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Welcome to Joel's Spanish Food

At Joel's Spanish Food, we bring the heart of authentic Spanish cuisine to Utica, NY. Our story is one of dedication, where a passionate husband and wife duo crafts every dish with love and authenticity. From the freshly made tostones to the savory mofongo, each bite bursts with flavor, showcasing the rich heritage of Dominican cooking. Patrons rave about our generous portions and the comforting atmosphere that’s perfect for families and friends alike. Whether you’re indulging in succulent empanadas or enjoying sweet plantains, Joel's is more than a dining destination—it's a culinary experience that connects you to the soul of Spanish culture.

Joel's Spanish Food: Reviews & Ratings

Kaman W.
Kaman W.

Food here is great. Very authentic Spanish food. The tostones and mofongo are freshly made. Very recommended.

Marta F.
Marta F.

What a great little hole in the wall. Food is fresh and piping hot! Talk about authentic Dominican Food this is the place to go. Great empanadas, pernil and rice were on point. Husband and wife duo make a great combo for this gem!!

Diane M.
Diane M.

Yes !!! Loved the freshness of this place. We got a few things to try. Pulled pork with rice & beans. Fresh and moist. Chicken with price and beans. Plantains. Needed extra hot sauce but next time I'll bring my own. Very good. Affordable. Big portions.

Edwardo L.
Edwardo L.

Dear empanada from Joel's. I love you... I knew this the first time I met you as the succulent flavorful beef juices hit my mouth I wanted to do nothing but to make love and sing to this with this wonderful delicacy that I was blessed enough to taste. I serenaded this empanada with the lovely song " my boo" by usher, as I continued to consume this wonderful masterpiece of a food while at the same time I cherished every moment I had left with it before I ate it . I was down to the last bite and at that time I made a life changing decision that I will forever regret I finished the empanada. I instantly realized my mistake and burst out into tears because i knew I would never get it back. I wish I could spend 1,000 more lifetimes with you I'm a better man because of you I cannot stop thinking about you. My love for you will forever be unconditional and eternal

Tim R.
Tim R.

Outstanding food! A great selection of small and large plates and sides. The food is fresh and seems to all be made in-house. I had ordered roast pork with rice and beans. The pork was delicious, flavorful, and tender. The rice was moist and the beans provided a nice balance to the dish. Service was fast and friendly. Highly recommend!

Avery S.
Avery S.

The food was really good and so was the service, the chicken and cheese empanadas were my favorite and the sweet plantains we're awesome. I haven't tried everything on the menu but I would definitely go back It is not expensive and it is very good, I recommend for sure!!!

Jim B.
Jim B.

Let me start by saying the food is really good. I had the roasted pork with Spanish rice and it really hit the spot. The pork was very juicy and flavorful, and they leave a small portion of the skin on for a tad bit of crunch/chewiness mixed in. The location here, however, is not quite suitable for the safety conscious.... Alright, it appears to be located in the hood. I'm fine with food spots in the hood, but you should be warned in case you're not: ...Crazy guy in the circle in front shouting at traffic... Smoke shops and liquor stores all around... Lots of police activity without anyone batting an eye.... And of course, camouflaged-clad guys with metal teeth.... I recommended you order a head of time. First of all, if you wanted to place a "to-go" order in the restaurant, then know that they told me "10 minutes" when they meant close to thirty. If you wanted to eat in, their are only a handful of uncomfortable booths that you will share with everyone with metal teeth waiting to pick up their food orders. I wish I could have tried the ox tail but they were all out. If you see this and get to try it, let me know how it was. I kind of feel like I missed out.

Location

Welcome to Joel's Spanish Food, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Utica, NY. This unassuming spot on Park Avenue is a celebration of authentic Spanish cuisine, serving up a vibrant array of flavorful dishes that transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of Spain and the Caribbean. With a strong focus on traditional recipes, Joel's Spanish Food is not merely a restaurant; it is an experience rich in culture and taste.

Boasting a diverse menu, this culinary haven satisfies cravings for everything from hearty mains to delectable sides. Whether you're indulging in the Tripe with Rice and Beans or the succulent Pork Stew, each dish is crafted with care and authenticity. The standout dishes, like Roasted Pork and Ox Tail, have received rave reviews from customers, leaving them enamored and often returning for more. One loyal customer even described their first encounter with the empanadas as a culinary romance, a testament to the craft that goes into every bite.

  • Accessibility and Atmosphere: Joel's Spanish Food makes dining convenient by offering takeout, accepting reservations, and providing a family-friendly environment. With amenities like TV and bike parking, it’s a comfortable venue for groups and kids alike.
  • Customer Favorites: Enjoy favorites like Plantains, French Fries, and the marvelous Alcapuria. The portions are generous, ensuring every meal is both filling and satisfying.
  • Fast and Friendly Service: Patrons have noted the swift and welcoming service, making for a pleasant dining experience. Whether you're grabbing a meal or enjoying a sit-down, you’re in good hands with the husband-and-wife duo who cook up a storm.

The magic of Joel's Spanish Food lies in its commitment to freshness. From the homemade mofongo to the freshly made tostones, each dish comes out piping hot, bursting with natural flavors. One visit here will leave you understanding why customers rave about its authenticity and taste.

If you are in the mood for an unforgettable meal that embraces the essence of Spanish and Caribbean culinary heritage, look no further than Joel's Spanish Food. Pick up the phone at (315) 735-6705 or stop by the warm, inviting space at 1225 Park Ave, and prepare to indulge in a flavorful journey you won't soon forget. Every dish tells a story, and at Joel's, you are invited to be part of that delicious narrative.