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Guide to California

Empanada spots

You need a productive environment that keeps you fed with empanadas throughout the workday.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mate Conmigo image 1
Mate Conmigo image 2
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Cozy cafe with adorable decor and comfortable couches creates a homey, welcoming atmosphere. Quiet energy suits working or relaxing, with extensive vegan options and standout empanadas. Friendly vibe invites study, socializing, or enjoying fresh mate.

Wifi and great hours support a relaxed setting for work or study. The space suits hanging out with friends or family while getting things done.

Beef empanadas stand out with rich flavor and flaky crust. Vegan options include potato and cauliflower as well as spinach empanadas. The Arabe empanada offers a unique twist worth trying.

People are saying

"I thought the empanadas here were great and hot."

"The Vegetarian food here is served by the sweetest, friendliest people."

"The empanadas here are amazing, especially the arabe."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy in the lot.

2

The menu includes different types of empanadas, sandwiches, and pastries.

3

Vegan options are extensive.

02
Charlie May Coffee & Tea House image 1

Cozy cafe with indoor and outdoor seating offers a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with plants and greenery. Quiet and relaxed, it suits gatherings, studying, and casual meetups. Easy parking and a thoughtful layout add to the welcoming vibe.

Space suits gatherings, groups, and quiet work sessions well. It supports studying, meetups, and even romantic dates with a calm vibe.

Offers a variety of empanadas including chicken and veggie options. Empanadas come with tasty pastries and pair well with coffee or drinks.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee here; it was surprisingly strong and flavorful."

"I enjoyed their tasty empanadas."

"It's a great spot for working and quiet study sessions."

Good to know

1

Every third Saturday, there is a bagel pop-up from the small business Hella Bagels.

2

Pups are allowed in the patio area.

3

Parking is easy and accessible.

03
The Spot Cafe & Lounge image 1

Coffee shop offers quiet, cozy atmosphere with plenty of seating indoors and outdoors. It attracts locals looking for a chill place to work or study with great wifi and affordable, flavorful empanadas. The vibe is low key and community-focused, with occasional crowds after school hours.

Quiet and cozy with lots of seating makes it easy to settle in for work or study. Great wifi is available but requires a purchase to get the password, and staff can be rude when asked.

Chicken empanadas come warm and flavorful. They offer a good balance of taste and affordability.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee and small bites here."

"It's a great work-friendly spot with plenty of seating and outlets."

"These chicken empanadas are so warm and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tight, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

2

The cafe gets busy when schools let out, so plan accordingly.

3

There are plenty of outlets available for charging devices.

04
Casa De Otay image 1
Coffee shop

Trendy coffee shop with Ikea furniture and natural light from many windows creates a bright, calm atmosphere. Plenty of outlets and outdoor seating support working, chatting, or relaxing. The space feels clean and comfortable, welcoming locals for coffee and casual gatherings.

Plenty of tables and outlets create a comfortable space for work or study. The atmosphere stays super quiet and relaxing, with reliable WiFi and no pressure to buy immediately.

Empanadas come out fast and delicious, making them a solid choice for a quick meal. The beef and birria varieties stand out as tasty options.

People are saying

"I had the best coffee I've ever had."

"It's a perfect cafe for working or studying."

"It's a great work-friendly spot with outlets for charging devices."

Good to know

1

They don't accept cash; only card payments are accepted.

2

Parking can be challenging in the area; plan accordingly.

3

WiFi is available for customers who want to work or study.

05
Cafe Xochi image 1

Small, hip interior pairs with a spacious, dog-friendly outdoor patio featuring shade and privacy. Atmosphere feels cozy and community-oriented, with peaceful backyard seating and good music. Regulars include locals who enjoy ample outdoor seating and a welcoming vibe for dogs.

Chill vibe supports working and catching up with friends. Food like quiche and drinks such as London fog complement the work session. WiFi can be spotty for extended remote work.

Warm empanadas come with solid vegetarian options like mushroom. Carne and mushroom fillings taste really good and stay delicious.

People are saying

"The patio is cute and peaceful, perfect for a dog."

"I found the mushroom empanadas to be delicious and warm."

"It's work friendly with plenty of seating inside and out."

