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Kid-friendly empanadas

Empanadas that make for an easy, handheld meal without the rigid dining rules that usually exclude families.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Miski Custom Cakes & Bakery image 1
Miski Custom Cakes & Bakery image 2
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Colorful decor with window pompoms and a play kitchen creates a kid-friendly and inviting atmosphere. Small family bakery offers creative treats like empanadas and churro cheesecake cupcakes. Space feels warm and vibrant, welcoming a diverse crowd.

A play kitchen and a game of connect four keep kids entertained here. The owners are kind and welcoming, making it a kid-friendly spot with specialty drinks and baked goods for families.

Beef empanadas stand out with their rich flavor and savory filling. Cheesy potato empanadas offer a satisfying, hearty option. These treats are a regular choice for sweet and savory cravings.

People are saying

"The bakery's cakes and pastries are absolutely amazing."

"These cheesecake cupcakes are amazing and authentic."

"The churro cheesecake cupcake is amazing and Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

The bakery offers a variety of pastries and empanadas.

2

Most items are priced moderately, with some higher-end specialty cakes.

3

The bakery is kid-friendly with a welcoming atmosphere.

02
Migos Fine Foods image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space filled with eclectic decor and real plants creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Classic hip hop music plays, setting a chill vibe throughout. Outdoor patio and kiosk ordering add to the casual, comfortable experience.

Spicy and perfectly fried empanadas stand out here. Potato empanadas come with a great dipping sauce that complements their crispiness.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"You have to try the biscuits with chipotle honey butter."

"The kid-friendly meals feature juicy chicken strips and fries."

Good to know

1

Everything at this place is halal, as indicated by the logo.

2

There are many vegetarian options available on the menu.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours.

03
The Messi Experience Chicago image 1

Exhibition offers immersive rooms and interactive soccer-themed games that engage visitors of all ages. Atmosphere balances family-friendly fun with an inspiring look at a sports icon's life. Visitors often enjoy delicious empanadas as part of the experience.

Kids find the exhibit highly interactive and engaging, with a standout feature being a recreation of Messi's childhood bedroom. The experience excites children and keeps them entertained throughout.

Delicious empanadas stand out here. They make a great finish to the meal and are worth trying.

People are saying

"The interactive games here are so much fun for everyone."

"The museum's exhibit on Messi's journey is truly inspiring."

"My kids had a blast with all the interactive games."

Good to know

1

Tickets are more expensive than average, so budget accordingly.

2

Free parking is available on-site for visitors.

3

The experience is great for families and kids of all ages.

04
Dulce Cafe Cubano image 1

Bright, welcoming space with a homey atmosphere and beautiful design. Offers freshly made empanadas and reasonably priced sandwiches with unique options like jibarito featuring fried plantain instead of bread. Safety measures include tamper-evident stickers on orders.

Kids enjoy frappes and simple treats like pan con mantequilla y azúcar. Sandwiches and coffee also appeal to young taste buds.

Beef and chicken empanadas come with fresh, well seasoned meat inside. The breading stays crispy without being overdone, blending flavors nicely.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here delicious and well-seasoned."

"I found the empanadas here to be delicious and perfectly crispy."

"It's so Kid Friendly; my kids loved the frappes and sandwiches."

Good to know

1

The portions are fantastic for the price.

2

The inside is very clean, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

3

Safety precautions include tamper-evident stickers on smoothies and bags.

05
Nitro Nostalgia image 1
Ice cream shop

Liquid nitrogen tanks stand visible in a spacious, eclectic space filled with vibrant decor and nostalgic board games. The atmosphere blends whimsical nostalgia with laid-back social areas where people play games and enjoy ice cream. Boozy ice cream options add a unique twist to the experience.

Birthday parties include chances for kids to get behind the scenes and make their own ice cream. Kids can play games in the dining area while waiting or enjoy after school treats with some game time.

Empanadas come fresh daily and cook with care, filled generously with ingredients like beef sirloin. They pair well with creative ice cream mixes, adding to the lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the ice cream here was crazy good."

"Watching the milkshakes being made was so interesting!"

"It's so Kid Friendly, with games to play while you wait!"

Good to know

1

They have events often that support other local black-owned businesses.

2

For January, there is no venue charge for parties up to 30 people.

3

Expect a 25-minute wait for ice cream during busy times.

06
Bayan Ko Diner image 1

Diner offers a cozy, homey vibe with charming decor featuring dark wood and plant motifs. Seating is close together, creating an intimate but sometimes cramped atmosphere, with an upstairs patio providing outdoor, dog-friendly space. Music leans toward fabulous R&B, enhancing the relaxed, casual mood.

