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Empanadas and soup in Illinois

A bowl of soup and a few empanadas are the perfect remedy for a long day.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Carato’s Venezuelan Restaurant image 1
Carato’s Venezuelan Restaurant image 2
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Cozy space with warm, welcoming atmosphere feels like home rather than a typical restaurant. Slow-cooked meats and fresh arepas fill the air, creating an authentic Venezuelan vibe. A robot waiter delivers drinks while pleasant, varied music plays, adding a unique touch.

Beef soup stands out with its rich flavor and includes vegetables in the special version. The soup overall tastes delicious and satisfying.

Crispy, thin dough wraps huge empanadas stuffed with flavorful chicken. A touch of sweetness in the crust contrasts well with the savory filling.

People are saying

"These empanadas are crispy, flavorful, and have a perfect crust."

"The Venezuelan food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"I found the soup to be delicious and tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant's hours are inconsistent; check before visiting.

2

Parking is limited in the shared plaza.

3

Prices are affordable, and portions are generous.

02
Pupuseria Cheros image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Small restaurant with colorful Latin American decor creates a warm, authentic atmosphere that feels like home. The space is clean and inviting, filled with friendly energy and low-volume music that encourages conversation.

Chicken soup stands out as a hot and tasty Salvadoran remedy that feels like home cooking. Other options include beef soup and cow's foot soup, all served with authentic flavors.

Empanadas come in perfect size with enough vanilla custard in the sweet version. The carne empanadas stand out with rich, savory filling.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes homemade."

"I found the empanadas and quesadillas tasted great."

"This chicken soup is delicious and authentic, like home cooking."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to limited seating.

2

Expect a wait for tables during peak dining hours.

3

The horchata contains peanuts, which may affect those with allergies.

03
La Vieja Castilla image 1
Spanish restaurant

Cozy restaurant with Old World style and rustic elegance creates an intimate, homey atmosphere. Light music and occasional live performances keep energy mellow and inviting. Guests enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine paired with balanced sangria and strong margaritas.

Tomato soup stands out as a highlight, often served with complimentary bread. Lentil soup also appears as a favored option, adding variety to the soup choices.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with fresh, perfectly cooked fillings. They come alongside other dishes like seafood paella and flan, making for a well-rounded meal.

People are saying

"These empanadas are golden, crispy, and filled with savory goodness."

"This family-owned spot has amazing, authentic Spanish cuisine."

"I loved the lentil soup; it was hearty and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties due to limited seating.

2

Parking can be challenging, especially on busy weekends.

3

Expect a quieter atmosphere, suitable for intimate dining experiences.

04
Top Arepa Venezuelan Food image 1

Bright, spacious restaurant with simple decor offers a family-friendly atmosphere and music that recreates the feeling of being in Venezuela. The vibe is warm and welcoming, perfect for sharing meals like delicious arepas and empanadas. The energy stays relaxed and inviting throughout visits.

Cruceta soup offers a Venezuelan flavor that satisfies cravings and stands out for its taste. The Cruzado soup is recommended for a hangover and pairs well with other dishes like the Christmas plate.

Empanadas come with fillings like shredded beef, cheese and bacon, and seafood with jalapeño cheese. A green sauce and other complementary sauces add extra flavor to the dishes.

People are saying

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

"These empanadas are simply delicious and perfectly crispy."

"I found the soup to be delicious and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

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

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

05
The Lanzaga image 1
South American restaurant

South American restaurant blends chic and cozy design with warm lighting and board games for a relaxed vibe. Atmosphere suits both intimate dinners and lively gatherings with a laid-back, inviting energy. Space includes couches and a play area, supporting local art and music for a community feel.

Hearty soups feature chicken and vegetables like corn, potatoes, celery, and pumpkin. Fish soup and stuffed yellow pepper also stand out for their rich flavors.

Empanadas come with a perfectly crispy outside and tender meat inside. Brisket empanadas stand out with incredible flavors that pair well with coffee.

People are saying

"The food here is simple but fantastic."

"The fish soup here is superb."

"These empanadas are to die for, especially the brisket."

Good to know

1

The Lanzaga allows customers to bring their own alcohol.

2

They just started serving dinner five months ago.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere with a focus on South American cuisine.

06
QUERICOZON BELMONT image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Cozy space with a homey vibe and warm atmosphere creates a welcoming casual dining experience. Good music adds to the pleasant energy. Known for authentic Venezuelan food, especially large, delicious empanadas and excellent traditional dishes.

Rib soup stands out with deep, rich flavors that feel like a whole country passing through your palate. The tripe soup ranks among the best in Chicago, and the mondongo soup offers a distinct, exquisite taste.

