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Live music empanadas in California

Made for those who want their empanadas served in a space that celebrates the craft of live music.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Lady R Bistro image 1
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Restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant with Pop Art decor and close tables creates an intimate setting. Live music adds energy while a full bar offers diverse cocktails. Atmosphere feels vibrant and welcoming, blending a speakeasy vibe with family-friendly warmth.

Live music features skilled covers that complement the atmosphere. Performances by groups like Rubbasoul add to the experience alongside delicious meals and drinks.

Empanadas feature a perfect crispy crust with fillings like short rib and are served with sauces such as chipotle and cajun. The flavors are rich and well-prepared, making them a standout item.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and amazing."

"The live music here was so great."

"The empanadas here have a perfectly crisp crust and are delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

Expect wait times of over 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

Limited parking is available close to the entrance.

02
La Taza Community Coffeehouse image 1

Spacious coffee shop with live jazz and R&B music creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Plenty of open seating and a modern update to an old building offer a relaxed, clean environment. Regular live music events add a distinctive vibe for casual hangouts or date nights.

Live jazz music plays on Friday nights with performances by J.H. Factor. Saturday evenings also feature live music, creating a lively atmosphere alongside Mexican mocha and the El Jefe sandwich.

Churro empanada and elote muffin stand out as flavorful options. Guava and Nutella empanadas offer sweet choices that pair well with drinks like champurrado and Mexican mocha frappes.

People are saying

"Their iced churro latte with cold foam was so good."

"I loved the live jazz music they had here."

"The churro and guava empanadas were delicious."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances happen every Friday night.

2

Open mic night is scheduled for the first Saturday of each month.

3

Expect a wait time during peak hours, especially on weekends.

03
Mariscos Las Islitas de Maywood image 1

Seafood restaurant offers fresh seafood with live music that can be loud in a small space. Decor creates a comfortable atmosphere reminiscent of Nayarit, suitable for families. Cocktails like micheladas complement the flavorful dishes.

Live music happens on weekends with a band called La Perrisima playing sometimes. The audio gets too loud for the small, enclosed space, especially on Fridays when the music is awesome.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with generous sauces and a seafood focus. They pair well with micheladas and seafood cocktails.

People are saying

"The seafood here is top-notch and the service is excellent."

"The service here is so attentive and friendly, it makes you feel right at home."

"I enjoyed the delicious shrimp empanadas."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash or Zelle for payments.

2

The restaurant was very clean during my visit.

3

Expect to pay around $75 for two people.

04
Havana 1920 image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers authentic Cuban charm with live music and vibrant atmosphere. Decor includes folk art and vintage details creating a cozy, immersive vibe. Guests enjoy energetic evenings with Cuban sounds and themed seating.

Inviting live music fills the space with a distinctive ambiance created by the decor and tables. The music pairs well with the atmosphere, making evenings lively and enjoyable.

Cheese and Guava Empanada offers a crispy crust with a perfectly balanced sweet filling. Empanadas pair well with the Cubano sandwich and deliver a consistently delicious taste.

People are saying

"The live music here is great and people were dancing."

"The cocktails were gorgeous and tasted even better than they looked."

"The empanadas here are packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily with great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

On Tuesdays, enjoy 2-for-1 empanadas during happy hour.

3

Thursday specials include half-off sandwiches at 2:30 PM.

05
Gaucho Grill West Covina image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Argentinian restaurant offers live guitar music and a unique grilling barbecue pit inside. Atmosphere stays calm and quiet, suited for business or special events. Outdoor patio seating adds to the relaxed vibe.

Live guitar music and singing create a romantic and cozy atmosphere. Performances by Rodrigo add a pleasant vibe that enhances the overall experience.

Empanadas stand out with chicken and cheese, beef asada, and sweet Al pastor fillings. They offer a rich, authentic taste that pairs well with Argentinian asado.

People are saying

"I found the ribeye steak to be flavorful and tender."

"I thought the empanadas were the best I had ever tasted."

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger parties.

2

Parking can be difficult to find in the area.

3

Happy hour offers a special menu with discounted items from 4-6pm on weekdays.

06
Mariscos Choix image 1
Seafood restaurant

Live mariachi music creates a vibrant energy throughout the space, which includes a chic, recently remodeled interior with lush tropical greenery. Different areas offer varied moods, from a lively bar to a calming outdoor section and a cozy main dining room. The atmosphere feels safe and welcoming, blending festive sounds with comfortable, stylish seating.

Live music creates a lively atmosphere that encourages guests to stay longer. It pairs well with the seafood dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Empanadas come in small portions but pack a lot of flavor. They pair well with other dishes like tacos gobernador and fajitas, making for a delicious mix.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and really well prepared."

"The octopus and marlin tacos here are tender and unforgettable."

"The empanadas here are really good."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, up to five hours, during peak dinner hours.

2

Parking is available on the side street, but can be limited.

