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Guide to San Diego

Empanadas

Made for those who measure the quality of a bakery by the flakiness of their empanada crust.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Empanada Kitchen image 1
Empanada Kitchen image 2
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Small, casual spot offers authentic Argentinian empanadas with savory and veggie fillings like lamb and sweet corn. Cozy, unpretentious vibe feels like a pizza-by-the-slice joint with limited seating and no table service. Empanadas pair well with chimichurri sauce and suit parties or breakfast.

Empanadas come in a great variety including lamb, beef, chicken, and sweet corn with basil. They are flavorful and filling, often paired with chimichurri sauce, and work well as appetizers for parties or breakfast.

People are saying

"These empanadas have unfathomable flavor combinations."

"The food here is delicious and the empanadas are a huge hit."

"Parking Available is tight and might be difficult to find."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is small with only 2 spots for quick pickup.

2

Empanada Kitchen does not have bathrooms available for customers.

3

You can order online for pickup at Empanada Kitchen.

02
La Cucina di Silvana image 1

Bakery serves authentic Peruvian desserts like moist alfajores and rich chocolate cake with balanced sweetness. Peruvian empanadas are a popular, savory choice perfect for sharing. Atmosphere shows careful craftsmanship in every bite, attracting those seeking genuine flavors.

Peruvian empanadas come delicious and authentic here, often ordered by the dozen. They pair well with alfajores and stand out as a popular choice for sharing Peruvian culture through food.

People are saying

"You have to try Silvana's food, especially the alfajores and empanadas."

"I found the empanadas absolutely delicious."

"I thought their Chocolate Cake was the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect to find a variety of traditional Peruvian desserts.

2

Prices for pastries are generally affordable, making it a good value.

3

Reservations are not required, but peak hours may lead to longer wait times.

03
AMICIBAR image 1
Coffee shop

Small house café offers shady outdoor seating under a large tree by a dog park, creating a peaceful vibe. Empanadas filled with egg, potato, and bacon taste savory and satisfying. Games like air hockey add a playful touch to the cozy, art-filled space.

Egg, potato, and bacon fill the empanadas here. They taste very tasty and come with a savory mix of ingredients.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing and has a pure coffee taste."

"It's a shady outdoor spot next to the dog park."

"I found the empanadas here really tasty."

Good to know

1

AMICIBAR is super busy on Saturday mornings due to the farmers market.

2

The café offers solid Wi-Fi for customers.

3

AMICIBAR is a not-for-profit enterprise.

04
Pure Project Balboa Park image 1

Brewery boasts a laid back atmosphere with a dog friendly space and a stunning outdoor patio. Empanadas are flavorful and authentic, perfect for snacking while enjoying great beer and chill rock music.

Flavorful and delicious empanadas stand out here, with a taste that recalls authentic Costa Rican versions. They work well for snacking and come highly recommended alongside the brewery's offerings.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the fantastic, flavorful craft beers here."

"The patio here is huge and great for relaxing outdoors."

"These empanadas are flavorful and killer."

Good to know

1

Food options are not available on-site, so plan accordingly.

2

The brewery is dog-friendly and has a spacious patio.

3

Street parking is available but may require payment.

05
Milonga Empanadas Fashion Valley image 1

Empanadas offer authentic Argentinian flavors with fresh, hot fillings like criolla and chicken. Friendly, inviting atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy fresh, hot food. Dessert and catering options add extra convenience.

Empanadas come out fresh and hot with authentic Argentinian flavors. Varieties like criolla and chicken stand out for their delicious, freshly baked quality.

People are saying

"The empanadas here are authentic, flavorful, and perfectly crispy."

"The empanadas at this mall are flavorful and perfectly crispy."

"These empanadas are some of the best I've had in San Diego."

Good to know

1

They offer a variety of empanadas, including vegetarian options.

2

Catering services are available for events and parties.

3

Desserts are also on the menu, perfect for a sweet treat.

06
Eli's Peruvian Kitchen image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Peruvian tunes sets a warm mood. Beef empanadas are baked to perfection and packed with flavor despite their small size. Clean, elegant interior adds to the home-style vibes making it a true hidden gem for Peruvian food lovers.

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.

07
The Peruvian Spot image 1

Bright, inviting décor creates an authentic Peruvian vibe with a family-friendly play corner. Flaky, savory beef empanadas offer rich flavor, perfectly paired with sweet treats like chocolate cake. Warm, lively atmosphere suits families and groups seeking a relaxed meal.

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.

08
Red Ribbon Bakeshop image 1

Bright bakery offers moist cakes and fresh empanadas with juicy chicken. Prices are fair, with a deal for six plus one free. Occasional live singing adds to the happy atmosphere making it feel like home.

