0 Followers
Empanada Mama (Hell’s Kitchen)
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Empanada Mama (Hell’s Kitchen)
8.7
A 24/7 Hell’s Kitchen mainstay built around a huge, consistently solid empanada lineup plus late-night Latin comfort plates. The fast pace and always-on energy make it an easy post-show or post-bar anchor for dependable handheld eats.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Beef Empanada, Chicken Tinga Empanada, Chilaquiles with Fried Egg
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Round-the-clock, high-volume empanada shop with wide flavor range and real sit-down options.
Who should go: Night owls, theater crowds, and anyone craving handheld comfort.
When to visit: After midnight for no-wait counter energy.
What to order: Beef empanada, chicken tinga empanada, chilaquiles.
Insider tip: Mix one classic wheat empanada with a corn-based special for contrast.
Empanada Mama (Hell’s Kitchen)
8.7
A lively Hell’s Kitchen standby for crisp, flavor-packed empanadas and late-night Latin comfort food. Families love the casual counter-service vibe, big menu range, and reliably fast turnaround even when it’s busy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Empanadas, Chicken Tamale Empanada, Tres Leches Cake
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: NYC’s most proven empanada powerhouse with huge crowd-validated consistency.
Who should go: Families wanting quick, flavorful, affordable meals.
When to visit: Early dinner or before a show to avoid lines.
What to order: Mix-and-match empanadas, chorizo queso fries, tres leches.
Insider tip: Order a sampler box to cover savory and sweet in one go.