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Empanada spots in Houston

You want a quick, handheld meal that respects your wallet.

Based on 469 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Original Marini's Empanada House image 1
The Original Marini's Empanada House image 2
The Original Marini's Empanada House image 3
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Walls covered in signatures and photographs create a space rich with history and tradition. Upbeat dance music fills a warm, family-oriented atmosphere that feels both cozy and lively. Indoor and outdoor seating accommodate groups of all sizes in a setting that blends classic old school style with vibrant art.

Affordable lunch deals fill you up without stretching your budget. Prices stay low compared to other spots, making it a fast and easy choice for a quick meal.

Empanadas here have a bold kick of spice and a crust that is not crunchy or flaky. Options include both savory and sweet fillings, with dulce de leche standing out as a favorite. Frozen empanadas are available for cooking at home, offering great value and variety.

People are saying

"I thought these were the best empanadas I've ever had."

"The atmosphere here is super cool, with tons of art and articles."

"I found the prices to be affordable compared to other places."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early to avoid long lines.

2

The restaurant operates on a counter service model; order at the counter and find a seat.

3

They offer a variety of empanadas, including vegetarian options for dietary restrictions.

02
El Bolillo Bakery image 1

Large, spacious bakery with wall-to-wall displays and a traditional Spanish atmosphere creates a comfortable, authentic vibe. Fresh tortilla and tamale stations add to the lively, family-like energy. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant, convenient spot to enjoy treats.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the menu. Pastries look great and come at budget-friendly rates.

Freshly made empanadas come in fruit flavors and novias varieties. They pair well with other baked goods like sweet breads and tres leches cake.

People are saying

"Their Mexican pastries like conchas and empanadas are delicious."

"I always got one of each empanada flavor to share."

"I was always shocked at how little my total bill was."

Good to know

1

Bread is baked daily, ensuring freshness for all products.

2

The bakery offers a wide variety of pastries, tamales, kolaches, and tortillas.

3

Prices for sweet bread range from $1 to $3.50, with bolillos at 50ยข each.

03
Mambo Seafood image 1
Bar & grill

Bar and grill with plenty of outdoor seating and multiple televisions showing various sports creates an energetic atmosphere. Music plays at a perfect volume enhancing the lively vibe. Recent remodel adds an upscale look with a well-maintained bar and covered patio seating.

Seafood dishes come at inexpensive prices here. Drinks and food both stay affordable compared to typical seafood spots.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with their hot and delicious flavor. They pair well with dishes like shrimp fried rice and receive high praise for taste and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and satisfying."

"I thought the coastal empanadas were surprisingly tasty."

"The food here is delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Weekly specials are available, offering unique dishes at a lower price.

2

Expect long wait times, around one hour for a table and food.

3

Prices are considered reasonable for the quality of food served.

04
Paisa's Twin image 1
Colombian restaurant

Cozy space with soft music and gigantic TVs showing soccer games creates a welcoming family atmosphere. Clean, cool interior and outdoor tables add to the comfortable vibe. Music shifts from quiet during lunch to more lively at night, blending restaurant and bar moods.

Prices stay in the $15 to $20 range per person, making meals affordable. Costs feel fair, neither too cheap nor expensive.

Meat and chicken fillings stand out with rich flavor. Empanadas have a delicious, crispy crust and pair well with chicharrรณn.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and incredibly flavorful."

"These empanadas are perfectly crispy with a flavorful, savory filling."

"I found the prices here to be affordable, neither expensive nor cheap."

Good to know

1

Expect an 18% gratuity added automatically for large tables.

2

Parking is convenient for visitors.

3

The restaurant does not provide free water; bottled water must be purchased.

05
Risaralda Bakery & Restaurant image 1
Colombian restaurant

Large, cozy space with stylish decor and an in-house bakery creates a welcoming environment. Music sets a pleasant, authentic Colombian vibe that feels like home. The atmosphere stays clean and comfortable, making it ideal for enjoying traditional Colombian pastries and dishes.

Prices stay very affordable, often the lowest among Colombian spots. Food matches the price with delicious quality and the place stays very clean.

Empanadas here have substantial filling and taste authentic, matching those from Madrid and Colombia. Both chicken and beef versions come with aji sauce and deliver a delicious, genuine flavor.

People are saying

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

"I loved the authentic Colombian breakfast here; it reminded me of home."

"I found the food to be delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

They only make chicken pies once a day, so arrive early to get them.

2

Brunch offers special prices, making it a great time to visit.

3

Prices are generally affordable compared to other Colombian restaurants.

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