Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Arizona

Date spots with empanadas

Breaking open warm empanadas is a simple way to share a meal that feels personal and unhurried.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
El New Yorican - Puerto Rican Food Truck image 1
El New Yorican - Puerto Rican Food Truck image 2
El New Yorican - Puerto Rican Food Truck image 3
View all

Puerto Rican food truck offers authentic Puerto Rican dishes with large portions and consistent quality. Open space with chill atmosphere and tables for seating creates a welcoming, family-like vibe. Music adds to the relaxed, fun energy during food truck events.

Puerto Rican food brings a strong sense of nostalgia and comfort here. Sampling before buying is welcomed, making it easy to find dishes that feel like home for those craving authentic flavors.

Empanadas come crispy and packed with cheese. They taste delicious and hold up well.

People are saying

"I found the Puerto Rican food here to be authentic and delicious."

"I found the Puerto Rican empanadas here to be very good."

"The food here is amazing, just like grandma's cooking."

Good to know

1

El New Yorican is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 7 pm.

2

They offer catering services for events.

3

The food truck serves generous portions at reasonable prices.

02
The Cuban Corner By Ta-Pas image 1

Cuban restaurant with an open, colorful decor and a bright, fresh atmosphere that feels inviting and relaxed. Live Latin jazz music often plays, adding to the fun, vibrant vibe. The place offers a simple, intimate setting reminiscent of Miami's Cuban culture.

A relaxed, inviting vibe sets the tone for date nights here. The husband and wife owners create a welcoming atmosphere, and the Cuban sandwich stands out as a favorite dish.

Beef and Cubano empanadas stand out with rich fillings and a flavor profile similar to those in Little Havana, Miami. They come alongside other Cuban tapas like croquetas and papa rellena, offering a classic Cuban taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and authentic."

"The food here is phenomenal, fresh, and flavorful."

"The Cubano and beef empanadas are outstanding."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor dining options.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

3

The restaurant does not have a liquor license, so no alcohol is served.

03
El Chullo Peruvian Restaurant image 1

Peruvian restaurant offers a cozy, colorful design with authentic art and an expansive open layout including outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays welcoming and mellow, with background music and occasional live singing creating a relaxed vibe. A grocery market inside and interactive elements like a Cajon drum add a sense of community and fun.

Beef empanadas come with a aji verde salsa that adds a bright, spicy kick. These empanadas stand out for their delicious flavor and pair well with other dishes like octopus appetizers and ceviche.

People are saying

"The Peruvian food here is so authentic and delicious."

"You have to try the empanadas, especially with the green salsa."

"The food here is always fresh, flavorful, and delicious for a great date spot."

Good to know

1

During happy hour, cocktails are $2 off.

2

Reservations are recommended on busy nights to avoid long waits.

3

Parking is easy to find at the 7th Avenue location.

04
Casa de Mambo image 1
Dominican restaurant

Bright Caribbean art and lively salsa music create a fun, welcoming atmosphere with a Dominican-American baseball exhibit adding unique character. The space stays very clean and feels like a little bit of home for those familiar with the culture. Guests enjoy authentic Dominican cuisine served without rush in a cozy setting.

Offers a solid spot for date night with great food options like mofongo de cerdo. Meals suit both lunch and evening outings, making it a reliable choice for couples.

Beef empanadas stand out for their amazing flavor and great cost. Options include varieties like guava and cheese, all delivering solid Dominican taste.

People are saying

"I thought the Dominican food here was awesome."

"I thought the beef empanadas were amazing."

"The mofongo here is out of this world for a date spot."

Good to know

1

The food is moderately priced, with generous portions.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially for lunch.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and inviting atmosphere.

05
Cubanitas Kitchen image 1
Cuban restaurant

Cozy Cuban restaurant with live Cuban music and a lively grill atmosphere. Clean, beautiful space featuring an outdoor patio and street views that create a welcoming vibe. Tables shift to a dance floor on weekends, blending dining with vibrant social energy.

Stuffed potatoes and guava empanadas stand out with rich fillings. Empanadas pair well with moros y cristianos beans and rice for a full meal.

People are saying

"The Cuban food here is authentic and absolutely delicious."

