The pernil empanadas here are soooo good! I usually get the lunch special that comes with rice and beans and maduros. The place is decorated nicely with murals. Service is quick and friendly. read more

Ordered 2 chicken empanadas from IE for $9, 1 for my Mom-I can't wait to hear her opinion. I sniffed the meat to see what it would taste like & I thought it smelled like cat food. I then tasted it & seemed like fish but had a lil chicken texture. I ate the empanada reluctantly, even as flavorless as it was. I must say that the crust was good - even if they don't make own, according to a reviewer. Island Empanada will not see me ever again as a customer. read more

Island Empanada - Heated & cut open - looks like tuna, tastes like chicken - Empanadas Near Me - Medford, New York

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Food is amazing and the service is excellent. I recommend to everyone I know. The ambience is very family oriented, this place is a must try you will not regret it and definitely make it a regular place to eat. read more

Me gustaría expresar mi insatisfacción con el servicio recibido en este establecimiento. La persona que nos atendió mostró una actitud muy pobre y soberbia al abordar nuestra inquietud sobre un pedazo de plástico encontrado en una empanada. A pesar de que era visible, no se tomó ninguna medida para abordar la situación hasta se burlaron. NO LES RECOMIENDO ESTE ESTABLECIMIENTO. read more

Island Empanada - Empanadas Near Me - Medford, New York

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Plastic in my empanada that wasn't even the correct empanada. Pillsbury Doughboy at the counter was rude and disrespectful once brought to his attention. Poor customer service. Do not recommend Rundown dining room with no heat, so don't think about dining in! read more

Island Empanada - Asian Chicken Empanada and plastic! - Empanadas Near Me - Medford, New York

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They're amazing! I haven't tasted an empanada I didn't like from here! Their sauces are amazing and the beans are legendary! I love this place! read more

My son suggested grabbing an empanada while we waited for his car. We ordered a spicy beef and a spicy chicken empanada with hot sauce on the side. They were hot and tasted fresh (I do not know if they are premade or made to order on the spot). The hot sauce did not disappoint. Service is at the counter and cashiers have always been patient when people order. I rarely plan ahead what I want so I appreciate not being rushed or eye rolled. There are plenty of tables and a small table and chairs outside. The table we chose was clean, same for the floors and windows. The plants could use a little love but I don't have a green thumb so I understand LOL. It's difficult to order only one empanada because they always taste like "more". read more

Was working last night and we ordered from here. Myself never having food from here. I had the bacon Mac and cheese and loaded potato. The bacon Mac was delicious, however although very tasty the loaded potato needed cheese which you can add for a small fee. I was a bit disappointed in that one because a loaded potato usually has cheese and this one didn't. I plan on eating there more often while l am at work as there is not one close To where I live. read more

Fast- called in order and it was ready HOT and delicious within 15 min. I ordered the arros con gandules and 4 lbs of pernil. read more

The staff was kind and friendly. The restaurant was clean and cozy. The reason for the low rating is because their empanadas are super salty. This was my second time picking up food from them. The first time I ordered the empanadas last year, they were very salty. I thought I would give them another try since we like supporting local small businesses. But the empanadas were super salty again. And the chicken empanadas had a weird smell to it :( the spinach and feta ones were the only ones that were decent and not salty. The rice and beans were good too. The side sauces are good too. A little less salt in the empanada fillings would make a big difference! read more

Island Empanada - Menu - Empanadas Near Me - Medford, New York

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Placed a large order for a party, it was ready a few minutes early which was awesome. The mixed empanada boxes were a hit! The empanadas came labelled with the flavor and with sauces on the side. My favorites were the shrimp with mango salsa and spicy beef with plantains. The store was nice and clean (much more inviting than the tiny Commack location) and the staff were attentive and friendly. I will definitely order from here again: ) thanks!! read more

Love the empanadas & quick service. Always consistent and even better the next day heated up.

