Los Angeles is a city that prides itself on its diverse culinary scene. From street food to high-end restaurants, there's a little something for everyone.
When it comes to empanadas, there are a plethora of options to choose from. These pockets of dough filled with savory or sweet fillings are a staple in Latin American cuisine and have become increasingly popular in LA.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, finding the best empanadas in Los Angeles can be a daunting task.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's why we've compiled a list of the best places for empanadas in the city.
From traditional Argentinean empanadas to modern twists on this classic dish, there's something for everyone on this list. Each location on this list has been chosen based on their quality of ingredients, unique flavors, and overall experience.
So whether you're in the mood for a savory beef empanada or a sweet dessert option, we've got you covered. Get ready to take a culinary journey through Los Angeles and discover the best empanadas the city has to offer.
1. Portobanco's Restaurant
If you're in the mood for some authentic Nicaraguan empanadas, Portobanco's Restaurant is a great option.
The restaurant offers a variety of tasty empanadas, as well as other Nicaraguan-inspired dishes. The portions are large and the prices are reasonable.
The service is fast and the staff is friendly. The restaurant has a nice ambience with classic Nicaraguan music and videos playing on multiple television screens.
If you're looking for a casual and satisfying meal, Portobanco's Restaurant is definitely worth checking out.
2. Carlitos Gardel Argentine Steakhouse
Looking for a place to enjoy some authentic empanadas in style and comfort in LA, look no further than Carlitos Gardel Argentine Steakhouse.
This steakhouse offers an extensive menu of delicious Argentinian cuisine, including their famous beef, cooked to perfection. The empanadas are a must-try, with flaky pastry and rich, flavorful fillings.
The service is professional and attentive, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. The atmosphere is elegant and chic, perfect for a romantic date or a special occasion.
With its exceptional food and service, Carlitos Gardel Argentine Steakhouse is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of Argentina in LA.
3. Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse
Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse offers a variety of delicious empanadas that are definitely worth trying.
The restaurant's skilled chefs know how to make their customers come back for more. The quality of the meat is excellent and the service is top-notch.
The atmosphere is clean and inviting, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.
If you're looking for a great spot to indulge in some mouth-watering empanadas, Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse is the place to go.
4. Empanada's Place
If you're looking for the best empanadas in town, Empanada's Place is the place to go.
Their empanadas are freshly fried and come in a variety of flavors, both meat and vegetarian.
The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, and the decor is charming.
Keep in mind that they only accept cash and the prices are a bit high for snacks. Nonetheless, the quality of the empanadas is worth the extra expense.
5. La Pupusa Urban Eatery
La Pupusa Urban Eatery is a cozy Latin spot that serves delicious Salvadoran street fare.
The empanadas are a must-try and are made with an authentic taste. They also have a few traditional dishes with a modern twist that are worth trying.
The service is quick, and the staff is helpful in deciding what to pick. Although the space is small, it adds to the cozy atmosphere.
The prices are reasonable, and the servings are generous. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great empanada spot.
6. La Cabanita Restaurant y Pupuseria
La Cabanita Restaurant y Pupuseria is a hidden gem for those craving Latin American comfort food.
The restaurant offers homemade dishes, including delicious empanadas and pupusas.
The portions are generous, and the service is friendly. The clean and cozy atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience.
If you're looking for a low-key spot for a tasty meal, La Cabanita is definitely worth a visit.
7. Aca Grill
Aca Grill is a small counter-serve restaurant that offers Argentine fare, including empanadas and BBQ.
The food is consistently great with excellent flavor and tender meat. Their family packs and large paella are worth the price.
The empanadas are good too. The restaurant is a great spot for a quick meal and a change-up from the usual Korean BBQ.
Parking can be limited in the small plaza, but it's worth the effort to try their delicious food.
8. LALA'S
LALA'S is a stylish and cozy restaurant that offers a delicious variety of Argentinian food. Their empanadas are a must-try, especially the chicken and chorizo flavors.
The restaurant also offers a great selection of steaks, cooked beautifully and served with mouth-watering mushroom sauce.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the overall vibe of the space is perfect for a meal any time of the day.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great dining experience.
9. El Colmao
El Colmao is a legendary Cuban restaurant that has been around for ages. They are known for serving up some of the best empanadas in the area.
The empanadas are made fresh daily with a variety of fillings to choose from.
The dough is crispy on the outside and filled with delicious and savory fillings on the inside.
The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable. If you're looking for authentic and delicious empanadas, El Colmao is the place to go.
10. Versailles Cuban Restaurant
Versailles Cuban Restaurant is a great place to try if you're in the mood for delicious empanadas.
This Cuban restaurant offers a range of traditional dishes, including their signature garlic chicken and roasted 1/2 chicken with grilled onions and plantains.
The portions are huge, so it's perfect for sharing. The food is always fresh and well-seasoned, and the prices are reasonable.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience. If you're looking for authentic Cuban food, Versailles Cuban Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
11. El Parian Restaurant
El Parian Restaurant is a family-owned Mexican eatery that specializes in authentic empanadas.
Their empanadas are known for their crispy exterior and flavorful fillings. The restaurant has a cozy cafe space and a casual Mexican menu.
They also serve other delicious dishes like carne asada, tacos, and birria. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the prices are fair.
El Parian Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of Mexico.
12. Rincon Chileno
Rincon Chileno is a hidden gem for those looking for authentic Chilean empanadas. The restaurant's age and quality of food are a testament to its success.
The empanadas are flaky and filled with perfectly seasoned, fresh ground beef. The restaurant also offers other Chilean dishes like churrasco and charquican, as well as sweets like alfajores and sopaipillas.
The service is friendly and timely, and the Covid measures in place provide a safe dining experience.
Don't expect fast customer service, but the wait is worth it for the delicious food. Rincon Chileno is a must-visit for anyone looking to try traditional Chilean cuisine.
