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Best of San Diego

Empanada spots

A proper empanada is defined by its crust and filling, and you have no patience for anything that cuts corners.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Empanada Kitchen image 1
Empanada Kitchen image 2
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Argentinian restaurant

Bright and friendly space shares a corner with a burger joint and includes a cute backyard with tables. Atmosphere stays modern and relaxing, quiet enough for laid-back meals. Empanadas come with authentic Argentinian flavors and clear labels, served warm and full of flavor.

Empanadas come straight from Argentina, made by Argentinians, with a homemade feel. The chimichurri matches that same authentic vibe, making the food truly authentic.

Empanadas come with a thin and delicious crust and are made fresh, served warm. They offer many flavors like beef and lamb, filled with saucy chicken and beef, all tasting authentic and made from scratch by Argentinians.

People are saying

"I found the empanadas here to be absolutely excellent."

"I tried the Chocolate Alfajore for dessert."

"The empanadas here are truly authentic and homemade."

Good to know

1

They offer a special deal every day for three empanadas.

2

Daily specials change frequently, so check the menu often.

3

Parking around Pearl Street can be tricky, but spots are available.

02
Eli's Peruvian Kitchen image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant offers cozy, inviting atmosphere with authentic Peruvian tunes playing softly. Casual setting feels like a family establishment with home-style vibes. Guests often find it a hidden gem known for authentic flavors and clean, elegant interior.

Food delivers 100% authentic Peruvian flavor with dishes like lomo saltado and fresh ceviche that taste true to tradition. The humble exterior contrasts with the genuine, flavorful cuisine inside.

Beef empanadas come baked to perfection with a clear flavor presence. They tend to be on the smaller side but still deliver solid taste.

People are saying

"I found the Peruvian food here to be totally authentic."

"I thought the seafood here was awesome."

"These empanadas were baked to perfection."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 3:30 p.m. on Sundays.

2

They close at 5 pm on other days.

3

Parking can be hard to find during busy times.

03
Mama G’s Kitchen & Sauces image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Small space with colorful Peruvian decor and a friendly, homey atmosphere. Patio seating and a bar with TVs playing Latin music create a relaxed vibe. Authentic flavors and signature sauces complement a menu that feels like traditional home cooking.

Ceviche features chunks of fish with traditional sides like cancha and Peruvian corn for texture. Tamales come filled with pork or chicken and carry classic Peruvian flavors.

Chicken empanadas come incredibly seasoned and well-prepared. They pair well with varied sauces that enhance their flavor.

People are saying

"The ceviche here is outstanding and perfectly balanced."

"I found the Peruvian food here to be authentic and flavorful."

"The empanadas here are flavorful and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The restaurant currently doesn’t take reservations, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers, making it a great time to visit.

3

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

04
The Peruvian Spot image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Peruvian atmosphere with bright, inviting décor and a spacious layout. It maintains a family-friendly vibe featuring a dedicated kids' play corner visible from dining areas. The environment feels warm and lively, suitable for families and groups seeking a relaxed meal.

Dishes like ceviche a la carrilleta, chicharrón with pan, and tamal deliver strong authentic Peruvian flavors. Every plate offers fresh, high quality ingredients that capture the true taste of Peru.

Flaky, savory empanadas burst with rich flavor and come in beef varieties. They pair well with sweet treats like chocolate cake and alfajores.

People are saying

"I found the Peruvian food here to be the best I ever had."

"The Peruvian food here is so authentic, it transports you straight to Peru."

"I thought the empanadas here were very delicious."

Good to know

1

They offer free coffee until 10:30.

2

The kids corner makes it special for families with children.

3

Parking is easy and the location is convenient.

05
Antojitos Colombianos Restaurant image 1

Colombian restaurant with authentic decor and wall-to-wall football screens creates a cozy, homey atmosphere that feels like stepping into Colombia. The space is large and lively, often filled with people, offering a vibe that blends dining with a sports bar energy.