Good to know

1

Dogs are only allowed on the back patio and sidewalk, not inside the cafe.

2

There is plenty of outdoor seating available at the cafe.

3

The cafe hosts events every few months featuring local artists and pop-up businesses.

06
Abode Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Modern coffee shop with spacious indoor and outdoor seating including a large patio and a small intimate room with couches. Atmosphere feels warm, inviting, and relaxed with airy, cozy vibes and curated design. Frequented by people working, studying, or socializing in a calm, friendly environment.

Open, spacious vibe supports long hours of work on a laptop or reading. Great coffee fuels productivity and makes it easy to focus or catch up with friends.

Small empanadas come with a stylish and trendy look. They offer a must-try flavor experience.

People are saying

"The coffee staff here is super friendly and welcoming."

"They remembered my name and drink, making it feel so Work Friendly."

"You have to try these empanadas; they're small but stylish."

Good to know

1

Abode Coffee is open until 7 PM most evenings.

2

There is plenty of parking available.

3

The team allows placing a call ahead order and texting a QR code for payment.

07
Coffee Bodega Farm-to-Table image 1

Tiny coffee shop with cozy seating and plant-filled decor creates a living room vibe. Atmosphere stays quiet and companionable, with soft classical music and a home-like feel. Dog park outside adds a unique touch for visitors with pets.

Quiet work happens here with no phone calls and no pets allowed, except for service animals verified by staff. Wifi is not available, so plan accordingly for studying or focused tasks.

Empanadas feature a delicate, thin, crispy crust with fillings like Carne Asada, bolognese, ham and cheese, and BBQ pork. They bake fresh on site, offering savory flavor and perfect flakiness.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be the best I had in the city."

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

"The coffee here is wonderful, perfect for getting work done."

Good to know

1

No dogs are allowed inside; animals must wait outside for sanitation.

2

The coffee shop does not offer Wi-Fi, making it a quiet work environment.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for local vendors nearby.

08
Machu Picchu Cafe image 1

Bright space with charming decor and a gorgeous cherry blossom tree creates a calming atmosphere. Soft seats and free Wi-Fi support studying or relaxing. Frequent visitors use a stamp card to return for tasteful coffee and fresh-baked empanadas.

Outlets are available for charging devices, making it easy to work for hours. The cafe offers a quiet atmosphere suitable for studying or a morning chat with a friend while enjoying coffee.

Empanadas feature a crispy outer crust with fillings like beef spiced with cumin, onions, and chili powder, and mushroom. The owner crafts them fresh with a unique spice flavor and pairs them with tasty sauce.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee here."

"The Cafe's empanadas were amazing, with delicious flavors."

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

Good to know

1

The cafe is located right at Balboa Park BART station.

2

Parking in the area isn't great due to the proximity to Balboa Park BART station.

3

The cafe offers coffee, tea, pastries, and empanadas.

09
Ada's Cafe image 1

Cafe offers abundant outdoor seating with fresh flowers on tables and charming decor featuring eclectic mugs and succulents. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, creating a strong sense of community. Patrons enjoy a quiet, cozy vibe suitable for meetings or casual visits.

Shaded outdoor tables offer a quiet spot to work with natural light. Friendly staff create a welcoming vibe while you focus on tasks.

Mushroom empanadas stand out as delicious and popular enough to order twice. They pair well with coffee and come with friendly service.

People are saying

"The coffee here is rich and flavorful."

"It's a work-friendly safe space where the team makes you feel welcome."

"I found the mushroom empanadas to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider parking farther away.

2

Outdoor seating is available, but be prepared for pests.

3

The cafe supports people with disabilities through its nonprofit mission.

10
Cafe Buenos Aires Berkeley image 1

Coffee shop offers spacious seating with many tables by windows and outdoor options. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, suitable for working with good Wi-Fi. Empanadas stand out as high-quality, handmade specialties with several vegetarian choices.

Strong Wi-Fi supports long work sessions. The ambient noise stays low, creating a good focus environment. The place stays busy with people working or eating, showing a steady work-friendly vibe.

Empanadas feature a thin flaky crust with a nice bite on the edges and fresh fillings. Varieties like mushroom, beef, pumpkin, spinach, and fugazetta stand out for their rich flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I thought the empanadas were amazing."

