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Authentic empanadas

You know that a good empanada is all about the balance of the crust and the filling. You want the authentic version.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tropico image 1
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Cocktail bar

Colombian-themed cocktail bar with vibrant tropical decor and colorful wall drawings creates a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with fun, lively music. The space feels cozy and friendly, offering an authentic slice of Colombian culture and energy.

Vibrant Colombian street food flavors come alive here with authentic fast food dishes that capture true Colombian taste. The spot offers a cute and lively atmosphere reflecting Colombian culture.

Empanadas come out hot and tasty, often paired with other snacks like buรฑuelos and Pan de Bono. They hold up well as a solid, flavorful appetizer option.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Colombian food here to be flavorful and taste like home."

"The arepas here are savory and good."

"I found the empanadas here delicious and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is available down the street, just a short walk away.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is recommended for street vendors.

3

Happy hour features half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

02
Little Brazil MN Market & Cafe image 1

Cafe combines authentic Brazilian style with a small grocery market offering Brazilian imports and foods hard to find elsewhere. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, vibrant with colorful decor and plenty of seating both indoors and on a spacious patio. TVs show Brazilian football, creating a lively spot for groups and casual gatherings.

Food matches authentic Brazilian flavors with a wide selection of genuine products. The market and cafe keep a true Brazilian style in both atmosphere and menu.

Brazilian fried empanadas, called pastels, come super crisp with rich flavors in beef and chicken. They pair well with green sauce or hot sauce and offer a tasty, satisfying lunch option.

People are saying

"The food at this grocery store is amazing, especially the chicken sandwich."

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

"I thought the empanadas were really good, but could use more seasoning."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays, they have a special feijoada available.

2

The cheese bread costs only $1.50 each.

3

Food options are available for under $10.

03
Panaderia La Espiga image 1

Bakery offers authentic Mexican sweet bread and a wide variety of traditional pastries and cakes. Atmosphere reflects a family-owned business with affordable prices and a small mercado featuring Latino staples. Tamales appear on weekends, adding to the selection of fresh, flavorful baked goods.

Mexican sweet bread and treats here show authentic flavors and traditional recipes. The foods offer a genuine taste of Mexican baking and cuisine.

Fruit-filled options like pineapple, apple, and strawberry stand out among the empanadas. Sweet varieties, including cream and conchas, offer a tasty variety.

People are saying

"I found the bread here to be so fresh and delicious."

"You can get tamales on the weekends."

"These Easter breads are a tasty treat to enjoy with coffee."

Good to know

1

Tamales are available on Saturday and Sunday.

2

The bakery offers a variety of traditional Mexican baked goods.

3

You can order tamales for the next weekend if you miss them.

04
Tolis Pupuseria image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with infectious background music that keeps energy lively and relaxed. Space feels clean and inviting, suitable for families and casual dining. Menu blends authentic Salvadoran and Mexican flavors, creating a warm, friendly vibe.

Pupusas have an authentic flavor that feels like home, with tender, flavorful textures. Drinks use fresh ingredients, and the food offers large portions of authentic Salvadoran and Mexican dishes.

Shredded beef stuffed empanadas come with pickled slaw and a tomato-based dipping sauce. Empanadas here have a Salvadoran style and a plantain version is also available.

People are saying

"The pupusas here are fantastic and flavorful."

"The salsa here is spicy and traditional, just like the pupusas."

"The pupusas here are so authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable, with meals for three averaging around $30.

2

The restaurant specializes in Salvadoran food and also offers Mexican dishes.

3

The space is clean and roomy, ideal for lunch or takeaway orders.

05
Homi Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, casual Mexican restaurant with an intimate, cozy atmosphere and a calm, welcoming vibe. Regulars come for authentic Mexican food and best birria tacos, enjoying freshly cooked dishes in a modest setting. The space feels like a family-owned spot with few tables seating small groups.

Bold flavors define the authentic tacos and handmade dishes here. Fresh ingredients create genuine Mexican food with a uniquely amazing taste.

Jalapeno empanadas stand out as a favorite with a very rich flavor. Empanadas arrive quickly alongside horchata and other dishes, offering a satisfying start to the meal.

People are saying

"These birria tacos are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be amazing."

"I found the empanadas here to be excellent and very rich."

Good to know

1

The Sunday Brunch is available from 10 AM to 3 PM for $19.

2

On Sundays, the owners offer a Mexican Buffet from 10 AM to 3 PM.