Food features authentic Colombian flavors with dishes like Colombian empanadas that taste true to tradition. Drinks and snacks also maintain a genuine Hispanic style throughout.

Empanadas with ají stand out for their authentic and delicious flavor. These empanadas pair well with the aji sauce, making them a notable choice for anyone seeking traditional Colombian snacks.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of authentic Colombian flavor."

"I loved the empanadas; they were authentic and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

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

2

Parking can be a bit difficult to find near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant has a small market of Colombian products available for purchase.

06
Sabores Colombianos image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small, cozy space with homemade, authentic Colombian food creates a warm, homey atmosphere. Traditional Colombian music plays, enhancing the feeling of being on the streets of Colombia. Bright art and colors add to the intimate, welcoming vibe.

Food delivers authentic Colombian flavors that taste like a family kitchen. Dishes like tamales carry genuine Colombian seasoning familiar to those from Cali and Medellin.

Hearty, flavorful filling defines the Colombian-style empanadas here. They pair well with the ají sauce, delivering a taste authentic to Colombia.

People are saying

"The arepas here are hearty and perfectly balanced."

"The food here is so authentic, tasting like it's straight from a family kitchen."

"The empanadas here are delicious, especially with the ají sauce."

Good to know

1

The dining area is small, so call ahead to reserve a table, especially for larger groups.

2

Parking can be tricky, but there is usually parking available nearby.

3

Expect large portions that are well-priced for the quality of food.

07
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.

Authentic Cuban food comes with rich, flavorful dishes prepared with care. The setting feels cozy and genuine, enhanced by historical artifacts and vibrant live music.

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."

"I loved the authentic Cuban food, especially the classic Cubano sandwich."

"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.

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.

Offers authentic Cuban cuisine passed down through generations with incredible flavors. The ambiance and service match the genuine dining experience.

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 service here is so attentive and made the experience enjoyable."

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
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.

Authentic Argentinian food features loose, oil-based chimichurri and rich tomato sauce on pasta. The beer and overall atmosphere also reflect genuine Argentina style.

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."

"I loved the authentic Argentinian food and beer here."

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.

10
El Sueño image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a spacious outdoor area with space heaters and a well-stocked bar inside. The atmosphere combines good music with a lively vibe, especially in the upstairs speakeasy bar where dancing happens. Tables are often close together, creating a crowded but energetic setting.

Flavors stay true to authentic Mexican cuisine with a contemporary touch. The food offers a delicious and genuine taste experience.

Crab empanadas stand out with their rich seafood flavor and fresh ingredients. They pair well with other dishes but shine on their own.

People are saying

"The food here is really, really good."

"I found the authentic Mexican food had great flavors."

"I'm still dreaming about these crab empanadas."

Good to know

1

For Taco Tuesday, all appetizers and select tacos are 50% off.

2

The grilled fish tacos cost only $4 during happy hour.

3

Happy hour at El Sueño offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

11
Tropical Star Restaurant & Specialty Market image 1

Latin American restaurant combines cozy atmosphere with a miniature bodega offering a wide variety of Hispanic products. Warm and welcoming vibe features cumbia music and a tropical climate feel inside. Food focuses on authentic dishes beyond Mexican cuisine, attracting those seeking diverse Latin flavors.

Food offers authentic Puerto Rican flavors that are fresh and well-prepared. The spot also sells genuine South American spices and grocery items, adding to its authentic Latin vibe.

Argentinian empanadas stand out with their rich flavor and satisfying texture. They pair well with sides like Yuca Fried and buñuelos, making for a solid appetizer choice.

People are saying

"The flavors here are so authentic and bursting with fresh ingredients."

"This market has all the Latin American items you need."

"I found the empanadas and buñuelos delicious."

Good to know

1

Dancing hours start at 9 pm, and the entrance fee is $5.

2

The market has a wide variety of Hispanic products available.

3

Expect affordable prices for meals and market items.

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