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Local picks in Chicago

Empanada pastry spots

Made for those who treat a flaky pastry and a savory empanada as a balanced meal.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Miski Custom Cakes & Bakery image 1
Miski Custom Cakes & Bakery image 2
Miski Custom Cakes & Bakery image 3
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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.

Tasty pastries come in a good variety, including amazing empanadas. Every pastry is consistently delicious and visually appealing.

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."

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

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
Tulip's Tea on Tuesday image 1

Tiny cafe with cute maximalist decor and cozy seating creates a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with plushies and handmade crafts. The space feels like an energy oasis, offering a friendly vibe despite limited seating and occasional crowding. Unique touches like crocheted mini flowers with drinks add charm to the experience.

Pastries come with great flavor and quality. They often offer free pastries when waits run long, showing care for guests.

Empanadas come in light, flaky crusts with fillings like chicken curry, Thai basil chicken, taro, and ube. They offer a mix of sweet and savory options, including pineapple and cardamom varieties.

People are saying

"The tea service here is so friendly and welcoming."

"I found the pastries to be delicious and fresh."

"The owner is the sweetest, most welcoming lady."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a membership deal that includes a drink and snack every Tuesday.

2

Vegan options are available on the menu for those with dietary restrictions.

3

The seating area is small, so it may be crowded during busy times.

03
Q'bo Latin Cafe Inc. image 1

Cozy cafe filled with vibrant decor and Latin music playing softly in the background. Friendly atmosphere feels like being in a home kitchen, with comfortable seating and plenty of space. The environment welcomes people looking for a relaxed spot with authentic Latin flavor.

Sweet and delicious pastries include a variety of Latin pastries and empanadas. Pastries can be warmed up and are great for takeout.

Empanadas stand out with options like the pollo and pabellon varieties, both packed with flavor. They pair well with coffee and baked goods, making them a tasty choice for a quick bite.

People are saying

"I've never had empanadas this amazing before."

"I loved the horchata latte; it was delicious."

"The pastries here are so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a variety of coffee, arepas, and empanadas.

2

Expect slower service during busy hours due to limited staff.

3

The cafe is located near the Ashland and Irving Park bus stops.

04
MeLatte Coffee Shop image 1

Local art fills walls with eclectic decor and living room-style furniture creates a cozy, inviting space. Soft flamenco music plays quietly, enhancing the calm, friendly atmosphere. Community games and outdoor seating add to the warm, welcoming vibe.

Guava and cherry pastries stand out with memorable, rich flavors. Pastries come with a perfect texture and quick service, making them a tasty treat alongside coffee.

Empanadas come with a tangy chicken tinga filling and warm spice. They taste amazing and are reasonably priced alongside other breakfast items.

People are saying

"It's a really cozy and cute spot with a friendly vibe."

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

"The pastries here are so cozy and welcoming."

Good to know

1

They ask customers to stay approximately 90 minutes due to limited space.

2

Street parking is available, with some free spots and others requiring payment via the Park Chicago mobile app.

3

Seating is tight, and larger tables have time limits.

05
Engine Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and wooden accents create a quietly modern and spacious environment. Music ranges from experimental pop to easy-listening funk, adding to the chill atmosphere. Plenty of seating includes cozy window corners and nooks suited for working.

Fresh coffee pairs well with a unique selection of pastries. The spot carries Aya Bakery pastries alongside breakfast tacos.

Chicken tinga and Cafe Tola empanadas stand out with rich flavors and a satisfying texture. They pair well with coffee or pastries for a solid snack or light meal.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be great and consistent."

"I enjoyed the great pastries and breakfast tacos."

"I found their chicken empanadas amazing."

Good to know

1

Arrive early for food options, especially if visiting after 1 PM.

2

The coffee shop opens early on weekends for early risers.

3

Wi-Fi is available but can be unstable during busy hours.

06
Magnífico Coffee Roasters & Coffee Shop image 1

Bright, clean space with unique artwork and an on-site coffee roaster creates a welcoming environment. Outdoor seating and dog-friendly policies add to relaxed, friendly vibes. Live jazz music and carefully crafted pastries enhance the calm, inviting atmosphere.

Gluten-free Pan de Bono and guava pan de bono stand out with fresh, authentic flavors. The seasonal galette and churro donut filled with caramel also deliver rich, satisfying tastes.

