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Empanadas in cafes

You expect a cafe that knows how to handle an empanada properly. You shouldn't have to hunt for a place that respects the integrity of the pastry.

Based on 530 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Lab Coffee - Heights image 1
The Lab Coffee - Heights image 2
The Lab Coffee - Heights image 3
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Small cafe with bare bones aesthetic and vintage anime posters creates a laid back, casual vibe. Crowd is eclectic and friendly, making it a good spot to chat. Space is tight with limited seating, but atmosphere stays welcoming and low stakes.

Specialty coffee with in-house roasting defines this cafe. The cafe con leche stands out as a perfect choice, and their Zeal coffee beans are available for purchase.

Breakfast empanadas come from a local spot and taste exceptional when available early. Chicken empanadas and other bakery items stay fresh and delicious alongside coffee.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee here."

"I loved the coffee and food here; it's all delicious."

"I found the empanadas here to be delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

There is overflow parking behind All YAll Yoga if needed.

2

The Lab Coffee makes their bagels and tortillas in-house.

3

They offer vegan bagel options, including everything and plain.

02
Cafe Luna Suite 138 image 1

Cozy cafe inside an office building features floor-to-ceiling glass windows with views of a pond and fountain. Atmosphere stays calm and relaxing with good music playing softly. Decor is adorable and quaint, creating a welcoming and pleasant vibe.

A cute little cafe with floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooks a pond with a fountain. It serves fresh, cooked-to-order Cuban-Mexican breakfast and snacks with excellent food and service.

Veggie empanadas stand out with their delicious flavor and great size at an affordable price. Colombian and breakfast empanadas offer unique and tasty options that differ from typical versions.

People are saying

"The cafe con leche here is rich, smooth, and delicious."

"I ordered the best breakfast burrito I've ever had."

"I ordered the best breakfast burrito I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Cafรฉ Luna is located within a business complex, making it somewhat hard to find.

2

The cafe closes at 7:00 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Parking is available in the business complex, but it can be limited during peak hours.

03
Cuban Eats image 1
Cuban restaurant

Simple, clean cafe with self-service kiosks and a hot sauce bar offers an urban view from covered seating areas. Atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, attracting many regulars. Known for authentic Cuban dishes like pressed sandwiches and empanadas, it serves generous portions at reasonable prices.

Cafe con leche stands out as a consistent favorite, made fresh and delicious every time. The pan con queso and cheese toast pair well with the coffee, creating a simple and clean cafe vibe inside.

Beef empanadas come in generous portions and pair well with Cuban toast and cafe con leche. They hold up well for gatherings and offer a satisfying, flavorful bite during lunchtime.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee was smooth, rich, and amazing."

"The cafe con leche here is delicious and hits the spot."

"I thought their empanadas were the best I had ever had."

Good to know

1

You must have a card to visit because they do not accept cash.

2

The prices at Cuban Eats are very reasonable, with big portions.

3

They now offer a rewards program for frequent customers.

04
Tango Brew Coffee & Bar image 1

Open-air coffee shop blends bohemian jungle retreat style with Parisian cafe charm, featuring lush greenery and woven textiles. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed daytime calm to lively nights with live music and salsa lessons. Space suits quiet workdays, casual hangouts, and social evenings with curated wines and artisanal coffee.

Open bar seating invites a natural breeze and warmth. The cafe blends Argentine and Italian coffee styles with treats like dulce de leche cafe and empanadas. It serves as a lively community spot with a Parisian vibe.

Empanadas come in beef and cheese and cheese and onion varieties, seasoned perfectly. The dulce de leche medialuna offers a sweet option alongside savory choices.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Argentinian empanadas were the best I've ever had."

"This cafe feels like a Tulum-inspired sanctuary."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for events, especially for larger groups.

2

Latin dance classes are offered in the evenings; check the schedule for times.

3

Street parking is available nearby, making it convenient for visitors.

05
El Jefe Cafe image 1
Cuban restaurant

Modern Cuban cafe with clean, casual decor and a distinct Latin atmosphere offers a comfortable, family-friendly vibe. The place draws a crowd seeking authentic Cuban sandwiches and classic side dishes in a relaxed setting.

Cafe con leche stands out as a key feature, served consistently well and often praised. The egg & avocado sandwich pairs nicely with the coffee, offering a satisfying cafe experience.

Made to order with care, the empanadas come out fresh and satisfying. They stand out as a signature Cuban side alongside crab cakes and perfectly cooked plantains.

People are saying

"I had the best coffee of my life here."

"The cafe con leche here is amazing."

"I loved their empanadas; they didn't disappoint."

Good to know

1

Breakfast prices range from $10 to $20, depending on the dish.

2

El Jefe Cafe adds a 20% tip to the bill automatically.

3

The cafe opens early, making it a good option for breakfast.

06
El Cafetal Bakery and Restaurant image 1

Open, clean space with a mom and pop vibe creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Latino music plays softly, enhancing the casual, homelike feel. A small bar and display of freshly baked goods add to the personable setting.

Cafe con leche stands out as a phenomenal and delicious highlight. The spot offers a genuine Colombian cafe experience paired well with items like empanadas and breakfast.

Beef empanadas stand out for their excellent flavor and homemade style. Large orders are common, showing their popularity for parties and gatherings.

People are saying

"I loved their delicious breakfast pastries and arepas."

"I had the best cafe con leche I have ever tasted."

"These empanadas are fresh and homemade, the best in Tampa Bay."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes for to-go orders.

2

Prices are considered affordable compared to similar restaurants.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

07
West Tampa Sandwich Shop image 1

Mom-and-pop diner inside a renovated house offers authentic Cuban vibe with simple decor featuring photos of notable visitors. The atmosphere is casual and noisy, often chaotic but homey and nostalgic, reflecting vibrant local culture. Seating is tight but comfortable, with an open layout where people find their own way around.

Strong focus on cafe con leche with fresh, flavorful coffee that stands out. Food pairs well with drinks, featuring items like the Cuban sandwich and media Noche that offer authentic tastes.

Empanadas include a ropa vieja filling that offers a nice twist. Guayaba empanada also appears on the menu. Both empanadas and croquettas meet expectations without disappointment.

People are saying

"I thought the Cuban sandwich was the best in Tampa."

"The cafe con leche here is amazing and the best I've ever had."

"I found the Cuban sandwich to be awesome."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect long wait times during lunch hours due to high demand.

3

You can customize your sandwich to suit your taste.

08
La Segunda Bakery and Cafe image 1

Small bakery inside a vintage industrial building offers an authentic Cuban atmosphere with rich aromas and warm, family-like vibe. Space is tight with no seating, creating a bustling, shoulder-to-shoulder experience. Known for best Cuban bread and legendary Cuban sandwiches, it feels like a local treasure with old school charm.

Cafe con leche stands out alongside fresh Cuban bread and pastries like quesitos and pastelitos. Breakfast sandwiches and sweets consistently deliver solid flavors and quality.

Specializes in beef and chicken empanadas that are flavorful but medium-small in size. Each empanada costs around $5, which some find a bit pricey for the portion.

People are saying

"I loved their Cuban sandwich; it's the best I've had."

"You have to try the cafe con leche and guava pastries!"

"I found the empanadas to be delicious."

Good to know

1

La Segunda Bakery and Cafe is takeout only with no tables or outdoor seating nearby.

2

Parking can be difficult, so plan accordingly.

3

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

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