Empanada Mama East Village, 14th St

- 239 1st Ave, Manhattan, NY 10003

Introduction / Overview

In the bustling culinary scene of New York, Empanada Mama East Village, located at 239 1st Ave, stands out as a beloved local spot, and its catering service is a go-to for anyone looking to bring a taste of authentic Latin American cuisine to their event. More than just a casual dining restaurant, this establishment, which also identifies as a Colombian and Surinamese restaurant, has perfected the art of delivering delicious, convenient, and crowd-pleasing food. Empanadas, as the name suggests, are the stars of the show, but the menu extends far beyond, offering a full range of traditional and modern Latin dishes, from tapas and salads to hearty meals. Empanada Mama's catering service is designed to take the stress out of event planning, offering "flavor, convenience, and many 'Where did you get these?' questions," as noted by a recent blog post on their website. Whether it's a corporate lunch, a birthday party, an art gallery opening, or a late-night gathering, the versatile and universally appealing nature of empanadas makes them an ideal choice. The affordability of the menu, with each empanada costing under $5, makes it an excellent value for money, allowing hosts to provide a memorable and filling meal without breaking the bank. The restaurant has become a popular late-night spot, and that same convenience and comfort translate seamlessly into their catering operations, making them a reliable choice for any time of day or night. With a reputation for fast service and a welcoming, trendy atmosphere, Empanada Mama East Village is a reliable and exciting option for all your catering needs.

The variety of their offerings is particularly impressive. From the classic Ground Beef and Shredded Chicken empanadas to inventive flavors like Cheeseburger, Spicy Chicken, and even a seafood-filled "Viagra," there is truly something for every palate. They also cater to different dietary needs, with vegetarian and corn flour options available. Beyond empanadas, their catering menu includes other popular items like yucca frita, plantain chips, and various sides, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying spread. The restaurant's popularity with young people and its reputation as a "chill sit-down space" speak to its laid-back and friendly vibe. This relaxed approach, combined with a high standard of quality and flavor, makes Empanada Mama's catering a perfect fit for any casual or professional event. It’s a testament to their mission: to provide a "flavor revolution" that breaks away from typical, boring catering fare.

Location and Accessibility

Empanada Mama East Village is located at 239 1st Ave, Manhattan, NY 10003, USA. This prime address in the East Village places it in a bustling, vibrant neighborhood that is easily accessible. The location is well-served by multiple subway lines and bus routes, making it convenient for customers to visit for takeout or to pick up catering orders. The area is known for its lively streets and active community, and Empanada Mama has established itself as a staple within it. For those driving, the availability of "paid street parking" provides a viable option, a significant convenience in Manhattan. The restaurant's commitment to accessibility is also worth noting, with a "wheelchair accessible entrance" to ensure all patrons can enter with ease. While specific information on other accessibility features is not provided, the general nature of a storefront restaurant and its location on a busy avenue contribute to its ease of access. Being in the heart of the East Village means it's also a central location for deliveries, ensuring that catering orders can reach their destinations across Manhattan and beyond in a timely manner. This strategic location is a key asset for their successful catering business.

Services Offered

• Onsite services: Enjoy the full restaurant experience in a casual and trendy setting.
• No-contact delivery: A safe and convenient option for receiving your order.
• Delivery: Timely and professional delivery of your catering order to your home or event location.
• Takeout: Place your order in advance and pick it up at your convenience.
• Catering: A dedicated service for larger orders, perfect for events, parties, and office lunches.
• Accepts reservations: Allows for planned dining experiences.

Features / Highlights

• Extensive menu with over 40 unique empanada flavors, including both classic and creative fillings.
• Catereing options include both wheat flour and corn flour empanadas, as well as baked options.
• Known for "fast service," ensuring your catering order is prepared efficiently.
• Offers a wide range of comfort food, small plates, and vegetarian options.
• Provides late-night food, making it a perfect solution for after-hours events and cravings.
• The atmosphere is casual and trendy, making it a great place to stop by or host a relaxed gathering.
• Welcomes a diverse crowd, including being "family-friendly," "LGBTQ+ friendly," and a "transgender safespace."
• The menu also includes a variety of tapas, meals, salads, and desserts to create a complete catering spread.
• Accepts credit cards and debit cards for easy payment.

Contact Information

Address: 239 1st Ave, Manhattan, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (646) 589-0226

Mobile Phone: +1 646-589-0226

What is worth choosing

Choosing Empanada Mama East Village for your catering needs is a choice for quality, variety, and convenience. What truly makes this service stand out is the unique, delicious, and universally appealing nature of their offerings. Empanadas are the perfect catering food—handheld, mess-free, and available in a staggering number of flavors that can satisfy every guest. Whether you're planning an office lunch and need to accommodate different dietary preferences or you're hosting a party and want to offer a fun, interactive menu, Empanada Mama has you covered. The vegetarian options, like the Veggie Corn Flour empanada and the spinach and cheese empanada, are both tasty and satisfying. As one customer noted, the cheese empanada was "downright delicious," with cheese that "pulled like mozarella." This attention to detail and flavor is consistent throughout their menu, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience. The “plantain nachos” are another example of their inventive approach, offering a unique and memorable twist on a classic comfort food.

Beyond the food, the service itself is a compelling reason to choose Empanada Mama. They have a reputation for "fast service," which is essential when you're on a tight schedule. Their ability to accept orders for different group sizes, from their "Box of 10 Empanadas" to larger catering packages, makes them a flexible partner for any event. The fact that they offer both on-site services and delivery means you can choose the option that best fits your needs. As a local business with a dedicated fan base, they provide a personal touch that you might not find with larger catering companies. Their commitment to inclusivity, with a "family-friendly" and "LGBTQ+ friendly" environment, also makes them an excellent choice for any gathering where a welcoming atmosphere is important. In a city where catering options can be generic, Empanada Mama provides a fun, flavorful, and reliable alternative that will leave your guests impressed and talking about the food long after the event is over.

Empanada Mama East Village, 14th St

239 1st Ave, Manhattan, NY 10003, USA