Crowded with many kids, the place feels welcoming for families. They offer go cups for kids and serve appetizers like lumpia and Jamon Croquettes that children enjoy. Staff make kids feel special and loved, especially on birthdays.

Empanadas feature a Cuban ropa vieja-inspired filling with crispy yet moist breading. They come with a perfect dipping sauce and pack a lot of flavor, making them a standout item.

People are saying

"I thought the brunch here was amazing, especially the Cubano burrito."

"The empanada filling was inspired by Cuban ropa vieja."

"It's really kid friendly here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekends.

2

The diner is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

3

Brunch is served daily from 9am to 3pm, except on Tuesdays.

07
Mariscos San Pedro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, seaside-style interior with thoughtful decor creates a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Loud Mexican and Latin music fills the space, making conversation challenging amid the busy service environment. Tables often sit close to kitchen activity, adding to the lively, energetic vibe.

Servers provide extra care for toddlers. Kids enjoy plantain and codfish tacos. The environment offers crayons, sweets, and kids cups.

Crab Rangoon empanadas stand out with a crab filling and come with a hot sauce that many want to take home. Ham and cheese empanadas offer a tasty combo that complements the seafood options well.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the dorade and tostadas, is creative and delicious."

"The crab rangoon empanadas were amazing."

"The plantain tacos are so good, my kids ordered more!"

Good to know

1

Monday night deals offer great value for diners.

2

Expect delays if events start later than scheduled.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy nights to avoid long waits.

08
Tasa Coffee Roasters image 1

Spacious coffee shop with modern, stylish decor and bright, airy atmosphere creates a warm and welcoming vibe. Comfortable seating and plentiful outlets support relaxed work or socializing. A small glass room showcases on-site coffee bean roasting, adding a unique touch to the experience.

Staff take time to offer warm hot chocolate in kid-friendly cups. Kids enjoy a ham and egg sandwich and a dulce de leche cold latte praised for taste.

Empanadas come warm and crunchy with a lightly seasoned garlic salt that enhances the cheese filling. The beef empanadas stand out as very good and easy to snack on multiple times.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great and delicious."

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

"The coffee here is strong, smooth, and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

They serve tamales on weekends.

2

They roast their own coffee beans right in house.

3

Tasa sources coffee beans from women-owned farms.

09
El Fogón de Elena Restaurante image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small space with authentic Colombian decor creates a homely, family atmosphere. Loud Colombian music plays from a full-sized speaker, sometimes overpowering the room. Food offers genuine Colombian flavors, especially noted for seafood dishes and traditional snacks.

Children love the empanadas here, often asking for them on weekends. The green cream sauce is a favorite, with kids enjoying it straight from the container.

Tiny empanadas come out perfectly crispy and filling. Varieties like queso and camarones taste authentic and appeal even to kids who usually avoid them.

People are saying

"The food here is bursting with flavor and homemade touch."

"The empanadas here are so delicious, my kids loved them!"

"The cheese empanadas were really good."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens on Saturdays, attracting a lively crowd.

2

Catering services are available for events, but check for preparation.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during karaoke nights, which may affect dining experience.

10
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.

Kids find plenty to eat with a kids menu featuring chicken tenders and other simple options. Friendly service and dishes like Lomo Saltado make celebrations feel special.

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."

"The food here is so authentic and delicious."

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.

11
Café Calidá image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious coffee shop filled with natural light and Guatemalan touches creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Comfortable seating areas support reading, working, and socializing in a calm environment. Background music and a friendly vibe make it a community-focused space.

Families come regularly for delicious donuts and find staff consistently kind to young kids. The crowd includes many parents with children, creating a welcoming atmosphere for families.

Empanadas come from Cafe Tola with a crispy outside and flavorful inside. Options like Chorizo + Egg and Lechón offer a satisfying taste.

People are saying

"The pastries here feel like home, warm and welcoming."

"I loved their delicious coffee and pastries."

"It's a relaxed, welcoming place that feels like home."

Good to know

1

Café Calidá hosts game nights and poetry readings regularly.

2

The café is family-owned and emphasizes customer service and community.

3

Expect a cozy atmosphere where neighbors gather to socialize.

12
Comixxpress image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small space filled with comic book art and superhero murals creates a lively, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere feels like stepping into a comic store with a friendly, energetic crowd. The setting is cozy but can be noisy and warm due to limited ventilation.

Kids enjoy the mojarra that reminds them of home and find joy in the space and having some ice cream.

Empanadas feature good stew and proper dough with standout options like chicken and cheese. Fried yuca pairs well, making them incredibly delicious and reminiscent of Colombian style.

