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Tampa's best

Empanadas

Empanadas that offer a real variety of fillings instead of just the standard options found in every freezer aisle.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Coco's at 40th St. Restaurant image 1
Coco's at 40th St. Restaurant image 2
Coco's at 40th St. Restaurant image 3
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Enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine in a bright, family-friendly spot with a cozy vibe. Fresh, juicy empanadas with flaky crusts satisfy every bite. Popular Cuban sandwiches and Latin dishes offer genuine flavors at great prices.

Juicy flavors fill a flaky crust in the fresh empanadas. Some get fried fresh, making them delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The staff here is so friendly, it makes the Lunch Spot great."

"I found the empanadas to be delicious with juicy flavors."

Good to know

1

Tuesday is Rabo ensemdido day, featuring special menu items.

2

Expect some items to run out, so arrive early for the best selection.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of sandwiches, smoothies, and hot plates.

02
El sabor de Tampa Venezuelan food image 1

Bright, clean space with a cozy vibe feels like stepping into Venezuela. Empanadas are crispy and well-filled with authentic seasoning. Perfect for family or friends, offering hearty street food with great value.

Empanadas come crispy and well-filled with a fresh, toasted texture. They feature exquisite seasoning typical of Venezuelan cuisine and avoid greasiness.

People are saying

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

"The food here has such an authentic Venezuelan flavor."

"I thought the empanadas here were the best."

Good to know

1

The portions are generous and offered at a good price.

2

Expect to find some of the best empanadas in Tampa here.

3

They offer a variety of traditional Venezuelan dishes.

03
The Lab Coffee - Heights image 1

Small cafe offers breakfast empanadas from a local spot that taste exceptional. Vintage anime posters add to the laid back vibe. Friendly, eclectic crowd makes it a great place to chat despite limited seating.

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."

"Their breakfast burrito is ridiculously good and super yummy."

"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.

04
Are-Pitas Restaurant image 1

Enjoy super large arepas and generous empanadas with rich seasoning and fillings like beef and guava cheese. The quiet, relaxed atmosphere invites calm dining. Fresh pitas with hummus and 100% halal options add unique flavors.

Empanadas come with excellent seasoning and are super filling. They offer generous portions and include varieties like beef and cheese, and guava and cheese.

People are saying

"The empanadas here are amazing and super generous."

"I found the arepas here to be the best I have had."

"I fell in love with their fresh Mediterranean food, especially the pitas and hummus."

Good to know

1

Are-Pitas Restaurant offers a variety of Venezuelan dishes.

2

The restaurant is 100% halal.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

05
Pabellon Food Trailer image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Venezuelan food truck serves authentic empanadas that are hot and crispy with fresh flavors. Affordable prices make it a great spot for casual takeout. Outdoor seating under a tent offers a family-friendly vibe, though tables may be wet after rain.

Empanadas come out hot and crispy with a fresh, authentic Venezuelan taste. They pair well with a variety of sauces that add extra flavor to each bite.

People are saying

"The Venezuelan food here is outstanding and delicious."

"I thought the empanadas had the best authentic Venezuelan flavor."

Good to know

1

The price is very affordable at approximately $4.50 each.

2

Parking can be difficult; consider entering through the alley behind the food cart.

3

They offer a large selection of flavors and menu items.

06
Mari Mexican Tacos image 1

Cozy spot serves authentic Mexican flavors with generous portions. Beef and chicken empanadas are fresh and rich, pairing well with classic tacos and sopes. Casual vibe makes it a favorite for genuine Mexican food.

Beef and chicken empanadas come out fresh and tasty with rich meat fillings. They pair well with tacos and sopes, offering a delicious and satisfying option.

People are saying

"I thought these were the best tacos I had in Tampa."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and a great price."

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

Good to know

1

From 11am to 2pm, they offer a lunch special where you can choose any item from the menu for $10.

2

The lunch menu is very affordable with generous portions.

3

Expect fresh ingredients in every dish, as everything is homemade.

07
SATA Empanada image 1
Restaurant

Small spot with authentic Iranian-style empanadas offers quick, fresh meals in a calm, clean setting. Friendly service complements meat-packed empanadas and the best lentil soup in Tampa. Outdoor picnic tables add to the welcoming vibe.

Empanadas come fresh and filled with meat-packed options like steak, mushroom, chicken, and ground beef. They taste wonderful, stay non-greasy, and serve quickly with friendly service.

People are saying

"These empanadas are so fresh and delicious."

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

"The owner is the sweetest person and gave us free soup."

Good to know

1

SATA Empanada is only a takeout place with two picnic tables outside.

2

Prices are reasonable for the menu items offered.

