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Best of San Antonio

Empanada lunch spots

You want empanadas for lunch and you need a place that makes them the focus of the meal.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Fat Tummy Empanadas image 1
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Argentinian restaurant

Small, family-run Argentinian restaurant in a bright green house with an open kitchen and simple, vintage-inspired decor. Atmosphere feels warm, rustic, and homely with pleasant, not loud music that supports conversation. Empanadas feature distinct stamped crusts and generous fillings, making the place a hidden neighborhood gem with a comfortable, authentic vibe.

Empanadas stand out as a go-to lunch option here. They work well for casual meals and business lunches, with enough appeal to order in bulk for office gatherings.

Empanadas come filled to the brim with authentic, delicious fillings. The Humita variety offers a slightly sweet corn and cheese mix that stands out among the tasty options.

People are saying

"These empanadas were the best I have ever tasted."

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

"The empanadas here are so delicious, especially the spicy chicken."

Good to know

1

There is additional parking available behind the restaurant.

2

Sometimes they do run out of empanadas.

3

I had to order a day in advance for the empanada party packs.

02
Panaderia Jimenez Coffee Shop image 1

Small, colorful bakery with beautiful art and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. The vibe is family-friendly and casual, with ample seating and free parking. It offers an authentic experience featuring fresh, flavorful pastries and vegan options.

Sandwiches and bakery treats make up the lunch options served with a smile by Frank and the Panaderia Jimenez Team. The spot feels welcoming and suits daily lunch breaks well.

Empanadas come in various flavors like guava cheese, blueberry cream cheese, apple with cajeta, and pumpkin. They have a perfect balance of filling and a soft, fluffy texture without being too sweet.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be awesome and really good."

"This bakery's conchas are divine, soft, and melt in your mouth."

"This lunch spot has the sweetest, friendliest staff."

Good to know

1

The shop offers vegan options like apple, pineapple, and pumpkin empanadas.

2

Parking is convenient and free, with ample space available in the back.

3

The bakery has a wide selection of baked goods, including Conchas and Empanadas.

03
Panchito's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Down-home diner with cliché Mexican decor and comfortable seating creates a family-oriented atmosphere with Tejano music playing. Staff engage children with balloons and coloring activities, enhancing the welcoming vibe. Strong, fresh margaritas complement the lively, casual setting.

Lunch features queso with real flavor that stands out from typical melted cheese. Family gatherings fit well with delicious food that satisfies various tastes.

Empanadas come out very good and amazing here, often highlighted alongside puffy tacos and other Mexican dishes like fajitas and enchiladas.

People are saying

"Our server Cynthia was so friendly and attentive with our food."

"This lunch spot's enchiladas were the best I ever had."

"I really enjoyed their delicious empanadas."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

04
Cuba 1918 image 1
Cuban restaurant

Historic building blends rustic charm with authentic Cuban decor and live jazz music on Fridays. Atmosphere stays dark and soothing, creating a perfect setting for romantic dates and relaxed evenings. Backyard with seating and cats adds a unique, casual touch to the experience.

Lunch offers excellent Cuban food with very reasonable prices. Specials provide great value for midday meals.

Empanadas feature roasted beef and pork with a side of guava BBQ sauce that stands out for dipping. The flavors are fresh and authentic, capturing classic Cuban tastes.

People are saying

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

"The food here is top notch and delicious."

"The empanadas here are packed with amazing flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Havana Night on Thursdays.

2

Live music occurs on Friday afternoons and evenings.

3

Jazz night happens every Friday with free live music.

05
Mambo Seafood - Brooks City Base image 1

Bright, clean space with an open floor plan and colorful, family-friendly vibe. Music sets a pleasant, inviting atmosphere that balances liveliness with easy conversation. Busy but efficient, it offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a well-regarded bar setting.

Lunch hours get busy but seating happens quickly thanks to the host and manager James. Lunch specials stand out as great and consistently enjoyable, with attentive service from Blair.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with their mam on style and costeñas flavors. The empanadas come highly recommended and pair well with the unbreaded fried red snapper.

