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Empanada spots

A warm empanada is the ideal handheld midday meal.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated July 2026
01
Shawarma Xpress Jax Arabian & Latin Fusion image 1
Shawarma Xpress Jax Arabian & Latin Fusion image 2
Shawarma Xpress Jax Arabian & Latin Fusion image 3
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Outdoor seating under a covered pergola with fan coolers creates a comfortable, chill atmosphere that feels like home. Small space fosters a family vibe with a relaxed, open-air setup beside the food truck. Music from a live DJ adds to the inviting energy.

Executive lunches include lentil soup as a tasty option. Weekly charity lunch events take place here. The spot serves Arabian and Latin fusion dishes suitable for lunch.

Crusty and well stuffed empanadas offer full flavors true to Venezuelan style. Options include regular and mini sizes, both tasty any time of day.

People are saying

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"I found the empanadas to be delicious at any time of the day."

"The shawarmas here are the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant hosts a weekly charity lunch event every Wednesday.

2

The restaurant serves Arabian and Venezuelan fusion cuisine.

3

Limited seating means arriving early is advisable to avoid long waits.

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.

Lunch features a Thursday special and draws regulars every week during lunch breaks. Meals come across as consistently good to wonderful in quality.

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."

"I had a great lunch here; it's a wonderful lunch spot."

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 Cuban Place Restaurant image 1

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.

Steak sandwiches and freshly made croquetas stand out on the lunch menu. Casual, welcoming atmosphere suits a relaxed midday 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."

"This lunch spot has amazing food, especially the steak sandwich."

"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.

04
Casa De Monica Restaurant image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small, quaint Colombian restaurant offers outdoor seating amid a busy complex. Atmosphere feels pleasant and clean with authentic Colombian flavors served in generous portions. The place fills up, reflecting its consistent quality and local popularity.

Generous portions and homemade flavor define the lunch offerings here. Prices stay amazing even with the size of the servings.

Freshness stands out with freshly made salsa and empanadas crafted to order. The empanadas taste delicious and meet classic expectations perfectly.

People are saying

"The food here tastes like a delicious, warm hug from grandma."

"These empanadas are delicious and exactly how they should be."

"This lunch spot has amazing, homemade flavor and generous portions."

Good to know

1

Lunch prices are reasonable, with generous portions available.

2

Arepas and several menu items are only served during dinner hours.

3

The restaurant is not wheelchair accessible.

05
Havana Jax Cafe image 1
Cuban restaurant

Spacious Cuban restaurant with chic interior and relaxed vibe where conversation flows easily due to low music levels at dinner. Large event space and lounge add versatility to the atmosphere. Friendly environment feels intimate, especially when quiet.

Offers a pork lunch special and suits business lunches or family gatherings well.

Chicken empanadas come at a very affordable price and taste fantastic. The empanadas have an unbelievable flavor and consistently stand out alongside steak and rice dishes.

People are saying

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

"The service here is excellent, especially from Miguel."

"I found the empanadas here to be outstanding and affordable."

Good to know

1

The DJ plays from 9:25 PM until midnight on event nights.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy weekend nights.

3

Expect a wait time of 30 minutes during peak dining hours.

06
90 Miles from Cuba Authentic Cuban Restaurant image 1

Small, modest space with traditional Cuban decor creates a cozy, lively atmosphere that feels like family. Bustling inside with authentic Cuban music playing, it offers a vibrant, welcoming vibe. Seating is limited, including a tiny outdoor table and a food truck in the parking lot.

Lunch offers great options with plenty to choose from. The spot works well for casual meals or dates and draws frequent visits for its authentic Cuban flavors.

Empanadas come with full flavor and a tasty profile. They pair well with the breakfast Cuban sandwich.

People are saying

"I had the best Cuban sandwich I've ever had."

"This lunch spot has delicious, authentic Cuban food like ropa vieja."

"These empanadas are full of flavor and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy lunch hours.

2

The restaurant offers a special breakfast menu at affordable prices.

3

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

07
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.

Lunch offers great portions with dishes like the rice plate that suit both lunch and dinner well. The experience stays consistent and satisfying.

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."

"This Lunch Spot's Cuban sandwich has great bread and tender meat."

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

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.

08
Mambos Cuban Cafรฉ image 1
Cuban restaurant

Large, clean space with fresh flowers on tables and well-spaced booths creates a welcoming setting. Live Cuban music plays at a comfortable volume, adding to a vibrant yet friendly atmosphere. The mood suits both quiet meals and lively evenings.

Tender, perfectly seasoned Pollo de Oro stands out with a delicious sauce. The spot suits family meals and lunch dates, offering very good Cuban coffee alongside hearty dishes.

Beef and guava empanadas stand out with rich flavors. Chicken and beef empanadas appear alongside guava and cheese varieties, especially noted at the Beach Blvd location.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's Cuban sandwich is juicy, oozing mustard and pickles."

"I found the empanadas here to be delicious and well seasoned."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay an additional $8 for chicken added to your meal.

2

The restaurant charges $3 for a can soda for takeout orders.

3

The total bill can be high; $75 for two without drinks is common.

09
Los Andes Restaurant- Atlantic Blvd image 1

Small, hole-in-the-wall Peruvian restaurant offers a calm, relaxed atmosphere with soft music and a cozy, kitchen-like vibe. The place draws people seeking authentic rotisserie chicken and traditional South American dishes in an affordable, quick-service setting.

Lunch specials come at great prices. Appetizers can be very filling, often leading to leftovers packed in a to-go box.