3

They offer multiple flavors and have menus in both Spanish and English.

08
Soul de Cuba Cafe image 1
Cuban restaurant

Vibrant decor honors black Tampa legacies and family history, creating an authentic Cuban vibe. Live music with soulful guitar and DJ sets energizes the space. Empanadas shine with guava cream cheese and oxtail fillings, offering bold flavors that match the culture.

Empanadas stand out with guava and cream cheese and oxtail fillings. The chicken empanada and picadillo also offer strong flavors that complement Cuban dishes well.

People are saying

"The Cuban sandwich food here has the best flaky bread and roasted pork."

"I found the food to be 100% authentic Cuban, just like grandma would cook."

"The guava and cheese empanadas are a perfect flavor combination."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Wednesday night, starting at 8pm.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger parties or special events.

3

Parking is available on the street, but it can be limited during busy hours.

09
Capricho's deli Coffee image 1

Small family-run spot serves authentic Dominican breakfast in a cozy, homey space with friendly vibes. Beef and crab empanadas shine with rich flavor while veggie options satisfy. Locals love the affordable prices and spotless interior.

Beef and crab empanadas stand out for their quality and flavor. The veggie empanadas also offer a solid option alongside these well-crafted savory pastries.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and plentiful."

"The staff here makes you feel like family during breakfast."

"I found the empanadas here to be the best."

Good to know

1

The deli offers a variety of Dominican breakfast and lunch options.

2

Expect a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with a local vibe.

3

Vegetarian options are available for those who don't eat meat.

10
Alabao Food Trucks image 1
Fast food restaurant

Food trucks serve authentic flavor in a cozy atmosphere with ample parking. Empanadas feature a light, crispy crust and come with a special dipping sauce. Fresh, well-seasoned dishes like fajitas and croquettes satisfy diverse tastes.

Empanadas come in two meat varieties with a light and crispy crust. A flavorful filling pairs well with a special dipping sauce that enhances the taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes so fresh."

"The empanadas here are light, crispy, and delicious."

"I had the best fajitas I have had in ages."

Good to know

1

The food trucks are located at the corner of Hillsborough and Hanley.

2

The prices are very reasonable.

3

Expect a variety of authentic flavors from different cuisines.

11
Salteñas Chasqui image 1
Latin American restaurant

Small gas station spot serves authentic Bolivian cuisine with unique liquid-filled empanadas that act as full meals. Busy, lively vibe draws Bolivians craving familiar tastes. Dishes come with llajua with quirquiña, a spicy sauce enhancing the genuine experience.

Empanadas here feature a liquid soup filling inside, similar to Latin soup dumplings, making each one a filling meal on its own. The saltenas stand out as a unique Bolivian style, offering a taste not commonly found in the area.

People are saying

"The Bolivian food here is authentic and delicious."

"The authentic Bolivian food here tastes like home."

"I found the empanadas unexpectedly delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Salteñas Chasqui is the only Bolivian restaurant in the Greater Tampa Area.

2

Expect to wait as the place is often busy.

3

The restaurant is located inside a Marathon Gas Station.

12
Caribbean Sandwich Shop image 1

Cozy shop offers authentic chicken empanadas that kids love. Friendly, family-run vibe creates a welcoming atmosphere. Breakfast options pair well, making it a great spot for casual meals.

Chicken empanadas stand out with authentic taste and affordability. Kids enjoy them a lot, and the breakfast options complement the empanadas well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with authentic Caribbean flavor."

"I thought the Cuban sandwich here was delicious and perfectly pressed."

"These empanadas are amazing and full of authentic taste."

Good to know

1

The place is very clean and maintains high hygiene standards.

2

Expect generous portions at affordable prices.

3

The shop is known for its excellent sandwiches and breakfast options.

13
LOS PERRITOS DE YANECITA image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian hot dogs and made-to-order empanadas shine with rich flavors like guava and cheese. Cozy, welcoming vibe suits friends and family gatherings. Menu blends classic comfort food with innovative twists for a unique taste experience.

Empanadas come with guava and cheese, roast beef, and chicken fillings. They are made to order and have an exquisite flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"I loved their empanadas; they were delicious with exquisite flavor."

"The service here is excellent and fast."

"I thought the baked potato was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The food truck offers customizable hot dogs for $15.

2

All food is prepared within 15 minutes.

3

Expect a busy lunch hour; arrive early to avoid long lines.

14
El Paraiso Cafe image 1
Cuban restaurant

Small Cuban spot offers delicious empanadas in a cozy, mom and pop setting. Prices stay affordable, perfect for working folks near the industrial area. Pair empanadas with Cuban coffee for a tasty, budget-friendly meal.

