There comes a time in every man's life where he must embrace the viscerality of his fatness. The…read morementality of his glutton. Pop's Empanadas is a great way to explore that depressive, or impressive, state of mind. The sun barrels its way into my workspace on a spring afternoon. I welcome its studs up challenge and continue to dribble until I can no longer not acknowledge the aura of Apollo's chariot. - I don't recognize Helios as my Sun god, deal with it. - I check my meagerly checking account and my minute wallet and decide "F it" I've not got but do got a few buccaroons to spare as I continue to wheel around for the cheddar in this rat race we call life. In doing so - I notice a certain extensive tingle in my tummy. One that calls for mass amounts of food. In tandem, the shining sun begs me to bask in its warmth. I need to find some food. Sit in a park. Devour said park. And take a long enough lunch that somebody, somewhere, somehow thinks of me. Once that occurs, I will return between the rock and the hard place of which sits a desk, a chair, brittle bones and a big but battered heart. With my pension for poppin' sandwich and my expertise of my surround areas - radius of 45 mins in all direction - I half-conclude on Pop Empanada for my stroll, toll and roll. - TM'ing that don't even think about taking that line. Actually do think about it. And think about how you've never come up with something that original. This is in writing, I'm the first, I'm the last, I'm your everything. - Anyways, I take an 8 min drive out to a lot nearby and stumble in upon my order. The empanadas are solid, shrimp one is superior. Haven't tried them all. Not crying home to mama about em' but that's not the star of the show so it doesn't matter. I haven't tried everything and definitely should. But every time I'm feeling like I need to challenge my bowels I go straight for this Cuban Sandwich. My oh my. This thing may weigh 5 pounds. Packed to the brim. Sturdy bread. I mean it's literally one of the biggest boys I've ever corralled. It's tasty, tender, savory and sweet. Crunchy, chewy, choppy and neat. This would feed a normal man for an entire day. I, to no surprise of the reader, am not a normal man. By the end of munching on this crunching I'm panting and sweating and clenching my chest. My cholesterol spike so high that a doctor wouldn't even be able to help. By 75% of sandwich completion I don't even want the rest. It's just my hard wired protocol that this whole pups gotta hit the pound. I just gotsss to complete my task. This is probably the best Cuban I've ever had - in sandwich form... if you catch my straits of Florida drift. For the price, it is one of the best bang for buck sandwiches I've ever had. Highly recommend you give Pop Empanada a go. On a sunny mid week afternoon there's a hot chance you'll catch me reviving myself from a heart attack on the bench in the park only a stone throws away. Don't to try help me. It's all part of my sick game. Love you, babes, have a beautiful day - LB.

If you know, you know... but if you don't, make it a priority to find out…read more That Supper Club is something special. What Tommy Greco, Chef Nicolas Pescatore, and their team are putting together here goes well beyond a typical night out. It feels curated, intentional, and genuinely exciting from start to finish. From the moment we sat down, the energy was right. The service was dialed in without being overbearing, and every course felt like it had a purpose. The tasting menu that night was a full experience, layered with creativity and bold flavor combinations that somehow all worked effortlessly. We started with a Snack Trio that set the tone immediately. Grilled mahi mahi with Aleppo pepper and charred lemon delivered bright, smoky notes. A rich foie gras with rhubarb jam on toasted milk bread struck the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The prawn toast on brioche with sesame, miso, and panko brought crunch and depth in every bite. The red snapper ceviche followed, incredibly fresh and vibrant, with yuzu lime, serrano, and green strawberry adding a unique twist that elevated the entire dish. Then came a stretch of courses that really showed off the kitchen's range. The tender greens with mortadella yakitori brought unexpected flavors together seamlessly. The caramelized onion casoncello with a light spicy vodka sauce, mascarpone, and prosciutto was rich yet balanced. The ramp lasagna bianco with white bolognese and béchamel was pure comfort, elevated to another level. For dessert, the strawberry rhubarb tartlet closed things out beautifully. Amaretto custard, toasted meringue, dark chocolate shell, olive oil, and sea salt created the perfect sweet finish without feeling heavy. We also added a couple of extras that were absolutely worth it. The East Coast oysters with lacto fermented melon mignonette were incredibly fresh and bright, and the 40 day dry aged filet mignon with house made NamJim Kosho was cooked perfectly and packed with flavor. Bottom line, this is not just dinner, it is an experience. The creativity, execution, and hospitality are all on point. We will definitely be back very soon because there is still so much more we want to explore and experience here. What makes it even more impressive is how they transform a humble empanada shop into such a refined and decadent dining experience. The ambiance was just right, intimate, elevated, and perfectly suited for a night like this.

