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Los Angeles' best

Mexican empanadas

A plate of Mexican food feels more substantial with a side of empanadas.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated May 2026
01
¡Ave Maria Restaurant! image 1
¡Ave Maria Restaurant! image 2
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Small, cozy space offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. Patio invites guests to relax with their dogs, adding a dog-friendly touch. Cuisine blends South American fusion with dishes made from scratch, creating a family-style vibe.

Carne asada tacos come with a spicy verde salsa and pack a lot of flavor. The green chilaquiles and shrimp tacos stand out for their unique taste. Breakfast options like the burrito and house coffee are solid choices too.

Golden, flaky pastry wraps around savory fillings like carne and queso. Empanadas have a good amount of meat, are well seasoned, and never dry.

People are saying

"The Ecuadorian food here tastes authentic, just like my mom makes it."

"This Mexican food tastes like grandma's home cooking."

"The empanadas are golden, flaky, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a small parking lot and plenty of street parking available.

2

They are dog-friendly and even offer a complimentary steak taco for pets.

3

The menu features a diverse selection of Mexican and Ecuadorian dishes.

02
El Huarique Venice image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Small open-air restaurant with patio tables and a beachfront view creates a cozy, relaxed vibe. Outdoor seating fills with a busy, charming atmosphere near the promenade, often accompanied by good music. Family-run feel adds warmth to the casual, walk-up service experience.

Fish tacos stand out as a highlight, often described as excellent and flavorful. Chicken tacos and plantains also feature as solid choices, delivering a satisfying Mexican food experience.

Beef empanadas feature a delicious sofrito base with beef mixed with caramelized onions and tomatoes. They stand out as rich and flavorful compared to others in the area.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are so flavorful and crispy, I couldn't stop at one."

"The empanadas here are packed with flavor and delicious."

"The fish tacos here are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $10 for three hours at a nearby lot.

2

The restaurant allows customers to bring their own alcohol.

3

A combo meal costs $23, including a burger, fries, and a drink.

03
Tamales Veracruz MRV image 1
Mexican restaurant

Simple, cozy interior creates a friendly, casual atmosphere that suits quick meals or relaxed dining. Regulars enjoy authentic Mexican flavors with standout dishes like tamales and chilaquiles. The spot feels like a neighborhood gem with a clean, comfortable vibe.

Tamales stand out with a good chicken to masa ratio and a savory, sweet, nutty mole flavor. The chili relleno burrito and chilaquiles offer authentic, tasty Mexican dishes with homemade touches like the red enchiladas and cafe de olla.

Chorizo and potato empanadas come with a juicy, well-marinated chicken filling that avoids dryness. The birria empanada pairs well with a soursop beverage, offering a taste of authentic Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is packed with authentic, homemade flavor."

"The chicken burrito was generous and well-seasoned."

"I thought the empanadas were amazing, especially the birria."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

Street parking is available off Wilton for easy access.

3

The menu includes many vegetarian options alongside meat dishes.

04
Paisita Cafe image 1

Cafe offers plenty of outdoor seating including a sunny patio and plays real vinyl records, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere with lively, chill vibes. The space balances unpretentious design with vibrant energy, attracting a mix of locals who enjoy relaxed socializing near the beach.

Chilaquiles stand out with a strong, impressive flavor. Burritos come small and often filled with undercooked rice, sometimes tasting bland and overpriced.

Empanadas come crispy and well-seasoned with a house-made chimichurri sauce. The spinach empanada stands out as fresh and flavorful.

People are saying

"I thought the lattes here were great and amazing."

"The empanadas here are delicious and fresh."

"I thought the breakfast burrito was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The cafe accepts cash only, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait for popular items like the asada burrito.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it may require a short walk.

05
Loreto image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers half indoor, half outdoor seating with a massive garden patio filled with succulents and scattered lighting. Atmosphere feels relaxing and trendy, creating an oasis-like vibe in a quiet neighborhood. Warmth is maintained by heat lamps outside, making it inviting for dates and groups alike.

Tostadas stand out with options like the crisp scallop topped with Uni and the flavorful Kondo. The elote con camarón and soft shell crab taco add variety, while the salmon and bang bang tostadas offer solid seafood choices.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with bold flavors and good portion size. They pair well with ceviche and other seafood dishes like scallop tostada topped with Uni.

People are saying

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh."

"The Mexican food and drinks here are outstanding."

"The shrimp empanadas were the only standout."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, so valet service is available.

2

Street parking is hard to find nearby.

3

Prices are reasonable, with a $17 dessert being the most expensive item.

06
La Villa Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, colorful space filled with Mexican decor and art creates a cozy, eclectic vibe. The atmosphere stays chill and welcoming, with a small sidewalk patio adding outdoor seating. Food offerings focus on authentic Mexican street dishes with standout fish tacos and empanadas.

