Empanadas Cafe, a place that opened as a sort of "United Nations of empanadas," has become the dream caterer for New York's social, corporate and cultural events.

This small an intimate cafe, located on the border of Corona and Forest Hills Queens, is transforming this traditional dish into a gourmet, sophisticated and healthy choice.

The secret formula: rigorous quality control and the use of fresh ingredients.

Atmosphere: Empanadas Cafe is a family business where every detail counts. The decor is embellished by original paintings and photographs from renown Latin American artists; the furniture is hand made and it has the rustic feel of a Latin American country side.

Details to note: This team of two sisters and one brother have made the Empanada preparation into a gourmet trip in which the traditional recipes: shredded beef, shredded chicken and shredded fish pave the way to the non-traditional such as broccoli and mozzarella, spinach and ricotta, mixed vegetables, chop pork and shrimp. The more exotic combinations include the Hawaiian (ham, cheese, and pineapple), sweet plantain and mozzarella and the latest introduction: empanadas for desert--dulce de leche (caramel) and cheese, nutella chocolate and banana, guava and cheese.

More reasons to go or to call: These gourmet empanadas make the perfect Hors d'oeuvres for any occasion from small parties to cultural events. Another thing that makes people line up in front of the establishment is its natural and homemade "helados" a tropical and 100% natural form of ice pop made out of fresh fruits mixed with cream, milk or natural fruit juice.

Established: Fall 2003

Ways to Pay: Cash