"Located in the Columbus Circle subway station, this Argentinian spot serves comforting empanadas from owner (and former dentist), Mario Vivas. Mario learned his empanada skills from his grandmother Stella who taught him everything he knows, including how to make one of the best ham and cheese empanadas I’ve ever had—its creamy filling of mozzarella, nutmeg, and ham oozes perfectly. Unlike a lot of spots on this guide, everything here is organic and they use a flaky vegan dough. Also, the shape of their empanadas is a bit more oblong, which differs from the classic—the difference in shape allows the crust to hold in the melted cheese and keep it off your pants. The sweet corn creme with scallions, red peppers, and onions is a delicious vegetarian option, and the smoked chicken empanada is full of rich tomato sauce and onions. You can also order from Criollas Baked online, including their Buenos Aires box: a special mix of 12 classic empanadas that includes six Malbec beef, three spinach asiago, and three fugazetta with cheese and caramelized onions." - monica prestia