Delicious empanadas come in orders of three and pair well with Cuban coffee. A meal with empanadas and drinks costs around 17 dollars.

People are saying

"The food here tastes just like homemade, delicious cooking."

"This lunch spot's food was delicious and fresh."

"You have to try their delicious empanadas."

Good to know

1

Breakfast costs under $8, making it an affordable option.

2

The cafe has a small parking lot, but there's additional parking in the back.

3

The menu is simple and made to order by friendly staff.

15
Pabellon restaurant & bar image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Venezuelan restaurant shines with authentic empanadas featuring a crispy crust and rich fillings like pabellón. Cozy, family-oriented atmosphere mirrors Venezuelan culture closely. Owners create a welcoming, genuine experience that feels like home.

Empanadas feature a crispy crust and flavorful filling that stays fresh. The Venezuelan style, especially the pabellón, remains authentic and highly regarded.

People are saying

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

"These Venezuelan empanadas are the best I've ever had."

"I enjoyed the authentic Venezuelan flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect generous portions at reasonable prices, making it a good value.

3

Cash and credit cards are accepted for payment.

16
Rachel's Place image 1
Bar & grill

Neighborhood bar offers a laid-back vibe with four pool tables and darts for fun. Owner Rachel serves flaky empanadas packed with flavor. TVs show sports, making it a great spot for casual socializing.

Flaky empanadas packed with flavor stand out here. The owner, Rachel, also bartends and makes great empanadas.

People are saying

"The pool tables here are nice and bar-sized."

"The bartender Rachel is pretty cool and a mixologist."

"The empanadas here are warm and hilarious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $1 tacos, while Thursday features 75-cent wings.

2

Happy hour provides cheap drinks, making it a popular time to visit.

3

Pool tables are free to use from Monday to Friday until 8 pm.

17
Palaus Restaurant image 1
Cuban restaurant

Small, cozy spot with a family atmosphere and authentic Cuban vibe. Locals enjoy crispy empanadas like crab and beef. Known for excellent Cuban sandwiches and homemade coffee served in large portions at great prices.

Empanadas come crispy and fresh, with options like crab, chicken, and beef. The Carne Empanada stands out alongside other hearty choices.

People are saying

"I thought the Cuban food here was the best I've ever had."

"I thought the coffee here was phenomenal, truly the best I've tasted."

"These empanadas are so crispy and fresh!"

Good to know

1

Palaus Restaurant closes at 3:00 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

There is a free parking lot available for customers.

3

Expect large portion sizes, making it a good value.

18
Mr Empanada - South Tampa image 1

Cafe-style setup offers a friendly atmosphere with spacious seating. Empanadas are bold flavored and served quickly by friendly staff. Clean, quiet space ensures a relaxed dining experience.

Empanadas come fresh and packed with bold flavor every time. Staff serve them quickly with a friendly vibe that keeps people coming back.

People are saying

"I always found their empanadas to be amazing."

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

"I considered the Italian salad to be the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging depending on the time of day due to the busy plaza.

2

The wait for food is typically fast, making it convenient for diners.

3

Prices are reasonable, and the restaurant offers a large amount of food for the price.

19
El Che & Habibi Grill image 1

Food truck serves huge portions blending Argentinian and Lebanese flavors with fresh dishes. Empanadas shine with crispy crust and perfect filling balance, especially the pizza variety. Outdoor seating offers shaded areas and games, creating a fun vibe with quick service.

Empanadas have a perfectly crispy crust with a best filling to dough ratio. The pizza empanadas stand out as next level and very tasty.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The food trucks here serve incredibly fresh, authentic Lebanese and Argentinian dishes."

"I found the empanadas here to be the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The food truck is open 7 days a week.

2

Expect a short wait time for freshly made food.

3

All dishes come with free French fries.

20
KE´KAI image 1
Restaurant

Food truck serves fresh homemade tacos and meat empanadas like shredded beef and shrimp. Outdoor seating offers a calm, friendly vibe with pleasant music and plants. Pair empanadas with mango juice for a tasty combo at reasonable prices.

Meat empanadas stand out with options like shredded beef, ground turkey, and shrimp. Pairing them with mango juice highlights the flavors well.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and authentic."

"The service here is so sweet and helpful for Date Spots."

"I found the empanadas here to be beyond delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices at KE´KAI are reasonable and affordable for everyone.

2

The food truck offers fresh and homemade food options.

3

There are only a few tables available for dining.

21
SOUTH TAMPA SANDWICH SHOP image 1

Sandwich shop offers a cozy atmosphere with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Empanadas feature a guava and cheese filling that stands out. Breaded chicken sandwich is also a top choice here.

