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Empanada takeout in Illinois

Empanadas are the ideal takeout food because they travel well and require no utensils.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Restaurant

Stylish restaurant with 80s music theme and flags for every country creates a vibrant, festive atmosphere. Loud Spanish rock music and noisy crowds give the place a lively, energetic vibe. Known for BYOB policy and queer- and latine-ownership, it offers a unique local experience.

Pickup orders come with friendly service and include items like a burger and salad that taste divinely delicious.

Beef and chicken empanadas come with bold seasoning and a spicy kick. Bacon-wrapped dates often accompany the empanadas, adding a savory contrast.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is hot, fresh, and delicious."

"The empanadas here are delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The takeout here is divinely delicious."

Good to know

1

Drag brunches are held on weekends, offering a lively atmosphere.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own drinks.

3

Prices are reasonable, with a total of $55 for three people including appetizers.

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.

Ordering for pick-up works well here. Food quality holds up better with takeout than dining in.

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."

"This takeout is so delicious and fresh, I'll order it again."

"I found the empanadas and quesadillas tasted great."

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
Savory Crust Gourmet Empanadas image 1

Food truck setup offers takeout only service with no dine-in seating. Atmosphere feels hidden and authentic, tucked away in an industrial area. Empanadas feature flaky crusts and a wide variety of flavors catering to meat and vegetarian preferences.

Pickup only setup means all orders are takeout. The Empanadas stand out and make the effort worthwhile.

Empanadas come in many flavors like Argentinian Beef, chicken with sauce, curry, and guava with cream cheese. They taste delicious and are enjoyed by both adults and kids, with reasonable prices.

People are saying

"These empanadas are outstanding with tasty fillings."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem with magnificent empanada crusts."

"The empanadas here are next-level incredible, worth the pickup."

Good to know

1

This location is pickup only with no dine-in options.

2

The lunch special costs $15 and includes 2 empanadas, 1 side, sauce, and a drink.

3

They offer a variety of halal options for different dietary needs.

04
Brazilian Bowl image 1
Brazilian restaurant

Small space combines cozy neighborhood atmosphere with hip decor and a Brazilian music soundtrack. Outdoor patio offers a relaxed spot for people watching. The vibe stays laid back, evoking a casual Sรฃo Paulo luncheonette feel.

Brazilian food comes out fast and tastes authentic. Takeout orders are ready in minutes and work well for eating on the go or inside.

Crispy empanadas come in a wide variety of flavors. They serve well as a light meal alongside other small dishes like coxinha and kibe.

People are saying

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious, tasting like home."

"I loved the empanadas; they were crispy and came in many flavors."

"The takeout food here is delicious and ready in minutes."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay gourmet prices for meals, which may not suit all budgets.

2

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

3

The restaurant does not have its own parking lot; street parking is available.

05
Tandoor Char House image 1
Indian restaurant

Compact space with original artwork and ambient lighting sets a cozy, intimate mood. The vibe feels high-end yet affordable, welcoming groups for relaxed dinners. Guests enjoy tender lamb and chicken dishes that stand out in the menu.

Ordering the combo works well for groups or for multiple takeout meals. Regular takeout happens here over several years.

Tandoori chicken empanadas stand out with their tikka masala sauce that adds a rich flavor. Veggie samosa and tandoori chicken options offer creative and delicious twists on traditional empanadas.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"You've got to try the tandoori chicken empanadas; they're amazing."

"The takeout portions of aloo gobi and rice are excessively large."

Good to know

1

Catering services are available for special events like birthdays.

2

Happy hour runs on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The restaurant participates in local food festivals like Taco Fest and Hot Dog Fest.

06
Tikka Taproom & Pizza image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers spacious seating with clean, attractive decor but features loud music that creates a club-like atmosphere. The vibe blends vibrant flavors with a lively, energetic environment rather than a cozy or warm setting.

Takeout orders come with very flavorful dishes. Large amounts of food can be ordered, making it a reliable spot for takeout.

Mango Gobi Empanadas offer a unique fusion of global and Indian flavors. The empanadas stand out as a delicious twist on the traditional recipe.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, rich, and delicious."

"The takeout food here is really flavorful and delicious."

"I found the empanadas to be exceptionally flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample and available for visitors.

2

The lunch buffet costs $20 per person and includes naan and appetizers.

3

Portion sizes may feel small for the price.

07
Chicago Mama's Kitchen - Catering, Mixology & Culinary Experiences image 1

Restaurant offers a stunning interior with art and flower installations that create a tropical vibe. Live music and board games add to a welcoming and intimate atmosphere. Cocktails like mojito flights and unique rum drinks complement large, flavorful empanadas and Puerto Rican dishes.

Takeout orders come with friendly service and occasional wait times longer than expected. Staff sometimes offer water on the patio while waiting.

