Latin American restaurant

Empanada Mama LES

Lower East SideManhattan

4.4· 3,030 reviewsOpen now
Empanada Mama LES — latin american restaurant — in Lower East Side — Manhattan — NYC
Empanada Mama LES interior — Lower East Side

Lower East Side

Manhattan

The brief

About Empanada Mama LES

Casual restaurant serving 40+ kinds of empanadas in a narrow, colorful dining room until late night.

Community Rating

4.4

out of 5

3,030 community reviews

Rating aggregated from community reviews across platforms. Read full reviews on Google or Yelp for detailed diner experiences.

Community-sourced rating

Reviews

What diners say about Empanada Mama LES

15 verified Google reviews · 14 with owner responses

4.7

15 reviews

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Nae P.Local guide
3 weeks ago

I love this location so much, especially the good vibes and music that it comes with!!! the empanadas are always fresh and delicious and so are the drinks. The staff is so nice. I had a problem with my order and they weren’t hesitate to fix it. I love New York 💜

Response from the owner

Hello Nae,<br><br>The positive vibes felt at our location bring joy! It’s wonderful to hear that you enjoy our fresh and delicious empanadas and drinks. Your kind words about the staff's service and their willingness to resolve any issues truly mean a lot. New York is indeed a special place, and being part of your experience makes it even better!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Mical Milus
a month ago

My best friend and I went to eat here at the last night catching up on life—we haven’t seen each other for almost two years.<br><br>Our waiter, Beyoncé, was phenomenal. Attentive, funny, sweet! Great way to add on to our night. She has the perfect. (I should’ve asked the products she used on her hair. lol)<br><br>The manager for the night was a great as well. I’m so sorry I couldn’t collect his name. He was also great. We didn’t had any problems at all, but he was just as attentive and a delight to be around.<br><br>They were making the place lively and comfortable. When I come back in this city, they will both get more praises.<br><br>And the food and drinks of course, 10/10! Try the appetizer platter and their pina coladas!!! The meats were tender and juicy. The drinks were a balance of flavor and alcohol.<br><br>You won’t regret it!!! Shoutout to the kitchen staff as well!!! They did that!!!!<br><br>Anyways off to my flight!! ✈️

Response from the owner

Hi Mical,<br><br>It's wonderful to hear that you and your best friend had such a delightful experience at Empanada Mama! The team truly appreciates your compliments about Beyoncé and the manager, who both strive to create a lively and enjoyable atmosphere for our guests. We're thrilled you loved the food and drinks, especially the appetizer platter and piña coladas! Your kind words will surely motivate the kitchen staff and the entire team. We can't wait to welcome you back on your next visit! Safe travels!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Evan Kairuz
a month ago

They really ought to print out the bill and place it in front of you, and make it clear that they added a 20% gratuity... *especially* if you're leaving a tip on top of it. The waiter scrolling through the portable pos system is shady. It's enough for me to never be back. Whatever... Food was good, but it was noisy (could use some sound insulation), stuffy (could use some ventilation), and it has the aesthetics of a McDonald's.

Zelda Edwards
2 months ago

Nice service. Good atmosphere. And tasty empanadas. I got the spicy chicken and Bombay (curry spices with peas and cilantro). It was very good.

Response from the owner

Hello Zelda,<br><br>We truly appreciate your kind words about our service and atmosphere! It's fantastic to know that the empanadas made a great impression. Your feedback inspires us to continue providing delightful experiences for our guests.<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Kimberly SterneLocal guide
2 months ago

This was one of our favorite restaurants from our trip to NY. They had seating, clean restrooms, and great food. Everyone loved their empanadas. We got a variety. I liked that there were kid friendly options. We also tried the flavored lemonade and churritos.

