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Jacksonville's best

Empanada spots

Made for those who want to pair the savory, handheld comfort of an empanada with a sweet dessert finish.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Cuban Place Restaurant image 1
The Cuban Place Restaurant image 2
The Cuban Place Restaurant image 3
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Small space with chic decor and Cuban vibes offers a quiet, welcoming atmosphere. Music plays softly, featuring Cuban tunes that complement the peaceful setting. Cleanliness stands out, creating a comfortable and stylish environment.

Guava pastries and rice pudding stand out as flavorful dessert options. Flan and coffee pair well to finish the meal.

Empanadas come with a crispy outside and are well-seasoned inside. Beef versions are phenomenal, especially the Cuban style with no extra fillings like potatoes.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Cuban and tastes homemade."

"The desserts here are outstanding and delicious."

"I found the chicken empanadas to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portions for the price.

2

Prices are reasonable for individual meals.

3

The restaurant is clean, quiet, and family-friendly.

02
La Nota Restaurant image 1

Large, clean space with lovely decor and an unassuming exterior contrasts with a warm, homey atmosphere that feels like Venezuela. Venezuelan music plays softly, creating a fun and welcoming vibe ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Desserts include pineapple cake and tres leches that taste delicious. They pair well with coffee and complement dishes like arepas and Cubanos.

Empanadas come out super crispy and moist with a unique traditional touch. Options include gluten free corn and rich ground beef varieties that stand out for their flavor.

People are saying

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

"I thought the empanadas here were the best ever."

"The desserts here are delicious, especially the pineapple cake and tres leches."

Good to know

1

The arepa is priced at $15.

2

Half a bowl of soup is served, which may not be enough for some.

3

The restaurant is known for its authentic Venezuelan cuisine.

03
The Bakerโ€™s Son - Jacksonville, FL image 1

Bakery offers a bright modern decor with a Filipino atmosphere and enticing aroma of fresh bread. Space feels cramped and crowded, especially when busy, but outdoor seating with a canopy bench provides relief. The energy is lively, drawing many who appreciate authentic Filipino baked goods and desserts.

Unique Filipino desserts like Halo-Halo, Egg Pie with perfect custard, and pandan rolled cake stand out here. Sweet treats such as ube cinnamon roll, Cassava Cake, Biko Ube, flan, puto, and mamon-like cakes pair well with coffee.

Beef and chicken empanadas stand out with rich fillings and flaky crusts. They pair well with other treats like ube bread and pan de coco.

People are saying

"This Filipino bakery has an endless selection of delicious baked goods."

"I found all the ube desserts to be excellent."

"I highly recommend their delicious empanadas."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early for popular items.

2

The bakery hosts a Sunday halo halo run event, which is popular among locals.

3

Expect a small seating area; takeout is recommended due to limited space.

04
St Gabriel Bakery image 1

Cozy bakery with warm aromas and a homey self-serve setup featuring wicker baskets and tongs. Clean, well-organized space with inviting decor and a village market feel. Friendly, family-like atmosphere encourages lingering at front window seating or outdoor tables.

Pineapple Upside-down cake offers a tasty and affordable dessert option. Desserts look scrumptious and pair well with the delicious breads available.

Pastries include pineapple empanadas that pair well with drinks. Empanadas stand out among the bakery's fresh pastries.

People are saying

"I found the bread and pastries to be amazing and freshly baked."

"You gotta get here early, or the desserts run out by midday."

"These empanadas are fresh, flavorful, and amazing."

Good to know

1

The bakery offers a wide variety of fresh baked goods daily.

2

Prices for baked goods are very reasonable compared to other bakeries.

3

Cash and credit cards are accepted for all purchases.

05
1928 Cuban Bistro - Ortega image 1

Cozy, modern space with authentic Cuban culture and vibrant atmosphere featuring modern pop and reggaeton music at lively volume. The environment feels clean and casual, inviting guests to enjoy flavorful dishes and strong, bold coffee in a relaxed setting.

Desserts include a variety of options with a focus on the Tres Leches dessert that melts in the mouth with a perfect balance of richness and sweetness. The menu offers many delicious choices beyond just desserts.