Fish tacos stand out with their crispiness, flavor, and fresh sauce. The menu covers many bases with empanadas, burritos, tacos, and huevos rancheros, plus the salsa tastes really fresh and amazing.

Steak and beef empanadas stand out with exceptional flavor. They pair well with other items like fajitas and fish tacos for a solid meal.

People are saying

"The food here is really delicious and fresh."

"The fish tacos here are the best I've ever had."

"I found the empanadas here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

There is no parking lot available.

2

La Villa Cafe offers empanadas, tacos, sopes, burritos, and huevos rancheros.

3

The restaurant accepts debit and credit cards.

07
Sushi y Mariscos Que Rollo image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small restaurant offers authentic Mazatlan Sinaloa style seafood with fresh ingredients and scratch-made sauces. Atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with most orders taken to go. Menu features a wide variety of seafood options, including standout ceviche and shrimp empanadas.

Shrimp empanadas and hand-breaded shrimp tacos stand out with rich flavors. Tacos like asada and gobernador offer solid, tasty options.

Shrimp empanadas stand out as a popular choice with a mix of opinions on taste. Other empanadas like asada also appear alongside tacos as common picks.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious and made with fresh, quality ingredients."

"The Mexican food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"These empanadas are so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers authentic Mazatlan Sinaloa style food.

2

The ingredients are fresh and of high quality.

3

They charge an extra dollar to pay by card.

08
Leonor's Vegetarian Mexican Restaurant image 1

Cozy vegan restaurant with a family-like atmosphere and authentic friendliness from staff. Space shares a connection with Vegatinos, offering a wide variety of plant-based Mexican dishes. Known for being a women-owned community hub with a casual, welcoming vibe.

Quesadillas stand out, especially the Works and mushroom versions served with guac and hot sauce. Large portions come with the tacos, while the enchiladas and Chili Relleno offer delicious traditional flavors.

Empanadas come with mushrooms, spinach, and cheese or just mushrooms. They have a rich, savory filling that stands out.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is so friendly and welcoming."

"I also ordered a mushroom empanada, and it was so good."

Good to know

1

Leonor's Vegetarian Mexican Restaurant offers a wide variety on the menu.

2

The restaurant is all vegan, providing options for plant-based diets.

3

A lunch for two costs around $50, which includes two tostadas and two juices.

09
Cafe Fresco image 1
Brunch restaurant

Small cafe with cozy decor and personal touches creates a peaceful atmosphere that feels like a slice of Ecuador. Comfortable seating and a full espresso bar support a relaxed, inviting vibe. The place draws a mix of patrons enjoying authentic Ecuadorian and American dishes in a family-owned setting.

Traditional steak tacos come with cilantro and onion and avoid excessive spice or salt. Shrimp tacos and a Mexican chop salad offer flavorful options alongside a warm veggie salad with salmon.

Empanadas come with a variety of fillings and pair well with other dishes like shrimp ceviche and Llapingachos. They offer a tasty mix that complements traditional flavors.

People are saying

"The breakfast sandwiches here are delicious."

"The shrimp and fish tacos here are super delicious."

"I loved the mixture of different types of empanadas."

Good to know

1

They host a perreo and coffee event on select weekends.

2

On weekends, Cafe Fresco serves unmissable Ecuadorian dishes.

3

The Taco Tuesday deal includes three tacos and an agua fresca for $14.

10
Mariscos El Faro image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant sits in front of a park with loud music and a chill vibe. It offers a full bar including a secret cocktail menu. The place serves spicy ceviche and outstanding shrimp tacos with generally solid fish tacos.

Seafood shines with fish tacos, shrimp empanadas, and tostadas de camarón. Ceviche and other seafood options add variety, plus Taco Tuesdays feature tacos.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with their fresh seafood filling and flaky crust. Fish tacos also pair well with these seafood flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the shrimp tacos were outstanding."

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

"The shrimp tacos at this Mexican food spot were outstanding."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature special taco deals every Tuesday.

2

Street parking is available along the block.

3

Orders can take a while, so be patient.

11
El Camaron Pelado image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with banging Ramon Ayala music and a variety of seafood options. The vibe is enjoyable but somewhat dark, creating a relaxed setting. Popular dishes include shrimp empanadas and Micheladas, drawing a crowd that appreciates flavorful, affordable seafood.

Taco dorado de camaron stands out as a memorable dish. Fish tacos and tostadas, especially the tostada aguachiles, deliver solid flavors. Green salsa adds a spicy kick to the meal.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with rich, tasty filling. They pair well with seafood dishes like the Coctel de camaron y pulpo and are often reordered for their flavorful seafood profile.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good and delicious."

"I thought the shrimp empanadas were the best in LA."

"I found the fish tacos to be really good."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in front on Pasadena street.

2

There are two single bathrooms in the restaurant.

