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Empanadas NJ Cafe ico

Empanadas NJ Cafe
- 53 S Main St, Lodi, NJ 07644

Restaurant ★4.0 (127)·$1–10

53 S Main St, Lodi, NJ 07644, USA

4.0
The creation of the empanada predates the Spanish empire even though the word empanada comes from the 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. - Eloy Yip
Empanadas NJ Cafe Overview Intro Food & drink Detail Photos Location Reviews
$1–10 per person Reported by 127 people$1–10$10–20$20–30$30–50

Empanadas NJ Cafe Introduce

For North Jersey residents seeking a unique blend of comfort food, specialty coffee, and a genuinely cozy atmosphere, Empanadas NJ Cafe in Lodi stands out as a true local gem. More than just a simple restaurant, this establishment has quickly become a beloved neighborhood cafe, deeply appreciated for its dedication to fresh, homemade Argentinian empanadas and its friendly, family-run ethos. Located conveniently on South Main Street, it offers a refreshing take on the quick bite, transforming a classic hand-held pastry into a gourmet, satisfying meal.

The core of the cafe’s appeal lies in its signature product: authentic Argentinian empanadas that are freshly baked, not fried, giving them a delightful, non-greasy crust that customers rave about. The variety of fillings is extensive, ensuring there’s an option for every time of day and every preference. From traditional savory options like Beef, Chicken, and the customer-recommended Cuban, to sweet treats like Guava & Cheese and Apple Pie, these pastries serve perfectly as a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a flavorful appetizer.

What sets Empanadas NJ Cafe apart for the New Jersey community is the welcoming and casual atmosphere. Described by patrons as cozy and quiet, with just a few tables for dining, it’s an ideal spot for solo dining, a relaxed catch-up with friends, or a quick, quality meal on the go. This family-owned and operated establishment prides itself on fast, friendly service, making every visit a pleasant experience. The cafe's quality has even led to an announced expansion, a testament to its popularity among local foodies.

Location and Accessibility in Bergen County

Empanadas NJ Cafe is situated at a highly accessible location for residents throughout Bergen and Passaic Counties: 53 S Main St, Lodi, NJ 07644, USA. Positioned in a small strip of stores off South Main Street, the cafe is easy to find and provides practical amenities for today's busy local consumer.

Accessibility is a strong feature, as the restaurant offers both a free parking lot and ample free street parking, eliminating the typical hassle of finding a spot in a busy New Jersey town. Furthermore, for those requiring special assistance, the location includes a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, demonstrating a commitment to serving all members of the community. This makes it a convenient stop for quick coffee and breakfast commuters, lunch-breakers, and families coming in for a casual dinner.

Comprehensive Services and Menu Offerings

The cafe’s service model is built around maximum convenience and a diverse menu centered on high-quality comfort food and specialty beverages. Patrons have numerous ways to enjoy their favorite Argentinian treats.

  • Flexible Service Options:
    • Dine-in (Casual, Cozy atmosphere with table service for limited seating)
    • Takeout
    • Delivery (including No-contact delivery)
    • Curbside Pickup
  • Signature Empanada Menu (All Baked, Not Fried - $3.50 each): A large selection of savory, sweet, and vegetarian options:
    • Savory Fillings: Beef (packed with meat, onions, bell peppers, hard-boiled egg hint), Chicken (Halal), Pulled Pork (with house-made BBQ sauce), Cuban (pork, ham, Swiss, pickles, mustard), Italian Sausage, Ham & Cheese, Cheese, Pepperoni & Cheese, Jamaican Beef.
    • Vegetarian & Sweet Options: Spinach (with ricotta), Veggie (carrots, corn, sweet peas), Guava & Cheese, Apple Pie.
  • Specialty Coffee & Beverage Menu: A full cafe menu with a highlight on Italian coffee:
    • Hot Drinks: Espresso, Americano, Latte, Cappuccino, Mocha, Coffee with Milk (Cafe con Leche), Hot Chocolate, Tea, Mate Cocido (traditional South American infusion).
    • Iced & Cold Drinks: Iced Coffee (16oz, 24oz), Iced Latte, Iced Cappuccino, Iced Mocha, Iced Matcha.
    • Frappes: Vanilla, Mocha, Chai, Caramel (16oz, 24oz).
    • Soda & Juices: COKE, COKE ZERO, SPRITE, SNAPPLE, INCA COLA, JARRITOS, Ginger Ale.
  • Desserts:
    • Tres Leches (highly recommended and popular)
    • Tiramisu
  • Other Offerings:
    • Comfort Food, Quick Bites, Small Plates.

Features and Highlights that Attract New Jersey Locals

Empanadas NJ Cafe is celebrated for particular attributes that distinguish it in the competitive North Jersey dining scene, ensuring it’s a memorable and recurring destination for locals.

  • Great Coffee and Dessert: These are official highlights of the cafe, noted for high quality. The robust Italian coffee options pair perfectly with the popular, moist Tres Leches cake, offering a fantastic end to any meal or a delightful afternoon treat.
  • Authentic and High-Quality Baking: The empanadas are freshly baked, a process that removes excess grease and allows the full flavor of the generously packed fillings to shine. Customers consistently praise the non-greasy shell and flavorful ingredients.
  • Family-Friendly and Welcoming Vibe: The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and quiet, making it an excellent environment for families ("Good for kids") and those dining alone ("Solo dining"). Dogs are also allowed, even inside, which is a rare and welcome feature for local pet owners.
  • Ideal for Breakfast and Lunch: The menu is perfectly suited for all-day dining, being "Popular for Breakfast" (with offerings like the Egg, Bacon, & Cheese empanada) and "Lunch," serving as a great alternative to traditional fast food.
  • Value for Money: With all empanadas priced uniformly at $3.50, the cafe offers an affordable, satisfying, and gourmet meal option, making it an excellent value for the area.
  • Attention to Detail: Each empanada is distinctively marked with an initial for easy identification, a small but significant detail that improves the customer experience, especially for takeout and multi-order purchases.