People are saying

"The fried rice with seafood is huge and top-notch."

"I loved the fried rice, it was perfectly seasoned and huge."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect long wait times during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers a generous military and veterans’ discount.

3

They ran out of fish at 3pm, so arrive early for the best selection.

06
Mambo Seafood - Medical Center image 1

Huge, clean space with covered outdoor seating and a playground for kids creates a family-friendly environment. Latin beats fill the air, making the atmosphere pleasant and lively. Spacious layout supports a relaxed, inviting vibe.

Lunch specials offer shrimp and fish options that are excellent and delicious. A special for two costs $20, providing good value.

Flaky empanadas come with a green sauce and salsa that add great flavor. Shrimp empanadas and the costenas appetizer stand out as tasty options.

People are saying

"The Seafood here is outstanding, with attentive servers."

"The Empanadas here are served with such warmth, like visiting family."

"The lunch special here is a real bargain."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 3-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Expect a wait time of about 45 minutes during peak hours.

3

The restaurant offers military discounts for service members.

07
Mexico Lindo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers a warm, family-like atmosphere with colorful, clean decor and adorable cups and plates. Outdoor seating accommodates families, while TVs provide casual entertainment. The vibe stays relaxed and welcoming, making it feel like a home away from home.

Lunch specials stand out with great value and authentic Mexican flavors. The spot feels cozy and suits casual midday meals.

A small empanada comes with the coffee and tastes excellent. The pairing of coffee and empanada works well together.

People are saying

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

"I loved the lunch specials here; they were great."

"The little empanada paired with coffee was excellent."

Good to know

1

The restaurant can cater events as shown on the menu.

2

They have wheelchair accessibility and high chairs for young children.

3

The menu prices may not be updated, so check before ordering.

08
Tomatillos Restaurant and Bar image 1

Outdoor patio seating creates a lively atmosphere with a live DJ playing diverse music that energizes the space. The vibe feels like a little fiesta, attracting groups for celebrations and casual dining. The setting balances family-friendly energy with a focus on drinks and socializing.

Family gatherings happen here with groups up to 10. Friendly service shines through with attentive waitstaff like Gustavo. Lunch options suit both casual visits and special occasions.

Empanadas come with a jalapeño kick and a delicious flavor. They pair well with other dishes like tortilla soup and enchiladas.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is great."

"I found the empanadas to be very good and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $3 beers and drink specials on Sundays.

2

The DJ plays a variety of music during happy hour, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

09
La Panadería Bakery Café image 1

Modern bakery café with open flooring reveals pastry-making process and offers indoor seating plus a small patio. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, with a kids' playroom enhancing family friendliness. Space is compact, leading to close tables and occasional crowding on weekends.

Lunch features a great variety of sandwiches with fresh breads and pastries. The ham sandwich stands out as wonderful, and service is attentive during meals.

Empanadas come in light and fluffy varieties with flavors like apple and strawberry. They taste delicious and have a pleasant texture.

People are saying

"These pastries are fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with care."

"The food at this lunch spot is delicious and amazing."

"I'd fight through traffic just for these pastries."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, and street parking may be necessary.

2

On Sunday, 10/13/2024, their full menu will be available.

3

Expect some menu items to be unavailable during busy hours.

10
The Esquire Tavern image 1

Longest wooden bar in Texas stretches over 100 feet, setting a historic and classy tone. Romantic, old-timey atmosphere blends with classic rock music and a lively speakeasy downstairs. Multiple floors offer varied experiences, including an outdoor patio overlooking the river.

Lunch features reasonably priced specials and happy hour drinks from Monday to Friday. The millionaire bacon BLT stands out as a solid choice, with options to enjoy lunch at the bar or on the patio.

Beef empanadas feature an incredible pastry and rich filling. They pair well with chalupitas and stand out as a delicious shared dish.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are fantastic."

"You've got to try the beef empanadas; the pastry is incredible."

"Daniel's drinks were great and made my stay enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with drink specials available.

2

Lunch food specials and happy hour drink specials are offered Monday through Friday.

3

Food includes $2 deviled eggs during happy hour.

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