"The Cuban food and drinks here are amazing."

"I found the empanadas to be authentic and traditional."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 2 to 6 PM.

2

The restaurant has a bar area for drinks and socializing.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere; no formal dress code required.

06
The Public Grill Beer And Wine Bar image 1

Compact bar and grill offers a cozy atmosphere with laid-back energy and attentive service. Music plays clearly without overpowering, and patrons enjoy watching games on a big screen TV. The space feels inviting and comfortable, with a chatty owner adding to the friendly vibe.

Empanadas come with a flavorful sauce and taste delicious as an appetizer.

People are saying

"The steak and cheese sandwich food was excellent and piping hot."

"You have to try the steak and cheese sandwich for your Date Spots."

"You have to try the empanadas; they were delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Food delivery is available through DoorDash for convenience.

3

The entrance is wheelchair accessible, but space may be tight when crowded.

07
Pura Vida Grinds Coffee Shop image 1

Coffee shop blends Costa Rican art and rainforest themes with high-quality woodwork in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Space feels authentic and welcoming, offering a chill vibe suited for casual meetings or dates. Gift shop area features handmade items, adding to the unique, local charm.

Fun spot for a date with a custom tea menu featuring drinks like the Happy Gilmore. Offers breakfast sandwiches and peppermint mocha lattes for casual mornings.

Fridays feature an empanada truck from 8am to 1pm offering generous fillings. Two empanadas cost $5 and deliver a perfect bite that pairs well with coffee or iced chai latte.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was absolutely fantastic."

"The coffee here is rich, flavorful, and absolutely delicious."

"These empanadas are delicious and the filling is generous."

Good to know

1

The empanada truck is available on Fridays from 8am to 1pm.

2

The coffee shop has limited seating due to ongoing renovations.

3

They offer a variety of non-pork breakfast options.

08
Mariscos y Sushi El Kora image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers fresh seafood and unique sushi in a clean, family-friendly setting. Live music on weekends creates a lively atmosphere that can get loud. Prices stay reasonable while maintaining a pleasant and organized vibe.

Couples enjoy fresh seafood dishes like coctel de camaron together. Meals are filling and leave diners satisfied.

Shrimp and cheese empanadas stand out with their rich fillings and crispy texture. They pair well with other dishes like mojarra frita and fusion sushi, offering a tasty variety.

People are saying

"I found the food to be amazing and delicious."

"The service here is excellent, they were always attentive."

"It's a great spot for a date, the seafood is delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until midnight on weekends.

2

Expect a convenience fee for using debit or credit cards.

3

Prices are generally reasonable for seafood dishes.

09
mixela image 1
Tapas bar

Cozy tapas bar with a compact layout and wide stone bar facing the kitchen. Atmosphere feels warm and social, lively with good music and an energetic crowd. Offers a unique chef-driven menu and a stellar wine list, including standout cocktails and sangria.

Unusual and superb cuisine offers dishes perfect for sharing on a date. The atmosphere leans toward a social party vibe, making it suited for casual dates or hanging out at the bar with wine.

Handmade empanadas stand out with Green Chili Beef filling. They come alongside other tapas and pair well with short ribs.

People are saying

"The wine list here is stellar, complementing the chef-driven small plates."

"These handmade empanadas are delicious and to die for."

"You have to try the Poached Pear dessert; I'm still dreaming about it."

Good to know

1

Mixela does not take reservations and the space is fairly small.

2

Pricing is a bit high, so it's probably not a regular weekly spot.

3

The restaurant has a pet-friendly patio.

10
The Mexicano Chandler image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, colorful space with dancing robots and a live DJ creates a lively, festive atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a comfortable, inviting setting with vibrant dรฉcor. The place draws a crowd enjoying energetic music and interactive entertainment.

Date nights often include special moments like proposals with thoughtful touches such as a ring presented on a dish of flowers. Celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries happen here, with a vibe that supports both intimate and group outings.

Pork empanadas stand out with a rich filling. Crispy shells hold savory meat, paired well with elote guacamole and churros.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The dinner spots here are a total party with fire breathers and loud music."

"The food here is amazing, especially the chile relleno."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 11 AM to 6 PM daily.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer $2.00 tacos, which can get crowded.