Flaky and delicious textures define the empanadas here. The aji de gallina variety stands out as especially flavorful and the pollo a la brasa empanadas also impress.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and delicious."

"These empanadas are flaky and stuffed full."

"This Lunch Spot has the best rotisserie chicken, moist and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

Takeout is highly recommended due to inconsistent dining experiences.

2

The restaurant does not have a functioning air conditioning system, making it uncomfortable in hot weather.

3

Prices are considered high for the quality of food offered.

10
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.

Lunch options include sandwiches made with homemade bread, like a chicken sandwich. The spot combines a bakery and fruit juice bar for a fresh midday meal.

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."

"The breads here are warm, soft, and melt in your mouth."

"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.

11
1928 Cuban Bistro - Baymeadows Rd image 1

Small Cuban restaurant with vibrant colors and natural light from big windows creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Seating includes both indoor and dog-friendly outdoor patio areas. The space feels clean and well-organized, inviting guests to linger comfortably.

Lunch features sandwiches and refreshments that satisfy quickly. Options suit a brief stop or a relaxed meal.

Empanadas come filled with flavorful chicken and peppers or juicy beef. They pair well with cafecitos and offer a true taste of Cuban cuisine.

People are saying

"The Cuban Sandwich here is huge, flavorful, and delicious."

"This lunch spot has the most flavorful, perfectly pressed Cuban sandwiches."

"I found the beef empanadas to be super delicious and juicy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 4pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect longer wait times during lunch rush as sandwiches are made to order.

3

The outdoor seating area is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

12
La Bodega Original image 1
Cuban restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall Cuban restaurant with authentic handmade empanadas and huge sandwiches offers a warm, art-filled ambiance. A cute backyard patio with a bar provides extra seating and a relaxed vibe. The menu shows care and thought, serving traditional dishes with bold flavors.

Lunch offers delicious food paired with friendly service. A surprise patio out back provides extra seating for a relaxed meal.

Fresh, handmade empanadas come in a generous size and taste authentic. They pair well with the sauce and offer flavorful, homemade quality.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's Cuban sandwich was huge and delicious."

"I found their fresh, handmade empanadas to be outstanding."

"I loved the cute outdoor patio out back."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open from 10 AM to 3 PM, Monday to Friday.

2

Expect a wait during peak lunch hours, especially around noon.

3

Parking is available in the strip mall lot, but can fill up quickly.

13
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.

Quiet atmosphere during lunch with a lunch menu until 2 pm. Offers generous portions and a variety of choices like quesaburilia and chile relleno, plus fresh chips and salsa.

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."

"This lunch spot's food is always delicious."

"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.

14
Lola's Burrito & Burger Joint image 1

Mexican restaurant with funky decor and wooden bench seating creates a casual, chill vibe. Old school RnB music plays alongside TVs showing sports, blending relaxed and lively energy. Patio welcomes dogs, and margaritas, especially Key Lime and strawberry, stand out as popular drinks.

Taco Tuesday stands out with great tacos and empanadas that impress. Friendly staff like Laine provide quick, attentive service making lunch easy and enjoyable.

Empanadas come with rice and black beans that outshine those at many Mexican spots. The gator taco and guava empanadas stand out, and the hot sauces at the table boost their flavor.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the tacos and burritos."

"The empanadas here are delicious and flavorful."

"The food here is great for a lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all night on Wednesdays for select drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday offers $1 off all tacos.

3

Trivia night happens every Tuesday with fun activities.

15
Puerto Plata Restaurant image 1
Dominican restaurant

Dominican restaurant with a warm, elegant setting and a cozy patio area. Atmosphere feels welcoming and family-friendly, often accompanied by old school merengue music. Generous portions and authentic flavors define the dining experience.

Lunch specials feature affordable prices and a nice variety of options. Presentation quality stands out, with dishes like the filet fish special offered Monday through Friday until 2 p.m.

Beef empanadas stand out with rich flavor and a delicious filling. Cheese and shredded pork versions also offer great variety and taste.

People are saying

"The food here is hot, fresh, and really flavorful."

"I thought the empanadas were great and delicious."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and yummy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a good selection of drinks from 4-6pm daily.

2

Free parking is available near the restaurant.

3

An 18% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

16
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.

Extensive Brazilian buffet offers a feast for the senses with a variety of dishes. Lunch is affordably priced and served by the pound at a self-serve station, making it easy to customize your meal.

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."

"This lunch spot's buffet is a true feast for the senses."

"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.

17
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.

Excellent service stands out during lunch on Fridays. The spot offers a quick and convenient option for midday meals.

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."

"The food and drinks at this Lunch Spot are amazing."

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.

18
Frozen Fusion image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop with vibrant colors and unique decor creates a charming atmosphere that feels like family. Both indoor and outdoor seating accommodate a relaxed, inviting vibe. The menu offers a wide variety including homemade ice cream, pastries, and savory options, making it a versatile spot for treats or meals.

Savory options stand out with baked potatoes featured for lunch. The menu offers a solid variety of breakfast and lunch items that satisfy midday hunger.

Homemade empanadas come in a variety of flavors including a rare pizza empanada. They sit alongside other treats like pao de queijo and muffins, offering a diverse snack selection.

People are saying

"I found the ice cream here to be very good and tasty."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot was super friendly."

"I ordered the empanadas; they're some of the best in Jacksonville."

Good to know

1

Frozen Fusion offers a wide variety of options, including ice cream, specialty coffees, and crepes.

2

They have both indoor and outdoor seating available.

3

Prices are very affordable for the quality of food offered.

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