Best Upscale Empanada in NoLita | Top 1 Upscale Spots

7 restaurants in Best Upscale Empanada in NoLita | Top 1 Upscale Spots

• Little Rebel — American · rated 4/5: Little Rebel pulses with a vibrant, eclectic energy, inviting guests into a stylishly edgy space where sophisticated small plates meet elevated comfort classics. The kitchen transforms familiar favorites into indulgent experiences, from the crisp, golden decadence of Wagyu croquettes and duck empanadas to the briny elegance of chilled Blue Point oysters. Whether sharing a board of artisanal meats or diving into a bowl of creamy mac and cheese, diners find themselves immersed in a spirited atmosphere that celebrates bold flavors and effortless social charm.
• Ten Bells — Seafood · rated 4/5: This intimate, candlelit haunt invites guests to linger over chilled platters of briny oysters and bowls of salt-dusted Marcona almonds, capturing the spirited essence of a classic European wine bar. The air hums with conversation as small plates of smoky papas bravas and savory chorizo empanadas emerge from the kitchen, offering a rustic tapestry of flavors that turn a simple evening into a communal celebration.
• Mehanata Bulgarian Bar — Middle Eastern · rated 3/5: Step into a high-energy cultural crossroads where the spirited soul of a Bulgarian tavern meets the playful, neon-lit pulse of a modern urban bar. The air carries the savory scent of sizzling Bulgarian meatballs and toasted prinzesi sandwiches, served alongside an eclectic array of crispy empanadas and golden sliders designed for effortless sharing. Vibrant cocktails like the Strawberry Sidecar flow freely, fueling a boisterous atmosphere where global comfort food and Eastern European tradition collide for a spirited night out.
• Tio Pepe — Spanish: Tio Pepe pulses with a convivial energy, inviting guests to linger over a vibrant tapestry of small plates that celebrate bold, sun-drenched flavors. The air carries the enticing aroma of sizzling chorizo and golden, crisp empanadas, while every table becomes a communal feast of creamy guacamole, savory stuffed dates, and tender meatballs in rich broth. It is a spirited retreat where the joy of sharing transforms a simple meal into a lingering celebration of Mediterranean and Latin-inspired soul.
• Tina's Cuban Cuisine — Spanish: The air at Tina’s Cuban Cuisine is thick with the intoxicating scent of garlic butter and slow-roasted pernil, drawing guests into a vibrant space where soulful Caribbean flavors take center stage. Crispy, golden chicken empanadas and tender, wine-braised oxtail offer a comforting taste of tradition, perfectly complemented by the savory richness of classic ropa vieja and zesty, spice-kissed vegetables. This bustling culinary escape captures the heart of Havana, serving up hearty, aromatic plates that feel like a warm and welcoming home-cooked embrace.
• Butler — American: Butler hums with the vibrant energy of a neighborhood hub, where the scent of freshly toasted grains and artisanal coffee fills a bright, sun-drenched space. Mornings invite guests to linger over jewel-toned acai bowls and creamy avocado toast, while the afternoon brings a shift toward bold, savory flavors like succulent rotisserie chicken and spicy gochujang pork tucked into crusty bread. Whether grabbing a flaky breakfast empanada on the go or settling in for a vibrant delicata squash salad, every dish feels like a thoughtful, elevated take on daily nourishment.
• Patacón Pisao — Latin American: A vibrant corner of Venezuelan soul where the air is thick with the irresistible scent of golden-fried dough and savory, slow-cooked meats. Diners dive into a world of handheld delights, from the satisfying crunch of cheese-filled tequeños and flaky pastelitos to the towering, flavor-packed Arepa Pabellon that brings together the comforting textures of black beans, sweet plantains, and tender shredded beef. It is a lively celebration of Latin comfort, where every bite offers a warm, authentic escape into the bustling energy of a traditional neighborhood snack bar.