Response from the owner

Hi Kimberly,<br><br>It’s fantastic to hear that Empanada Mama became one of your favorite spots during your trip to New York! Clean facilities and delicious food truly make a difference, and knowing that everyone loved their empanadas brings us joy. Kid-friendly options are a priority, and it’s great to see they were appreciated. The flavored lemonade and churros are popular choices too, and we’re delighted you enjoyed them!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Wendy Tri
3 months ago

We were a large party of almost 20 people, I called the restaurant 10 min before arriving and they set up tables for us by the time we arrived. Our server Felipe was extremely accommodating and patient, he helped make a birthday surprise super fun. Had a great experience overall and the food was delicious!

Response from the owner

Hey Wendy,<br><br>What a joy it is to read about your experience! Organizing a birthday surprise for such a large group can be challenging, and it’s fantastic to know that Felipe made it enjoyable for everyone. Your kind words about the delicious food and great service truly mean a lot to us. We look forward to welcoming you back for more celebrations in the future!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Dachel SanchezLocal guide
3 months ago

Versatile menu and everything I’ve had so far is great! Try the spicy chicken arepa and chicharrones

Response from the owner

Hello Dachel,<br><br>Your enthusiasm for our versatile menu truly brightens our day! It’s fantastic to hear that everything you've tried has been great. The spicy chicken arepa and chicharrones is a personal favorite that many enjoy. Looking forward to seeing you again to explore even more delicious options!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Mike Reviewed It!Local guide
4 months ago

Got a bunch of these empanadas to go, various flavors including a delicious buffalo chicken. The empanadas are pretty beefy. Two are more than enough to fill you up. Shout out to the platinos chips and guacamole. The Crew ate at a nearby bar on pool league night. Like a mid week, impromptu Friendsgiving.

Response from the owner

Hey Mike,<br><br>It's fantastic to hear about the delicious empanadas, especially the buffalo chicken flavor! The generous portions certainly make for a satisfying meal, and pairing them with platinos, chips, and guacamole sounds delightful. It seems like the crew had a wonderful time during your mid-week Friendsgiving!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Mia HuynhLocal guide
7 months ago

This 24/7 spot is an amazing spot for a bite at any time of day. This location in the LES, has lots of seating to dine-in but also kiosks for you to order at for take-out. Service is kind and fairly quick.<br><br>They have a huge menu of lots of different empanadas as well as other Mexican dishes and sandwiches. I got their oxtail one, spicy chicken, greek spinach and feta, and their viagra (seafood stew with tiger shrimp and crab). Favorites were definitely their viagra and oxtail as both were so flavorful and filled with protein. I can definitely see this spot being a favorite late-night go to.

Response from the owner

Hello Mia,<br><br>The team is thrilled to receive such amazing feedback! Your appreciation for our diverse menu, especially the oxtail and Viagra empanadas, truly brightens our day. Knowing that our quick and kind service made your experience enjoyable is wonderful to hear. We hope to continue being your favorite spot for late-night bites!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Saie Sheridan
7 months ago

There’s 2 gentlemen named Evan and Tucker I’ve met somewhat around 3-4 months ago… I appreciate their professionalism, warm welcome and overall hospitality… I’ve been here atleast 10 times in the past 2 months and it’s because the energy they bring makes it feel like a home rather than just somewhere to eat out !… whoever the owner is should be very proud and keep up the not good but great work thank you EMPANADA MAMA FAMILY !!!!!!!!

Response from the owner

Hello Saie,<br><br>It’s wonderful to hear about your experiences at Empanada Mama! <br>The professionalism and warm hospitality from Evan and Tucker truly make a difference, and it’s fantastic that their efforts contribute to an atmosphere that feels like home. Your kind words serve as a great motivation, and the team is thrilled to know that you feel this way. Thank you for your loyalty and support!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Julia GablerLocal guide
7 months ago

Empanada Mama LES is a fantastic spot that brings bold, authentic Latin flavors to every bite. The empanadas are perfectly crispy on the outside and filled with delicious, freshly made ingredients inside. The staff is friendly, efficient, and always makes you feel welcome. It’s a lively, cozy place perfect for late-night bites or casual dining.

