Mark your calendars and fire up your appetite—April 8 is National Empanada Day, a glorious celebration of the hand-held hero that’s fed generations across the globe!
From Latin America to your local favorite, empanadas bring people together through flaky crusts, savory fillings, and stories folded into every bite. It’s more than just a snack—it’s a cultural icon wrapped in golden dough.
So let’s raise a fork (or two) and honor the delicious legacy of empanadas in all their crispy, juicy glory!
1. El Sur Empanadas – San Francisco, CA
If perfection were a snack, it’d probably be El Sur’s empanadas. Nestled in San Francisco, these golden pockets are like a warm hug from your favorite chef.
Ever tried a corn and cheese empanada with a kick of jalapeño? It’s pure Californian sunshine in every bite! Don’t miss their signature chimichurri sauce—it’s a game-changer.
2. La Masa – Chicago, IL
How about a trip to Windy City’s empanada haven? La Masa in Chicago knows how to play with flavors. Picture this: a beef empanada with olives and eggs—traditional with a twist!
Their flaky crust is a flirtation with your senses. Where else can each bite transport you to the streets of Buenos Aires?
3. Empanada Mama – New York, NY
In the city that never sleeps, Empanada Mama adds a dash of flavor to every hour. Their spicy chicken empanada is like a Broadway show for your palate.
Have you ever combined it with a shake of tropical fruit? You’re all invited to the celebration! Savor every mouthwatering bite here and feel the beat of New York.
4. Tango Sur – Chicago, IL
What if I told you Tango Sur’s empanadas are the reason tango was invented?
Okay, not really, but the savory beef filling might make you want to dance! The flaky crust here is as iconic as a Chicago skyline at night. Experience mouthwatering goodness wrapped in tradition and charm.
5. The Butcher’s Daughter – Los Angeles, CA
Who says vegans can’t have fun? At The Butcher’s Daughter in LA, plant-based empanadas are stealing the spotlight.
Imagine a mushroom and truffle oil filling that’s smoother than a Hollywood star’s red carpet walk. Served with a side of wit and style, these empanadas are a taste of California cool.
6. Buenos Aires Bakery – Miami Beach, FL
Buenos Aires Bakery brings a splash of Argentina to Miami Beach. Their golden empanadas, filled with spicy beef and olives, are beach-ready bites of bliss.
A side of ocean breeze? Have you ever tasted one? A union made in heaven, indeed. Without a passport, have a taste of South America!
7. Julia’s Empanadas – Washington, DC
Though Washington, DC is known for politics, Julia’s Empanadas is all about pleasure. Their Jamaican-style empanada is like a diplomat of flavors, bringing peace to your taste buds.
Packed with spicy beef and Caribbean spices, it’s an international affair you’ll want a ticket to. All rise for deliciousness!
8. Café Seville – Fort Lauderdale, FL
Hence, Café Seville in Fort Lauderdale is where Spanish flair meets culinary delight. Their seafood empanada is like a Mediterranean cruise on your plate.
Fresh shrimp and a hint of saffron create a taste symphony. It’s a festive flavor fiesta that even the sun-kissed shores applaud.
9. El Gaucho Inca – Fort Myers, FL
Ever wished you could taste Inca history? El Gaucho Inca in Fort Myers lets you do just that. Their empanadas, filled with seasoned meats and Andean herbs, are a culinary time machine.
It’s like a journey through the Andes without leaving your seat. Pack your explorer’s hat for this flavorful adventure.
10. Tito’s Market- Los Angeles, CA
The empanadas here are generously stuffed with traditional fillings, from spicy beef to comforting ham and cheese. Stepping into Tito’s Market is like entering a little piece of Argentina, with its colorful displays and the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked pastries.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Tito’s Market offers a delicious escape to the streets of Buenos Aires, wrapped in a golden, flaky crust.
11. La Patagonia – Seattle, WA
Rainy day? La Patagonia in Seattle is your warm, doughy companion. Their lamb empanada, with a hint of mint, is like a cozy sweater for your soul.
It’s a culinary cuddle that makes the drizzle delightful. Who knew Seattle had such savory secrets tucked away?
12. Strong Water Tavern – Orlando, FL
Craving a passport to flavor? Strong Water Tavern in Orlando serves up empanadas that pack a punch of island soul.
Their beefsteak empanadas are bold, juicy, and wrapped in golden perfection—like a Caribbean sunset in every bite. Think slow-simmered steak, rich spices, and that perfect crunch.
13. Gustazo Cuban Kitchen – Boston, MA
Gustazo Cuban Kitchen in Boston serves empanadas with a side of salsa music. Their roasted pork filling feels like dancing the cha-cha-cha on your tongue.
Taste the rhythm, feel the joy, and let your taste buds dance!
14. Pica Pica Arepa Kitchen – San Francisco, CA
Where can you find an empanada that sings? Pica Pica Arepa Kitchen in San Francisco, that’s where! Their cheese and black bean filling is a harmonious blend that even a maraca would approve.
It’s like a Venezuelan carnival in every bite, complete with festive flair and flavor.
15. La Carreta – Miami, FL
What if I told you paradise was a pastry? At La Carreta in Miami, their guava and cheese empanada is a tropical dream. Each bite brings you one step closer to ecstasy as a delightful harmony of tastes dances in your mouth. Miami’s charming secret is waiting for you to uncover it.
16. Tortas de Fuego – Sedona, AZ
However, if you find yourself in Sedona, Tortas de Fuego’s empanadas are fiery wonders. Their chorizo and potato filling brings the heat, wrapped in a crispy crust. It’s like a desert sunset, hot and mesmerizing.
Get ready for a flavor journey that’s as captivating as the red rocks.
17. Calle Latina – Decatur, GA
Where does Southern charm meet Latin flair? Calle Latina in Decatur. Their empanadas filled with roasted corn and cheese are like a Southern fiesta.
Imagine flavors mingling like guests at a Georgia garden party. It’s a delicious dance where every bite is a new partner.
18. Las Empanadas – Denver, CO
Though Denver is known for its peaks, Las Empanadas takes you to new culinary heights. Their spinach and feta empanada is like a Rocky Mountain breeze—fresh and invigorating.
Who needs altitude when you’ve got attitude in every bite? Taste the elevation of flavors right here.
19. The Empanada Cookhouse – Dallas, TX
If Texas had an official snack, The Empanada Cookhouse in Dallas might just be it. Their BBQ brisket empanada is a southern comfort wrapped in flaky pastry.
It’s like a cowboy’s handshake—firm, hearty, and unforgettable. Saddle up for a ride through flavor country!
20. Havana 1957 – Miami Beach, FL
Step back in time at Havana 1957, where empanadas bring the past to the present. Their chicken and guava filling is a sweet serenade from the 50s.
With each mouthful, picture your favorite song playing on a classic jukebox. One mouthwatering empanada at a time, relive the heyday of elegance.