
A Guide to the Best Argentine Empanadas in Los Angeles
Looking for the best Argentine empanadas in Los Angeles? We’ve got you!
Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene is a testament to that diversity. Among the city’s many culinary delights, Argentine empanadas stand out as a flavorful testament to Latin American cuisine.
Want to explore Los Angeles food scene with a local expert? Book highly in-demand LA Food Tour: Exploring America’s Culinary Frontier or Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour



If you’re craving these delicious, pastry-wrapped pockets of savory goodness, you’re in luck. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to find Argentine empanadas in LA:
1. Mercado Buenos Aires
If you’re looking for a taste of Argentina in LA, Mercado Buenos Aires is your destination. Located in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, this charming family run market/deli/cafe offers an array of authentic Argentine products, but their empanadas are truly the stars.

The empanadas here are crafted with traditional recipes, featuring flaky, golden pastry filled with rich, well-seasoned meats and cheeses. Their beef empanadas, with a perfect blend of spices and tender meat, are especially popular.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to try their spicy chimichurri sauce for an extra kick! They sell it by the jar to go.

2. World Empanadas
World Empanadas brings a touch of global flair to the classic Argentine dish. Located in a cozy, unassuming spot in Burbank, this eatery takes pride in its empanadas, which are a blend of traditional flavors and innovative twists.

Their menu features a variety of fillings, from the classic beef and onions to unique combinations like spinach and cheese. But it’s really their selection of vegan fillings we love them for most.
We’re low key obsessed with all of them: pinto beans and rice, soyrizo, quinoa and lentils, and…wait for it…mushrooms and homemade cashew cheese!

Each empanada is carefully crafted to ensure a crispy exterior and a flavorful interior. Their versatility makes it a great place to sample different flavors and find your personal favorite.
Pro tip: if you do eat meat, do not miss their biscuits and gravy empanadas with homestyle potatoes and rosemary! Also their outdoor seating is dog friendly.

3. Rico’s Empanadas
Rico’s Empanadas offers a genuine Argentine experience with a focus on quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods. In the heart of Venice Boardwalk – who knew! Their empanadas are known for their homemade taste and perfect crust.

The eggplant empanadas, with their rich, spiced filling, are a standout. Additionally, their corn and spicy cheese are equally delightful. If you’re in the mood for a hearty quick meal while on the Venice Boardwalk, Rico’s is by far your best option in the area ripe with tourist traps and mediocre food.



Pro tip: no brainer – take your to-go order to the nearby beach at sunset!
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4. Empanada Factory
True to its name, Empanada Factory is all about perfecting the art of empanadas. With a menu that spans classic to creative, this spot is a haven for empanada enthusiasts. Their Argentine-style empanadas feature a tender, flaky crust and a variety of vegan fillings.

The vegan options include the traditional Beyond Beef and the eggplant or spicy mushroom and spinach. The factory setting also means you can watch the empanadas in prep, adding a touch of authenticity to your dining experience.
Pro tip: this is the only place on our list of best Argentine empanadas in LA which serves up breakfast empanadas!

5. Empanada’s Place
Empanada’s Place is a beloved local gem known for its consistently delicious fried empanadas and friendly atmosphere. The empanadas here are made from scratch daily, ensuring freshness and quality in every bite. The beef empanadas are particularly noteworthy for their savory filling and perfect crust.

Beyond the beef and chicken, their vegetarian options are equally satisfying. We especially love the creamed corn empanadas! The welcoming ambiance and tasty food make Empanada’s Place a great spot for both quick bites, leisurely meals and to-go family dinners.



Pro tip: this quaint little cafe offers BYOB so bring a bottle of Argentinian malbec, order a dozen empanadas and enjoy!

Want to explore Los Angeles food scene with a local expert? Book highly in-demand LA Food Tour: Exploring America’s Culinary Frontier or Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour
6. Nonna’s Empanadas
Nonna’s Empanadas brings a touch of modernity to the Argentine classic, thanks to the addition of inventive flavors (hamburger or mac and cheese anyone?) and bake-at-home order option. they also put a fun and IG friendly imprint on all their empanadas. The result is empanadas that are as unique as they are delicious.

Their Beyond Meat empanadas are hearty and flavorful, while the samosa veggie is an interesting Indian twist on the Argentine classic. The veggie menu offers a distinctive twist to traditional recipes. Think mushrooms, margherita or cheese scramble. The result is veggie friendly empanadas with a rich, complex flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Pro tip: they have 4 locations and we love the 3rd Street branch most. Also, they offer sweet empanadas with fillings like nutella, guava or dulce de leche!

7. El Morfi Grill
This unassuming family run bistro is in the heart of Glendale, just down the street from the beloved Porto. While it’s true that the Cuban potato croquettes are hard to beat, El Morfi’s empanadas are giving Porto a run for its money. The empanadas are truly some of the best in Los Angeles. We loved the veggie jalapeños and cheese and corn fillings.

That said, while you’re there, you mustn’t miss the fugazetta! According to our Argentine friends living in LA, the fugazetta there tastes just like the home made ones in Buenos Aires. If you never heard of it, it is essentially an Argentine take on pizza, loaded with gooey cheese and onions. Comfort food at its finest.




Best Argentine Empanadas in Los Angeles
Los Angeles offers a fantastic array of authentic Argentine empanadas, each with its own unique take on this beloved dish. Whether you’re a fan of classic fillings or looking to try something new, places like Mercado Buenos Aires, World Empanadas, Rico’s Empanadas, Empanada Factory, Empanada’s Place, and Nonna’s Empanadas have something to satisfy your cravings.
So next time you’re in the mood for some flaky, savory goodness, give these spots a visit and embark on your own empanada adventure. Happy empanada hunting!
Want to explore Los Angeles food scene with a local expert? Book highly in-demand LA Food Tour: Exploring America’s Culinary Frontier or Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour

Would you add any other spots to the list of best Argentine empanadas in Los Angeles? Let us know in the comments or tag @eightyflavors on socials!
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