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Guide to Jackson Heights

Empanada spots

There is a specific hunger that only a fresh empanada can satisfy. It is time to grab one and get back to the day.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Empanadas Mix ๐Ÿ‡ป๐Ÿ‡ช image 1
Empanadas Mix ๐Ÿ‡ป๐Ÿ‡ช image 2
Empanadas Mix ๐Ÿ‡ป๐Ÿ‡ช image 3
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Small space with fresh decor and a family atmosphere creates a cozy vibe. Venezuelan music adds lively energy, making it feel like home. Empanadas are best in New York, known for their authentic flavor and high quality.

Empanadas stand out for their flavor and quality. They are widely regarded as some of the best in New York and even the United States.

People are saying

"I thought the empanadas here were absolutely delicious."

"It's a small, cozy place with a really nice atmosphere."

"I loved the burrito pabellรณn, it was so delicious."

Good to know

1

There are no bathrooms available for customers.

2

Expect to wait 20 minutes for your order due to slow service.

3

You must order at least two empanadas to receive sauce.

02
Parva Bakeshop and Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe adjoined to a laundromat offers a friendly vibe with neat decor and a green espresso machine. Large, baked empanadas with abundant fillings like spinach and chicken make a flavorful snack. Small space with bar seating creates an intimate atmosphere.

Large, baked empanadas come packed with an abundance of fillings. Varieties like spinach, chicken, and pastor offer flavorful, savory bites that work well for a quick snack.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be excellent and piping hot."

"The empanadas here are savory and packed with delicious flavor."

"I loved the jar cakes, especially the passionfruit 4 leches."

Good to know

1

Parva offers plant-based milk options for coffee drinks.

2

You can walk between the coffee shop and the laundromat without going outside.

3

The muffins are from Morrison Pastries, not made in-house.

03
Epa la arepa image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small fast food spot serves authentic Colombian arepas with a cozy atmosphere inspired by Medellin streets. Homemade empanadas offer a freshly baked texture and diverse flavors. Generous portions come at an excellent price-quality ratio.

Homemade empanadas stand out with a freshly baked texture and diverse flavors. Every bite shows a unique homemade touch.

People are saying

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

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

"These homemade empanadas have authentic Colombian flavors."

Good to know

1

Epa la arepa offers a wide variety of arepas and vegetarian options.

2

The price for pork rind is $18, reflecting the quality of ingredients.

3

Natural juices are available, providing a refreshing drink option.

04
Over the Moon Juice & Coffee image 1

Small, modern coffee shop offers a cozy atmosphere with mellow jazz music and a passthrough window for outdoor service. Baked empanadas feature a unique crust and come with an addictive sauce. Exceptional pastries and coffee attract those who appreciate sophisticated flavors.

Baked empanadas feature a unique crust between a croissant and wheat bread. The filling balances perfectly with the dough, and the menu offers an exquisite variety. A distinctive addictive sauce accompanies them.

People are saying

"I found their coffee to be the best I've ever had."

"I found the chicken empanada to be the best I ever had."

"It's a beautiful and cozy place with a unique vibe."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers vegan and gluten-free options on the menu.

2

Customers can earn rewards by typing their numbers for free drinks.

3

The cafe has a new all-day breakfast menu with unique items.

05
El Budare Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant serves authentic Venezuelan food in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with good music. Open 24 hours, it draws families and night visitors. Empanadas, especially with mechada filling, are divine and among the tastiest in the US.

Empanadas here have a flavor reminiscent of Venezuela and stand out as some of the tastiest in the United States. The mechada filling is popular and the overall taste is often described as divine.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and piping hot."

"I found the arepas here to be exquisite and delicious."

"I found the empanadas here to be the tastiest I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

The cafe is open 24 hours a day, making it accessible at any time.

2

Expect reasonable prices compared to other Venezuelan restaurants.

3

The menu offers a wide variety of options for all tastes.

06
Baht image 1
Restaurant

Exposed wood floors and simplistic elegant decor create a welcoming space with warm incense. Chicken curry empanadas offer rich flavor as a standout appetizer. The bar serves Thai American fusion cuisine and hosts sports viewing, drawing a crowd that enjoys well-crafted cocktails and lively energy.

Chicken curry empanadas stand out with rich flavor. They serve as a popular appetizer alongside other notable dishes like crab fried rice and roast pork.

People are saying

"I loved their delicious and perfectly balanced cocktails."