Chicken empanadas have a flaky crust that stands out. They pair well with other baked goods like the orange EG scone.

People are saying

"I found the coffee to be really excellent."

"I enjoyed the great coffee and pastries here."

"The chicken empanada pastry is so flaky."

Good to know

1

On the third Sunday of each month, they have a DJ come in.

2

They roast their own coffee beans in-house for freshness.

3

Street parking is available nearby for easy access.

07
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.

Small but good selection of pastries pairs well with great coffee. Pastries consistently come out excellent and fresh.

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."

"The cafe staff here are always so kind and welcoming."

"I loved their delicious coffee and pastries."

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.

08
Casa Cactus image 1
Coffee shop

Space filled with plants and cactus-themed decor creates a cozy desert dream atmosphere. Warm lighting and Southwestern touches give a relaxing, chill vibe. Plenty of seating with outlets supports working or hanging out comfortably.

Locally made pastries come well sourced and tasty. Specialty drinks like Cafe de Olla pair well with the pastries.

Offers guava cheese and Colombian empanadas that taste good and pair well with coffee. Empanadas come with a delicious, sweet and savory profile.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best I had ever had."

"It's so cozy and welcoming, especially surrounded by all the plants."

"I thought the guava cheese empanadas were great."

Good to know

1

They host pop-up events to support local artists and teachers.

2

Free street parking is available in the neighborhood.

3

There is a parking lot a block away from the coffee shop.

09
Vietfive Coffee - Chicago image 1

Cozy coffee shop blends modern chic and traditional charm with rustic wooden tables and delicate ceramic cups. Atmosphere stays quiet and inviting, supporting work or relaxed conversations with plenty of power outlets and free Wi-Fi. Friendly, family-oriented vibe includes pet-friendly policies and unique wall graphics sharing coffee origins.

Pastries here include pork pate, mango peach, and spinach, cheese, and ham puff options. Empanadas come fresh and flavorful, with chicken and beef varieties available.

Empanadas feature crispy textures and flaky crusts with fillings like chicken, pork, and sausage mixed with sauerkraut, black pepper, and carrots. The Xia Xu Banh mi empanadas capture the traditional banh mi flavors well, though some have thicker crusts to navigate.

People are saying

"I found the coffee to be rich, bold, and perfectly satisfying."

"These empanadas are outstanding and perfectly seasoned."

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

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $10 for a drink and snack.

2

Signature, custom blended beans are roasted on the premises.

3

The shop uses coconut condensed milk for their coffee drinks.

10
Golden Tuzo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a laid back, homey atmosphere and cute, personality-filled space. Empanadas stand out with buttery, flaky crusts and varied, flavorful fillings including savory and sweet options. Freshly fried pastries draw a steady flow of patrons appreciating the dense, flavorful fillings.

Pastries feature a flaky texture and a variety of flavors. Empanadas stand out with their puff pastry shell that is both unique and delicious.

Empanadas feature a buttery, flaky crust with a layered dough texture. Fillings like chicken tinga and meat and potato come densely packed and flavorful, with dessert options like arroz con leche also available.

People are saying

"The empanadas have such a flaky, layered dough with amazing flavor."

"The empanadas were seriously good, flaky, and flavorful."

"The empanada pastry here is so flaky and delicious."

Good to know

1

Tuesday evening is empanada night.

2

Free street parking is available.

3

Golden Tuzo offers a variety of savory and sweet empanadas with flaky texture.

11
Umaga Bakehouse image 1

Spacious bakery with modern design and warm, inviting atmosphere filled with the aroma of fresh pastries. Clean, well-lit interior showcases neatly arranged Filipino baked goods in an uncluttered setting. Few seating areas offer a cozy spot to enjoy a variety of unique treats.

Freshly baked pastries fill the air with an amazing smell. Ube pastries offer a unique sweetness paired with a soft, fluffy texture, while senorita pastries come warm with sweet butter in a beautiful box. The selection features a modern take on traditional Filipino desserts.

Chicken empanadas taste like a baked chicken pot pie rather than traditional Filipino style but remain very good. Pork empanadas feature a longanisa flavor that pairs well with atchara. Prices stay low at $2.99 each with freshness declining later in the day.

People are saying

"You have to try the senorita bread; it's a sweet, sugary bread."

"The empanadas here are flaky and savory."

