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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Chelsea

Empanada spots

Made for those who prioritize the portability and satisfaction of a well-made empanada during their lunch break.

Based on 505 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Venezuelan restaurant

Small space filled with live Latin music and spontaneous salsa dancing creates a lively, energetic vibe. Bright colors and modern decor evoke an authentic Caracas atmosphere. Loud noise level and outdoor seating add to the dynamic social scene.

Lunch specials stand out with great value and fresh flavors. The spot fills up quickly during lunch hours, showing its popularity among locals.

Crispy and freshly made, the empanadas come in an assortment of beef, chicken, and vegetarian options. Juicy, authentic fillings make the mini empanadas stand out as some of the best around.

People are saying

"I found the food here seriously delicious and amazing."

"These empanadas are crispy, freshly made, and I'm still thinking about them."

"The bowls here are loaded with rice, beans, and your choice of protein."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for weekend brunch to secure a table.

2

Sunday brunch features live music from 12-2pm.

3

The venue hosts a monthly drag show, check the schedule for dates.

02
Faena New York image 1

Hotel showcases spectacular interior design with mindblowing art pieces and theatrical ambiance. Live venues offer top-notch entertainment featuring jazz and DJs, creating a vibrant, cinematic atmosphere. The space pulses with a Latino heartbeat through rhythm, flavors, and hospitality.

Lunch features very good food with highlights like beet carpaccio and fish. Staff show professionalism and a great attitude that enhances the meal.

Cheese and beef empanadas come well-seasoned and tasty. They offer excellent quality but cost more than similar options at Criollas.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is excellent, especially the empanadas."

"Our server Michelle made our lunch spot experience special with great recommendations."

"You have to try the empanadas; they were excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the restaurant bar; walk-ins are not accepted.

2

The hotel has a dress code for the bar that guests must follow.

3

Expect high prices for drinks and food, reflecting the exclusivity of the venue.

03
Oyamel image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large space with industrial style and indoor/outdoor seating creates an open, lively vibe. Loud music and live entertainment add energy, giving more of a bar atmosphere than a traditional restaurant. Guests enjoy watching sports on big screens and appreciate the beautiful dรฉcor and views.

Small plates suit lunch or early dinner well. Live mariachi band plays during lunch on Saturdays. Outdoor seating adds to the experience.

Empanadas come out delicious and are a solid choice to start with alongside chips and dips.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and elevated."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and wonderful."

"I tried the empanadas; they were delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a $45 special menu that changes regularly.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

The restaurant can get toasty during summer as it lacks air conditioning.

04
Urban Vegan Kitchen image 1

Graffiti art and colorful decor create an edgy, vibrant atmosphere with a relaxed vibe. Music ranges from old school tracks to live DJ sets, setting a lively tone without overwhelming noise. Outdoor seating and a small stage add to the creative, urban feel.

Lunch options focus on delicious vegan dishes that offer a comforting meal experience. Seating is prompt, making it easy to enjoy a quick and satisfying lunch.

Flaky and soft dough defines the empanadas here, with options like mushroom and vegan shrimp. They deliver a comforting, satisfying bite that stands out among other dishes.

People are saying

"The vegan food here is delicious and healthy."

"This lunch spot has delicious food, especially the mushroom asada."

"The empanadas here are amazing and flaky."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long waits.

3

All transactions must be conducted through your phone.

05
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Spanish restaurant

Food court combines market stalls and restaurant seating with live flamenco music creating a lively, upscale yet approachable vibe. Decor features vibrant colors and decorative ceramics evoking Spanish warmth and vitality. Visitors find a unique atmosphere reminiscent of bustling Spanish mercados.

Spanish dishes like croquetas, patatas bravas, and molletes with jamon Iberico serve as solid lunch options. The spot stays clean and offers good quality food, fitting both casual and special lunch occasions.

Empanadas come in varied fillings like pulpo, tuna, shrimp, and jamon with queso. Shrimp empanadas arrive with a sensational mayonnaise that adds extra flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Spanish food and the wide variety of options."

"This lunch spot transports you straight to Spain with its vibrant atmosphere."

"The empanadas here are rich in flavor and a great occasional treat."

Good to know

1

Plan ahead to see the Flamenco dancing show, which runs from 6-8 PM on Thursdays.

2

Wednesdays offer half-priced bottles of wine during happy hour.

3

Happy hour features a great selection of options at the Food Hall.

06
Coppelia image 1
Cuban restaurant

Large Cuban diner blends mid-century New York style with Latin music and 24/7 operation. Tight seating and loud music create a vibrant, energetic atmosphere often filled with a lively crowd. Full bar offers distinctive cocktails alongside comfortable booths and illuminated decor.

Light options like soup and shredded Brussels sprouts feature on the lunch menu. Breakfast tacos also appear as a popular choice during lunch hours.

Oxtail empanadas feature a sweet plantain dough crust filled with braised oxtail, offering a soft and flavorful bite. Corn cheese empanadas also appear alongside other Cuban-inspired options.

People are saying

"It's the best 24-hour restaurant for late night eats."

"The oxtail empanadas here are next level delicious."

"I thought the food at this lunch spot was very good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open 24/7, making it a great choice for late-night dining.

2

They serve food late night after the clubs are closing at 3-4am.

3

You can get Lomo Saltado at 4am.

07
El Coco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space blends cozy sophistication with traditional Mexican style and soft lighting. Loud live DJ music fills the room, creating an energetic atmosphere that encourages dancing but challenges conversation. Tables sit close together in a compact area that mixes restaurant and club vibes.

Lunch specials offer good value with tasty food and drinks. Service stays friendly and attentive even during busy times, making it a solid spot for a quick lunch and a drink.

Beef empanadas stand out with their rich steak filling and tasty flavor. They pair well with tacos and drinks for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and delicious."

"I loved their amazing empanadas."

"The margaritas at this Lunch Spot are really good and only five dollars."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation for weekend nights to secure a table.

2

Happy hour offers $5 margaritas and tacos all day, every day.

3

You only get 90 minutes at the table during peak hours.

08
La Nacional image 1
Spanish restaurant

Spanish restaurant offers a spacious, cozy interior with a vibrant atmosphere fueled by passionate music and lively Spanish-speaking crowds. Outdoor terrace provides a comfortable dining experience with a relaxed vibe. Multiple seating areas include a dimly lit upstairs space that contrasts with the bustling main floor.

Massive portions serve as lunch for three or provide leftovers for the next day. Friendly service from Benjamin and Miguel adds to the lunch experience.

Empanadas stand out with rich fillings like shrimp ajillo and pork with rice. They pair well with Happy Hour wine and come highly recommended alongside tortilla de patatas.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Spanish."

"The empanadas here are absolutely delicious and amazing."

"The tapas at this Lunch Spot were excellent."

Good to know

1

Brunch is served on Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm.

2

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 PM to 7 PM with specials.

3

Reservations are important to secure a spot during busy times.

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Chelsea, New York

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