Excellent baked Argentinian empanadas in the Turnstyle subway market; fast, friendly, and flavorful, with some complaints about price, occasional sogginess, and a few isolated food safety reports.
Criollas @ Columbus Circle Underground Market delivers excellent food quality with flaky, well-stuffed empanadas and attentive, friendly service that makes it a solid neighborhood choice. However, occasional consistency issues—soggy or lukewarm items during busy periods—and isolated food safety reports prevent a higher grade. The convenient Turnstyle location and fast counter service suit grab-and-go diners well, though the market setting lacks the ambiance or destination appeal of full-service restaurants.
Down in Turnstyle, the kiosk hums with subway energy and the smell of freshly baked pastry, a handy stop for grab-and-go comfort. Reviewers gush about thick, well-stuffed empanadas and friendly counter service, calling them picnic-perfect for Central Park. One diner noted they "devoured three in one sitting" and praised the flaky baked crust. The culinary approach leans classic Argentinian and produce-driven: elevated traditional fillings like Malbec-beef, ham and cheese, spinach-asiago, and smoked chicken, baked rather than fried. Portions are generous for the style, and boxes make it easy to sample. A few guests found prices a touch high and reported occasional sogginess when items sat. For families, this is an easy win: kids can latch onto ham and cheese or caprese, while adults explore beef or spinach. No dedicated kids menu, but the hand-held format suits strollers-on-the-go. Desserts like alfajores sweeten the deal, though seating depends on shared market space or taking food to the park.
Area vibe: Busy transit hub beneath Columbus Circle; commuter flow with tourist spillover from Central Park and Midtown.
Safety: Well-trafficked, generally safe indoor market; typical subway bustle and security presence.
What's nearby: Directly in Turnstyle Underground Market; near Central Park, Time Warner Center, theaters, and offices.