Finding the best empanadas in NYC feels like a mission with endless options, but when you walk through Chelsea and get close to 10th Avenue, the search becomes easier. Porteño stands right there with the unmistakable scent of Argentinian comfort food drifting from the kitchen. It is the kind of place you think about when hunger hits hard and you want something satisfying, warm, and made with care.
Argentinian food always brings people together, and empanadas sit at the heart of that tradition. Porteño takes this classic seriously. Every empanada comes out of the kitchen with that perfect golden crust and a filling that tastes like home. Whether you eat them as a starter or make them the star of the meal, you always end up wanting one more.
But Porteño is much more than a spot for the best empanadas in NYC. The menu goes deep into the flavors of Argentina with pasta dishes, comfort plates, desserts, and that unmistakable warmth that makes people return again and again. If you are planning to visit Chelsea or if you live nearby and want a place that feels familiar, this restaurant deserves a spot on your list.
Why People Say These Are the Best Empanadas in NYC
Empanadas become unforgettable when they bring the right balance of texture and flavor. Porteño serves them exactly that way. The dough keeps a light crisp, the fold is done perfectly, and each bite carries the seasonings and techniques passed down through Argentinian kitchens. They are made fresh and baked to the ideal point, giving that soft interior and crisp edge people love.
Bite into the beef empanada and you get seasoned meat that tastes rich without being heavy. Try the chicken and you get a comforting filling that feels homemade. The vegetarian option brings a nice balance for anyone who wants something lighter. People come for one flavor and end up trying them all because they are curated so well.
Locals stop by after work for empanadas and wine. Tourists visiting the High Line walk a few blocks to enjoy them before continuing their day. Chelsea residents grab them during lunchtime because they are quick, fresh, and satisfying. No matter when you visit, the quality stays consistent.
This is why Porteño has become a top recommendation when someone searches for the best empanadas in NYC. They offer the flavor, texture, and experience that people hope for when they crave this classic dish.
More Than Empanadas: Pastas That Stand Out in Chelsea
Once you try the empanadas, the next question becomes what to order next. Porteño shines with a pasta menu full of flavor and personality. The restaurant blends Italian technique with Argentinian character, creating dishes that bring comfort and depth.
Here are some favorites that keep people talking:
Rigate con Chorizo a la Paprika: Rigatoni with Argentinean sausage, paprika, and ricotta salata in a spicy tomato sauce.
This dish has bold flavor without overwhelming the palate. The chorizo brings the smoky richness Argentina is known for and the paprika ties everything together. The sauce coats each piece of rigatoni with just enough spice to keep the dish lively. People who love pasta with personality always go for this one.
Ravioles de Calabaza: Pumpkin ravioli with a creamy goat cheese sauce and fig chutney.
This pasta brings comfort and elegance in one plate. The pumpkin filling tastes soft and slightly sweet, and the goat cheese sauce adds a creamy richness. The fig chutney lifts the dish with a unique touch. Anyone who likes autumn flavors or soft, creamy pasta dishes finds a favorite here.
Risoto con Hongos del Bosque y Caracú: Wild mushroom risotto with bone marrow, parsley, and white truffle olive oil.
This risotto creates one of the most memorable bites at Porteño. The mushrooms bring deep earthy flavor, the bone marrow makes everything richer, and the truffle aroma completes it. It is a comforting plate that still feels elevated and ideal for cooler days or long dinners.
Carbonara Porteño: Spaghetti in a carbonara that follows tradition but carries a subtle Argentinian soul.
Creamy, rich, and comforting. The kind of dish that satisfies anyone who wants a plate full of flavor after a long day walking around the city.
Each pasta has its own style, but all share the warmth that gives Porteño its identity. This is a place where you can try empanadas and then enjoy a full plate of pasta without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Everything fits the rhythm of Chelsea and the space offers a cozy atmosphere that makes the experience even better.
A Neighborhood Gem With a True Argentinian Touch
Porteño sits in the heart of Chelsea, close to the High Line, Hudson Yards, art galleries, and the kind of cultural spots people love about this part of Manhattan. This location makes the restaurant perfect for lunch during a day of exploring or dinner before heading to an event or a night out.
Inside, the place feels warm and casual without losing charm. The staff always welcomes guests with a smile, and regulars describe the energy as familiar and comforting. It feels like walking into a friend’s house for dinner, which is one of the reasons people return often.
Whether you come for a quick bite, a weekend meal, or a date night, Porteño adapts to your plans effortlessly.
Desserts That Complete the Experience
People who love Argentinian food know the importance of dulce de leche, and Porteño celebrates it in the best possible ways.
Some favorites include:
Budín de Pan Tibio
Warm bread pudding served with dulce de leche gelato. Soft, sweet, and perfect for cold days.
Flan de Dulce de Leche
A dulce de leche custard with the perfect texture. Light but full of flavor.
Alfajorcitos con Helado de Pistacho
Almond-flour pastry filled with dulce de leche and served with pistachio gelato. A mix of soft, creamy, and nutty flavors.
Dessert lovers always find something special here. Every option connects back to Argentinian tradition with a modern touch.
Why Porteño Has the Best Empanadas in NYC
NYC offers endless food options but Porteño stands out for a few clear reasons:
- Recipes rooted in real Argentinian tradition
- Fresh ingredients and handmade dishes
- A menu with depth, including pasta, risotto, and desserts
- A cozy space in a prime Chelsea location
- Friendly service that makes guests feel at home
People often start with empanadas and end up exploring the rest of the menu because everything feels consistent and thoughtful. The empanadas may bring you in, but the pastas, desserts, and atmosphere keep you coming back.
Plan Your Visit
If you are in Chelsea and craving the best empanadas in NYC, Porteño sits exactly where you need it. Come for lunch after visiting the High Line or stop by for dinner before heading to a gallery event or night out. Order empanadas, try one of the pastas, enjoy a dessert, and take in the warm Argentinian energy that fills the restaurant.
This is a place that brings people together through flavor and comfort. The kind of restaurant you always recommend to friends because you know they will love it right away.