Golden, crisp, and flaky dough holds up well to rich, well-balanced fillings like classic beef, chicken, and seafood. Portions are large but not overwhelming, making them great for a snack or meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"These empanadas are huge and filled with delicious ingredients."

"You have to try the rib soup; it's on another level."

Good to know

1

The prices are very competitive and fair.

2

The portions are generous for the price.

3

The establishment is very clean and tidy.

07
Peru Criollo image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant with colorful textiles and traditional art creates an authentic setting. Atmosphere stays lively yet intimate, with salsa music at a comfortable volume. Small, cozy space features custom-made lights and welcomes BYOB with a corkage fee.

Soups here include a beef-and-noodle Sopa Criolla with a poached egg and potato, a seafood Shupa de camarones, and a green chicken soup. The seafood soup stands out as a popular choice.

Empanadas come out perfectly savory and crispy, making them a standout dish alongside the churrasco and mariscos.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes like Peru."

"The empanadas here are very tasty."

"This hearty Sopa Criolla soup is rich with authentic Peruvian flavor."

Good to know

1

Heads up: Peru Criollo is BYOB, but they charge a small corkage fee.

2

Reservations are recommended for weekend dining to avoid long waits.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during peak hours.

08
Calle De Sabores image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere with great music and a welcoming vibe. The space blends elements of a bakery, bar, and restaurant, creating an interesting mix. It serves authentic dishes like empanadas and Bandeja Paisa, known for their fresh and savory flavors.

Pajarilla soup appears on the menu, a rare find not seen in restaurants for years. Other options include chicken and potato soup and egg soup.

Meat empanadas stand out with their freshness and rich flavor. The Hawaiian and beef varieties pair well with a refreshing ají that complements their taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and filling."

"These empanadas are delicious and meaty."

"I enjoyed traditional Colombian dishes like Changua and Ajiaco soup."

Good to know

1

The prices are affordable for Colombian food.

2

The portions are large, providing good value.

3

A 20% service fee is automatically added to the bill.

09
My Pollo image 1
Halal restaurant

Rotisserie chicken stands out with juicy, tender meat and perfect seasoning. Interior offers a clean, well-maintained space with interesting decorations and a plasma TV. The place stays busy with both dine-in and carry-out, serving affordable, generous portions.

Free chicken soup comes with dine-in meals and tastes very good. The encebollado soup offers a healthier option and brings a comforting, homemade feel.

Empanadas come crispy and tasty with a chicken filling that stands out. Sauces complement the flavors well.

People are saying

"I found the empanadas here to be crispy and tasty."

"This encebollado soup brought back beautiful memories."

"The dinner spots here have delicious food with fair portions."

Good to know

1

The restaurant strictly serves chicken dishes only.

2

Dine-in customers receive a free chicken soup.

3

Prices are affordable, feeding a group of six for about $50-60.

10
Qué bolà! Cuban Cafe image 1
Cuban restaurant

Cozy, colorful space filled with salsa music and Cuban murals creates a lively, authentic vibe. Small, spotless interior with vibrant decor transports diners to Havana. Music and atmosphere invite a spirited, immersive Cuban experience.

Soups here are rich and savory with the right spices. The soup of the day often includes chicken, potatoes, carrots, and corn, but portions are smaller than expected.

Chicken empanadas stand out with their rich flavor and well-seasoned filling. They pair well with sides like Yuca Frita and Guacamole with Fried Plantains.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be so authentic and delicious, just like home cooking."

"I thought the Cubano sandwich was the best I have ever had."

"The chicken soup was rich, savory, and had the right spices."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9:00 PM, so arrive early for dine-in.

2

They offer takeout if you arrive close to closing time.

3

Parking is available, but a pick-up lane is recommended.

11
DreamCatcher Café image 1

Space combines artistic charm with cozy cushioned seating and striking blue tiles, creating a welcoming, relaxing vibe. Backroom serves as an event space, and a yoga studio adds to the community feel. Atmosphere feels intentional and inviting, with subtle patterns adding warmth without overwhelming.

Lentil soup stands out as a solid choice. Options include butternut squash and creamy poblano soups worth trying.

Empanadas come with a cilantro jalapeno crema that adds a fresh, spicy kick. Varieties like chorizo potato and beans and cheese offer bold, comforting flavors.

People are saying

"I loved their smooth and refreshing cold brew coffee."

"These empanadas are so delicious, flavorful, and comforting."

"I thought the lentil soup was really good."

Good to know

1

Yoga classes are hosted every Saturday at the café.

2

Free parking is available on the side of the café.

