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Local picks

Empanada spots in Los Angeles

You want a menu that bridges the gap between coastal seafood and the comfort of an empanada.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
¡Ave Maria Restaurant! image 1
¡Ave Maria Restaurant! image 2
¡Ave Maria Restaurant! image 3
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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.

Shrimp dishes stand out with freshness and bright citrus notes in the ceviche and unique seasoning in the shrimp tacos. The sango de camarón features tender, flavorful shrimp cooked just right.

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."

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

"Their seafood tacos are uniquely seasoned and can't be compared."

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
Kurrypinch | Modern Sri Lankan Cuisine by Chef G image 1

Cozy space with warm decor and subtle spice aromas creates a vibrant, inviting atmosphere. High ceilings and large windows make it visually pleasing but contribute to a noisy environment. Outdoor patio adds extra seating, enhancing the relaxed vibe.

Seafood dishes feature shrimp curry with string hoppers and a mussel/shrimp risotto. Appetizers include fish croquettes and shrimp empanadas, offering a mix of tender, flavorful options with balanced spices.

Shrimp and vegetable curry empanadas stand out with their unique flavors. The veggie empanada pairs well with the deviled chicken and paneer dishes, all offering rich, bold tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is extraordinarily delicious with unique, delicate flavors."

"The seafood here is served with such warm, friendly service."

"These empanadas are so unique and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Street parking is the only option available near the restaurant.

3

The lamprice dish is available only on weekends or by preorder.

03
Karibbean Cuisine image 1
Dominican restaurant

Corner restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with an atmosphere that transports guests to the Dominican Republic through aromas of sazon and Dominican music. Energy feels warm and welcoming, creating a sense of community and tradition. In-house DJ adds to the lively, authentic vibe.

Fried fish comes with tostones and coconut fish stands out for its rich flavor. Shrimp dishes include options like garlic sauce served with rice, beans, and pink potato salad.

Empanadas stand out with excellent flavor and a must-order status. They pair well with tostones and sauces, making them a delicious choice among other dishes.

People are saying

"The Dominican food here is the best I've ever had."

"The oxtail here is fall-off-the-bone tender and full of flavor."

"The seafood here is amazing, like my mom's home cooking."

Good to know

1

The last seating is at 9:30 PM sharp.

2

They host a Chimi & Mofongo night every month to foster community.

3

Expect a lunch special during the week.

04
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 come crispy and flavorful with a great sauce. They are large and well-seasoned, making them a standout seafood option.

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 insanely delicious and big."

"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.

05
Budonoki image 1
Restaurant

Intimate Japanese izakaya with cozy atmosphere and refined design featuring heated patio and creative cocktail presentation. Lighting and lively soundtrack create an electric vibe that blends fun with attention to detail. Signature drinks come in animal-shaped mugs, adding a playful touch to the experience.

Seafood pancake stands out as a signature dish, often recommended and enjoyed multiple times. Dishes like shrimp and scallop katsu and spicy tuna hand rolls also highlight the seafood offerings here.

Cheesy Wagyu beef stands out in the empanadas, offering a rich and filling option. Beef empanadas come with a delicious side sauce, and the maitake salad pairs decently with them.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, full of flavor and beautifully presented."

"You've got to try the seafood pancake; it's amazing."

"The wagyu beef empanadas are perfectly cheesy and rich."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially for peak hours.

2

A 4% service charge is added to all bills for operational costs.

3

Street parking is the only option available, and it can be difficult to find.

06
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 dishes come halal and feature tender, crispy fish burgers with fresh veggies. Fish tacos stand out with an unbelievable ceviche sauce topping, while ceviche offers a delightful mix of spices, corn, and sweet potato.

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."

"These fried fish tacos are awesome, perfectly crispy and flavorful."

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

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.

07
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.

Shrimp stands out with perfect cooking and strong flavor. Shrimp tacos deliver a fire taste and appear on variety plates alongside other meats.

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."

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

"The shrimp tacos here are fire and incredibly juicy."

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.

08
chilenazo Deli & Bakery image 1
Chilean restaurant

Small dining area offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with a simple, clean design. The place serves authentic Chilean empanadas and baked goods, often prepared fresh from early morning. Parking is generally available, making it accessible despite a limited menu.

Seafood options include fish and chips served with unique red and green sauces instead of tartar sauce. Grilled fish comes paired with a Chilean salad, and seafood empanadas are also available.

Jumbo meat empanadas offer a perfect balance of savory and satisfying flavors with spot-on seasoning. The Chilean style shines through in their homemade, delicious empanadas with a variety of flavors.

People are saying

"I tried the steak sandwich with avocado and it was perfect."

"These empanadas are delicious and homemade."

"The seafood here has amazing flavor and smells delicious."

Good to know

1

On Saturday nights, there is live music by Wilfredo Aguilar.

2

The restaurant offers free parking.

3

They start baking every item from early morning, possibly around 2 am.

09
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 flavor. Fish tacos, tropical ceviche, and gobernador also highlight the excellent seafood offerings.