"The ube pastries are so delicious and slightly sweet."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends, especially late Sunday mornings.

2

The bakery offers a wide variety of traditional Filipino baked goods.

3

Prices are considered high relative to the size of the baked goods.

12
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.

Creative and delectable pastries stand out here. The brunch menu features a variety of selections, including cream-stuffed donuts that look as good as they taste.

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 pastries here are creative and delectable with unique flavor combinations."

"The crab rangoon empanadas were amazing."

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.

13
Dark Matter Coffee - Caravanserai image 1

Large coffee shop filled with local art and snake plants creates a chill, funky vibe. Spacious seating and bright light offer a relaxing atmosphere with views of neighborhood architecture. Menu includes homemade syrups, pastries, and unique items like empanadas and tamales.

Fresh pastries sit alongside empanadas and tamales, offering a variety of baked goods. The selection pairs well with unique lattes and fresh donuts.

Empanadas come alongside tamales and pastries. Arriving early helps grab breakfast burritos or excellent donuts too. The rajas empanada tastes junky.

People are saying

"The coffee here is so good, it's rich and flavorful."

"The pastries here were great and unique."

"I loved their coffee, it's so good."

Good to know

1

They offer home-made syrups for a unique coffee experience.

2

Parking on Belmont is easy and convenient.

3

The coffee shop is right next to the bus stop for easy access.

14
Cocoa + Co. Coffee and Chocolate Cafe image 1

Small and elegant coffee shop with chocolate-themed decor and a welcoming, well-lit vibe. Walls display fun chocolate bars and snacks, creating a calming and clean atmosphere. Offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a neighborhood feel.

Almond croissant stands out as a highlight among the pastries. The shop offers a limited selection that includes coffee, chocolate, and pastries like the Samoa, all with a tasty and aromatic appeal.

Empanadas stand out as the highlight with a very delicious taste. The filling includes an egg that can be a bit rubbery, rated around 7 out of 10.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee here."

"You have to try the almond croissant; it's the best pastry I ever had."

"I thought the empanadas were amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

The café offers dozens of single origin artisanal chocolate bars and a drinking chocolate menu.

2

They keep the baked goods fresh by tossing out all the leftovers daily.

3

Expect a cozy atmosphere perfect for chocolate lovers.

15
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.

Pastries come in gluten-free options and pair well with espresso-based drinks. The menu features fresh food and delicious pastries that complement coffee and breakfast sandwiches.

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."

"I loved the delicious pastries they offered."

"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.

16
Werewolf Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Old industrial building houses a spacious coffee shop with grunge chic decor and a werewolf theme featuring a mannequin and camper-style setup. The atmosphere feels cozy and chill with unique food truck service inside. Music taste is notable, and seating is comfortable, creating a relaxed vibe.

Pastries include a chocolate croissant and a cookie that taste good. Some pastries like the apple one come cold and hard, and they do not heat them before serving.

Breakfast empanadas stand out with their good flavor and are part of a menu that includes Cafe Tola snacks like tacos and other empanadas.

People are saying

"The coffee here is smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced."

"The coffee and tea options looked fabulous."

"I really enjoyed the breakfast empanadas here."

Good to know

1

There is ample parking space available at Werewolf Coffee.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but no personal checks.

3

They offer unique coffee flavors and seasonal rotations not found elsewhere.

17
Aromadipan image 1

Venezuelan bakery with authentic bread and unique savory snacks offers a peaceful, comfortable atmosphere with lovely music. The space feels clean and quiet, inviting a home-like experience. It stands out for fresh empanadas and tequeños alongside a variety of full meal options.

Pastries come in various types including savory options and those with guava and cheese fillings. Some pastries feel rubbery and stale, and prices can reach nearly $7.

Empanadas come fresh and flavorful with a perfectly fried crust. They appear alongside other Venezuelan snacks like tequeños and tequeyoyos, offering a varied menu of fillings and styles.

People are saying

"The bread here is delicious and tastes authentically Venezuelan."

"I found the empanadas here to be really fresh and flavorful."

"I enjoyed the great pastries, especially the cheese bread."

Good to know

1

Aromadipan offers a diverse selection of traditional Venezuelan dishes and pastries.

2

The menu includes quick meals, full dinners, sides, appetizers, and desserts.

3

Prices for pastries can reach nearly $7, which some may find high.

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