Large empanadas feature a golden, crispy crust filled with juicy meat and cheese. Varieties like Cochinita, Lechon, and Macho Man offer great flavor, often enhanced by chimichurri sauce.

People are saying

"Chef Inez was so kind and knowledgeable teaching us about empanadas."

"I learned a lot and had a fantastic time at the cocktails class."

"The empanada takeout is spectacular, with delicious fillings."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted cocktails.

2

Cocktail classes require reservations at least one week in advance.

3

Bingo night takes place every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

08
Sazon Cubano image 1
Cuban restaurant

Cozy Cuban restaurant with loud live music and a vibrant atmosphere that transports guests to the island. Beautiful, clean space features a cozy nook and a patio for relaxed dining. Energetic vibe with entertaining musicians and flavorful Cuban dishes.

Pickup usually takes about 10-15 minutes according to the website, but waits can run a bit longer. The place often feels empty at pickup, making the process straightforward.

Empanadas come out crispy on the outside and fat-free, with a flavorful chicken filling that pairs well with cafรฉ con leche. They lean toward beef patties but offer a tastier alternative.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"These empanadas are delicious and insanely flavorful."

"The takeout jibarito was excellent and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 30-45 minutes during peak hours.

2

Happy hour runs daily with special deals on mojito pitchers.

3

Live music and DJs perform every Saturday night.

09
Edgewater Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Walk-up window with limited sidewalk seating defines the setup, creating a laid-back, welcoming vibe despite nearby busy traffic noise. The place draws people seeking authentic Mexican tacos and phenomenal al pastor flavors. Outdoor dining feels casual but constrained by proximity to the road.

Ordering ahead through the takeout window makes pickup quick and easy. Staff handle mistakes well and sometimes offer discounts to families in need.

Crunchy texture stands out in the empanadas, with a notably dry finish. Pumpkin filling offers a tasty twist among the options.

People are saying

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

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

"The carne asada and birria tacos are phenomenal takeout."

Good to know

1

Edgewater Tacos is a walk-up only option with no dine-in seating.

2

Prices for tacos can be high, with two tacos costing around $43.

3

Parking is difficult; consider using nearby Walgreens but be cautious of towing.

10
Issa's Restaurant Bar image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Spacious interior with charming decorations creates a welcoming Venezuelan atmosphere filled with great music. The vibe is family-friendly and lively, though music volume can be high. The place stands out for its authentic Venezuelan food and clean environment.

Pickup works well with mostly complete orders. The manager insists on a tip during pickup without offering service. Multiple pickups reveal this consistent attitude.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with their rich filling and perfect toasting. Beef plantain and cheese options come close, while chicken and cheese empanadas pair well with garlic sauce. Freshness shows in every bite, especially in the appetizer platter mix.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, super fresh and delicious."

"I found the shredded beef arepa so flavorful and delicious."

"These empanadas are warm, crunchy, and taste amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to confirm availability of specific dishes like carne en Vara.

2

The restaurant is one of the few places serving food past 10 pm on weekends.

3

There is no parking available at the restaurant.

11
Colombian's Taste image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small space offers a calm, clean atmosphere with dim white lighting that feels cool and quiet. Music typical of Colombia plays softly, creating a pleasant and inviting vibe. The place stands out for its authentic Colombian empanadas that receive high praise.

Takeout only service operates here with large order pickups handled smoothly. Menu includes meat, ceviche, and salchipapas available for takeout.

Colombian Empanadas stand out with a generous amount of filling and perfect cooking. Varieties like chicken and veggie empanadas receive consistent praise for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

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

"These empanadas are perfectly cooked with a generous filling."

"The takeout here is amazing and tastes on point."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only offers takeout service, no dine-in available.

2

Expect large portion sizes; meals are very generous.

3

A mandatory tip is included in the bill, regardless of service quality.

12
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.

Takeout service runs smoothly with prompt orders and reliable packaging. Staff show insistence on tipping even for takeout, which stands out during the transaction.

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."

"The takeout food here is really tasty."

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.

13
El Asadero Colombiano image 1

Small restaurant with family-friendly atmosphere and relaxing Spanish music creates a welcoming vibe. Clean space includes extra tables beyond the main area. Colombian dishes like empanadas and arepas stand out for their flavor and authenticity.

Takeout orders include rotisserie chicken with plรกtanos and boiled potatoes. Portions for takeout are often smaller than dine-in, sometimes nearly half the size. Some customers express concerns about order accuracy and attention during pickup.

Empanadas stand out with beef and chicken fillings that are consistently delicious. Both varieties offer a tasty, satisfying flavor that pairs well with other dishes like arepas.

People are saying

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

"The empanadas here are delicious, especially the beef ones."

"The rotisserie chicken takeout here is delicious."

Good to know

1

They don't have a diaper-changing station for babies.

2

Check your receipt carefully to avoid unexpected charges.

3

Expect higher prices than advertised due to added taxes.

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