Juan & Maria's Empanada Stop — Restaurant in City of Rochester

I do not like leaving bad reviews, but I feel like I must. The staff was friendly. I went in there to enjoy the Food Truck Expo at public market. We decided to get an empanada before working the lines at the trucks. We decided on beef and cheese. I had the beef. We were three people, but she told us that we would save a few bucks if we got 4 instead. So, that's why we added a cheese. The 4 empanadas ended up being $20!

At first bite, all I could taste was the pastry part. The dough was way too crispy. I love crispy...don't get me wrong. I even enjoy when some come out a bit burnt, as long as there is flavor, it is fresh, and not black. Anyways, the dough tasted really stale and flavorless. When I finally got to the meat, it seemed to have decent flavor at first, but it had am almost soap like aftertaste. The people I came with didn't taste the same thing, so it was probably just me. However, they agreed that the consistency of filling...plus the flavor...was off. We are Puerto Ricans 🇵🇷 so empanadas is common in our homes, which is why I didnt want to critique it too much. Everyone has their own way or making things and have preferences and whatnot. But I can say that it was overpriced and something I would never eat again...not even for free. The guy who ate the cheese said the insides tasted better than beef, but the dough was way too stale and overworked. I was excited about this place, and hoped it was better since they offer stuff for those who didn't eat meat. I will post menu and let you decide. Maybe those who did not have empanadas growing up may enjoy one from here...but it is a firm NO from me. I am disappointed and felt $5 is excessive and to think that she claimed it was a "deal". I didn't even finish it. I ended up throwing it out before leaving the building.

I did go to food truck at the market soon after and tried their empanadas. Their empanadas were the same price, which may come with the territory (food truck event) but I am happy with the pizza one I...

I am extremely picky when it comes to eating out. I also don't want to spend too much eating what I like. A friendly atmosphere with friendly staff is a must for me. This place has it all!! The staff is super friendly and helpful. I wasn't sure what exactly to eat when I arrived. I heard so many good things about this place. The staff helped guide me and helped me choose precisely what I wanted. They have various specials. When you buy various Empanadas they do better deals. This is exactly what i wanted. More bang for your buck. Staff was outstanding and they helped me choose all the different Empanadas flavors. They have the best selection in town. They have about 10 various options. They are also Vegan friendly with some items. I also decided to try what they call a combination platter. I had the rice. Beans and chicken but they also have pork, I believe. That combination platter included one free Empanada. AMAZING! It was so delicious. They also had many different options in terms if drinks. They have a delicious coffee hot or cold as well as many Spanish drinks. I've heard so many good things about this place I had to try it for myself. And I'm glad I did...this was outstanding. I would recommend this place to anyone. I will be going back to try their wide selection of Empanadas soon 😋 if you've never been here but wanted to try it. Make sure to do so and bring some friends. We had a great time dancing to their Spanish music. They had a very long line but went by very quickly. The staff was super fast. I only waited in line for...

Juan is pretty hospitable and open with his customers, always willing to sit down for a chat if he's not running about making sure the food is getting delivered himself. Maria is an absolute sweetheart and was a joy to work with, along with my old coworkers. The only real complaints I've heard from customers were the prices and the amount of onions or salt. Prices for one empanada tend to be a little steep, especially since they are not a full meal. For that I recommend the plate with rice, beans, meat and an empanada. The one star comes directly from prices, a bit on the recipe, the wait times, and lack of a better system for orders. Otherwise, things tend to be pretty tasty, I mostly smother my food with the green sauce, which is...