Contact and Location Details for Patrons

For North Jersey residents looking to enjoy the offerings of this unique cafe, here is the essential contact and location information:

  • Address: 53 S Main St, Lodi, NJ 07644, USA
  • Phone: (862) 591-1522
  • Mobile Phone: +1 862-591-1522
  • Parking: Free Parking Lot and Free Street Parking (includes Wheelchair Accessible Parking)
  • Payment Methods: Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments are accepted.

What is Worth Choosing at Empanadas NJ Cafe

For anyone in the New Jersey area, especially those in Bergen County, Empanadas NJ Cafe offers a worth-choosing proposition built on authenticity, variety, and true comfort. What truly sets it apart is the specialized focus on the Argentinian empanada, delivered in a unique, freshly baked, and generously filled format. The choice to bake, rather than fry, is a key difference that elevates the taste and texture, ensuring a cleaner, more enjoyable eating experience.

It’s a destination where a local can get their morning caffeine fix with a high-quality Espresso or Frappé Mocha, easily paired with a savory Beef or an inventive Egg, Bacon, & Cheese empanada for a satisfying breakfast. For lunch or dinner, the sheer variety—from the unique Cuban to the flavorful Halal Chicken—guarantees no meal is ever dull. The availability of Chimichurri sauce for a minimal price is the perfect authentic accent. Finally, its welcoming, family-run atmosphere, coupled with highly convenient services like curbside pickup and free parking, cements Empanadas NJ Cafe as an essential, high-quality, and reliable neighborhood spot. It truly delivers on its promise of comfort food and great coffee, making it a must-visit in Lodi, NJ.

Empanadas NJ Cafe Food & drink

  • DESSERT

  • Tiramisu $5.50
  • Tres Leches $5.50
  • BEVERAGES

  • WATER BOTTLE $1.50
  • COKE $2.00
  • SNAPPLE $2.50
  • COKE ZERO $2.00
  • SPRITE $2.00
  • INCA COLA $2.00
  • JARRITOS $2.50
  • Ginger Ale $2.00
  • COFFEE

  • AMERICANO 12OZ $2.75
  • AMERICANO 16OZ $3.00
  • CAPUCCINO 12OZ $3.50
  • CAPUCCINO 16OZ $3.75
  • LATTE 12oz $3.50
  • LATTE 16OZ $3.75
  • COFFEE WITH MILK 12 OZ $3.00
  • COFFEE WITH MILK 16OZ $3.50
  • TEA 12 OZ $2.50
  • TEA 16 OZ $3.00
  • ICED COFFEE 16OZ $4.00
  • ICED COFFEE 24OZ $4.50
  • FRAPPE VANILLA 16 OZ $5.25
  • FRAPPE VANILLA 24OZ $5.75
  • FRAPPE MOCHA 16OZ $5.25
  • FRAPPE MOCHA 24 OZ $5.75
  • FRAPPE CHAI 16OZ $5.25
  • FRAPPE CHAI 24OZ $5.75
  • FRAPPE CARAMEL16OZ $5.25
  • FRAPPE CARAMEL 24OZ $5.75
  • ESPRESSO $2.50
  • EXTRA SHOT $2.00
  • FLAVOR $1.00
  • MATE COCIDO 12OZ $2.50
  • MATE COCIDO 16 OZ $3.00
  • HOT CHOCOLATE 12 OZ $3.75
  • HOT CHOCOLATE 16OZ $4.00
  • MOCHA 12oz $4.50
  • MOCHA 16 OZ $5.00
  • ICED MOCHA 16OZ $5.25
  • ICED MOCHA 24 OZ $5.50
  • ICED LATTE 16OZ $5.25
  • ICED LATTE 24OZ $5.50
  • ICED CAPPUCINO 16OZ $5.25
  • ICED CAPPUCINO 24OZ $5.50
  • ICED MATCHA 16 Oz $5.25
  • ICED MATCHA 24oz $5.50
  • EMPANADAS

  • BEEF $3.50
  • CHICKEN $3.50
  • HAM & CHEESE $3.50
  • CHEESE $3.50
  • PULLED PORK $3.50
  • SPINACH $3.50
  • VEGGIE $3.50
  • PEPPERONI & CHEESE $3.50
  • CUBAN $3.50

    Pulled pork, ham, swiss cheese, pickles and mustard

  • ITALIAN SAUSAGE $3.50
  • GUAVA & CHEESE $3.50
  • JAMAICAN BEEF $3.50
  • APPLE PIE $3.50
  • CHIMICHURRI $0.25

Empanadas NJ Cafe Details

  • Service options

  • Curbside pickup
  • No-contact delivery
  • Delivery
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • Highlights

  • Great coffee
  • Great dessert
  • Popular for

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Offerings

  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Dining options

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dessert
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Quiet
  • Crowd

  • Family-friendly
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
  • Children

  • Good for kids
  • Parking

  • Free parking lot
  • Free street parking
  • Parking
  • Pets

  • Dogs allowed
  • Dogs allowed inside

Empanadas NJ Cafe Photos

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Empanadas NJ Cafe Location

Empanadas NJ Cafe

53 S Main St, Lodi, NJ 07644, USA

Empanadas NJ Cafe Reviews

An average rating of ★4.7 from 263 user reviews.

baked empanadaspulled porkargentinian empanadaschicken empanadabeef empanadascheese empanadaschimichurripepperonipastriescuban empanadas

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

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