Perfect Drink Pairings for Every Empanada on Our Menu
Empanadas are iconic. But the drink you choose— that’s what makes the bite unforgettable.
At Empanada Mama, we've tried every flavor-filled nook and cranny of our menu—and we're here to share one of our secrets with you: the art of perfectly pairing drinks with our empanadas. Whether you're enjoying a spicy kick, indulging in melty cheese, or finishing on a sweet note, there's a drink out there that takes every bite to a flavor explosion.
With so many varieties of empanadas on our menu, it simply makes sense to pair each one with its ideal sip. Consider this guide your map to the ultimate empanada drink pairings—developed with TLC, flavor intelligence, and an awful lot of taste-testing joy. So, let's dive into these tantalizing empanada drink pairs.
Spicy Meets Chill: What to Drink with Spicy Empanadas
Some of our most popular empanadas pack a punch, and if you're like us, you thrive on that fire. But what can you drink when you're having a Spicy Chicken Empanada or our cult favorite Cheesesteak Empanada (with jalapeños)? You want to bring some coolness into the mix without killing the flavor.
Agua de Jamaica: Our go-to choice when the heat turns on, this chilled hibiscus tea is a floral, refreshing delight. It's naturally tart and refreshing—essentially, a fire extinguisher in a glass.
Margarita: The lime tang and that salt rim provide you with a zesty, citrusy pick-me-up between bites.
Mojito: Mint leaves and lime? Yes, please. This refreshing drink revives your palate and goes down beautifully with anything spicy.
These drinks offset spice with cooling or citrus flavor, making them the ideal response to the question: What to drink with spicy empanadas?
Cheesy, Creamy, Savory: Smooth Sips for Rich Empanadas
As we bite into the rich decadence of a Cheese Empanada or the dreamy seafood-slash-cheese wonder of the Viagra Empanada, we yearn for beverages that support their rich flavor rather than overpowering them.
White Sangria: Fresh and fruity reinterpretation of traditional sangria, this bright, citrusy white wine-based drink complements silky textures, offering brightness without heaviness.
Coconut Juice: Smooth and tropical, this virgin alternative adds a light sweetness and contrast that cuts through rich fillings without leaving your palate cloyed.
Light Lager: A dry, fizzy beer, such as a light lager, provides a perfect amount of bitterness and fizz to temper the decadence.
These beverage pairings are designed to enhance the rich, savory experience of our cheese-centric empanadas and make each bite a flavor fiesta, so try them out.
Meaty & Bold: Beers and Reds for the Meaty Masters
Let's accept it; we all want that rich, meaty empanada that hits the spot on an entirely different level. Whether the Chorizo & Cheese, slow-cooked Pernil, or savory Shredded Beef is in question, assertive fillings call for assertive drinks.
Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon: These red wines were born to pair with meat. Full, structured, and a little bit fruity, they reflect the full-bodied flavors of slow-cooked beef and pork.
Stouts or Dark Beers: For grill enthusiasts, dark beers intensify smoky, grilled flavor undertones and match the fat without dominating.
Malta or Cola: Traditional Latin combination. The sweet, caramel flavor of cola or malta is just what's needed to contrast with the saltiness of the meat and smooth out the bite.
The top drinks for meat-filled empanadas are those that can keep up with flavor for flavor, and these options don't disappoint.
Sweet Empanadas? Meet Their Perfect Match
Dessert empanadas are worth equal attention to their savory cousins. Whether finishing a robust meal or sneaking a sweet treat, these sweets deserve beverages that complement every sweet morsel.
We highly suggest our Guava & Cheese, Sweet Plantain & Cheese, or the indulgent Nutella Empanada. For an ultimate treat, pair with:
Café con Leche or Espresso: The bittersweet pairing slices through richness and contributes a soothing roastiness.
Passion Fruit Juice: Popping with tang and sun, the beverage balances the sugar with tropical zest.
Sparkling Wine: Mix in some bubbles, and suddenly, dessert is a party.
Because if your empanada is this sweet, your beverage should be the cherry on top. These beverage pairings don't simply follow dessert—they assist it in stealing the show.
Empanada Mama serves the best empanadas in New York. We have our outlets all across the city, including Times Square and LES. Drop by to get hot empanadas and flavorful drinks to go with it.
Build Your Combo at Empanada Mama
Whether you're in the mood for meat, craving cheese, or fantasizing about dessert, there's an ideal combination at Empanada Mama. Everyone will find something on our menu, and you can try out both dine-in and takeout to match your mood.
So construct your dream bite. Order a Spicy Chicken Empanada and a Mojito. Or take it sweet with a Nutella Empanada and a glass of champagne. Whether you're Team Mojito or Team Malbec, we've got the ideal sip for your go-to bite. Come to Empanada Mama to enjoy your meal.