There are 30 flavors of empanada here. Employees say that the most popular "dinner" empanadas are the beef, chicken and pork. I ordered the Latin Shrimp. Each empanada is served with green or red sauce. According to employees, the green sauce is comprised of cilantro, garlic and jalapeño; and the red sauce is made from habanero peppers and tomatoes. Each empanada costs $3.49. I was told that the most popular dessert is the Oreo empanada, so I ordered that. It cost me $$3.69, and it was delicious. The Oreos melted to a chocolate lava. There were foods other than empanadas to choose from, such as sweet plantains, chicken wings and stuffed mashed potatoes. I will try a few of them the next time I come back, which will likely be next month due to dietary constraints. The service is good, too. The only thing preventing me from giving Island Empanada five stars is the lack of advertised low-fat menu choices. Employees say that baked empanadas are available only upon request. read more

Island Empanada - Latin Shrimp empanada - Empanadas Near Me - Medford, New York

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Stop in to try the empanadas. So many choices to choose from. They are so delicious. The staff is super sweet. Definitely have to go back before I return to FL..... read more

The service was great and so was the ambiance. Love the Puerto Rican, American flag since I'm Puerto Rican. But since I'm Puerto Rican, I ordered the pork should plate with the rice with gondules and yuca frita. The rice with gondules was good but the pork shoulder was so dry, I was choking and I'm not exaggerating. I was expecting the REAL YUCA vegetable TO BE CUT cut up, as it should but it seemed processed, like wanna be French fries. I only finished the rice. On a good note, the Churros were good. I will go back though to try their empanada's only. read more

We purchased the empanadas for take out online. It was ready within 20 mins. We got several different empanadas. My favorite is the shrimp, and mango with the shrimp. They are reasonably priced only a few dollars each. read more

Food was great!! Delivery was quick and professional. I would definitely recommend them.

Every time I am in the area,I stop in for a snack.The staff is super nice and fun.There are many different tasty filling options.My personal favorite is chorizo potato.Always very flavorful and fresh!Parking is easy and service is fast. read more

Island Empanada - Love these girls - Empanadas Near Me - Medford, New York

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Having passed by this place many times we finally decided to give it a try today. The only reason I've been hesitant is because I'm not a huge empanada fan and never really considered them to be a meal...until today. I don't give out 5 star reviews too often but Island Empanada definitely deserves it. The food completely blew me away and completely changed my perception about empanadas. -Buffalo Wings: 5/5, easily some of the best wings I've ever had. Never in a million years would I think an empanada place would have such amazing wings. The sauce was perfect, and the meat was so tender it came right off the bone. Perfect crispy outside & even the blue cheese they were served with was outstanding. -Chicken Bacon Ranch Empanada: 5/5, hands down the best of the 4 that I tried today. So much flavor, and everything was cooked perfectly. I will 100% be getting these again. -Chipotle Beef Empanada: 5/5, this one was a close second to the CBR. Great flavor, & the ground beef was delicious. -Spicy Cheese Empanada: 5/5, who know cheese could be so delicious in this form. The flavor was outstanding and this is another one I'd definitely get again. -Pork Empanada: 3.5/5, this one was my least favorite. It was still good but just very bland. There are other variations of pork empanadas that I will try but the plain pork wasn't anything too crazy. -Rice & beans: 4/5, perfect blend of flavor, the beans were delicious & rice was cooked perfectly. I'm mad at myself for not coming here sooner. After today I can say I will 150% be back again to try some other empanadas and wings. Delicious food at a reasonable price. A++ read more

Update! Well, it's not the update I was entirely hoping for. Island Empanada has become a favorite of mine in the quicker food options of the Medford area and though I haven't swung by in a while, I had time to mull over my feelings about the place. And so, I was totally ready to come and slap a five star review on this spot...but then there were a few misdemeanors that kept it at a four this past visit. First off, the prices have gone up a tick. There's a little sign informing customers about increased labor costs so I'll give it to IE on this one, plus the empanadas are still worthy of the price, and then some. Secondly (though out of order), this was the first time that one of my empanadas was incorrect. My girlfriend wanted a chicken bacon ranch and instead got spicy cheese. That's one of her favorites anyway, but you can't overlook the error, especially due to price difference. Lastly, the employees there have always seemed friendly and helpful, though for whatever reason, the woman that ended up taking my order had an attitude as though I was doing her a disservice by being there. Somewhere between the impatient body language while I ordered, the way she threw the empty box to be filled on the counter, the inconsistent asking of sauces (she asked the customer before me, but not I) and the continuation of some attitude when I requested a few of said sauces rubbed me the wrong way. Here's hoping we don't cross paths again. But in the end, I do love this place. I love the colorful Puerto Rican mural on the wall. I love the variety of empanadas, making it possible to try something different almost every time (new favorite: chipotle beef and sweet plantains). I love each tiny crusty crescent, especially when dipped in some of those aforementioned sauces, the mild green cilantro-based one or the spicier red sauce. I heart Island Empanada! Overall, this trip wasn't the experience I had previously, fully enjoyed (and was hoping for), but IE still knows a thing or two about making some awesomely delicious empanadas. I'll be back again soon enough in hopes that that illusive final star can fill out my true feelings on the place. Until then, try it out for yourself, and hopefully you experience all the love (no hate) in this review. read more

