unique options like eggplant. Atmosphere stays lovely and peaceful despite limited seating and no waiting area. Empanadas vary in quality but often receive praise for their distinctive flavors.

Food arrives hot and fresh with good quality and excellent service.

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.

12
DULCE PATRIA image 1
Restaurant

Small space with cute murals and club-style lighting creates a warm, friendly atmosphere. Live DJ plays a mix of Spanish, reggae, and house music, setting a lively yet relaxed vibe. Quiet patio offers a calm spot to enjoy time with friends.

Food features excellent quality and great flavors throughout. Dishes consistently impress with their taste and presentation.

Crispy empanadas stand out with options like Birria and chicken teriyaki. They pair well with tostones and flavorful drinks.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and great."

"The sushi here is so delicious and full of flavor."

"I found the empanadas here to be amazing and crispy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers all-you-can-drink mojitos and mimosas for $20 for two hours.

2

You can't get happy hour if you order sushi.

3

Wednesday sip and paint event is available for a unique date experience.

13
Buca's Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with a family-run feel and a takeout-focused setup featuring a few seats. Atmosphere is casual and lively, especially late at night with games and fights on TV. Offers affordable prices and fresh seafood with a menu that includes steaks and various seafood dishes.

Food arrives fresh and takes about 20 minutes to prepare. Packaging suits takeout well, and the seafood stands out as delicious and healthy compared to other options.

Seafood empanadas come stuffed with corn, onions, peppers, and cheese. They resemble a seafood chowder more than traditional empanadas and are quite large. Varieties include shrimp, salmon, lobster, and crab when available.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The seafood here is so fresh and flavorful, it's unforgettable."

"The seafood empanadas are a must-try, filled with corn, onions, peppers, and cheese."

Good to know

1

Parking in Paterson can be tricky, but there are enough side streets to find a spot.

2

The restaurant is more of a takeout place with a few seats.

3

A double order of crab legs, six fried jumbo shrimp, and an order of salmon cost just under $50.

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Paterson, New Jersey

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