3

All-you-can-eat tacos cost $8.88 on Thursdays during the summer.

11
Coabana image 1
Restaurant

Cuban-themed restaurant with adorable decor featuring giant palm trees and nostalgic art deco touches creates a comfortable, casual vibe. Latino classics play softly, enhancing a relaxed atmosphere where intimate booths offer privacy. An ample, beautifully laid out bar showcases an impressive rum selection and expertly crafted cocktails.

Booths provide quiet privacy for intimate conversations. Buffalo cauliflower empanadas add a tasty touch. The spot suits both first dates and small group outings.

Handmade empanadas stand out with picadillo and cream cheese and guava varieties. Options include both savory and dessert styles, all made with authentic flavors.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing and well-executed."

"These guava and cheese empanadas are incredible and homemade."

"The cocktails are crafted with homemade ingredients and generously poured."

Good to know

1

Expect a 10-15 minute wait on weekends; reservations are not required.

2

The kitchen closes at 9 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Coabana is a great spot for pregame drinks before events at nearby venues.

12
Nephews Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Drive-thru coffee shop with freshly made empanadas and quality coffee creates a welcoming, buzzing atmosphere. Early opening hours attract a steady flow of locals who appreciate top-notch ingredients and friendly service. Pup cups add a unique touch for dog owners stopping by.

Espresso and unique drinks like the Sour Patch and Elias stand out for couples visiting. Smoothies such as the strawberry banana add a fresh, sweet option for dates.

Soft breading makes the chicken empanadas easy to eat on the go without mess. Both chicken and beef empanadas have good quality meat and come out hot, paired with a sweet and spicy salsa that complements their excellent taste.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was amazing and smooth."

"I thought the cafe's coffee and specialty drinks were amazing."

"The coffee drinks here are amazing, the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Nephews Coffee is a drive-thru only coffee shop.

2

Expect a little wait as drinks are made fresh.

3

They use top-notch ingredients in their drinks.

13
Liz Modern Asian image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, unassuming restaurant with modern furnishings and a clean, inviting atmosphere feels like dining in a friend's home. Calm and family-run vibe offers a quiet refuge with tasteful decor and a pleasant outdoor patio along a busy street.

Small dates fit well here with a budget-friendly price and a 7 course lunch special served per couple. Staff create a warm vibe, making guests feel like they're in a home setting, and special occasions get a little cake with ice cream.

Empanadas come with a flaky and light crust that stands out. Options include brisket and banana fillings, both offering unique flavors.

People are saying

"The bao buns are delicious clouds of perfection."

"The food here is amazing, especially the brisket buns and green tea ice cream."

"The empanadas were surprisingly good, especially the brisket ones."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a prix fixe menu during Arizona Restaurant Week.

2

Prices are reasonable, comparable to average Chinese restaurants.

3

The kitchen can only prepare one dish at a time, so expect longer wait times.

14
Toston & Melao image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant in a strip mall offers authentic Venezuelan cuisine with fresh, handmade dishes. The atmosphere is wholesome and simple, with spaced tables creating a cozy vibe. It attracts those seeking genuine flavors and large, filling portions.

Freshly made arepas and patacones offer a tasty shared experience. Vegetarian options are available, accommodating different preferences.

Empanadas come huge and crispy with fillings like shredded beef and ground beef with rice. Options include shrimp with cream cheese and ham with cheese, all packed with rich flavors.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and reminded me of home."

"The food here is fantastic, making it a great spot for dates."

"These empanadas taste like home-cooked meals from old school moms."

Good to know

1

The menu is primarily in Spanish, which may pose a challenge for non-Spanish speakers.

2

Appetizers are large and filling, so consider sharing them.

3

Parking can be tight due to the restaurant's location in a strip mall.

15
Mambo's Dominican Kitchen image 1
Dominican restaurant

Dominican restaurant with bright decor and four large screen TVs at the bar creates a lively setting. Music ranges from background tunes to a DJ on Friday nights, enhancing a festive atmosphere. Patrons enjoy authentic Dominican cuisine paired with drinks like Presidente beer and Mama Juana in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.