Empanadas come very fresh with juicy pork stuffing packed to the bursting point. The 1928 empanada with beef and plantain pairs well with red sauce and stands out as a favorite.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and cooked perfectly."

"The Cuban empanada is flavor-packed and like the best Cuban sandwich ever."

"You have to try the Tres Leches dessert; it melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Orders must be placed at the cashier, which can lead to longer wait times.

2

The restaurant closes at 6 PM on weekdays and 4 PM on Sundays.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred for small purchases.

06
Tony's Cantina mexican Grill image 1

Mexican grill with hand-painted murals and glass hearts hanging from the ceiling creates an upscale yet festive atmosphere. Live DJ playing saxophone and a party vibe keep energy lively and celebratory. Unique drink flights and creative dishes like pineapple fajitas add to the engaging experience.

Dessert flights come with margaritas for tasting. Celebrations include a sombrero and song with dessert. The dessert menu covers all classic Mexican sweets.

Empanadas have nice flavor and come as part of a platter with sauces and sides. They pair well with Mexican-fried egg rolls and offer a varied taste experience.

People are saying

"The food here tasted nothing short of amazing."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and chill."

"I thought the empanadas here had nice flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 2-for-1 drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Live music is featured every Friday night starting at 8pm.

3

Taco Tuesday specials include discounted tacos and drinks.

07
Bahama Breeze image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Huge space combines hybrid indoor and outdoor seating with a tropical island vibe and a sports bar atmosphere at the outdoor bar. Live music blends island soul and reggae, creating a laid-back yet lively mood. Quiet indoor areas suit sophisticated diners, while the patio attracts beachcombers and groups.

Pineapple cheesecake empanadas and flambรฉed desserts stand out on the menu. Desserts come as a sweet finish to a Caribbean meal with a variety of options offered.

Beef empanadas come hot and fresh with good seasoning. Pineapple cheesecake empanadas serve as a unique dessert option.

People are saying

"The food portions here are huge and incredibly filling."

"The beef empanadas here are savory and satisfying."

"You have to try the pineapple cheesecake empanadas for dessert."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM Monday through Friday with half-price appetizers.

2

The venue can accommodate large groups, making it suitable for celebrations.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating together.

08
El Taino Restaurant image 1
Puerto Rican restaurant

Spacious dining area with Puerto Rican decor creates a welcoming and authentic atmosphere. Live Spanish music adds lively energy without overwhelming the space. The vibe is comfortable and inviting, reflecting a true taste of Puerto Rico.

Coconut pudding stands out as a dessert made by the owner's daughter and recommended by him. Other options include coconut flan and red velvet cake, often paired with an ice-cold Medalla beer.

Beef empanadas feature seasoned meat and delicious dough. Specials include options like chicken in garlic sauce, with prices around $33 for three empanadas.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and made with love."

"I loved the creamy vanilla flan for dessert."

"The empanadas here are seasoned to perfection."

Good to know

1

Karaoke Night happens every Friday at El Taino Restaurant.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during Friday night karaoke events.

3

The restaurant offers a military discount for service members.

09
Rio Bonito Latino Market image 1

Spacious supermarket with wide variety of Brazilian products and a Brazilian buffet featuring fresh meats and baked goods. Vibrant atmosphere with authentic Brazilian vibe and lively music. Frequented by Brazilian patrons, creating a genuine cultural experience.

Freshly baked Brazilian breads and a variety of desserts fill the bakery section. The dessert case looks appealing and the sweets are consistently excellent.

Beef empanadas stand out with freshly baked dough and a delicious filling. They pair well with cheese bread and are a popular choice among the Brazilian items offered.

People are saying

"This grocery store has amazing Brazilian food, especially the buffet."

"You'll find a great variety of fresh desserts here."

"The beef empanadas here are a 10/10."

Good to know

1

The buffet is available every day except Mondays.

2

Breakfast is served on Sundays, perfect for a weekend treat.

3

The buffet pricing is based on weight, making it flexible for diners.

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