Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

New York

Empanada Mama LES is praised for its diverse and flavorful empanadas, with standout items like the Viagra Empanada, which features a seafood stew filling. The establishment is appreciated for its generous portions, fresh ingredients, and vibrant atmosphere. However, some patrons have noted concerns about the greasiness of certain empanadas and occasional service delays during peak hours.

Discover Empanada Mama LES: A Flavorful Gem in Manhattan's Lower East Side 

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's bustling Lower East Side, Empanada Mama LES offers a vibrant dining experience that captivates food lovers and trend-conscious travelers alike. This casual eatery boasts a colorful, narrow dining room where you can indulge in over 40 varieties of empanadas, each crafted with fresh, quality ingredients and bursting with bold, authentic flavors. Whether you're craving a classic beef empanada or daring to try the famously named "Viagra Empanada" — a seafood stew-filled delight — Empanada Mama LES promises a memorable taste adventure.

A Unique Culinary Experience That Celebrates Diversity

Empanada Mama LES stands out with its eclectic menu reflecting a cross-section of cultures and innovative twists on traditional recipes. The empanadas are fresh, crispy on the outside, and juicy inside — a quality highly praised by visitors. This spot is not just about food; it's a lively hub where fashion meets flavors, open late to cater to night owls exploring New York City's vibrant nightlife.

What Makes Empanada Mama LES a Must-Visit?

— More than 40 unique flavors including vegetarian options.

— Open 24/7 to satisfy your cravings anytime.

— Colorful, lively space perfect for groups and solo diners alike.

— Offers beer, wine, coffee, cocktails, and dessert to accompany your meal.

Community Sentiment and Feedback Highlights

The local community and visitors alike appreciate Empanada Mama LES for its generous portions and fresh, flavorful ingredients. Many reviews celebrate the empanadas' crispy texture and the unique fillings that surprise and delight the palate. However, some guests have mentioned occasional concerns about the greasiness of certain items and slight service delays during busy hours, which is not uncommon in a popular late-night spot bustling with activity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Empanada Mama LES

What are the operating hours of Empanada Mama LES?

 Empanada Mama LES operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Is there a bathroom available at Empanada Mama LES?

 Yes, there is a unisex bathroom available for customers.

Does Empanada Mama LES offer delivery services?

 Yes, they provide delivery through their website and popular delivery platforms.

Is Empanada Mama LES wheelchair accessible?

 Yes, the establishment is wheelchair accessible.

 Yes, they serve beer, wine, and cocktails to complement your meal.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant Lower East Side of Manhattan, Empanada Mama is a culinary gem that beckons food lovers with its colorful and lively atmosphere. This casual eatery is renowned for serving over 40 varieties of empanadas, each bursting with flavor and crafted with care. The moment you step inside, the aroma of freshly baked pastries fills the air, inviting you to indulge in a delightful gastronomic journey. Whether you're a local or a traveler, this spot is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Latin flavors in a fun and welcoming setting.

The menu at Empanada Mama is a celebration of flavors, featuring both traditional and innovative empanadas. Two standout options include the classic Beef Empanada, filled with seasoned ground beef and spices, encased in a perfectly crispy shell, and the intriguingly named Viagra Empanada, which is stuffed with succulent shrimp and a zesty blend of herbs. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste that transports you straight to the heart of Latin America.

Behind the scenes, the chefs at Empanada Mama pride themselves on using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The dough is made daily, ensuring that every empanada is as flaky and delicious as possible. A fun fact: the restaurant is open late into the night, making it a popular spot for night owls and those looking to satisfy their late-night cravings.

Located at 95 Allen Street, Empanada Mama is perfectly situated in one of Manhattan's most dynamic neighborhoods. After enjoying your meal, take a stroll through the nearby streets to explore the eclectic mix of shops, galleries, and bars that the Lower East Side has to offer. The vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences make this area a fantastic destination for both locals and visitors.

Empanada Mama is celebrated for its extensive menu of over 40 different empanadas, each offering a unique flavor experience.

This vibrant eatery offers a unique culinary experience with its diverse empanada selection, perfect for foodies and those looking to explore Latin flavors.

Empanada Mama is open late, making it a perfect spot for late-night cravings.

If you're ready to embark on a flavorful adventure, make your way to Empanada Mama. With its extensive menu and inviting atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to gather with friends or enjoy a solo meal. Don't miss out on the chance to savor some of the best empanadas in New York City—visit us today!