Response from the owner

Hi Julia,<br><br>Empanada Mama LES appreciates your fantastic feedback! We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the crispy empanadas filled with freshly made ingredients. Creating a friendly and welcoming environment for every guest is a priority, and it’s wonderful to know you felt at home in our cozy spot. Thank you for highlighting our bold, authentic Latin flavors. We look forward to welcoming you back for more late-night bites or casual dining.<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Anthony SavageLocal guide
8 months ago

As always, Empanada Mama is a city favorite! I love their Plantain chips and guac! The best around.

Response from the owner

Hello Anthony,<br><br>Thank you for your kind words! It’s wonderful to hear that our plantain chips and guacamole are favorites of yours. Being a beloved spot in the city brings us great joy, and we look forward to serving you again soon!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Iriana CruzLocal guide
9 months ago

Wow! Delicious and great prices! Empanadas are super good! We did not like the drink but food 100% good!

Response from the owner

Hey Iriana,<br><br>It's fantastic to hear that you enjoyed our empanadas and found them to be delicious and well-priced! Your feedback on the drink is appreciated, as we continually strive to improve our offerings. We truly value your support and look forward to serving you more tasty food in the future!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Don Manuel PresentsLocal guide
10 months ago

So when LoKeyStudios and myself find ourselves on the LES of NYC we have to make a stop at Empanada Mama's it has become a ritual for us. Coming from central NY where we lack Empanada mama's its a wonderful city treat my go to is the Viagra which is a seafood filled Empanada, the reggaeton Empanada always hits as well as the El Toro, I won't lie I don't think you can pick a wrong one but dont forgotto add the green sauce it will change your life. Don't forget to grab the mango juice to pair with it and you will be thanking us later.

Response from the owner

Hello Don,<br><br>The team is thrilled to hear that Empanada Mama has become a cherished stop for you and LoKeyStudios in the LES! It’s fantastic to know that the Viagra, reggaeton, and El Toro empanadas have made such a positive impression. Many patrons love adding the green sauce and pairing their meals with mango juice, so your recommendations will surely resonate with others. We appreciate your support and look forward to welcoming you back for more delicious experiences!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Kristina KelleyLocal guide
11 months ago

Empanada Mama is great every time and open 24 hours a day. It’s easy to order ahead online, use the kiosks in-store, the take-out counter, or have a seat for table service, including a bar. I’ve never had a bad experience, at any location, since I started going regularly over 5 years ago. Everything is full-flavor from food to sauces.<br><br>The Buffalo Chicken Empanada is the best way to eat buffalo chicken. It is one of their fried wheat varieties. The outside is crispy, thin and light and the inside is packed, as full as possible, with shredded buffalo chicken. The empanada breading gives way to a pleasing crunch. The chicken is soft with a sweet, savory, and spicy flavor. It is already so delicious that you don’t need a sauce, but it comes with one that balances everything with a creamy tanginess that ups the flavor.<br><br>The Banana Nutella Empanada is one of my favorites - one of their baked wheat varieties. It is topped with cinnamon and sugar that gives a caramelized and crispy outside. The center is filled with warm Nutella and a banana. It’s very fun to eat.<br><br>They have over 40 varieties of empanadas. They serve baked wheat and fried wheat and corn empanadas. They are a first-floor, store-front with no stairs to enter or dine. The decor and atmosphere are bright and exciting. It can get loud during busy hours.

Response from the owner

Hello Kristina,<br><br>Your wonderful experiences at Empanada Mama truly excite us! It’s fantastic to know that you appreciate our diverse menu, especially the Buffalo Chicken and Banana Nutella empanadas. The detailed description of their flavors highlights what makes them special. Loyalty over the past 5 years speaks volumes, and it’s heartening to hear that our 24-hour service and vibrant atmosphere have kept you coming back. We look forward to serving you many more delicious meals!<br><br>Thanks,<br>The Empanada Mama

Reviews sourced from Google. Displayed for informational purposes. Ratings reflect reviewer opinions at the time of posting.

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