3

The café has plenty of charging outlets for studying or working.

12
EL RINCON DE FABIO LLC image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Small space filled with beautiful Venezuelan decor and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Latin music plays softly, creating an awesome vibe that feels welcoming and pleasant. Outdoor patio offers a nice option for seating in good weather.

Sancocho offers a warm, brothy base filled with chunks of potato, beef, and chicken. The beef soup tastes homemade and captures a Venezuelan flavor.

Empanadas feature a perfect crust and seasoned stuffing that stands out. The shredded beef empanadas come with a fire sauce that adds a warm, satisfying kick.

People are saying

"I found the pabellón arepa to be delicious."

"These empanadas have a perfect crust and bold, seasoned fillings."

"I found the sancocho soup warm and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Free drinks are offered after 5pm every day.

2

Enjoy free margaritas daily after 2:00 PM.

3

Free wine is available on Fridays.

13
La Marina Mariscos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious interior features live mariachi music and a live DJ with music videos on large screens, creating a loud, energetic atmosphere especially during karaoke nights. Decor is colorful and inviting, with numerous TVs showing sports. The vibe blends festive Mexican elements with a lively social scene.

Seafood soup offers a very flavorful and tasty experience. Some soups come piping hot and extremely spicy with chilies, and others are served in unusual tall cocktail glasses.

Shrimp and cheese fill the empanadas here, making them stand out. They offer a rich flavor that many enjoy.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the oysters and octopus, is amazing."

"I really liked the empanadas here; they're some of the best I've had."

"The seafood soup is amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

On Wednesdays, $5 margaritas are available all day with Hornitos tequila.

2

Taco Tuesday features $1.99 tacos, including shrimp.

3

Happy hour offers half-price drinks from 5 to 7 pm Monday through Thursday.

14
Sabe a Zulia image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Venezuelan restaurant offers authentic Zuliana dishes with home-cooked flavors and comfortable seating. Atmosphere ranges from warm and welcoming to occasionally noisy and crowded, with Latin music playing. Empanadas stand out as a favorite among typical Venezuelan foods served.

Soups here have a rich and flavorful profile, especially the chicken and gratin chicken soups. The rib soup stands out but can be too rich for some tastes.

Beef empanadas stand out with generous, well-seasoned filling and a creamy green sauce. The dough has great texture, and the shredded beef version hits a perfect balance of taste and texture.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reminds you of home."

"These empanadas are top-tier, well-seasoned, and flavorful."

"I found the soup to be delicious and rich."

Good to know

1

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

2

The average meal costs around $76 for two people.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits.

15
POLOMBIA image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant blends Polish and Colombian cuisines with a small but creative menu featuring many vegetarian options. Atmosphere feels serene and lovely, offering a unique cultural fusion experience. Food combines savory and sweet flavors with standout dishes like the Pączki Burger and Arepa-Ski.

Lentil soup stands out with its hearty texture and solid flavor. The cabbage soup resembles Bigos but lacks its traditional depth.

Savory vegetarian empanadas blend pierogi and empanada qualities, creating a unique hybrid. They pair well with other dishes and come highly recommended.

People are saying

"The Polish-Colombian fusion food here is a must-try for date spots."

"I enjoyed the lentil soup; it was super tasty and fresh."

"These empanadas are so fresh and tasty!"

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a small menu with vegetarian options available.

2

Prices can be confusing; verify the total before paying.

3

Ask for Phil if you have dietary restrictions for added safety.

16
Chilango Mexican Street Food image 1

Mexican street food spot offers a cozy, homey atmosphere with bright chairs and a small, inviting space. The vibe stays lively and casual without feeling crowded, accompanied by fantastic music that enhances the experience.

Chicken tortilla soup offers a satisfying and versatile experience, often paired with torta for dipping. The soup tends to be mild and can feel bland when sipped alone.

Empanadas come fresh and hot, with a roasted filling that stands out. Varieties like chicken mushroom and spinach offer distinct flavors, paired well with sauces like the Puerto Rican mayo-ketchup.

People are saying

"The Mexican food empanadas are loaded with bananas and Nutella."

"These tacos are loaded and bursting with flavor."

"This Nutella and banana empanada is pure happiness."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available on a late Saturday afternoon.

2

The process of placing a pickup order is super easy and smooth.

3

Expect a wait during busy times due to to-go orders.

17
Sabe a Zulia Winston Plaza image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Space offers a family-friendly and warm atmosphere filled with authentic Venezuelan details that evoke a sense of home. Music and live performances on Fridays add to the pleasant, lively vibe. Decor is clean and thoughtfully arranged, enhancing the welcoming environment.