El Azteca. The Aztec. A civilization which rose to and held power for centuries. Their leadership,…read morein some indirect fashion, has led to the craftsmanship of El Azteca - A slight chain of Mexican restaurants in a 30 min radius of Bergen County. I will copy and paste this review across the Park Ridge and Mahwah locations so emphasize my appreciate for their consistency in providing great Mexican food. If you are consistently performing, Linguini will take care of you. Like I've taken care of many others. I will bring you to the top with me. If you backstab me. Oh if you come for me at the top, you will reach an abyss so deep you may end up digging to China. Don't test me. I'm not that guy. Anyways, I've tried a lot from Azteca. Most of what they've got is a 4/4.5 out of 5 but I'm rounding up for the full experience. Phenomenal price point. Variety of food that all comes out well. Performs well in restaurant and when the food travels. Friendly staff. And local business of which I support. I suffer from GGS - Good Guy Syndrome, sorry not sorry. My motha, bless her soul. I legit mean bless her soul. Be nice. Pray. Bow down to her. She doesn't eat much food but she even loved the taco salad here so much that she asked to go again. So much protein, so well seasoned. Just as their other options showcase as well. My personal favs are the Kash Burrito and the, what I'd call "trademark" Cod Burrito. Never have seen it elsewhere like this. The wrap is toasted wonderfully, great rice, great salsa. I mean this place just does it real well. I've had tacos, appetizers, desserts. Never let down. El Azteca is consistently good. Constantly pushing out quality product. Is it the best Mexican I've had? No. But it's the most underrated. Being a consistent 4, makes you a five in my books. It's like that girl that's occasionally a 6 or occasionally an 9... you can't bring her home. But that girl that's consistently a 7 or an 8? You let her meet the fam. I don't where I'm going with this one. All I'll say is STOP. Stop going to Chipotle, Bubbakoo's, etc. when you could be supporting a better quality and friendlier priced location in El Azteca. Thank you in advance. I will be watching - LB.

nothing special got the "kash" burrito as a bowl and it…read morewasn't a bowl and had no taste skip this place not good

I've heard very good things the past 14 years about Empanada Mania…read more An award winning food truck, a catering business, and this tiny storefront producing big flavors. Street parking; only a few seats to eat inside. Basically a To Go place. These empanadas were awesome!! Big & stuffed with a very nice crispy, fried shell. ( they offer mini sized empanadas too) There are many options of Savory fillings, but I wish they had more "sweet\dessert" types. Which brings me to my favorite: the Guava & Mozzarella Cheese empanada... Best one I've ever had. For upcoming St. Patricks Day (for a limited time) they have -- The Reuben- filled with Smoked Corned Beef, Swiss Cheese & Sauerkraut. EMPAN-TASTIC! Wish I had a beer. -the Cuban Pork empanada made with an 8-hours smoked pork, with ham and mozzarella was very good, but I wasn't a big fan of the Sweet Thai Chicken empanada with, sweet Thai chili sauce, scallion and cilantro.. Maybe I was full... The fries are old school. Reminded me of boardwalk fries. Some a little greasy. Some a little overcooked & crunchy.. So if you like empanadas, you need to give this place a shot.

