Empanadas Monumental

Great food, friendly staff, and decent price. The Dominican empanadas have flaky crust and drier stuffing, and are quite different from the Argentinian and Colombian ones. The quipe, which is somehow similar to falafels, is very flavorful.

I know you’re thinking another empanada place on Roosevelt Ave? What could possibly be different? Well this is totally different than the multitude of Colombian empanada places that are prevalent in Woodside/​Jackson Hts. area. Dominican empanadas are larger, and have a flakier crust. At Empanadas Monumental they offer about 20 different varieties, the standard chicken, beef, cheese, but also, spinach, eggplant, shrimp, philly cheesesteak and even a lasagna empanada!.All of which are delicious. They also offer a variety of homemade sauces from the mild to the extremely hot.
But don’t just stop at empandas, try some of the other tasty Dominican street food. Here are a few of my favorites:
Yaroa-​Think lasagna but made with plantains (you can also choose french fries) and ground beef/​or chicken/​or pork, with a little sauce and cheese. This is a great combo of flavors.
Bola de yucca-​Crispy cassava balls stuffed with either cheese, beef, or chicken, the perfect snack
Chimi/​Rikitaqui-​Dominican burger with cabbage, onions, pink sauce, tomatoes. the Riki has an egg added (yummy)
The fresh juices/​smoothies are all fantastic, and they can made to your liking. Even their café con leche is superb… it beats the heck out of DD or *$!!
The staff here are super sweet and patient. Cesar, the owner is always genuine, eager to get feedback and Alfie one of the staff members is very friendly, eager to make suggestions, but never any pressure.
Prices are very reasonable, most items range from $ 1.75-$ 5.50 !!
Shop is on the smaller side, but there is seating for about 10 people.
Such a great addition to the neighborhood !