Takeout Options in NYC: Latin Flavors on the Go

Are you craving takeout options full of flavors? Then New York City's Latin food scene won't disappoint you. From texture-rich Peruvian ceviche, and aromatic Cuban ropa vieja to crunchy empanadas, Latin takeout in NYC promises you the goodness of Latin cuisine delivered to your doorstep.

Discover Latin NYC

mexican food at empanada mama best takeout option

Latin food is at the heart of New York City’s history and tradition. Brought to the Big Apple by migrant communities from all over South America, Latin cuisine now forms the backbone of the NYC takeout and dining scene, especially in the neighborhoods of Washington Heights and East Harlem. Latin food festivals and events such as the "Taste of Latin America" help New Yorkers meet deep-rooted flavors, thereby firmly making Latin cuisine a part and parcel of this city's food culture. Ordering Latin takeout lets you join in this celebration of culture, even through the comfort of your own home.

Why Choose Latin Takeout?

Latin takeout in NYC is a go-to for anyone looking to skip messy labor in the kitchen without compromising on a warm, flavor-rich meal. Here’s why Latin flavors make such a great takeout choice:

  • Convenience: Latin takeout offers tasty, ready-to-eat meals perfect for busy days. Whether you are juggling work, family, or a packed social calendar, a Latin meal is a quick, delicious solution for your culinary necessities.

  • Diversity in flavor: From tacos,  empanadas, or the comfortingly familiar rice and bean combination, Latin takeouts are packed with flavors that can be easily customized to make a meal just right for you.

  • Healthier Option: Latin food is made from healthy ingredients like beans, grains, and fresh vegetables and is perfect for all your nutrition needs.

So, next time you’re searching for “takeout near me,” consider some Latin flavors. It’s more than just food—it’s a chance to experience the rich cultural tapestry that makes NYC’s flavor profile so special.

Must-try Latin Takeout Dishes

Each Latin dish offers a unique flavor profile, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Here are some must-try Latin takeout options:

  • Tacos: Prepared with carnitas, pollo asado, or fish, tacos are adored worldwide. Paired with guacamole or salsa tacos make for a tasty surprise and a flavourful feast.

  • Empanadas: These little cakes filled with beef, chicken, and cheese, are the perfect Latin street food. Crunch, soft, or warm, empanadas are a tasty, take-along that keeps you fed throughout your day.

Belgian and Banana empanada at empanada mama
  • Arepas: A Colombian delicacy, arepas are corn cakes filled with cheese, meat, and vegetables and can be enjoyed as a meal or a snack. Gentle on your tummy, arepas are best served with rice or beans on the side.

  • Ceviche: Recognised by UNESCO as the pride of Peru, ceviches are refreshing seafood in lime marinade; it's a perfect appetizer, especially if accompanied by plantain chips.

  • Rice and beans: Rice and beans are a Latin staple and a pocket-friendly option if you want to explore Latin cuisine on a budget. Paired with some grilled meat and seasoned vegetables this makes for a tasty and healthy meal.

Tasty beans and rice at empanada mama

Best restaurants for Latin takeout in NYC

NYC is home to numerous hidden gems offering Latin takeout with rich flavors and creative twists. Here are the top spots you should check out:

  • Café Habana: This Cuban restaurant serves items such as ropa vieja and plantains to various people with a homestyle touch. Easy online ordering and uncompromising quality make Café Habana a go-to for lovers of Latin food.

  • Calle Dao: Calle Dao has become noteworthy in NYC's Latin food circuit by way of unique takeout options integrating Cuban and Chinese cuisines. Their dishes have attracted flavors that fill everyone's mouth in the city.

  • Empanada Mama:  Empanada Mama brings the warmth of Colombian comfort food to NYC. Their savory and crispy empanadas with authentic flavors are enjoyed by Latin cuisine aficionados all over the city. Their 40 unique flavors of empanadas make them a beloved Colombian food spot and the best Latin food to-go. 

Regional Latin Flavors

 Latin American cuisine is home to unique flavors which makes it pop out in the New York City food scene. Every country in the region has an original flavor profile yet versatile flavor profile that can be mixed and matched to create new exciting flavors NYC can’t get enough of. A common partner in crime is Asian cuisine, creating the much-adored Latin-Asian fusion cuisine. Here are a few examples of Latin America’s flavor profile:

Mexican: Popular for their colorful spices and dishes like enchiladas, tamales, and street tacos, Mexican cuisine boasts of comfort foods such as carnitas and asado de pollo.

Colombian: Colombia is home to traditional favorites like arepas and sancocho which are perfect dishes for creating fusion meals, especially with Korean food.

Cuban: Staples like ropa vieja, black beans, and fried plantains make for a satisfying, healthy meal with traditional flavors. Along with maduros, Cuban food is heavenly and a perfect counterpart to Chinese food.

Ordering Tips for Latin Takeout

From choosing travel-friendly dishes to adding flavorful sides, here’s how to enjoy an authentic, satisfying experience right at home. To get the best results while ordering Latin takeout in NYC, follow these simple steps.

  • Choose the Right Dishes: Opt for items that travel well, like tacos or empanadas. Soups or overly moist items may arrive soggy.

  • Add Sides: Have your meal share sides such as chips and guacamole, or, rice and plantains. This way you can create a true Latin restaurant dining experience in your dining room.

  • Group Orders: Latin food is best enjoyed in the group. This way you can order a variety of dishes and everyone gets a little bit of everything. The more, the merrier.

For anyone in NYC seeking a satisfying Latin takeout experience, these options make it easy to enjoy authentic flavors.

Latin Takeout Meal Kits: Bring the Flavors Home

Want to take your experience with Latin cuisine beyond takeouts? Many Latin restaurants now offer meal kits so you can create authentic dishes in your own kitchen, including taco sets, empanada-making sets, and arepa meal kits. These come with all the ingredients and instructions you need to whip up fresh, interactive meals. Suitable for spending quality time bonding with family or friends, these kits make experimenting with Latin flavors and cooking techniques fun and affordable.

Savor the Best of Latin Takeout in NYC

The Latin takeout scene in New York City unlocks a world of culinary culture and diversity. Whether you’re ordering from a highly-rated restaurant or trying a meal kit at home, dishes like tacos, empanadas, ceviche, and plantains offer convenient and satisfying authentic flavors.

So are you ready to savor the best of Latin flavors NYC has to offer? Dive into Empanada Mama's curated selection of empanadas — each one a delicious, handheld taste of Latin America. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or feeding a group, Empanada Mama’s fast service and mouthwatering menu make it easy to integrate the goddess of Latin America into your day.

Empanada mama serving the best empanada and latin food takeout

Don't wait — order now to see why Empanada Mama is NYC’s go-to spot for authentic Latin takeout!

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