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 asada taco was delicious 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.

10
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.

Seafood here features fresh fish and dishes inspired by Mexican flavors. Highlights include oysters preparados with a green spicy aguachile dressing, a seafood tower, and crisp scallop tostadas topped with Uni.

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."

"I loved the chocolate dessert with espresso foam."

"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.

11
Tainos L.A. image 1
Puerto Rican restaurant

Hidden behind an unassuming door marked by a Puerto Rican flag, this kitchen offers authentic Puerto Rican and Dominican cuisine with garlicky mofongo and crispy chicharron as standout dishes. Lighting and music create a homey, inviting atmosphere that feels genuine and warm. The spot serves mainly for pickup and catering, with reasonable prices and generous portions.

Shrimp dishes come with well seasoned mofongo and a sauce with peppers that complements the seafood. Options include mofongo topped with shrimp or served al ajillo, often paired with pork rinds and rice.

Chicken, beef, and pizza empanadas come out perfectly cooked and flavorful. Shrimp empanadas also appear alongside traditional dishes like pollo guisado and mofongo.

People are saying

"The shrimp empanadas and mofongo with shrimp were very tasty."

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

"The empanadas here are so tasty, I'm craving them."

Good to know

1

Tainos L.A. is a ghost kitchen offering quick pick-up and catering.

2

You can order food online from Tainos L.A.

3

The food is ready in about 20 minutes after ordering.

12
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.

Shrimp tacos stand out with strong flavor and freshness. Fish tacos also come highly recommended, often preferred over chicken options.

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 Seafood here is great, and the staff are friendly."

"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.

13
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.

Seafood dishes come made to order with an excellent variety available. The shrimp empanadas stand out, often praised as the best, alongside solid fish tacos.

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."

"The shrimp empanadas are so tasty, I'd buy them again."

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.

14
Nonna's Empanadas - Original Farmers Market image 1

Empanadas come with filling names burned into the crust, offering a great variety of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Busy market setting fills the air with savory baking aromas and draws a steady line of customers. Decor is beautifully decorated, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with their good flavor and consistent quality. Options include a regular shrimp version and a classic flavor.

Empanadas come in a wide variety with unique flavors like Korean BBQ, Mac & cheese, and banana with dulce de leche. Many are stuffed to the gills with meat or fillings, including eggless and Jain-friendly options, all priced around $5 each.

People are saying

"These empanadas are delicious and full of flavor."

"These samosas are super yummy and flavorful."

"The seafood empanadas are filled well with shrimp and other flavors."

Good to know

1

Expect a medium-sized line during peak hours at Nonna's Empanadas.

2

The price for two empanadas and a drink is $12.95.

3

Vegan options are limited and not highly rated.

15
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.

Fresh fish, shrimp, and scallops stand out here. The fish tacos and tostada de ceviche come with generous shrimp portions and offer solid Mexican seafood flavors.

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."

"These empanadas might be worth stopping for if it's on your way."

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.

16
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.

Shrimp dishes stand out with garlic shrimp praised as the best north of Ensenada and shrimp tacos with cheese noted for their value and flavor. Tostadas mixtas balance fish and vegetables well, while the taco gobernador mixto offers generous portions of fish and cheese without mess.

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."

"These empanadas have a crispy outside and a soft, fluffy inside."

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.

17
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.

Generous portions of authentic Mexican seafood stand out here. Shrimp empanadas with green sauce and fish tacos offer solid flavors, while shrimp in mojo sauce comes with green pepper strips.

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 found the fish tacos to be really good."

"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.

18
Jala Mariscos El Veneno image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers pleasant atmosphere with convenient fast food and takeout options. Empanadas require advance ordering due to fresh preparation. Limited parking affects accessibility.

Fresh fish and empanadas stand out among the seafood options. Some seafood can be chewy and may contain shells due to cleaning issues.

Freshly made empanadas require advance ordering. They come highly recommended and pair well with fish dishes.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"You have to try the empanadas; they were very good."

"I found the food here to be very tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

2

Empanadas must be ordered in advance as they are made fresh.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

19
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.

Grilled shrimp tacos stand out with their bold flavor and are preferred over fish tacos. Shrimp appears in burritos and salads, though the shrimp burrito has caused some issues.

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."

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

"I ate way too many of their grilled shrimp tacos."

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.

20
Spain Restaurant image 1
Spanish restaurant

Small, cozy space offers a quiet and clean atmosphere with a home-cooked meal vibe. Regulars enjoy homemade sangria and Argentinian empanadas alongside seafood dishes featuring fresh ingredients. Warm days can affect comfort, making cooler evenings preferable for visits.

Seafood here is very fresh with perfectly cooked shrimp. Dishes like seafood paella and seafood stew stand out for their rich flavors.

Empanadas come in Argentinian style with options like beef and spinach fillings. Fried versions offer a crispy texture alongside traditional flavors.

People are saying

"I really enjoyed the beef empanadas here."

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the calamari."

"I found the Spanish food here to be authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller bills.

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