"I found the coffee here to be really good."

"It's a great spot for work, with good Wi-Fi and lots of tables."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required; you order at the counter and pick up when called.

2

The cafe offers vegan and vegetarian options on the menu.

3

Prices for empanadas and drinks are reasonable, averaging around $15 for a meal.

11
Cargo Cafe - Centerside image 1

Small boutique coffee shop blends indoor and outdoor seating with a landscaped pond and fountain creating a relaxing atmosphere. Music plays loudly, adding energy to the otherwise quiet and spacious environment. The setting suits both casual visits and focused work sessions.

Quiet, clean, and spacious seating supports focused work and study. Strong WiFi and a well-designed layout make it easy to handle several tasks during work breaks or study sessions.

Crust varies between crisp and soft textures. Fillings include a scrambled soyrizo and eggs mix and a caprese style option. Quality ranges from okay to delicious depending on the variety.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee and matcha at this cafe."

"It's a great spot for studying and getting work done."

"The soyrizo filling in these empanadas is so delicious."

Good to know

1

There is free one-hour parking available through a ticketed gate.

2

They validated parking for additional hours.

3

The cafe offered both indoor and outdoor seating.

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.

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 are so good, I had to get seconds."

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
Saint Cocรณ Coffee Bar North Park image 1

Coffee shop offers comfortable seating with both inside and outside options in a clean, calm environment. Atmosphere stays cozy and inviting, attracting many people working on laptops or studying. Space is dog friendly and features tasteful decor that supports productivity and relaxation.

Strong wifi supports work and study. Many people use laptops here. Friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere. Closing time is around 8 PM, allowing for evening work.

Bacon and egg empanadas have a light, slightly crispy breading with tasty eggs and bacon inside. Ham and cheese empanadas also offer a delicious, satisfying filling. Empanadas come from Empanada Kitchen and pair well with Mexican coffee.

People are saying

"The Saint Coco latte is so delicious and flavorful."

"The empanadas here, especially the bacon and egg, were really good."

"It's a great work-friendly spot, calm and inviting for productivity."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a bit of a hassle, but spots are available nearby.

2

The coffee shop offers a rewards program for frequent customers.

3

They serve non-dairy pastries and breakfast burritos.

14
Muddy Paw Coffee Silverlake image 1

Coffee shop offers a dog-friendly atmosphere with a shaded back patio featuring a fire pit and plenty of seating. The vibe is calm and cozy, making it suitable for working or relaxing with pets. Music plays softly, enhancing the chill environment.

Customers bring their dogs and work on laptops in a chill atmosphere. People often hang out with books or chat while working.

Dulce de leche empanada stands out with its mind-blowing flavor. Other options like ham & cheese, beyond meat, samosa, and bacon and egg offer perfect texture and excellent cheese.

People are saying

"You and your dog can be happy here; they offer items for pets."

"You'll love the cute, shaded outdoor seating out back."

"It's a chill place to work from with your pup."

Good to know

1

Muddy Paw Coffee Silverlake is dog-friendly and allows pets in the outdoor seating area.

2

Parking is only available on the street, and metered parking is enforced during the day.

3

The cafe only has outdoor seating, which may not be ideal during extreme heat.

15
SIGNAL Coffee Roasters image 1

Small coffee shop with quiet, nerdy vibe and cool music posters on the walls. Seating includes a couch nook and some outdoor spots, attracting students and people who want to read or work. Coffee and pastries lean toward the higher-end side, with unique items like mochi pastries and empanadas.

Good wifi and an airy atmosphere support work and study. The space feels a bit small for long sessions but suits short visits or reading.

Chard and Gruyรจre empanadas offer a savory, quick lunch option. Mushroom and chard fillings appear frequently, providing a vegetable-forward choice.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious coffee and unique pastries here."

"I loved the chard and Gruyรจre empanada for a quick lunch."

"The Great Pumpkin Latte tasted creamy with a hint of pumpkin."

Good to know

1

SIGNAL Coffee Roasters is conveniently located near the BART station.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially for drinks and food.

3

They offer oat milk and almond milk as dairy alternatives.

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