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

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQanR6RTV3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAyE6G4dZwokRReUX9ODYSG0/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQanR6RTV3RRAB

Omg this place is awesome! The food is worth waiting for. Open late. Cross section of cultures and fashion show too! Can't recommend enough.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIdXVqY0lREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAyE6G4dZwokRReUX9ODYSG0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIdXVqY0lREAE

To start, this place surprised me very much. I was a little ehhhd by the price tag of a $4.80 empanada especially because I’ve been to Colombia where you get empanadas for $1 or less. BUT, this was actually magnificent. The flavor was wow, it was fresh, crispy, not dry on the inside & full of flavor. I got the beef & the viagra (shrimp) idk why they call the damn thing viagra 😂 but definitely worth a try, was great !!!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmZ09pY0lREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAyE6G4dZwokRReUX9ODYSG0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmZ09pY0lREAE

DO NOT BUY FOOD FROM THIS PLACE !! I placed an order through DoorDash and my food came greasy and seeping through the bag. With a dead fly on the bag. I called the store to speak to someone about this issue they put me on hold and Juan picked up the phone. I addressed my issue being that I always buy food from this place.  I was expecting to be treated way better than I was. Juan asked me to send a picture of the fly on the bag. As if that was all he was concerned about. I sent him a picture of the food and he said to me “is this a joke” he immediately got defensive and blamed how the food came on the dasher that it was his fault & how he can’t reimburse me I have to call DoorDash and hung up very rude and unprofessional.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzMHFENlN3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAyE6G4dZwokRReUX9ODYSG0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzMHFENlN3EAE

This place is amazing!!!  I had the corn flour empanadas (BBQ PORK & Ground Beef). Great great great!!  Highly recommend!!!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNycmNDZmFBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAyE6G4dZwokRReUX9ODYSG0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNycmNDZmFBEAE

My service at this place was pleasant. My low rating has to do with the food quality. I’m disappointed with the quality and taste of the food at Empanada Mama.

I ordered two empanadas as you can see in the images: Beef Empanada made with corn flour and Cheese empanada made with white flour.

The wait time for the empanadas was longer than anticipated. Personally I’d like to think the wait time was longer because of the quality so I could live with up to 10 minutes of waiting :).

However, I unfortunately did not enjoy my empanadas as I’d hoped. Firstly, my cheese empanada was like any cheese “pastelito” since (as seen in pictures) this was really mostly air than empanada. Secondly, my cheese was marked with some kind of ink. (Seen in pic). I would appreciate it if were informed of what this is?

My beef empanada made with corn flour was unfortunately not much better. I did not enjoy the taste of the beef and the mixture of tomato sauce or seasoning it had. The corn flour base was interesting and personally new for me, but it was honestly not an empanada I enjoyed eating.

I do appreciate the man who took my order. He answered my questions and gave me recommendations.

It is unfortunate but I do not see myself ordering from any Empanda Mama moving forward. It wasn’t a pleasant experience.

Delicious Empanadas at Empanada Mama LES, NYC

Empanada Mama LES is a vibrant Latin restaurant located at 95 Allen Street in Manhattan's Lower East Side. Known for its extensive menu of over 40 unique empanada flavors, the establishment has become a popular late-night spot for both locals and visitors. The restaurant operates 24/7, offering a diverse selection of Latin American-inspired dishes alongside its signature empanadas.

The History of Empanada Mama LES in Manhattan's Lower East Side.

Empanada Mama opens its first location in Hell's Kitchen, New York City.

The Lower East Side location at 95 Allen Street opens, expanding the brand's presence.

Empanada Mama introduces its catering services to accommodate larger events.

The restaurant launches online delivery and pickup options for customer convenience.

Empanada Mama celebrates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of serving authentic Latin flavors.

Empanada Mama has firmly established itself as a staple in New York's culinary scene. With its unique offerings and a menu that celebrates Latin American cuisine, it attracts a diverse clientele, from locals to tourists seeking a taste of authentic flavors. The restaurant's commitment to quality and service continues to draw rave reviews, solidifying its place as a beloved eatery in the heart of Manhattan.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Breakfast

Serves Dessert

Serves Vegetarian Food

Empanada Mama LES is a vibrant eatery in Manhattan, known for its extensive menu featuring over 40 kinds of empanadas, served in a colorful and casual dining room. Open late, it offers a warm atmosphere perfect for food enthusiasts looking to indulge in authentic Latin American flavors.

Empanada Mama LES

A vibrant selection of over 40 unique empanada flavors, along with a variety of Latin American-inspired dishes.

Viagra Empanada

BBQ Pulled Pork Empanada

Spicy Chicken Empanada

Jerk Chicken and Cheese Empanada

El Toro Empanada

Plantain Chips

Guacamole & Plantain Chips

Grilled Chicken Quesadilla

Arroz Con Pollo

Rice and Beans

El Cubano Sandwich

Reggaeton Empanada

Mac & Cheese Empanada

Shredded Chicken Empanada

Cheeseburger Empanada

Pizza Empanada

Corn Empanadas

Empanada Mama LES Menu

Located in the heart of Manhattan, Empanada Mama LES offers a vibrant and diverse menu featuring over 40 unique empanada flavors alongside a tempting array of Latin American-inspired dishes. This lively spot is a haven for foodies eager to explore bold tastes and fresh ingredients in a colorful, casual setting.

Kick off your meal with crispy Plantain Chips, perfectly fried to golden excellence. For a creamy, vibrant bite, the Guacamole & Plantain Chips combine fresh avocado, tomato, and onion with crunchy plantains. If you prefer something heartier, the Grilled Chicken Quesadilla delivers tender chicken and melted cheese inside a warm flour tortilla.