3

Live music is featured on Friday nights, enhancing the dining experience.

07
Mariscos el vago image 1
Seafood restaurant

Spacious seafood restaurant with live music and a Mexican ambiance creates a friendly, festive vibe. The environment features flat screen TVs and encourages entertainment from both staff and customers. Energy stays lively with Banda music enhancing celebrations.

Live music plays throughout, creating a Mexican ambiance that fits the setting. Both customers and employees join in singing, adding to the entertaining atmosphere.

Empanadas stand out with shrimp filling and pair well with a michelada. They join other seafood dishes like Pulpo zarandeado and Camarones cucarachos on the menu.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and really well-seasoned."

"The live music here is amazing, especially Brenda's voice."

"I loved the shrimp empanadas here."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Thursday with a DJ and great vibes.

2

Happy hour deals are available every day with discounted drinks.

3

Sushi is half off on Wednesdays, but only until 9pm.

08
Havana Grill image 1
Cuban restaurant

Indoor space features a skylight and authentic Cuban bar decor with tiles that evoke Cuban culture. Live Cuban jazz music plays at a balanced volume, encouraging salsa dancing and casual conversation. The atmosphere feels vibey and lowkey, blending a clean, expansive setting with engaging entertainment.

Live music plays at a pleasant volume and engaging tempo, creating a vibe that entertains without overpowering conversation. Bands perform regularly, adding to the overall ambiance during meals.

Braised beef and bean and cheese empanadas stand out with rich, satisfying flavors. Picadillo empanadas also offer a savory option, all served with a straightforward self-service ordering system.

People are saying

"The Cuban food here is authentic, especially the croquetas and empanadas."

"You have to try these empanadas; they're the best in town."

"The live music here is pleasant and at the right volume."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 pm on weekdays with empanadas.

2

The kitchen starts to shut down at 8:30 PM, so arrive early.

3

Live music events are scheduled occasionally; check ahead for dates.

09
The Miracle Theater image 1

Old venue with 40โ€™s style design offers an intimate, cozy atmosphere and great acoustics for live music and shows. Seating is close together and small, creating a compact space that supports local artists and a lively crowd. Outdoor tables and a full bar add to the social vibe during events.

Live shows feature a jazz band with a friendly atmosphere. Performances take place in a theater setting with engaging music.

Empanadas come as a snack option alongside popcorn and adult beverages. They pair well with wine and fit the vibe of enjoying a movie with friends inside a real theatre.

People are saying

"This charming little theater has such a retro feel."

"I saw a live band and had a fantastic time."

"You should check out the talented local jazz artists."

Good to know

1

Tickets for shows can be purchased online in advance.

2

Valet parking is available for $15.

3

Street parking is free after 6pm, but check signs carefully.

10
Suspiro image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines modern tropical decor with a quiet, elegant atmosphere ideal for sharing moments. Speakeasy at the back offers a cozy balcony, live music, and a wide selection of cocktails. Outdoor patio provides a comfortable, inviting space with amenities like blankets.

Live guitar music plays nearby, creating a stunning atmosphere that sets a great tone. The ambiance pairs well with the food, enhancing the overall experience.

Beef empanadas have a well-spiced filling and a crispy crust from light frying. Iberian ham and cheese empanadas resemble a grilled ham and cheese sandwich in style.

People are saying

"The food here is unforgettable and delicious."

"The live music here really set the perfect tone."

"The empanadas are packed with flavor and have a flaky crust."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended on busy Friday evenings.

2

Expect a large party gratuity for groups of five or more.

3

The restaurant accommodates dietary needs, offering vegan and vegetarian options.

11
Mozwell Claremont image 1

Modern decor and an airy layout create a welcoming vibe with live jazz music and large TVs for sports. The atmosphere balances relaxing energy with moments of loud noise during busy times. Frequent events like trivia and jazz nights attract a lively crowd seeking fusion-style dining and cocktails.

Live Jazz by Jazz Fellowship plays regularly, adding a nice musical touch to the atmosphere. Trivia nights often accompany the live music, creating a lively and engaging setting.

Empanadas come with creamy fillings and good texture. Options like curro and chicken tinga offer satisfying portions and rich flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I thought the empanadas were the best I had."

"I loved the live music; it really added to the atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Wednesday Jazz night to secure a spot.

2

Expect a 20-25 minute wait for two during busy times.

3

Trivia night happens every Tuesday with drink and taco discounts.

12
Pampas Cafe image 1

Cafe offers an open floor plan with high ceilings and ample indoor seating including comfy couches and high top tables. Atmosphere feels hip and arty with local artwork on rotating display and live piano music on Fridays. Community vibe is strong, supported by a free library and a piano available to play.

Live piano music plays regularly, creating a relaxed vibe. A live band performs every week, with shows on Fridays.

Empanadas come with thin, crispy skins and juicy, flavorful fillings. Options include chicken with chimichurri, mushroom, beef, chorizo, breakfast, and apple, with some vegan choices available.