Empanada Mania 62 S. Washington Ave…read more Bergenfield NJ 07621 Angus Beef Bacon Cheeseburger Cuban Sweet Thai Chicken Spinach & Feta On the Southern part of Washington Avenue is a Latin American spot that specializes in homemade empanadas. Owner Galo and Manager Felipe introduced me to a variety of the signature product. Check out the outer layers of these crispy empanadas. If you think they look this good on the outside, wait until you see the inner fillings! Angus Beef: This original version of this folded hot pastry is packed with plenty of angus beef along with sautéed peppers & onions. Bacon Cheeseburger: This may have a similar appearance to the previous empanada, but do not be deceived. Imagine having a juicy succulent bacon cheeseburger in a crunchy shell in lieu of a hamburger roll. Cuban: Here's a perfect variation of the classic Cuban sandwich. The pork was smoked for several hours and it also includes ham and mozzarella cheese. Sweet Thai Chicken: It's time to try some Thai. The sweet thai chili sauce mixed in this Asian style empanada has the perfect blend of heat and spice. Spinach & Feta: If happen to be a vegetarian or If you just need a break from meat and poultry, the spinach & feta is a must try! As a bonus, these two secret sauces are fantastic supplements for your meat pies! Dunk away in the house made red hot sauce or if you are craving thousand island base with some top secret ingredients then go for the pink sauce. As another bonus, there is a state of the art coffee machine for hot beverages such as expresso, or cappucinno. All in all, each empanada was paradise. When I next return I'm looking forward to exploring their other empanadas as well as the side dishes. #empanadamania #empanadas #cuban #angusbeef #baconcheeseburger #SweetThaiChicken #spinachandfeta #LocalBusiness #foodstagram #eats #njfoodie #localspots #foodreviews

This place is amazing. The food is incredible -- the empanadas are delicious, perfectly seasoned,…read moreflavorful without being overpowering. The whole environment is so inviting: the music, the chairs, the atmosphere... everything just feels warm and welcoming. I honestly wish it had a bit more foot traffic because it deserves so much more attention. Even though it's slightly out of the way, it's absolutely worth the trip. I live about 20 minutes away, and I would happily come back here anytime.

This is my go to lunch spot in the neighborhood! Food is always good and empanadas are stuffed with…read moremeat! Tried their burger and it was best decision ive made! Owners are amazing and super welcoming! Best empanadas in Long Island!

Excellent! I just relocated to the area and was hungry. I ordered beef empanadas, Ropa Vieja,…read morechicken soup and a flan. Everything tasted both fresh and freshly made. The Ropa Vieja was great as were the Emps'. Definitely in my rotation.

OK now we know Cuban Eddie's is kid approved! Watching a toddler try to eat the massive burrito was…read morehilarious but hey he liked it. The burrito bowl is a nice option for less mess. Food was still very good and made quickly to boot. The empanadas are not my favorite in the area but they still satisfy. I also love the options when you order online, very convenient.

Stopped by this place tonight with a craving, and definitely don't regret it! A cute Argentinian…read morecafe and Empanada shop, I'll def have to stop by again and eat in! The pastry is PERFECTLY flaky and crisp, a perfect size, and packed to the absolute brim with filling! Based on the other reviews I'll def have to come back and try the beef and pulled pork~! I placed an order for pickup on DoorDash and I was shocked by how fast I got the notification that they were already hot and ready for me and when got there I was super pleased by how warm I could tell they were just by holding the bottom of the box! Side note to the owner/owners unrelated to the food, I love all the houseplants in there, the pop of color is SO PRETTY and really makes the shop feel comfy!

The creation of the empanada predates the Spanish empire even though the word empanada comes from…read morethe Spanish word 'empanar,' meaning "to cover in pastry with dough." They are popular in countries all around the world, and the filling options are just as varied. Enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, served as an appetizer or main dish. Opened just two years ago in a little strip mall consisting of 2 stores off S Main St in Lodi, I came to Empanadas NJ Cafe as a first-timer for lunch. Upon entering this cozy shop with 3 tables for dining, I was greeted by the staff at his family-owned/family-run establishment specializing in Argentinian empanadas. These, put simply, are savory baked hand-held pastries. A large selection menu featured everything from Beef, Chicken, Ham & Cheese to Apple Pie, Hawaiian, and Guava & Cheese. One can't go wrong with any of the options. After speaking with Lucas, the owners' son, he recommended their popular Beef, Chicken, and Cuban Empanadas. They arrived hot. Each empanada was identified with the initials on the left side border. The shells were not greasy. They were packed full with the flavorful fillings with the accompanied Chimichurri sauce and were delicious. The price was comparable to the area. The staff was friendly and helpful; the service was fast. They've gotten so popular that a second location has been announced in Boonton. It was worth every minute, which I can recommend.

the beef patties are so good!! thin, warm, lil flakey, and the filling is seasoned and well spiced…read more i'll def be coming back for them. also had the chicken & beef empanadas w. the chimichurri sauce. prefer the beef empanada and i could do w.o the chimichurri sauce next time.