Empanadas come fresh with a savory, sweet pastry dough filled with juicy chicken. Buying six gets a free one, with prices around $23 for six and $45 for a dozen.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and full of authentic Filipino flavors."

"I thought the mango cake was the best I ever had."

"I found the empanadas very delicious."

Good to know

1

The bakery maintains a very clean environment for customers.

2

Prices at the bakery are on the higher side compared to similar establishments.

3

The bakery offers a variety of healthy food options and popular desserts.

09
Jaunt Coffee Roasters image 1
Coffee roasters

Stylish interior with natural skylight and green plants creates a cozy vibe. Beef empanadas have a rich flavor and perfect crust, ideal with coffee. Indoor and dog-friendly outdoor seating offer comfortable spaces for easy conversation.

Beef empanadas stand out with their rich flavor and perfectly baked crust. They pair well with coffee and offer a satisfying snack option.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be exceptional and roasted to perfection."

"These empanadas are so delicious, I could eat them all day."

"I found this cafe to be my favorite in San Diego."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area is easy to find.

2

During busy times, the line could be out the door.

3

The only baked good left was one jalapeño bagel.

10
Saint Cocó Coffee Bar North Park image 1

Coffee shop offers comfortable seating inside and out, perfect for working or relaxing. Bacon and egg empanadas have light crispy breading with tasty fillings, pairing well with Mexican coffee. Space is dog friendly and has a calm, cozy vibe.

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.

11
Mama G’s Kitchen & Sauces image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Small space with colorful Peruvian decor offers a homey vibe and patio seating. Chicken empanadas are incredibly seasoned and pair well with signature sauces. Bar with TVs playing Latin music adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

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 loved eating on the cute patio with great ambiance."

"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.

12
Antojitos Colombianos Restaurant image 1

Colombian restaurant offers a cozy, homey atmosphere with authentic decor and lively football screens. Empanadas with ají sauce deliver a true taste of Colombia. Large, bustling space blends dining with a vibrant sports bar energy.

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.

13
Havana Grill image 1
Cuban restaurant

Indoor space shines with a skylight and authentic Cuban bar tiles. Braised beef empanadas offer rich flavors that satisfy. Live Cuban jazz sets a vibey atmosphere perfect for salsa and chats.

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."

"The desserts are so rich and filling, you'll take some home."

"You have to try these empanadas; they're the best in town."

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.

14
Havana 1920 image 1
Restaurant

Experience authentic Cuban charm with live music and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy crispy Cheese and Guava Empanadas paired perfectly with a Cubano sandwich. Decor features folk art and vintage details for a cozy, immersive vibe.

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."

"The cocktails were gorgeous and tasted even better than they looked."

"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.

15
Puerto La Boca image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Artistic and romantic interior with colorful paintings sets a Buenos Aires vibe. Empanadas are fried Salta style with a crisp beef filling and chimichurri. Live music plays Motown, 70s & 80s R&B, and smooth jazz, keeping energy chill and welcoming.

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."

"The wine selection here is impressive and expertly chosen."

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.

16
Cargo Cafe - Centerside image 1

Small boutique coffee shop offers a landscaped pond and loud music for a lively yet relaxed vibe. Empanadas feature crisp and soft crusts with tasty fillings like soyrizo and caprese. Perfect for casual visits or focused work 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."

"You get one hour of free parking available."

"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.

17
Sabores Colombianos image 1
Colombian restaurant

Cozy space serves authentic Colombian food with hearty empanadas rich in flavor. Bright art and traditional music create a warm, homey vibe. Ají sauce adds a spicy kick, making the experience truly Colombian.

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.

18
El Sueño image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot boasts crab empanadas with fresh seafood flavor and a lively vibe. Spacious outdoor area with space heaters keeps guests warm. Upstairs speakeasy bar offers dancing and a well-stocked bar for a fun night out.

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."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, thanks to Maile's recommendations."

"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.

19
Panchita's Kitchen & Bakery image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with hefty breakfast burritos and a huge empanada selection including the popular Panchita. Cozy seating and a pet-friendly vibe make it welcoming. Outdoor and drive-through options add convenience.

A huge selection of savory empanadas sells out quickly due to their quality. The Panchita empanada stands out as a favorite among the delicious options.

People are saying

"I thought their breakfast burritos were the best I ever had."

"I loved their flavorful salsa verde with a good kick."

"You gotta get here early for the empanadas before they sell out."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 2pm.

2

Finding free parking can sometimes be difficult.

3

The drive-through is useful if I can't find parking.

20
Piedra Santa image 1
Steak house

Converted parking garage offers modern elegant decor with wood ceilings and murals. Cozy seating near a gas fireplace suits date nights and business dinners. Baked empanadas shine with pork in chile verde and chicken florentine flavors, making them a tasty choice.

A baked trio offers pork in chile verde, chicken florentine, and ground beef with black olives, all crispy and tasty. The pork and chicken empanadas stand out as more flavorful than the beef one.