People are saying

"I found the empanadas here really tasty and delicious."

"You have to try the coffee; it's strong and amazing."

"The empanadas here have unique flavors, like kale and mushroom."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge due to its location next to Trader Joe's.

2

The wait time can be about 35 minutes during peak hours.

3

They serve breakfast starting at 7am, but are closed on Mondays.

13
Puerto La Boca image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Artistic and romantic interior with colorful paintings creates a vibe like Buenos Aires. Live music plays Motown, 70s & 80s R&B, and smooth jazz, keeping energy chill and welcoming. Indoor and patio seating offer options, with a bar area for waiting.

Live music features Motown, 70s & 80s R&B, and smooth jazz songs. The volume stays low enough to allow easy conversation.

Empanadas come fried in the Salta style with a crisp and tasty beef filling. They pair well with chimichurri for added flavor.

People are saying

"I loved their chimchurri steak, cooked perfectly."

"You have to try their empanadas; they're delicious."

"The live music on Saturday nights was great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Live music occurs every Saturday evening, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Meter parking is available on the street, but can be hard to find.

14
Cafรฉ Tondo image 1

Space blends cozy patios with a futuristic vibe at night, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Live music shifts energy from a coffee shop by day to a lively bar and restaurant after dark. Crowd enjoys dancing to curated sounds while sipping exceptional vermouth cocktails.

Beautiful live music fills the space at night, creating a special atmosphere alongside the crowd. The venue shifts from a coffee shop by day to a bar restaurant with live performances after dark.

Empanadas stand out with their rich flavor and satisfying texture. Some batches arrive undercooked, but the kitchen compensates with drinks, showing attention to quality and service.

People are saying

"I loved the cafe's coffee and pastries."

"I was still thinking about how delicious the empanadas were."

"The live music here is beautiful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand on weekends.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Jazz night occurs every Sunday at 7pm with no cover charge.

15
Gaucho Grill Buena Park image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Open kitchen and wood burning grill create a modern, cozy atmosphere with live Latin music enhancing the vibe. Noise levels rise with lively conversations, making it energetic but sometimes loud. Group tables and intimate nooks offer varied dining experiences in a stylish setting.

Live music creates a great atmosphere with an incredible band performing. Certain weekends include tango dancing, adding to the vibrant ambiance.

Empanadas come with generous filling and pair well with chimichurri sauce. The style is Argentine-inspired and suits indoor dining.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the meats."

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

"The live music here creates a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every weekday until 5pm with a variety of options.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups to avoid long wait times.

3

The happy hour pricing is only available if seated at the bar.

16
Mariscos Jimenez image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with live music and full bar creates a lively atmosphere where conversation requires raising voices. Spacious and family-friendly, it offers authentic flavors and fresh, flavorful dishes like ceviche and micheladas.

Live music plays regularly, especially on weekends, with a full bar available. The sound can get very loud, which might affect enjoyment.

Empanadas come out very good with a delicious taste that stands out among other dishes like prawns and sushi.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the live music here."

"I thought the empanadas were very good."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy, but it can get crowded during peak hours.

2

The restaurant gets crowded on weekends, so plan accordingly.

3

There is a 4% service charge for credit card payments.

17
Arepas Latin Cuisine - San Francisco image 1

Latin American restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with upbeat Latin music creating a lively and energetic vibe. Features include a private room upstairs for intimate gatherings and a bar area with a stage for live music. The space feels cozy and nostalgic, evoking a sense of home.

Live music stage hosts performances mainly on weekends. The wine bar loft offers a cozy spot to enjoy the shows.

Golden, crispy empanadas come packed with flavor. Pabellรณn empanadas stand out alongside other Venezuelan favorites like cachapa and arepas.

People are saying

"The arepas here are so flavorful and moist."

"I can't wait to return for their live music nights on the weekend."

"These empanadas taste like home in Venezuela."

Good to know

1

Live music starts at 7pm on weekends.

2

Comedy nights happen every Tuesday evening.

3

Parking in the area is difficult; consider walking or public transport.

18
Las Islas Marias Ontario image 1
Seafood restaurant

Large, clean space with live banda music and color-changing lights creates a chill yet loud atmosphere. The crowd varies from quiet to packed with groups, influencing the energy. Known for extensive seafood menu and good margaritas, it offers a lively spot to unwind.

Live music creates a party atmosphere with a great vibe. It plays alongside delicious seafood.

Shrimp empanadas come in different versions, some with grilled fish and shrimp that taste good, others with shrimp and cheese that lack flavor. Ceviche tostadas also appear alongside these options.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mexican food, especially the burritos, to be good and of pure quality."

"I loved the shrimp empanadas and the live music."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times if visiting with a group of more than three.

2

The restaurant can get busy on weekends, especially during lunch.

3

There is no security outside the restaurant, so lock your car.

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