"The papaya salad had a nice kick and was very spicy."

"I'm still thinking about their delicious empanadas."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 9 PM, so arrive before then.

2

Baht has daily specials every day of the week.

3

Happy hour runs all day on Tuesday with discounted drinks.

07
EL COCINERITO COLOMBIANO image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant offers super crispy empanadas with tasty meat fillings. Beautiful murals and spectacular decor create a quiet, artistic vibe. Signature drinks like mojitos and sangria pair well with authentic dishes.

Super crispy empanadas stand out with good meat fillings. Options include chicken, meat, and ajiaco varieties.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I thought the coconut lemonade was spectacular and reminded me of Colombia."

"These empanadas are super crispy and filled with delicious meat."

Good to know

1

Food is served within 10 minutes.

2

The tip charged is almost $16, in addition to the bill and taxes.

3

Prices are affordable, with a skirt steak costing $50.

08
Pecoshitas image 1

Colombian bakery offers authentic flavors and a pleasant atmosphere with plenty of seating. Meat empanadas are fresh, tasty, and affordable, pairing well with coffee or pandebono. Beautiful decor adds charm even when busy.

Meat empanadas stand out for their flavor and quality. They come fresh and cheap, matching well with coffee with milk or pandebono.

People are saying

"I found the Colombian bakery goods here to be delicious and rich in flavor."

"I enjoyed their coffee; it was nice and strong."

"I found the empanadas really delicious."

Good to know

1

Vaccination is required for entry.

2

Prices are convenient and cheaper than Manhattan.

3

Expect a long line during peak hours.

09
Cafetales Grill & Restaurant image 1
Colombian restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Colombian spirit and vibrant energy. Delicious Colombian empanadas keep guests coming back. Music and inviting decor create a fun, welcoming vibe.

Empanadas here come from Colombia and taste delicious. They draw repeat visits and stand out as a highly recommended choice.

People are saying

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

"I loved the concentrated flavor of the iced coffee."

"I found the empanadas to be excellent and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect discrepancies between menu prices and final bills; verify before ordering.

2

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

3

Service can be slow due to understaffing during peak hours.

10
Arepas Burger image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Small space with intimate setting offers fresh, delicious empanadas that satisfy. Cozy vibe with local music enhances the Venezuelan feel. Original decor creates a pleasant atmosphere for casual dining.

Fresh empanadas come out very delicious and filling. They stand out alongside arepas and cachapas as super good and satisfying.

People are saying

"I found the arepas here to be delicious and amazing."

"I found the burgers here to be unique, massive, and delicious."

"I found the empanadas to be super good and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is no restroom available for customers.

2

The restaurant charges an 18% tip automatically on the bill.

3

The menu lacks information about sauces that may cause allergies.

11
La Gran Uruguaya Restaurant image 1
Uruguayan restaurant

Space features authentic Uruguayan decor with lively live music and family-friendly energy. Baked empanadas, especially the spinach empanada, pair well with coffee and sweet pastries. Dimmed lights and huge screens create a festive yet comfortable setting.

Baked empanadas come in beef and spinach varieties with the spinach empanada standing out as especially notable. They serve these alongside coffee and sweet pastries, making for a solid savory option.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be excellent and plentiful."

"I found the desserts here to be delicious and amazing."

"I thought the spinach empanadas were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand.

2

The restaurant is cash only; no credit cards accepted.

3

A mandatory tip charge of $12 is added to bills over $50.

12
Arepa Lady image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian spot buzzes with nonstop salsa music and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Mini empanadas shine, especially the cheese variety, paired with tasty sauces. Cozy garden decor adds a nostalgic, inviting vibe perfect for sharing meals.

Mini empanadas come in chicken, beef, and cheese varieties and are served with mayo ketchup and cilantro mayo sauces. They are small but flavorful, with the cheese option standing out among the three.

People are saying

"I found the arepas to be delicious and fluffy."

"The atmosphere here feels so safe and cozy."

"The empanadas here are really good, especially the cheese one."

Good to know

1

The bottomless brunch promotion is available from 12 PM to 4 PM.

2

The restaurant charges a mandatory 20% tip regardless of the payment method.

3

The prices on their menus are cheaper than what you're actually going to pay.

13
Mama's Empanadas image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small, cozy eatery buzzes with loud conversations and a chaotic vibe. Known for crispy homemade empanadas in flavors like pernil and ground beef. Limited, cramped seating and open doors invite flies inside, but late-night hours make it a go-to spot.

