Mama's Empanadas

Who doesn't like empanadas? Terrorists, that's who. Let's head on over to Jackson Heights and Mama's Empanadas to see if these creations hold up to the expectations of the $5 Gourmet.

Mama's Empanadas at 76th and Roosevelt in  Jackson Heights, just under the 7 train. Photo credit: Ryan Gorman

Immediately upon walking in, the first thing you notice is the trance/club music blasting at a festive level. The school bus yellow and blue interior reminded me of old footage of Wayne Chrebet running around in a Hofstra football uniform. The food, we'll see.

We went with the Cuban, Mamita and a Columbiana soda. The total came to $4.25. We waited about ten minutes before our deliciousness arrived. While waiting we perused the extensive menu that boasts more types of empanadas than we deemed necessary, but whatever your taste is, they have it!

Mamita special at Mama's Emapanadas. Photo credit: Ryan Gorman

The first empanada we sunk our claws into was the Mamita. It has ground beef, egg and yellow rice inside a deep fried what crust. Pro tip, always use the green sauce. Do the right thing, do it.

The Mamita had a wonderfully flaky and light crust. Despite being deep fried, there was no grease and it could be eaten bare handed without making a mess. The spicy, cilantro-laced green hot sauce they give gratis is so good I could drink it by the shot. Putting it on the empanada makes it seem like the way nature intended ground beef to be eaten. The beef, egg and rice mixture is delicious. Combined with the green sauce, it's brilliant.

The second choice we made was the Cuban. It was ham, roast pork and cheese in a deep fried wheat crust. Tasted exactly as advertised. The meat was moist and flavorful, the cheese oozed out of the crust and the green sauce, oh the green sauce. It was delicious.

The verdict? A meal fit for a king with a club atmosphere and a crowd that is always happy. We go here often and will continue to do so. Take the 7/E/F/M/R to 74th Street-Broadway Station and walk two blocks for your royal feast.