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Nice change from the usual fare ....empanadas come either fried or baked, both are just as yummy! While the standard beef are delicious, be adventurous and try the corned beef and potato (limited time only) or the spicy cheese for a real treat. Worth the trip! Back again, had a bacon cheeseburger empanada...,surprised at how tasty it was...not salty at all as many things with "bacon" added can be. Tried the Cuban sandwich as well this time out and, having had many Cuban sandwiches through the years, this was one of the best, by far! Been here several times, and it's not close to me either, and have not been disappointed in any way!...wish I could give 4.5 stars...as just 4 is a little short of where it should be! read more

Island Empanada - Empanadas Near Me - Medford, New York

As the only Empanada place within an hours driving distance Island Empanada gets my vote for best Empanada hands down. There is another place down in port that offers empanadas as a menu item but I wasn't impressed y these and they don't seem like their main focus. I do love some of their other headline offering just not empanadas. But I digress. So If Island Empanada make good-to-great empanadas where is the "man bites dog" aspect to this review. Glad you asked. I'm also in love with their pork (Pernille) plate. For a few bucks you get a plate bursting with roast pork, Rice and beans and a side of plantains. As I am a fan of pork skin (the crispier the better) I always tell them not to be shy when serving it up. The pork is always well seasoned and moist and the rice and beans is plentiful and flavorful. IMO the only place to improve this dish would be to get a harder fry on the plantains. I like mine a little more crispy at the edges than they typically server them. Maybe that's not everyone's taste but it sure is mine. I realize I'm picking nits cause I never left one uneaten, but in case there is another soul out there like mine, you'll know the deal going in. Note that tis menu item is only available at Medford and Ronkonkoma. So even though we have a new location (2 years I think) nearby in Rocky point, it's worth the drive to Medford when I'm in the mood for the plate. So it's worth a try if your in the area, but leave some skin for me. read more

First time going to this location and it might be one of my favorites. The staff was super friendly and the food was good. I got the chipotle beef and plantain empanada with the combo. The rice and beans was so good ans the plantains were cooked perfectly..super sweet! The empanadas had a nice crunchy crust. The filling had plenty of flavor. The store was clean and a good size. Definitely would go back if i was in the area! read more

Island Empanada - Empanadas Near Me - Medford, New York

Being Puerto Rican, I've grown up on empanadas so I've got a good taste of how they should be. If you've ever made them, you know they're a labor of love but worth every minute... Island Empanada makes it easy to go in and snag some of your favorites like beef/chicken & cheese, pernil, or something a little different like a bacon mac&cheese, or a philly cheesesteak. They give you that at home feel once you taste them. At $3/empanada I think its a decent deal and you can make a meal out of it for pretty cheap. They offer lunch specials like 2 beef empanadas and a 16oz soda for under $7!! For dinner they have any 3 empanadas w/ rice, beans, plaintains and a soda for under $12! If you're looking for catering, they also have that too. Everyone loves an empanada so if you want a snack hit, this is it. read more

My first visit will certainly not be my last. We tried six different types of empanadas, OH My! So delicious. The best for both my husband and I was the Cuban and the pork. Absolutely delicious. We also tried the rice and beans. And you must know, I am not generally a fan of rice or beans but I enjoyed this rice. Not sticky at all with a mild flavor. The establishment was very clean and service was good, primarily a take out joint but tables are available, lean and well maintained. Definitely omnibus back! read more

I came in recently, ordered rice , plantains , & a chicken empanada. The food was not too bad but I don't think it was worth what I paid. I overheard the workers talking about microwaving rice and they also don't make their own empanada dough. The employees were separating them on the front counter, how unsanitary. I've heard of how horrible the owners here treat their employees, I will NEVER come here again. read more

First time and the last time I will come here. The service is horrible when I went to go order at the counter the kid just stared at me and didn't say a word. Even after I said how are you. The best part is after I paid with my card I signed the receipt and the kid points and shows his other co worker that I didn't tip right in front of me. I'm sorry but I'm not tipping for picking up my food especially when you didn't even greet me. Wont ever be returning I'm actually baffled. Food was okay. read more

I loved every bite, just perfect The best empanadas ever Will go back for sure later read more