Freshly made empanadas come in a variety of flavors like pernil, ground beef, and egg. They have a crispy, homemade texture and a flavorful, delicious taste that stands out.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always fresh."

"I found the empanadas to be super delicious."

Good to know

1

Mama's is open late until 2 AM, making it a great place for a late-night snack.

2

You should call in advance and place your order.

3

The establishment closes at 1 AM, not 2 AM.

14
Chamolandiany ๐Ÿ‡ป๐Ÿ‡ช image 1

Vibrant Venezuelan spot serves authentic street food like super big empanadas with rich fillings. Bold flavors shine in pepitos and specialty hot dogs. Atmosphere feels like dining in Caracas, making it a lively and welcoming place.

Empanadas come super big with good filling and a very tasty flavor. They stand out as one of the most delicious options available.

People are saying

"I found the Venezuelan food here to be the best in all of NYC."

"I traveled an hour for these amazing burgers; they're the best in Queens."

"These empanadas are delicious and super big."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay higher prices for authentic Venezuelan dishes.

2

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes that are great for sharing.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

15
El Chivito D'Oro image 1
Uruguayan restaurant

Live music mixes tango and salsa, setting a romantic, danceable mood. Grilled meats and sangria shine as top picks for meat lovers. Chicken empanadas taste great and travel well, making them perfect for takeout.

Chicken empanadas stand out as a go-to choice here. They taste delicious and hold up well for takeout.

People are saying

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

"This steak is so juicy and flavorful, it's amazing."

"I thought the empanadas were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Live music happens on Wednesday nights after 7:00 pm.

2

The restaurant only accepts cash for payment.

3

Parking is available two blocks away for about $5.00 per hour.

16
Cafรฉ de Colombia Bakery image 1

Small bakery offers a cozy atmosphere with seasonal decoration and beautiful music. Stuffed empanadas like spinach and beef bring unique flavors. Intimate space with only two tables and a bar suits quiet meetings perfectly.

Stuffed empanadas stand out with a characteristic flavor that keeps the menu varied and interesting. Options like spinach and beef empanadas offer delicious, well-loved choices.

People are saying

"I thought their desserts were delicious."

"I thought the baked empanadas were the best."

"The food at this lunch spot is super delicious and not greasy."

Good to know

1

The place offers a special lunch every day.

2

They do not have a bathroom for customers.

3

You have to pay for every single thing.

17
New York al toque queens image 1

Cozy spot with a family atmosphere and lively salsa music sets a warm vibe. Traditional Venezuelan dishes offer rich flavors and generous portions. Empanadas with mechada filling shine, often served in party trays alongside tequeรฑos and pastelitos.

Empanadas with mechada feature a distinct meat filling. They come alongside tequeรฑos and pastelitos in party trays often ordered for events.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was super delicious."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is excellent and the people are super friendly."

"These empanadas are super crispy with a thin crust."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are priced at $12.99, offering good value.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

A special is offered every weekend, check for details.

18
La Nueva Bakery image 1

Cozy bakery offers Latin atmosphere with clean, spacious seating. Large, hearty beef empanadas shine alongside tasty chicken and spinach options. Authentic Colombian and Uruguayan breads add to the friendly vibe perfect for relaxed chats.

Beef empanadas stand out for their large size and hearty filling. Chicken and spinach empanadas offer tasty, well-crafted options alongside pandebono and buรฑuelo treats.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and feels like home."

"I found authentic Uruguayan bakery items and medialunas here."

"I thought the empanadas here were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The establishment is cash only, so come prepared.

2

Parking is a challenge, and there are meter cops everywhere.

3

The bakery is very busy almost every time you visit, so be patient.

19
Seba Seba image 1
Colombian restaurant

Spacious setting offers quiet atmosphere with table and bar service. Meat and cheese empanadas shine, paired well with Colombian coffee or morra juice. Large portions of Colombian breads and dishes make it a filling meal in a clean, tranquil space.

Meat empanadas stand out with both chicken and beef options consistently good. Cheese empanadas also appear as a popular choice, often paired with black coffee or morra juice.

People are saying

"I enjoyed their breakfast dish with eggs, tomatoes, and onions."

"I found the coffee here to be delicious and awesome."

"I thought the meat empanadas were the best."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

2

The prices are unbeatable compared to gentrified prices in Brooklyn.

3

The portions are great.

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Jackson Heights, New York

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