Affordable meals under 70 dollars make it easy to enjoy a date here. The Dominican flag combo offers a shared dish that suits couples looking for flavorful food and attentive service.

Guava and cheese empanadas stand out as a favorite. The shrimp, chicken, and beef options are fresh and delicious, consistently well made.

People are saying

"The Dominican food here is amazing and delicious."

"The food here is amazing, perfect for date spots."

"I found the empanadas here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Dancing happens on weekends at the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes for all dishes.

3

There is ample parking available around the building.

16
El Camaron Gigante Tolleson image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic atmosphere with lively mariachi music on Sundays and a full bar. Space feels smaller inside but accommodates large groups comfortably. Music stays at a moderate volume, allowing easy conversation during meals.

Meals and drinks come together well for couples here. Multiple visits show consistent enjoyment of the food quality and service attentiveness.

Shrimp empanadas come small but pack a delicious punch. They arrive with a spicy green sauce that adds a nice kick.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh and delicious, especially the shrimp."

"I found the shrimp cocktail to be very flavorful."

"I found the shrimp empanadas to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts cash and Zelle payments only; other methods may be down.

2

Extra charges apply for avocado and additional chips and salsa.

3

Mariachi performances occur every Sunday, enhancing the dining experience.

17
Deseo A Coffee Shack image 1

Cozy coffee shop blends Hispanic-inspired decor with a chill vibe and Latino music. Spacious outdoor seating welcomes dogs with water bowls and treats. Friendly atmosphere suits casual chats and enjoying high-quality coffee and breakfast tacos.

Cozy atmosphere suits quiet conversations. Special lattes and cold brew offer variety. Iced lemon green tea tastes refreshing and light. Friendly service adds to the relaxed vibe.

Vegan and gluten-free empanadas stand out for their flavor. Expect a wait of about 20 minutes after ordering three empanadas.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee, especially the Tres Leches Latte."

"This place is super cute and has an amazing atmosphere for date spots."

"I found the empanadas here to be incredible."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop offers vegan-friendly and gluten-free options on their menu.

2

Prices are relatively high, with small sizes starting at $8.25.

3

The shop is not visible from the main road, making it a hidden gem.

18
Tempe Eats Food Hall & Bar image 1

Food hall with a self-serve beer wall offering 40 taps including margaritas and espresso martinis creates a unique drinking experience. Atmosphere stays fun and relaxing with a mix of R&B, Latin music, and line dancing, suitable for groups or casual nights out. Layout features a full bar in the center and an unconventional design that stands out from typical spots.

Food comes with a fun twist like cheese injected sliders served table side. Shared meals and interactive service create a relaxed, engaging vibe for couples.

Empanadas have a golden crust and a perfect texture. Varieties like chicken with green chili, mushrooms with cheese, and southwest veggie stand out. They come with delectable chimichurri on the side.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the fish and chips."

"The staff here makes you feel so welcome on your date."

"I found the empanadas to be amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Tempe Eats hosts various events like karaoke and salsa nights throughout the week.

2

DJ Corgi's Brunch happens every Sunday, featuring live music and a fun atmosphere.

3

The food hall is suitable for gatherings, accommodating groups of up to 35 people.

19
Cocina Adamex image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful, homey interior with a covered patio and live Latin music creates a lively atmosphere. Spacious yet cozy, the place fills up quickly and features freshly made flour tortillas and affordable prices. Security staff at entrances and plenty of parking add to the comfortable experience.

Breakfast features delicious food that appeals to both people. Live music by a singing couple adds a charming touch to the atmosphere.

Pumpkin empanadas stand out with their large size and affordable price around a dollar twenty-five. Other flavors like pineapple and lemon also appear alongside fresh baked orejitas and conchas.

People are saying

"The breakfast chilaquiles and huevos rancheros were excellent."

"The quesabirria and al pastor tacos here are delicious."

"You have to try the pumpkin empanadas; they taste like pumpkin puree."

Good to know

1

The food truck is open from 7 PM to 1 AM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

2

Cocina Adamex is a breakfast and lunch restaurant that is now open until 8.

3

There was plenty of parking available.

Discover more

Arizona

Area guide
Loading Map...