Island Empanadas is a great place for people who crave latin cuisine. They have more than one location and all locations serve great empanadas. My favorite is the regular, shirmp and the buffalo chicken empanadas. Their sides are huge, so you can share everything here. They also have great lunch specials as well. The staff is super friendly and their prices are reasonably cheaper when compared to other Spanish eateries in the neighborhood. If you're craving some empanadas make sure to try Island Empanadas you won't be disappointed. read more

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Terrible 1st and last experience. I ordered online. Chicken and Beef empanadas were meh...especially for the price. Also ordered 2 side salads...only got 1! Plenty of other places in the are that are much better food for your money. read more

There's noting like hot Spanish food on a cold day. There's nothing better than empanadas, period. I had plans to visit "Island Empanada" awhile ago, but never really had the opportunity, until now. Parking was a breeze and it was nice to know they would be open till ten tonight. Going in I was impressed with the look and size of the place. However, it looks a bit commercial, but believe me it's not. The staff wasn't the nicest, but that comes from the manger. She seemed not to really care about much going on. Looking over the menu, I noticed they were pricey. I came in between the lunch and dinner specials. I asked the girl behind the counter if they would allow us the dinner special, being it was ten minutes to five. They wouldn't compromise, but the girl was helpful enough to direct me to a eight piece empanada special. I took the special but didn't want the soda. They don't have the best selection in beverages so I opted for the extra sides. They told me have a seat and than there was a long wait. Finally the waitress brought my meal over and it was made fresh and hot. The plantains and tostones were excellent! I loved the beef and chicken empanadas, but the mac and cheese empanada wasn't a favorite for me. Overall, I definitely enjoyed my meal. They make it fresh, so they definitely have that going for them. I will be back. There's more items to try. I just have to make sure to bring a lot more money. read more

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This is an old picture but it really hurt my stomach to see this as the portion in my small order of sweet plantains. I mean really! I will forgive if next time this doesn't happen again. read more

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They have the BEST empanadas! Everything is always fresh and amazing! We love the yellow rice & beans too! The staff is friendly, and the restaurant is inviting and clean! read more

Very good. Had a cheese empanada, pernil empanada, beef also. Tasty but what I liked most is that they weren't greasy. Also 2 pork platters. I believe that is the only platter they have. Obviously it's mainly empanadas but it would be nice to have a few more platters as choices. Wlll go back. read more

YES YES AND YES, just moved to the area and their Medford location is literally 3 minutes from my house, i've tried their chicken, beef, shrimp and mango, chicken and rice soup and a few other empanadas, and I am not disappointed, so far so good, I was a fan of ONLY Colombian empanadas, which I still love, BUT these Puerto Rican empanadas have opened my eyes, and my taste buds, well done Island Empanada, just hope I don't have to change my review later on, cause I have read some weary reviews down here. read more

I went to the Shirley location for the first time today and had an awesome experience. The staff was friendly and quick and the food was so good! I ordered 1 cuban, 1 bbq, and 1 cheese empanada and they all tasted fresh and delicious. I can't wait to go back again and try more. read more

Being latina, I'm critical of hispanic food restaurants, usually they dont even come close to the cooking you can get at mom's. With that being said, this is my favorite place for empanadas! I frequent this location 1-2 times a month. I've loved the staples (pork, beef, chicken). Most of the others are good, worth trying, would eat again. Must try their dessert empanadas!! Their rice and plantains are OK at best. Pernil is reliable and yummy! Stick to their staple item, empanadas, and you won't be disappointed read more

Absolutely AMAZING!!!! The rice is to die for and they have great customer service. You have to get the dinner special...SO MUCH FOOD FOR SO LITTLE MONEY AND SO DELICIOUS!!!!! My fave place to go for dinner now !!!! You have to go rn!!!! read more

The lunch special comes with 2 empanadas, rice with beans, and sweet plantains. The food was delicious! read more

Island Empanada - 2 beef empanadas, yellow rice with beans, and sweet plantains come with the lunch special. The tostones were extra. - Empanadas Near Me - Medford, New York

New spot on this strip. Nice clean spot with friendly workers. I got the dinner special of 3 different empanadas, with sides of rice and beans, and plantains. Good amount of food, but I found the sides pretty typical. I had the shrimp & mango ( which I wasn't a huge fan of as it had a tonnnn of cilantro. I should have expected this. My faux pas.), the chicken, and the chipotle beef. Both good choices, but they have so many different types of empanadas here that next time I would try different variations. I'd also skip the meal next time around. read more

Island Empanada - Dinner special - 3 empanadas and 2 sides with a soda - Empanadas Near Me - Medford, New York