Empanadas Monumental

- 522 W 207th St, New York, NY 10034

Empanadas Monumental stands as a beloved fixture in the high-energy culinary landscape of Upper Manhattan. Situated in the heart of the Washington Heights community, this establishment is a must-visit for New Yorkers seeking high-quality, authentic Latin American and Caribbean fast food. It perfectly embodies the spirit of a quick, satisfying meal by elevating the simple concept of the empanada into a versatile and extensive menu offering.

More than just a standard fast-food joint, Empanadas Monumental is a dedicated Latin American restaurant specializing in the crispy, flavorful turnovers that give the place its name. While the core product is the empanada, the restaurant's appeal extends far beyond, incorporating a selection of essential Caribbean and Latin mains, delicious shakes, and fresh juices. This blend of familiarity and tradition makes it a magnetic spot for locals, particularly college students and tourists exploring the vibrancy of the northern Manhattan neighborhoods.

The core promise of this New York eatery is exceptional variety and convenience. Whether you are craving the savory depth of a Shredded Beef (Ropa Vieja) empanada, the comforting flavors of a Lasagna empanada, or the sweet surprise of a Banana With Cheese (Platano Con Queso) filling, Empanadas Monumental delivers. It’s the perfect spot for a quick bite or a satisfying dose of comfort food throughout the day, providing an authentic taste of Latin Caribbean culture right here in the city. Its dedication to a large, specialized menu solidifies its status as a vital part of the local dining scene.

Empanadas Monumental is located at 522 W 207th St, New York, NY 10034, USA, placing it firmly within the dynamic and culturally rich area of Inwood/Washington Heights. This address is just steps away from the main commercial arteries of the neighborhood, making it highly convenient for those working, studying, or residing in Upper Manhattan. The neighborhood itself is known for its strong Caribbean and Latin roots, which adds to the authentic atmosphere of the restaurant.

For New Yorkers using personal vehicles, the restaurant provides options that are often hard to come by in Manhattan: the potential for Free street parking as well as Paid street parking nearby. While free spots are always a treasure in the city, the dual parking options offer flexibility for customers making a quick pickup or stopping for a dine-in meal.

The restaurant's central location on 207th Street also makes it easily accessible via public transportation, which is the preferred method for many local users. Its position in the 10034 ZIP code ensures it serves a large residential and student population efficiently, which is part of the reason it’s so popular among college students looking for an affordable and quick meal. Despite the fast-paced nature of the neighborhood, the location is designed to accommodate the flow of customers looking for a reliable meal throughout the day.

Designed to integrate seamlessly into the busy New York lifestyle, Empanadas Monumental offers a wide range of services and dining options to cater to every need, from a solo morning coffee to a large event. The primary service options ensure maximum customer convenience:

• Delivery: For days when leaving the apartment or office is not an option, the delivery service ensures fresh, hot empanadas and other meals are brought directly to your door.

• Takeout: Perfect for a lunch break or a fast meal on the commute, the takeout service is quick and efficient, allowing customers to easily grab their order and go.

• Dine-in: With seating available, patrons can enjoy their meal in the restaurant’s Casual and Trendy Atmosphere. This is an excellent option for enjoying the full range of menu items at your leisure.

• Comprehensive Dining Hours: The restaurant proudly serves meals throughout the day, being Popular for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, ensuring you can get a satisfying meal whenever hunger strikes.

• Counter Service: The primary service model is efficient counter service, designed for quick transactions and minimal waiting time, which is essential for a high-volume fast-food establishment in NYC.

• Catering Services: The availability of catering means that the vast and popular menu, especially the various empanadas, can be brought to local parties, office gatherings, or student events.

• Payment Versatility: Customers have the choice to pay using Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, simplifying the process for every transaction.

• Family Amenities: The location is Good for kids and provides High chairs, showing its commitment to being a welcoming spot for families in the community.

