Oh, the humble empanada. The baked or fried turnover with a global history is a staple of Latin American cuisine and beyond.
In San Diego County, there are many places to get your fill of exceptional empanadas — stuffed with all kinds of things — depending on their cultural influences. Let’s eat. 🥟
Paraná Empanadas , Liberty Public Market
The smell of these delicious Argentinian empanadas wafts through the food hall — so listen to your nose and get yourself to Booth 26 . We recommend the traditional beef, chicken, margherita, and spinach varieties — and don’t forget the chimichurri . Pro tips: If you’re with a group, order by the dozen. There’s also a location at Westfield UTC.
These beauties at The Empanada Spot are filled with love.
Photo via @empanadaspot
The Empanada Spot , 1223 3rd Ave., Ste. C-1, Chula Vista
When it comes to empanadas, this South Bay spot knows what it’s doing . The made-from-scratch menu features savory options like the Costilla De Puerco (pork rib and roasted chili poblano), plus sweet treats like the Apple Pie Empanada .
The lunch combo at Yerba Mate Bar & Empanadas.
Photo via @baryerba
Yerba Mate Bar & Empanadas , 956 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach
Don’t miss the Malbec Beef empanada — ground beef marinated in Argentinian wine for 24 hours, mixed with raisins and sautéed onions. Pro tip: Go between 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and snag the lunch combo , which includes three empanadas, a drink, and a small soup or salad.
Empanada Kitchen does those crispy edges right.
Photo via @empanadakitchensd
Empanada Kitchen , 819 C St., Downtown
“Happily baked” is the motto of this Argentine-style hotspot with locations in downtown San Diego, North Park (2855 El Cajon Blvd., Ste. 3), and La Jolla (613 Pearl St.) The crispy edges on these creations are unmatched — and the Caprese and Ratatouille empanadas cannot be missed. Pro tip: Order extra chimichurri.
Don’t miss the beef and chicken empanada’s at Eli’s.
Photo via @elisperuviankitchensd
Eli’s Peruvian Kitchen , 4979 El Cajon Blvd., City Heights
Yes, there’s Lomo Saltado and other savory Peruvian dishes on the menu, but you’ll definitely want to start with the beef or chicken empanadas .
Sabores Colombianos , 3695 University Ave., Normal Heights
Start with the empanadas filled with beef and potatoes before exploring Colombian dishes like arepas (traditional cornmeal patties) and Carne Desmachada .
Coffee and empanadas? Dreams do come true at Jaunt Coffee Roasters.
Photo via Monica Garske + SDtoday
Jaunt Coffee Roasters , 860 Miralani Dr., Ste. 134, Miramar
Come for the ethically-sourced, top-notch coffee — stay for the amazing empanadas in flavors like beef, chicken, ham and cheese, and sweet corn and basil. Pro tip: Get ‘em early — the empanadas tend to sell out daily.
📩 While this is a scrumptious sampling of local empanada spots, we know there are more around town. If we missed your favorite, send us a note — we love a good empanada excursion.