The Empanada Times

- 192 Main St, Lincoln Park, NJ 07035

New Jersey's culinary landscape is rich with diverse flavors, but few places offer the immediate comfort and authentic taste of Latin American cuisine quite like The Empanada Times in Lincoln Park. Categorized as a Spanish restaurant, this beloved local spot offers a fresh, modern take on traditional Latin American staples, with a distinct focus on the star of the show: the empanada. More than just a quick bite, The Empanada Times delivers a "trip back home through your belly," as one loyal customer perfectly described, providing authentically "Latino" flavors that evoke cherished memories and create new ones.

The restaurant’s philosophy is built around high-quality ingredients and a fusion of flavors. While traditionalists will flock to the savory classics, the menu also showcases culinary creativity with unique, globally-inspired fillings. It successfully operates in a Casual, Cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for Solo dining, families with Good for kids options, or a casual meal with friends. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through Morris County, The Empanada Times provides a must-try experience for those who appreciate deep flavor, crispy pastry, and genuine hospitality. The emphasis here is on flavorful, perfectly seasoned dishes, with the *Chipotle Chicken* and *Dahl* empanadas being highlighted by patrons for their fresh ingredients and amazing shells.

Beyond the iconic handheld pastries, the menu shines with substantial main dishes. One of the most popular choices is the Build Your Own Main Plate ($9.95), offering a hearty, customizable meal reminiscent of a classic Latin dinner. Diners can select a base of **White Rice** or **Yellow Rice**, a side of flavorful **Red Beans** or the highly-praised **Black Beans**, and choose from comforting starches like **Tostones (Fried Plantains)** or **Sweet Plantains**. Proteins such as **Ropa Vieja** (braised beef), **Pernil** (roast pork), or **Chipotle Chicken** can be added for a complete, satisfying feast. The rave review about the Ropa Vieja being "like my mom made it" underscores the authentic quality of these main plate components. This dedication to authentic preparation of classic dishes sets The Empanada Times apart in the New Jersey dining scene.

The Empanada Times is conveniently located at 192 Main St, Lincoln Park, NJ 07035, USA, placing it right in the heart of the community. This centralized Main Street location makes it an easy stop for lunch, dinner, or a quick grab-and-go meal for those in Lincoln Park and neighboring New Jersey towns.

Accessibility for all customers is a priority, ensuring a welcoming environment from the moment you arrive. The restaurant offers:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance: Ensuring easy access for all patrons.
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot: Providing designated parking spots near the entrance for convenience.

For drivers, parking is simple and convenient:

• Free street parking: Allows easy access without the hassle of paying for a spot.

Additionally, the restaurant offers a pet-friendly option for those enjoying the outdoors, as Dogs are allowed outside, making it a welcoming stop for a stroll and a quick bite.

The Empanada Times provides flexible options to enjoy their authentic Latin fare, whether you're dining on-site or enjoying a meal at home in New Jersey:

• Dine-in: Experience the fun, quirky decor and cozy atmosphere while enjoying fresh-to-order dishes.
• Takeout: Perfect for a quick and delicious meal on the go.
• Delivery: Offering the convenience of enjoying authentic Latin Comfort food delivered directly to your door.
• Dining Options: Available for both a filling Lunch and a satisfying Dinner, with small Dessert offerings, including sweet empanadas like *Sweet Potato Pie* and *Guava & Cheese*.
• Convenient Payment: Accepting modern payment methods including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for fast transactions.

The Empanada Times distinguishes itself in the New Jersey food scene through its specialization and quality, offering several key highlights for local users:

• Empanada Variety: The core feature is an incredible range of perfectly fried empanadas, known for their crispy, flaky crust and generous fillings. The menu includes both traditional and creative options:
  • Latin Classics: *Beef & Potato*, *Beef & Plantain*, and *Chipotle Chicken*.
  • Fusion Favorites: *Philly Cheese Steak*, *Bacon Mac & Cheese*, and *Margherita Pizza*.
  • Vegetarian/Global: The highly-rated *Dahl* (Curried Lentils) and simple *Cheese*.
  • Sweet Varieties: *Sweet Potato Pie*, *Guava & Cheese*, and the praised *Apple Crisp*.
• Authentic Main Plates: Beyond the empanadas, the restaurant excels in authentic Latin dishes, particularly the Build Your Own option with perfectly seasoned Ropa Vieja, **Red Beans**, and **Black Beans**.
• Signature Sandwich: The Cuban Sandwich stands out as a hearty and popular favorite.
• Fresh Sides and Sauces: A great selection of Latin sides, including Tostones, Sweet Plantains, Yuca Fries, and a flavorful specialty: Tostones w/ Ropa Vieja & Pico de Gallo ($7.95). Custom sauces like **Pico de Gallo** and **Pineapple Salsa** are available for a small fee to enhance the experience.
• Ideal for Quick Meals: The menu is naturally suited for a Quick bite and features Small plates (Empanadas and sides), making it ideal for Lunch or an easy, fulfilling dinner.
• Fresh Beverages: Offers homemade Natural Juices ($5.00), a perfect, refreshing pairing for the rich comfort food.
• Atmosphere: Described as Casual and Cozy, with a "fun and quirky" decor, making it a pleasant and unpretentious environment for all ages.

For placing an order, confirming operating hours, or inquiries about the menu specials, please use the following contact details:

Address: 192 Main St, Lincoln Park, NJ 07035, USA
Phone: (973) 987-3303

For New Jersey diners, choosing The Empanada Times in Lincoln Park is a choice for genuine, high-quality Latin comfort food served in a friendly, no-fuss environment. It’s worth choosing this restaurant for several key reasons that make it a local stand-out.

First and foremost is the undeniable quality of the food. The Empanada Times elevates the simple empanada into a culinary star. Customers repeatedly praise the "best" shell—flaky, thin, and perfectly fried—and the generous, well-seasoned fillings. Whether you opt for the savory tang of the *Chipotle Chicken* or the comforting richness of the *Beef & Potato*, each bite is a testament to fresh ingredients and attention to detail. The ability to grab four unique empanadas for under $15 makes it an incredibly affordable way to explore a wide variety of flavors, from traditional Latin to inventive fusion combinations like *Bacon Mac & Cheese*.

Beyond the signature items, The Empanada Times offers a genuine connection to authentic Latin cooking. The reviews confirm that staple dishes like the Ropa Vieja and the Black Beans are prepared with a level of authenticity that rivals homemade meals. The customizable Build Your Own Main Plate gives customers the flexibility to craft a perfectly balanced, hearty dinner, combining slow-cooked meats, flavorful rice, and perfectly prepared plantains. This commitment to authentic taste and generous portions ensures that you leave satisfied, whether you are having a **Lunch** break or **Dinner**.

Finally, the combination of convenience and welcoming atmosphere is unbeatable. With easy Free street parking, accessibility features, and flexible service options—from cozy Dine-in to quick Delivery—The Empanada Times fits seamlessly into the busy New Jersey lifestyle. It is a genuine local treasure in Lincoln Park, highly recommended for families (*Good for kids*), solo diners, and anyone seeking a high-quality, flavorful, and affordable taste of Latin American heritage. The excellent hospitality and commitment to service ensure that your entire experience is as good as the food.

The Empanada Times

192 Main St, Lincoln Park, NJ 07035, USA