Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Chicago

Soup and empanadas

A warm bowl of soup and a few empanadas are the only things that will satisfy this hunger.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
The Lanzaga image 1
The Lanzaga image 2
The Lanzaga image 3
View all
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.

02
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.

03
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.

04
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 ajรญ 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.

05
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.

06
DreamCatcher Cafรฉ 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 cafรฉ.

2

Free parking is available on the side of the cafรฉ.

3

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

07
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 pabellรณn 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.

08
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.

09
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 Pฤ…czki 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.

10
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.

11
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.

12
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.

13
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.

Discover more

Chicago, Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...