Beef soup and rib soup stand out with strong, rich flavors. Weekly menus often include soup options that pair well with grilled dishes.

Empanadas come out very fast, often in less than 5 minutes, suggesting they are pre-made. The dough is notably hard, and reheating can be uneven, sometimes causing discomfort after eating.

People are saying

"I found the Venezuelan food here to be the best."

"The soup here has such an authentic Zulia flavor."

"These empanadas taste like they're from Maracaibo."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby for customers.

2

Prices are affordable, offering good value for the portions.

3

The restaurant serves authentic Venezuelan dishes.

18
Necessary & Sufficient Coffee - Printers Row image 1

Cafe offers spacious seating with large open windows facing the street, creating a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere. Live DJs and local art displays add to the creative and chill vibe. Both indoor and outdoor areas provide comfortable spots for work or relaxation.

Lentil soup stands out as a comfort food option that remains healthy. It pairs well with brioche, making it a solid choice among the non-coffee items.

Large empanadas come with a curry filling and a side of chimichurri. Small plates include tasty empanadas with creative twists like a smoked salmon bagel version.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be good and smooth."

"The automatic gratuity here really threw me off."

"I thought the empanadas here were delicious."

Good to know

1

They invest heavily in community events and support numerous local small businesses.

2

Sundays are lively with a DJ setting the tone for the day.

3

They automatically add a 15% gratuity to all orders.

19
La Colonia Restaurante image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant with an intimate bar nook and a cute outdoor patio hosts lively, loud music that creates a nightclub-like atmosphere. The vibe is welcoming and vibrant, drawing people who enjoy energetic dining experiences.

Seafood soup comes in large portions and is flavorful. Caldo de bola features a plantain dumpling but often arrives lukewarm along with other cold plates.

Empanadas de Carne stand out as a delicious appetizer. They pair well with giant margaritas enjoyed on the outdoor patio.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the service is excellent."

"I enjoyed the delicious empanadas; they had a special, homemade quality."

"I was impressed by the large portion size of their soup."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is located behind the building.

2

Expect a wait time of around 10 minutes for food during busy hours.

3

Prices are generally considered great for the quality of food offered.

20
Carbon Express Colombian Cuisine image 1

Restaurant offers an authentic Colombian atmosphere with a warm and inviting vibe that makes people feel at home. Music adds to the experience, creating a cool and enjoyable ambiance. Clean and visually appealing space includes an open door for fresh air, enhancing comfort despite occasional heat.

Soups here are delicious and filling, with options like the patacon soup standing out. The kitchen handles issues by offering free replacements when needed.

Empanadas come hot and packed with flavor, available in both chicken and beef varieties. The yucca empanadas stand out as a tasty appetizer option.

People are saying

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

"The chicken and beef empanadas were hot and delicious."

"I found the soup to be super delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $15 for small dishes like 'lechona'.

2

Juices and appetizers are considered overpriced for their size.

3

Hygiene issues were noted during a health inspection.

21
Sayulita Taco, Mariscos and Tequila Bar image 1

Colorful, vibrant decor and an open layout with a semi-open kitchen create a lively setting. Music plays at a comfortable volume, enhancing the upbeat and friendly atmosphere. Signature margaritas and standout seafood dishes add to the overall experience.

Soups here reach a next level of flavor. The siete mares soup stands out, and the tortilla soup looks amazing.

Empanadas come with attractive presentation and are cooked well. Each one is packed with flavor and pairs nicely with other dishes like tacos and ceviche.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is superb, with tender chicken and amazing flavors."

"The siete mares soup looked amazing and was tasty."

"The empanadas here are packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9 pm, but orders are accepted until then.

2

Expect higher prices for menu items compared to similar restaurants.

3

The menu offers a wide variety of options for both meat lovers and vegans.

22
La Parrilla Latin Food Irving Park image 1
Nuevo Latino restaurant

Nuevo Latino restaurant with authentic Colombian decor and colorful murals creates a warm, quiet atmosphere that invites leisurely dining. Great Latin music enhances the vibe, while a family-run feel adds to the welcoming environment.

Sancocho soup stands out with its delicious flavor and comes with an appetizer. Some versions include vegetables and fried plantains, though not always authentic. Occasionally, the soup is served reheated rather than fresh.

Empanadas come filled with beef, cheese, and chicken. The pandebono and empanadas de carne offer tasty, satisfying flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of authentic Latin flavor."

"I found the empanadas bursting with savory fillings."

"I thought the soup was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 7pm with discounted drinks.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of margaritas, including passion fruit.

3

The menu features authentic Colombian dishes.

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