Empanadas come with a guava and cheese filling and serve as a generous portion. The breaded chicken sandwich is also a standout alongside the empanadas.

People are saying

"This Cuban food is some of the best I've ever eaten."

"I found the Cuban sandwich to be authentic and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

Parking at the shop is very limited, so arrive early.

2

Expect long wait times during lunchtime, especially on weekdays.

3

Menu prices are affordable, with sandwiches averaging $8-9.

22
Bella Colombia Restaurant image 1
Colombian restaurant

Cozy Colombian spot serves authentic dishes with generous portions at great prices. Empanadas are delicious and pair well with green chili hot sauce. Warm, family-friendly vibe makes it perfect for quiet conversations.

Empanadas come with a great taste and pair well with green chili hot sauce. They stand out as delicious and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The food here is always delicious and authentic."

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

Good to know

1

Lunch meals are generous in portion size, providing good value for the price.

2

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly dining option.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment during visits.

23
Boriplata LLC image 1
Puerto Rican restaurant

Puerto Rican restaurant offers authentic Caribbean culture with a family-friendly vibe and shaded seating. Empanadas, especially chicken and pizza, burst with fresh, rich flavors. Prices stay affordable, making it a warm, inviting spot to enjoy great food.

Empanadas deliver a bomb of freshness with standout options like chicken empanadas and pizza empanadas. They come packed with rich flavors that consistently impress.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, well-flavored, and served warm."

"I loved the authentic Dominican and Puerto Rican food here."

"The Philly cheesesteak empanadas are awesome and filled with meat."

Good to know

1

The prices at Boriplata LLC are very affordable.

2

The portions are generous, suitable for sharing.

3

The Philly cheesesteak over rice is a hidden gem not listed on the menu.

24
The Twisted Vegan image 1
Vegan restaurant

Upstairs spot serves 100% plant-based food with flaky empanadas filled with mild curry. Vibe is chill and perfect for quick bites. Location is discreet but draws both vegans and non-vegans for soulful flavors.

Empanadas come with flaky crusts and flavorful fillings like curry that is mild but tasty. They are smaller in size but maintain authentic quality and good flavor.

People are saying

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

"The vegetarian burger here is a 10/10."

"These empanadas are so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is takeout only, with no option for dining in.

2

Online or call-ahead orders are required; no walk-in orders accepted.

3

The entrance is hard to find, located upstairs with no signage.

25
Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Cozy yet modern barbecue spot offers an indoor smoke room and drive-thru option for convenience. Brisket and mac and cheese empanadas deliver rich fillings with excellent flavor. Regulars praise top-notch ribs and brisket, making it great for casual dining and catering.

Brisket and mac and cheese empanadas stand out with rich fillings and excellent flavor. Staff responds positively to praise about the empanadas, which many find worth ordering again.

People are saying

"I thought their classic BBQ was very good."

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

"The brisket empanadas here are amazing and not greasy."

Good to know

1

They offer lunch specials every day of the week.

2

Mighty Quinn's has a drive-through for convenient takeout.

3

Catering services are available for events and private parties.

26
Mi Patria Bakery image 1

Small shop serves Colombian pastries and sandwiches with crunchy empanadas paired with zesty salsa. Warm, inviting atmosphere offers comfort and tradition at reasonable prices. Grab-and-go setup welcomes everyone, making it easy and friendly.

Crunchy outer shells hold rich, comforting fillings in the Colombian empanadas. A small cup of zesty, spicy salsa comes on the side, enhancing the flavor with every dip.

People are saying

"I thought this bakery was the best in Tampa."

"I found the Colombian empanadas here to be the best in Florida."

"You have to try their pastries; they're the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The bakery offers a variety of pastries and sandwiches for grab and go.

2

Prices are affordable, making it a great option for breakfast or lunch.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere perfect for a quick meal.

27
Vizcaya SoHo image 1
Spanish restaurant

Converted gas station offers a cozy atmosphere with intimate seating and lively live music. Homemade chicken and beef empanadas shine alongside seafood paella. Every table feels social and well-decorated, perfect for a flavorful meal.

Chicken and beef empanadas feature on the menu alongside dishes like seafood paella and patatas bravas. These empanadas stand out as homemade and flavorful options among other appetizers.

People are saying

"The seafood paella and sole fish were great."

"The food here is authentic, with rich Spanish flavors."

"I highly recommend checking out these empanadas."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Expect limited drink options; only plain soda is available for non-alcoholic choices.

3

Portions are small, so consider ordering multiple dishes.

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