Itching to discover the newest businesses to open in Murray Hill? From an empanada shop to an escape game spot, read on for a list of the newest destinations to debut in this area of New York City.
Exotic Empanadas
635 Second Ave.
Exotic Empanadas is an empanada shop serving up two dozen savory and sweet varieties of the traditional Latin American snack. Stop in for classic varieties filled with beef, chicken and cheese, or for one of the specialty "exotic" empanadas, such as carbonara or primavera.
Other menu items include sweet dessert empanadas filled with Nutella, guava and more, as well as Latin American comfort food like mofongo, Cuban sandwiches and platters of carne asada.
With a four-star Yelp rating out four reviews, Exotic Empanadas has been getting positive attention.
Yelper Sara S., who reviewed Exotic Empanadas on Jan. 18, wrote, "All in all, a great new neighborhood spot in an area that's severely lacking in legit Latin options. Can't wait to try out more of the menu!"
Exotic Empanadas is open for dine-in and delivery until 9 p.m. daily.
8sia
220 E. 42nd St.
For its latest venture, the team behind local Shanghainese mini-chain Yaso is making inroads into the food hall space. Called 8sia, the team's new bi-level hall debuted back in September, featuring five vendors who "reflect the spirit of Asian fast-casual dining and snacking," according to the business's website.
8sia's vendors include a new outpost of Yaso Noodle Bar, Thai and Malaysian spot Curry 42, self-order sushi bar Rice-On!, teahouse Debutea and Hong Kong-style sweet spot Bee Patterns, which specializes in custom bubble waffles made with ostrich egg batter. Grub Street reports that most of these eateries are new to the fast-casual format and are spearheaded by chefs who Yaso owner Chi Zhang met during his time in the restaurant industry.
8sia currently holds 3.5 stars out of 18 reviews on Yelp, indicating fair reviews.
Kathleen B. noted, "The food is mediocre at best."
8sia is open from 11 a.m.–8 p.m. on weekdays and noon–9 p.m. on weekends.
The Escape Game
295 Madison Ave.
Escape room chain The Escape Game has opened its first New York City location in the neighborhood, steps from Grand Central Terminal. The Escape Game, which has locations in 16 cities around the country, offers five themed escape game challenges for up to eight or 12 players ($41.99 per person). The challenges' themes range from prison breaks to art heists, and options are available for corporate groups, private games and larger parties.
The Escape Game's current Yelp rating of five stars out of 26 reviews indicates positive attention from users.
Yelper Bree B., who reviewed the new location of The Escape Game on Dec. 9, wrote, "The service is above and beyond here, and I think it's worth the price tag of the experience."
Mizuka M. noted, "This place is just so awesome. We had such a great time!"
The Escape Game is open seven days a week. Visit its website for more information on booking a game.
This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