Empanada Mama's signature empanadas are the centerpiece of the menu, showcasing vibrant Latin flavors with fillings like the indulgent Viagra Empanada, packed with shrimp, scallops, and crab meat, or the smoky BBQ Pulled Pork Empanada glazed with rich barbecue sauce. Fans of spice will appreciate the Spicy Chicken Empanada and the Jerk Chicken and Cheese Empanada, each delivering layers of bold seasoning and melty cheese.

Other highlights include the hearty El Toro Empanada with savory beef and cheese, the Reggaeton Empanada bringing together beef, cheese, and spices for a flavor-packed punch, and the Mac & Cheese Empanada for comfort food lovers seeking creamy, cheesy satisfaction. For a classic taste, the Cheeseburger Empanada blends beef, cheese, and pickles, while the Pizza Empanada delights with cheese, tomato sauce, and pepperoni.

Beyond empanadas, the menu features beloved Latin staples like Arroz Con Pollo—a satisfying rice dish with chicken and vegetables—Rice and Beans for a classic vegetarian option, and the El Cubano Sandwich, filled with pork, ham, cheese, pickles, and fresh bread, perfectly capturing Cuban flavors.

While Empanada Mama LES is best known for its savory creations, the menu also includes scrumptious desserts to round out your meal. Enjoy Latin American-inspired sweets that provide the perfect balance of sweetness after indulging in rich, flavorful mains.

Complement your meal with a thoughtfully curated selection of drinks including coffee, cocktails, beer, and wine. Whether you’re seeking a refreshing cocktail or a robust coffee, the beverage options perfectly enhance the diverse flavors of the dishes.

 Over 40 inventive empanada flavors that showcase a rich cross-section of Latin American culinary influences.

 Bold, fresh ingredients combined with traditional and contemporary recipes for an unforgettable taste experience.

 A colorful dining room buzzing with energy, open late for a dynamic New York City dining experience.

Savor authentic Latin flavors at Empanada Mama in Manhattan! Indulge in handcrafted empanadas that burst with taste. Visit us today!

Empanada Mama - Unique Latin Flavors in Manhattan

New York County

Order online for delivery to your location.

Catering

Gift Cards

Empanada Mama LES New York City Dining Experience with Delivery and Catering Options 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Manhattan's Lower East Side at 95 Allen Street, Empanada Mama LES is a colorful culinary hotspot that has redefined the empanada experience in New York City. If you're a foodie craving authentic flavors wrapped in crispy perfection, this casual yet lively restaurant is your go-to destination for over 40 varieties of empanadas served until late into the night.

Empanada Mama LES takes pride in its expansive menu that features both traditional and innovative fillings. Whether you opt for the hearty beef empanada made with corn flour or the unique "Viagra" shrimp empanada, each bite offers a perfect balance of fresh, crispy crust and flavorful fillings. Vegetarian options are also thoughtfully included, ensuring every guest finds something to savor.

Step inside the narrow, colorful dining room

 where the energetic vibe mirrors the melting pot culture of the LES neighborhood. Perfect for a casual lunch, brunch, dinner, or a late-night snack, Empanada Mama offers a convivial atmosphere where groups and families with children feel right at home.

Understanding the fast-paced New York lifestyle, Empanada Mama LES extends its offerings beyond dine-in to include delivery, catering, and gift cards — all designed to bring the delicious empanada experience to your doorstep or special event hassle-free.

 Order online for fast delivery right to your location, perfect for cozy nights in or busy workdays.

 Elevate your events with their catering services that promise to delight guests with tasty empanada selections.

 Share the gift of scrumptious empanadas by purchasing gift cards for your friends and family.

Empanada Mama LES is family-friendly and accommodates groups, with restroom facilities on site. Though outdoor seating is not available, the restaurant offers free and paid street parking nearby, accepts contactless payments, debit, and credit cards, and serves a full range of drinks including beer, wine, coffee, and cocktails. Whether you're after breakfast, brunch, lunch, dessert, or dinner, you'll find menu options to satisfy your cravings throughout the day.

Whether you're a local or visiting New York City, Empanada Mama LES offers an exciting blend of Latin-inspired flavors and New York energy that food lovers won't want to miss.

Dive into the vibrant world of Empanada Mama LES! Enjoy over 40 unique empanadas, open 24/7 in Manhattan's Lower East Side. Taste the difference today!

Empanada Mama LES: 40+ Unique Empanadas in NYC

Explore our guide to the must-try empanadas at Empanada Mama in NYC. Don't miss out on the iconic Viagra Empanada and more. Savor the flavors!

Top 5 Must-Try Empanadas at Empanada Mama NYC

Planning a visit to Empanada Mama in NYC? Discover tips on ordering, best times to visit, and what to expect at this vibrant eatery!

Empanada Mama LES menu overview

Starters

Mains

Desserts and Specials

Drinks

Why Empanada Mama LES Stands Out

Attaboy

Ha’s Snack Bar

Leon’s Bagels