People are saying

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

"I thought the empanadas were incredibly delicious."

"It's so Kid Friendly, my kids loved the mojarra tasting like home."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but seating is limited with only a counter available.

2

The physical menu doesn't list prices; scan the QR code for current pricing.

3

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible for visitors.

13
Casa Tulum image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with beautiful decor and an energetic vibe featuring a live DJ and upbeat music. Two bars with TVs add to the lively atmosphere, complemented by a fire show and flaming desserts. The place draws a crowd enjoying great margaritas and flavorful dishes in a clean, vibrant setting.

An atmosphere suits both date night and families with kids. Staff stay very accommodating to large groups with children. Kids enjoy tacos and flautas from the kids menu.

Shrimp and chicken empanadas come with cheese and offer a fried texture. Shrimp empanadas pair well with mole and quesabirrias, making them standout choices.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and perfectly seasoned."

"You have to try the shrimp and cheese empanadas."

"It's really kid friendly, they had great options for my daughter."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 3 PM.

2

Ask for the $10 margaritas special on Mondays and Tuesdays.

3

Street parking is easy to find and free on Sundays.

14
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.

Staff show warmth with kids, making them feel welcome. Celebrations like children's birthdays happen here often. Kids enjoy desserts like passion fruit marquise.

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."

"The food here is excellent and the drinks are great."

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.

15
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.

Children enjoy the chicken with herbs empanadas and often ask for more. Playing battleship at the table adds a fun, interactive element for kids.

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 empanadas are spectacular, bursting with flavor."

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.

16
Deep Purpl Acai Bowls image 1

Bright, clean space with a calm and inviting atmosphere blends relaxing music and friendly energy. Regulars enjoy customizable açaí bowls with unlimited toppings in a laid-back setting. The vibe balances health-focused wellness with a positive, chill environment.

Staff show kindness and patience with toddlers. Children can enjoy açaí bowls alongside adults.

Empanadas feature rich, savory fillings like slow-roasted shredded beef in red wine reduction and a creamy Spinach & Cheese with bechamel and mozzarella. Vegan options include the Fons Empanadas, while the Bacon, Dates & Goat Cheese variety blends sweet and savory flavors.

People are saying

"The Acai Bowl staff is so friendly and welcoming."

"The Malbec Beef empanadas are a flavor explosion."

"It's so kid friendly; they were always kind and patient."

Good to know

1

The menu allows for unlimited toppings on açaí bowls for customization.

2

Credit card transactions incur a processing fee due to small business policies.

3

The establishment offers a BOGO deal that is cheaper than in-store prices.

17
Mariscos El Oceano image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a laid-back coastal vibe with a clean, spacious interior and low lighting. Music plays loudly, creating an energetic atmosphere that encourages dancing. Complimentary shots follow meals, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.

Kids find substantial portions like the Coco Oceano and Charola of Langostinos satisfying. Some dishes like deviled shrimp and cheese sticks come with bold Italian seasoning. Service can be awkward when requesting extras for children.

Golden and crispy on the outside, the empanadas have a savory, well-seasoned filling inside. The shrimp empanadas stand out with melted cheese and a large size, offering a fresh and delicious bite.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The shrimp empanadas were golden, crispy, and savory."

"The kid-friendly dishes were substantial and visually appealing."

Good to know

1

A 3% fee is added if you use a credit card.

2

Expect to spend more than $20 per person at this seafood restaurant.

3

The restaurant automatically charges gratuity without asking.

18
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.

Kids enjoy the lomo saltado, praised as the best at any Peruvian spot. Options like picada and salchipapa also appear on the menu for younger diners.

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."

"It's a welcoming and delicious meal for the whole family."

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

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.

19
Jordyn's Soul Cafe image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant with cozy booths and bold, dark decor creates an intimate but loud atmosphere. R&B and Soul music from past decades plays loudly, shaping a vibrant, energetic vibe. Space feels small and congested, making it lively and bustling.

Kids get lobster mac and an oxtail rice bowl. Options include Shrimp Alfredo and classic soul food like short rib with gravy, collard greens, and yams.

Pot roast empanadas feature a super light and crispy shell with a rich, flavorful sauce for dipping. They stand out as a perfectly balanced appetizer alongside other dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and seasoned perfectly."

"The pot roast empanadas are soulful and packed with flavor."

"The food here is delicious and well-seasoned, making it kid friendly."

Good to know

1

Jordyn's Soul Cafe is BYOB, so bring your own alcohol.

2

Expect a 35-minute wait during peak hours.

3

Parking can be difficult; plan to circle the block.

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