What truly sets Empanadas Monumental apart in the competitive NYC dining scene are the distinct features that blend Latin American tradition with fast-food efficiency. These highlights contribute to its reputation as a unique and essential local spot:

• Monumental Empanada Variety: The restaurant is defined by its extensive empanada menu, featuring nearly 20 different fillings. Patrons can choose unique options like Mariscos Mixtos (Mixed Seafood), Ropa Vieja De Res (Shredded Beef), Berenjena Y Queso (Eggplant & Cheese), and inventive selections such as Lasagna and Philly Cheese Steak empanadas, offering a creative take on the classic turnover.

• Essential Late-Night Food: Catering to the famously late hours of New York City, the restaurant is a key provider of Late-night food, offering a satisfying and reliable option when most other kitchens are closed.

• Authentic Latin Mains and Sides: Beyond empanadas, the menu includes authentic Caribbean and Latin staples such as Quipes, Yaroa, Quesadillas, and Burritos, providing a comprehensive taste of the region’s comfort foods.

• Appealing Atmosphere for a Young Crowd: The atmosphere is described as both Casual and Trendy, making it a desirable location, especially for College students and Tourists who appreciate a relaxed yet energetic vibe.

• Beverage and Dessert Focus: The drink menu is expansive, featuring Jugos (Juices) in various sizes and a selection of rich Malteadas (Shakes), all available in sizes up to large, ensuring a refreshing accompaniment to the savory food.

• All-Day Comfort Food and Quick Bites: The menu is available All Day (Menú Diario), offering Comfort food and Small plates that are perfect for any time, whether it's a quick, affordable lunch or a larger dinner.

• Coffee Availability: For those early risers or afternoon slump moments, the availability of Coffee ensures that customers can get their essential caffeine fix alongside their meal or quick bite.

To place a takeout order, inquire about catering, or find the location, here is the essential contact information for Empanadas Monumental:

Address:522 W 207th St, New York, NY 10034, USA

Phone Numbers:(212) 567-5241+1 212-567-5241

For any New Yorker stepping into Empanadas Monumental, the decision of what to choose should undoubtedly start with their namesake item: the empanadas. At a highly affordable price point of generally $3.50 (with premium seafood options slightly higher), these savory turnovers represent one of the best value-for-money quick bites in the city. The sheer diversity is a massive draw; we recommend sampling some of the more inventive fillings that you won't find anywhere else. The Ropa Vieja De Res / Shredded Beef is a nod to rich Caribbean tradition, while the Pollo, Queso, Crema Y Maíz (Chicken, Corn, Cheese, & Cream) offers a creamy, satisfying texture that is universally appealing. For those looking for a vegetarian option, the Vegetales or Espinaca Y Queso are highly flavorful choices.

While the empanadas are the main attraction, it’s worth noting the other compelling Latin American mains on the menu. The Quesadillas and Burritos offer a more substantial, dinner-style meal at an excellent price point. For an authentic Dominican fast-food experience, try the Yaroa or the smaller, traditional fritura like the Quipes. These dishes provide a true taste of the Caribbean comfort food that the restaurant is known for.

Crucially, any meal should be complemented by one of their signature beverages. The selection of freshly prepared Jugos (Juices) and Malteadas (Shakes) are not just drinks; they are part of the cultural dining experience. The large shakes, available up to $8.49, are a sweet, cold indulgence perfect after a hot, savory meal.

It is important to address customer feedback regarding service and the predominantly Spanish-speaking environment. While some customers have reported less-than-ideal experiences, it’s clear from the reviews that the quality of the product—the "Good empanadas"—remains the central reason for the restaurant’s strong reputation. For first-time visitors who may be unfamiliar with the menu or the Spanish language, approaching the counter with patience and a willingness to point or ask for assistance can smooth the experience. Ultimately, the phenomenal variety, affordable pricing, and authentic flavors of the food itself are what make Empanadas Monumental a true pillar of the local New York fast-food scene and a destination worth choosing for an authentic Latin quick bite.

Empanadas Monumental

522 W 207th St, New York, NY 10034, USA