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Best of Oakland

Empanada shops

An empanada that tastes like it came from a home kitchen instead of a mass-produced freezer bag.

Based on 518 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Charlie May Coffee & Tea House image 1
Charlie May Coffee & Tea House image 2
Charlie May Coffee & Tea House image 3
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Cozy cafe features indoor and outdoor seating with lush greenery, perfect for quiet meetups or study sessions. Empanadas shine with tasty pastries and come in chicken and veggie options. Easy parking adds to the welcoming vibe for casual gatherings.

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."

"This Local Spot's coffee and homemade syrups are exceptionally high quality."

"I enjoyed their tasty empanadas."

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.

02
Cafe Xochi image 1

Small, hip spot with a dog-friendly patio offers cozy, peaceful vibes and good music. Warm empanadas shine with mushroom filling and tasty carne options. Locals love the community feel and ample outdoor seating.

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 a wonderful community coffee shop."

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.

03
9 Julio Empanada Kitchen image 1

Small space with Buenos Aires imagery offers a cozy vibe. Empanadas have crisp, light crusts and unique fillings like Chile verde and mushroom. Real silverware and nice glassware add a touch of class to quick meals.

Empanadas feature perfectly crisp and light crusts with fillings like Chile verde, mushroom and onion, and spinach and cheese. Options include chicken and beef, paired with salads for a balanced meal.

People are saying

"I found the empanadas here to be the absolute best."

"I loved the fresh, flavorful gaucho salad."

"Parking is available on the street, but you might have to look for it."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street or nearby lots.

2

They offer catering, which is a great way to feed a large group.

3

The empanadas are small, so ordering more than one per person is recommended.

04
Las Guerreras image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers crispy empanadas served hot with sour cream. Enjoy a lively market vibe with open seating and a cute patio. Dogs are welcome and live music adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Empanadas come with a crispy outer shell that stays somewhat soft inside. They arrive hot and are surprisingly filling for just one, often served with sour cream on top unless requested otherwise.

People are saying

"This is my new favorite lunch spot for delicious tamales."

"The Mexican food's ceviche was the best I've ever had."

"I found the empanadas here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Las Guerreras is located inside Swanโ€™s Market in uptown Oakland.

2

The area gets packed at lunchtime, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking is street parking, so watch out for restrictions.

05
JAVIโ€™S COOKING "Empanadas Argentinas" image 1

Casual Argentinian spot offers authentic empanadas with beef, chicken, and a tasty Beyond Meat option. Enjoy shaded outdoor seating or eat in your car while watching fรบtbol. Vegetarian dishes and Argentine wines add to the relaxed, homey vibe.

Empanadas feature amazing dough and come in beef, chicken, and mushroom varieties. The Beyond Meat option offers a flavorful choice for vegetarians.

People are saying

"These empanadas are so tasty, especially the Pavo and champiรฑone."

"I thought the sandwiches were pretty big and so tasty."

"I found Javi's to be a true hidden gem."

Good to know

1

If ordering online, give yourself 30 minutes in advance.

2

Placing a phone order for empanadas is recommended for quicker pickup.

3

Empanadas cost $5.50 each, which can add up quickly.

06
Puerto Rican Street Cuisine image 1

Small, casual spot with authentic Puerto Rican flavors and a cozy back patio. Empanadas filled with chicken and pork deliver a nostalgic, tasty bite. Vegetarian options add variety to the home-cooked vibe and passionate cooking.

Stuffed with chicken and pork, the empanadas offer a tasty and filling bite. Hot empanadas bring a sense of nostalgia with every bite.

People are saying

"The Puerto Rican street food here is amazing, tasting like home."

"These empanadas are SO delicious and scrumptious."

"The food here is freaking delicious."

Good to know

1

Takeout may be preferable for large groups due to limited seating.

2

Right now, you can order from the window only, while inside is still being hooked up.

3

The menu is limited, with some items still in the testing phase.

07
Javi's Empanadas Oakland image 1

Small corner shop serves authentic Argentine empanadas with crispy crusts and tasty fillings like chicken, beef, and vegan options. Colorful murals brighten the space, creating a lively atmosphere. Fast-food self-service style makes dining quick and casual.

Empanadas feature a crispy crust with perfectly seasoned fillings. Options include authentic Argentine-style chicken, flavorful beef, and creative vegetarian and vegan varieties.

People are saying

"These empanadas are some of the best I've ever had."

"I found the coffee here unexpectedly great."

"They served beer, so I could get something stronger."

Good to know

1

Javi's Empanadas Oakland offers vegetarian and vegan options.

2

It operates as a fast-food self-service establishment.

3

They offer a wide variety of empanada flavors.

08
Bocanova image 1
Latin American restaurant

Spacious dining area with open kitchen and local art creates a cozy vibe. Beef empanadas offer rich flavor and satisfy during happy hour. Full bars serve top-notch mezcal and passion fruit margaritas, while the patio provides a warm urban outdoor setting.

Beef empanadas stand out with rich flavor and are consistently praised. Options include ahi tuna and beef varieties, often featured in the happy hour menu with satisfying portions.

People are saying

"The food here is thoughtful, beautifully prepared, and genuinely delicious."

"The seafood here, like the moqueca, is rich, creamy, and packed with tender fish."

"The beef empanadas here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6 pm with $2 oysters.

2

Valet parking is available at the Marriott across the street.

3

Bocanova has outdoor seating that is dog-friendly and equipped with heaters.

09
Sobre Mesa image 1
Restaurant

Chic interior and intimate atmosphere set the mood. Signature mezcal drinks and beef empanadas offer rich flavors. Music supports conversation without overpowering, making it perfect for a relaxed night out.

Empanadas stand out with their rich fillings and flaky crusts. They pair well with warm olives and complement drinks nicely.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with vibrant, tangy flavors."

"The dim lighting makes it a perfect spot for a romantic date night."

"I found the empanadas here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted food and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

The Queer and Couture Oakland Pride event is a highlight, showcasing local culture.

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