Quick Lunch Near Times Square in 10 Minutes: Best Combos for Busy Pros
Trying to grab a decent meal during a hectic workday, or while weaving through the crowds around Times Square, can feel like a mission. Most spots are either too slow, too packed, or not worth the price. And when you’re short on time, every minute counts. Between tight schedules and tourist crowds, finding a quick lunch near Times Square that’s tasty and fast feels like hitting the jackpot.
We get it. That’s exactly why we’re sharing our top picks and smart combos for busy pros and wanderers alike, place that deliver flavor, speed, and convenience. And when it comes to grab-and-go that never disappoints, Empanada Mama stands out. We nail the quick lunch game without cutting corners on taste. If you’re on the move and hungry for something real, read on.
What Busy Pros Want in a Times Square Lunch
In the heart of Manhattan, time moves fast. If you are a working professional or even just a tourist trying to avoid the midday chaos, a quick lunch near Times Square has to hit certain marks. But what makes a quick lunch spot worth it? It should be fast enough to fit into your packed schedule, offer variety for different cravings, and be easy to eat on the go. Bonus points if it fills you up without putting you into a food coma.
Empanada Mama fits that picture with ease. Our empanadas are served hot and fresh, neatly wrapped and handheld, making them perfect for busy schedules. You can hold one in one hand while checking emails or walking to your next meeting, or sit for a moment and enjoy it without needing cutlery or a full table setup.
One more smart move is ordering ahead online. It cuts down your wait time and helps you beat the crowd, especially during peak lunch hours. That way, your grab-and-go lunch NYC moment becomes a smooth, no-wait experience.
Quick Lunch Combos to Order at Empanada Mama
When time is tight and hunger strikes, a smart combo can make or break your afternoon. At Empanada Mama, we’ve learned that the key to a satisfying quick lunch Times Square experience is variety, portability, and flavor-packed bites that don't slow you down.
Here are some go-to combos, each prepped in under ten minutes, ideal for a grab-and-go lunch that hits the spot:
#1 Classic & Spicy Combo
Spicy Chicken Wheat Empanada + Plantain Chips + Sweet Iced Tea
This combo starts with a little heat: tender chicken breast, slow-cooked in Mama’s bold picante sauce, wrapped in a soft wheat dough that crisps up just right. Crunchy plantain chips on the side add a sweet-salty bite that keeps things interesting. A glass of Sweet Iced Tea, touched with honey and lemon, cools it all down perfectly, balancing the spice with a smooth, refreshing sip.
#2 Seafood Lover’s Grab & Go
Viagra Empanada + Guacamole + Passion Fruit Juice
This combo is a coastal daydream wrapped in golden dough. The Viagra empanada is Empanada Mama’s most-loved seafood pick, fresh tiger shrimp and crab meat slow-cooked in a rich, comforting seafood stew. On the side, scoop up some fresh guacamole to balance all that savory richness. Wash it down with sweet, tangy Passion Fruit Juice for a bright, tropical finish that keeps you refreshed and ready to head back into the city buzz.
#3 Veggie Boost
Spinach and Cheese Empanada + Yuca Frita + Lemonade
This combo keeps things light, warm, and comforting. The Spinach and Cheese empanada wraps tender sautéed spinach, sweet onions, and gooey mozzarella in a golden shell. On the side, crispy Yuca Frita adds a hearty bite with just the right crunch. A cold Lemonade ties it all together: simple, refreshing, and the perfect finish to a lunch that’s quick, fresh, and satisfying without feeling heavy.
#4 Fusion Favorite
Bombay Empanada + Homemade Flan + Espresso
This combo is for when you want bold flavors with a sweet finish. The Bombay empanada wraps curried chicken, chickpeas, fresh cilantro, and scallions in a warm, spiced pocket that’s comforting yet vibrant. For a touch of indulgence, add a slice of creamy Homemade Flan: silky, caramelized, and the perfect bite of sweetness after the spice. An espresso rounds it all out, giving you that rich, smooth pick‑me‑up to finish your meal just right.
#5 Breakfast Anytime
Desayuno Colombiano Empanada + Chicharrones + Black Coffee
This combo is made for mornings that need real fuel. The Desayuno Colombiano empanada is stuffed with savory Colombian pork sausage, cheddar cheese, fluffy eggs, and sweet Spanish onion, hearty, cheesy, and satisfying whether it’s 9 a.m. or 3 p.m. On the side, crispy Chicharrones, and fresh fried pork belly served with golden tostones, add that extra bite of indulgence. Pair it all with a strong Black Coffee and you’re set for the day ahead.
At Empanada Mama, speed doesn’t mean compromise. Each combo is crafted for grab-and-go lunch, NYC style. Prepped fast, served hot, and packed with layers of flavor. Whether you're heading to a client meeting or squeezing in lunch between tours. These combos are the perfect answer to the eternal question: “What’s for lunch?” when time’s ticking.
Pro Tips for Getting In and Out Fast
The secret to mastering a grab-and-go lunch in NYC is knowing when and how to order. Always order ahead online through our website. It’s the quickest way to skip the line, keep things moving during a busy day, and get right to the good stuff.
If you can plan, consider dropping by around 11:30 in the morning or closer to 2 in the afternoon. These off-peak windows make it easier to grab your lunch without the usual crowd.
Where to Go Next
When you're in Times Square and need a quick lunch that actually tastes like something, Empanada Mama has you covered. Everything’s made fresh, the combos are fun, and it's all easy to grab between stops. It’s a local favorite for a reason: It's fast, full of flavor, and has that warm, no-fuss vibe that makes you want to come back.
Order ahead today and see why Empanada Mama is Times Square’s best quick lunch move.