People are saying

"The food and drinks during Happy Hour were delicious."

"The servers here are so friendly, it makes it feel like family."

"The dry-aged steaks are cooked to perfection and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6:30 PM Sunday to Thursday with great deals.

2

Oysters are $1.50 each during happy hour, offering excellent value.

3

A 10 oz New York Strip Steak with mashed potatoes is $24 during happy hour.

21
Brisa Restaurant & Bar image 1

Small space with chic decor offers a quiet vibe with house music. Empanadas are crisp and flavorful, topped with sauces and pico for a messy, tasty bite. Creative cocktails and fresh sushi shine amid close tables, making it a photo-ready spot.

Crisp and flavorful empanadas come topped with three sauces and pico, adding a messy but tasty touch. They pair well with other dishes like octopus and oysters.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are really good and well made."

"The food here is outstanding and unique for date spots."

"The empanadas were crisp, flavorful, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with a special menu.

2

Metered street parking is available, but can be challenging during peak times.

3

Reservations are confirmed multiple times for larger parties.

22
Paraná Empanadas image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Empanadas shine with Malbec beef and vegan jackfruit options. Casual dining offers efficient service and competitive pricing. Each empanada arrives hot, juicy, and packed with bold flavors like spicy beef and creamy green olive sauce.

Empanadas come fresh and juicy, with standout flavors like Malbec beef and creamy green olive sauce on the side. Options include spicy beef, chipotle chicken, mushroom, spinach with cheese, and a vegan jackfruit empanada.

People are saying

"These empanadas are so delicious, I dreamed about them."

"The vegan jackfruit empanada was awesome and flavorful."

"I loved all the hot, flavorful empanadas."

Good to know

1

Pricing is $5 per empanada, with a deal for 3 empanadas for $13.

2

There are various free parking lots surrounding the building within Liberty Station.

3

They offer an amazing selection of vegetarian options and also have a vegan option.

23
Inka'fe SD image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop shines with Peruvian art decor and a homey atmosphere. Empanadas vary but some are delicious and filling. Warm energy supports a women-owned business with unique South American flavors.

Empanadas come microwaved or heated from frozen, often turning out soppy and falling apart. Some are delicious and filling, but quality varies.

People are saying

"I found the Lucuma iced coffee to be amazing and unlike anything I'd tasted."

"I found the chicken empanada delicious and filling."

"This Woman Owned spot's lucuma iced coffee is so yummy."

Good to know

1

Inka'fe SD is a woman-owned coffee shop sourcing beans from female-owned farms in Peru.

2

The latte costs $7, while the cortado is priced at $4.30.

3

Inka'fe SD is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

24
The Rose Wine Bar image 1

Wine bar features a dog-friendly patio and a warm, comfy vibe with natural wines. Beef and carnitas empanadas come with chimichurri sauce and pair well with orange wine. Prices stay moderate, making it a great spot for casual bites and drinks.

Beef and carnitas empanadas come with chimichurri and pair well with orange wine. They appear alongside burgers and potatoes, offering a great price option.

People are saying

"I loved the eclectic wine selection and warm, comfy vibe."

"Their craft cocktails were expertly made and absolutely delicious."

"I loved the empanadas and orange wine."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as it gets busy, especially during dinner hours.

2

You must be 21 or older to sit inside the venue.

3

Parking can be challenging; expect to find spots at least two blocks away.

25
Coffee Cycle Roasting image 1
Coffee roasters

Coffee roasters fill the air with a rich aroma under vaulted ceilings. Mushroom onion empanadas offer a tasty filling but some have a soupy middle. Spacious outdoor patio and a quiet, chill vibe make it perfect for relaxing or meeting friends.

Mushroom onion empanadas have a tasty filling. Some empanadas come with a soupy, cold middle that affects the texture.

People are saying

"This coffee spot became my go-to during my walks."

"The baristas at this Local Spot are so friendly and make you feel welcome."

"The empanadas here are so good, the staff is really nice."

Good to know

1

They roast coffee every Monday on-site.

2

The espresso costs $4.50.

3

The cafe is dog-friendly with an outdoor patio.

26
Pure Project image 1

Small brewery with a calm, organic vibe and a lively patio hosts live bands. Known for an excellent barrel-aged beer program and a wide range of craft beers. Empanadas menu shines with beef and corn fillings, making it a tasty spot for bites.

Menu focuses solely on empanadas now, offering a variety of fillings. Beef and corn options stand out as delicious.

People are saying

"I found the beer selection unique and interesting with great variety."

"The atmosphere here is so chill and the vibes are immaculate."

"I thought their empanadas were really tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arrive early to avoid long lines.

2

The brewery offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

Food trucks are often available nearby, serving a variety of options.

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