I first knew about Empanadas NJ Cafe when I was walking off the bbq I had over at Embark Smoked…read moreMeats. I'm from Argentina so I made a mental note to stop by the next time I visited Boonton. I attended a Yelp Elite Event at Catfight Coffee, that happened to be in Boonton so I already knew what I was doing after the event. The place is bright and has a good amount of seating inside. I ended up getting the beef and Cuban empanadas. These empanadas are baked and reheated when served. The beef was pretty good and the chimichuri sauce was a nice compliment. I really liked the Cuban empanada, it was packed with protein and tasted like a Cuban sandwich. The person who served me was very nice and mentioned she liked the Cuban, glad I tried that out. * Street parking

Cute authentic Argentine place in Nutley! Had empanadas and chorizo as afternoon snack…read more All types we chose were delicious (sweet beef, spicy beef and spicy chorizo). Mariano at the counter was super helpful, even numbered our empanadas so we knew what we were eating. The grilled chorizo was very tasty. Chimichori sauce Soo good, that we grabbed some on way out. They have a full menu, with grilled meats which we will try later. BYOB but they also have wine to sell as well. Support your small businesses!

What a great addition to the Neighborhood ! Argentina is my top 5 countries i have visited …read more Argentine are to meat what Picasso was to paint ! Masters of Meat . We ordered 5 different flavors of empanadas : Sweet beef ( traditional ) , spanish & cheese , Vegetarian , Caprese . We agreed all equally delicious 5/5 . We ordered to go , so i couldn't get the full in dining experience and had to rate on a curve . They will be hosting World Cup Watch and i will be there for sure !! . They do sell wine bottles if you forgot to BYOB , albeit at steep prices with premade sangrias . The dining area is small but make great use of space with seating . I went during lunch time 11:45 am , they could use more help . Only two one at cashier , taking orders one manning oven . I'd order ahead of time for pick ups . In all fairness they were open only 2 months .

Once again, I wasn't looking for anything--yet I walked out already planning my next visit. It was…read morea lazy Saturday, and my wife was craving Avena. I figured I'd also grab my favorite handheld snack: an empanada. This is a small, no-frills counter-service spot with empanadas on display, a counter for fresh salads and juices, and a cooler leading into the kitchen. After a friendly "good morning,"we ordered the Avena, and I went all-in on empanadas: carne de res molida, pollo con queso, pizza, pepperoni pizza, and pollo. She bagged them up, and the moment she handed me the warm bag, the smell hit me--fresh, fragrant, and impossible to resist. I could hardly wait to dig in. On the side, I loaded up on their pink sauce and hot sauce (both highly recommended). As soon as we got home, I grabbed the carne empanada first. The crust was perfectly fried--crispy yet still doughy, and the filling was so flavorful I immediately made everyone at the table try a bite. The same went for the chicken, chicken with cheese, pizza, and pepperoni empanadas. The dough was consistently delicious--some flaky and soft, others crispier--but every single one was a winner. My only regret? Not buying more. This place nailed consistency across 5 flavors, and that's why I'll be back. 5/5 stars.

I stopped by here this past Sunday morning with my wife and twins. We didn't actually mean to come…read moreto Empanadas Monumental but happened to see it while walking around downtown Haverstraw. Since both my wife and I love empanadas we walked in and gave it a try. The inside of the shop wasn't too big and in all honesty I don't remember much about it other than a heated display case full or empanadas and a place to order. After looking at the display case on this morning I ultimately decided to have one ham and cheese, one pizza and one pepperoni and cheese. Now I know those last two aren't traditional flavors but I wanted to give some to my twins and figured that they might enjoy it. In any case the worker plucked my empanadas out of the display and we were on our way only $6 lighter in our pockets. My first bite of the empanada really showed off the dough which I loved as it was light and flaky. The fillings on the inside were good too and both my wife and I enjoyed all of them with my favorite being the pepperoni and cheese. The bottom line for me is that I would absolutely return here again in the future. I really enjoyed the crust of the empanadas and also thought that the fillings were good as well!