3

Expect limited parking behind the building, which is very small.

06
El Cubano image 1
Restaurant

Family-run restaurant offers colorful outdoor patio with umbrellas and plants, creating a festive, homie vibe. Seating spreads across inside and both front and back patios, with the back patio serving as a tucked-away oasis. Atmosphere feels like a Caribbean home, lively and welcoming.

Food delivers authentic Cuban and Dominican flavors with every dish. Sandwiches and Caribbean offerings maintain a delicious, genuine taste throughout.

Empanadas come in beef and chicken varieties with a top notch taste. They pair well with a cafe con leche for a solid meal.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

"The food here is authentic, reminding me of home."

"The empanadas here are unreal."

Good to know

1

El Cubano is closed on Monday through Wednesday.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak hours.

3

Reservations are not accepted; seating is first-come, first-served.

07
La Estancia Steakhouse, Argentinean & Uruguayan image 1

Small, quaint dining room with beautiful decor and screens showing scenes from Uruguay and Argentina creates an upscale yet cozy atmosphere. Music complements the romantic and elegant vibe throughout the space. Elements of South American culture are present everywhere, enhancing the authentic experience.

Dishes reflect authentic Argentine and Uruguayan flavors with careful preparation. The setting offers a cozy atmosphere that complements the traditional South American steakhouse experience.

Empanadas here stand out for their juicy filling and fresh, in-house preparation. The spinach empanadas are especially notable, often rated as some of the best around.

People are saying

"These empanadas are the best I ever tasted."

"You have to try the desserts; they're a highlight of the meal."

"I loved the authentic Argentine and Uruguayan dishes, especially the empanadas."

Good to know

1

This restaurant is the only place in the Twin Cities that has chivito.

2

The restaurant can handle large parties easily.

3

Expect a 20% service charge added to your bill.

08
Galapagos Bar and Grill image 1
Ecuadorian restaurant

Colorful bar and booths labeled with cute turtles create a lively setting enhanced by screens showing Ecuadorian music and nature videos. Music varies in style and volume, contributing to a fun and relaxed atmosphere. The place offers authentic Ecuadorian cuisine and drinks, including standout empanadas and well-regarded margaritas.

Food features authentic Ecuadorian flavors with original recipes. A family-owned spot serving tasty, genuine dishes.

Cheese empanadas stand out with a unique taste unlike anything else. The empanada de carne appetizer comes with three pieces and delivers solid flavor. Humitas and cheese versions also impress as comfort food options.

People are saying

"You have to try the empanadas; they're amazing comfort food."

"I found the food to be authentic and tasty."

"I've never had empanadas quite like these; they were amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on side streets or on Lake Street, making the location very accessible.

2

I might recommend making a reservation because there were not too many seats.

3

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

09
Los Andes Latin Bistro image 1
South American restaurant

South American restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with loud, vibrant music that fills the space. Walls display inviting art, and the dining room feels clean and comfortable. Cocktails like margaritas and pisco sours stand out alongside flavorful dishes such as ceviche and fried yuca.

Authentic South American dishes come with pretty decent portions and a welcoming vibe. The menu features authentic Latin cuisine paired with great Latin music.

Cheese empanadas stand out with a super legit flavor. Other empanadas are decent and pair well with dishes like llapingacho.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I thought the Ecuadorian ceviche was delicious and top notch."

"I loved the authentic South American cuisine here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available every weekday from 4-6pm.

2

Karaoke night is on Sundays starting at 8pm.

3

Parking can be difficult to find, so arrive early.

10
La Colonia Restaurant image 1
Ecuadorian restaurant

Large space with separate karaoke room creates distinct zones for lively and quiet experiences. Atmosphere shifts from calm and cozy to lively with music, welcoming a mix of casual diners and Spanish-speaking groups. Decor reflects village life themes, enhancing an authentic Ecuadorian vibe.

Bold flavors define the Ecuadorian dishes here, delivering a truly authentic taste. The environment adds to the experience with a fun, welcoming vibe that complements the food.

Cheese and beef empanadas stand out with their rich flavors and satisfying fillings. They sometimes sit out before serving but pair well with horchata and other drinks.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"I couldn't stop thinking about the cheesy empanadas."

"I found the food to be authentic and outstanding."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but limited, so arrive early if driving.

2

The restaurant is busy during lunch hours, expect longer wait times.

3

The restaurant is vegan friendly, offering several plant-based options.

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