3

Expect to spend around $20 before tip for a meal.

12
Ay Papa Que Rico image 1
Cuban restaurant

Small Cuban restaurant with an outdoor cooking area and comfortable seating. Atmosphere is casual with charcoal-grilled chicken as a standout feature. Offers authentic Cuban and Latin American dishes with a focus on quality chicken.

Great Mexican food pairs with well-made drinks here. The flavors stand out with authentic taste and solid preparation.

Crunchy empanadas stand out here with options like Jalapeno & Cheese and beef varieties. The chicken empanada offers a flavorful alternative that many prefer.

People are saying

"I thought the empanadas were the best, especially the crunchy beef ones."

"I found the ribs here to be excellent."

"I got a chicken burrito with rice and seven pieces of meat."

Good to know

1

Parking can be found on the street or on Arleta Avenue.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 pm.

3

The burrito costs $14.00.

13
Mariscos El Viejito image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small, unassuming seafood restaurant with island and coastal decor and a spacious, clean dining room. Loud music and live band performances create a lively atmosphere especially on weekends. Generous portions of authentic Mexican seafood attract those craving fresh, flavorful dishes.

Chips and salsa arrive right away. Fish tacos and Marlin empanadas stand out. Aguas chiles with avocado and tostadas de pescado offer solid options. Avoid tacos el gobernador due to poor execution.

Shrimp empanadas come with a green sauce that stands out. Marlin empanadas and tacos are also available, with prices around $10.49 plus tax.

People are saying

"The food here was excellent and of very good quality."

"I loved the shrimp empanadas and green sauce at this Mexican Food spot."

"I loved the shrimp empanadas and green sauce."

Good to know

1

Mariscos El Viejito is known for its cleanliness and good hygiene standards.

2

Expect higher prices for authentic Mexican seafood dishes.

3

The portions of seafood served are generous and satisfying.

14
Los Lagos Mariscos Restaurant image 1

Spacious interior with comfortable seating and rancheras music creates a cozy atmosphere. Cleanliness stands out in this small Mexican seafood restaurant. Affordable prices accompany dishes like shrimp tacos and Governor tacos that highlight traditional flavors.

Fresh, authentic Mexican dishes shine with shrimp tacos priced at $2 and generous gobernador tacos blending fish and cheese without mess. Tostadas mixtas balance fish, vegetables, and a lime-kissed sauce, while chips and salsa come during a short wait.

Shrimp empanadas have a crispy golden outside and a soft fluffy inside with a good amount of cheese and shrimp. Some shrimp empanadas can be stale.

People are saying

"The seafood here is cooked to perfection and very tasty."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and generously portioned."

"This Mexican food is fresh, delicious, and has great flavor."

Good to know

1

Shrimp tacos cost $2, and gobernador tacos are also available.

2

They only accept cash payments; an ATM is next door.

3

Prices are affordable, making it a great option for budget diners.

15
El Cartel image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining space offers both indoor and shaded outdoor seating with a pleasant atmosphere and affordable prices. Menu blends Mexican and Argentine influences, featuring large portions and standout items like loaded fries and street tacos. The vibe is casual and convenient, suited for quick, flavorful meals.

Quesa tacos stand out with rich flavor that doesn't need sour cream. The menu features grilled shrimp tacos, asada God tortas, and bean & cheese burritos that appeal to all ages.

Empanadas come in chorizo and cheese varieties and a banana Nutella option. The banana Nutella empanadas are tiny and served in portions of two for $6.

People are saying

"I loved the Mexican food, especially the tasty tacos with pineapple."

"The food here is fresh, well-seasoned, and really flavorful."

"I loved the empanadas; they were so good."

Good to know

1

Metered parking is scarce due to nearby events, but loading zone parking is available after 6 pm.

2

The prices at El Cartel are reasonable and menu items are affordable.

3

El Cartel offers a variety of dishes including tacos, burritos, and empanadas.

16
La Flor De Yucatan Bakery image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy bakery with authentic Yucatecan baked goods and freshly made bread fills the air with warm aromas. Casual setup includes outdoor tables but mostly favors takeout and delivery. Known for unique hojaldra and flavorful tamales, it offers a genuine taste of Yucatán cuisine.

Cochinita pibil tacos stand out with their rich flavor, offering a twist on traditional Mexican food. Tamales come filled with flavorful chicken and pork, while the hojaldra combines ham, cheese, and puff pastry for a unique take on empanadas.

Empanadas have a bland dough with no salt, which affects seasoning. The camote and coconut empanada stands out as a sweet dessert option.

People are saying

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

"I thought their hojaldra bread was simply the best."

"You've got to try the flavorful tamales and hojaldra here."

Good to know

1

They offer both baked goods and tasty Yucateco dishes.

2

The bakery offers a variety of traditional Yucatecan breads.

3

Takeout is popular due to the small size of the bakery.

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