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The 16 Best Empanadas in Chicago

For those craving empanadas in the windy city, look no further than Chicago's diverse selection of delicious options. Whether you prefer traditional Argentinean empanadas or unique fusion creations, there is something for every taste bud in this bustling metropolis.

Explore this comprehensive list of the 16 Best Empanadas in Chicago to discover the top spots to satisfy your cravings. From cozy neighborhood joints to trendy food trucks, you'll find a variety of options that are sure to please even the most discerning empanada enthusiast.

Embark on a culinary journey through Chicago's empanada scene and find your new favorite spot today!

How this ranking works

This guide does not try to list everyone. It is our pick of empanadas in Chicago, built on each business's public reputation and on how central this service is to what it does.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3Full rankingMapTips for choosing

Our 16 local picks compared

Thimi's Empanadas, Chicago#1
What sets it apart
  • Delicious empanadas with standout options like Spinach and Cheese and Beef.

  • Handmade, baked Argentinian empanadas owned by a lovely Uruguayan family.

  • Fresh, tasty empanadas like humitas, spinach, and more, all baked to perfection.

  • Wonderful tamales and great chimichurri for those looking for a savory treat.

Thimi's Empanadas

5.069 reviews
1247 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60608, United States

Thimi's Empanadas is a renowned Argentinian restaurant located in Chicago. They offer a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Popular for both lunch and dinner, this spot is perfect for solo dining as well. Their menu features comforting comfort food options and quick bites that are perfect for any time of day.

Customers have left glowing reviews about Thimi's Empanadas. Here are some key points from their Rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars:

These reviews showcase the exceptional quality and variety that Thimi's Empanadas offers to its customers. With excellent service and delicious food, it's no wonder why this restaurant has received such high praise.

Lito's Taco and Empanada House, Chicago#2
What sets it apart
  • The empanadas are amazing, especially the chorizo flavor.

  • The burritos are huge and flavorful, perfect for a satisfying meal.

  • The service is friendly and fast, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

  • The portions are generous, offering great value for the price.

Lito's Taco and Empanada House

4.7221 reviews
2460 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

Lito's Taco and Empanada House is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of delicious options for its customers. Known for its empanadas and tacos, this restaurant caters to both dine-in and takeout customers. The no-contact delivery and delivery services make it convenient for those who prefer enjoying their meal at home.

Customers rave about the flavorful empanadas offered at Lito's.

With a rating of 4.7 stars out of 5, Lito's Taco and Empanada House is a go-to spot for Mexican food enthusiasts in Chicago. Visit their website to explore the menu options and place your order today!

Cassava Empanadas, Chicago#3
What sets it apart
  • "The empanadas and pizzas are absolutely delicious and outstanding. I ordered for pick-up and had the pleasure of meeting Marcos, who was incredibly kind and helpful. I highly recommend all the food here!"

  • "The empanadas are truly fantastic. Even when there was a mix-up with my order, the team was quick to resolve it. Their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction shines through. I will definitely be a returning customer!"

  • "While the gluten-free empanadas are a rare find and the pastry is perfect, some fillings could be better. Despite this, I appreciate having such options available and will likely return for more."

  • "I almost forgot I had celiacs while enjoying the amazing food at Cassava Empanadas. My experience was so good that I can't wait to order again. This place is truly exceptional!"

Cassava Empanadas

4.782 reviews
3929 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, United States

Cassava Empanadas is a top-tier catering food and drink supplier in Chicago that stands out for its exceptional service and delicious offerings. Customers rave about the gluten-free empanadas and pizzas, highlighting the impeccable taste and quality of the food. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a solid rating of 4.7 stars, Cassava Empanadas continues to impress customers with its delectable offerings. Whether you're in the mood for a savory empanada or a mouthwatering pizza, this establishment is sure to deliver an unforgettable culinary experience.

Lito's Empanadas - French Market, Chicago#4
What sets it apart
  • The caramel apple empanadas are not as expected, with clumpy caramel and congealed texture.

  • The chicken tortilla soup is phenomenal, with perfectly blended flavors and textures.

  • The flaky crust of the empanadas is fresh, yummy, and bursts with mouth-watering flavors.

  • The empanadas are so tasty, with favorites like chicken and mushrooms leaving customers wanting more.

Lito's Empanadas - French Market

4.771 reviews
French Market, 131 N Clinton St, Chicago, IL 60661, United States

Lito's Empanadas - French Market is a popular restaurant located in the French Market, Chicago. This vibrant eatery offers a variety of empanadas that are loved by many customers. The menu includes sweet and savory options that cater to different tastes and preferences.

Customers rave about the delicious empanadas and other dishes offered at Lito's Empanadas.

If you're looking for a place to enjoy delicious Latin-inspired treats in a casual and trendy atmosphere, look no further than Lito's Empanadas - French Market!

Lito's Empanadas, Chicago#5
What sets it apart
  • Customers praise the friendly and helpful staff who make ordering easy and welcoming.

  • The vegetarian options have been particularly highlighted, with customers loving the spinach and veggie empanadas.

  • Many visitors appreciate the flavorful fillings inside the empanadas, such as the beef & potato, fajita, chicken/mushroom, and Hawaiian varieties.

  • The chicken and Mushroom empanadas are also mentioned as a standout, especially when dipped in the sweet & Aji sauces.

Lito's Empanadas

4.746 reviews
Inside Revival Food Hall, 125 S Clark St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

Lito's Empanadas is a popular Latin American restaurant located inside Revival Food Hall in Chicago. Known for its tasty empanadas, this spot offers a variety of options for customers to enjoy. With a rating of 4.7 stars, it has gained positive reviews from many satisfied diners.

Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a comforting meal, Lito's Empanadas offers a delicious dining experience in a casual atmosphere. From breakfast to lunch options, customers have found their favorite dishes and keep coming back for more. Visit their website for more information and make sure to try their famous empanadas soon!

5411 Empanadas | Southport, Chicago#6
What sets it apart
  • Great variety of empanadas with unique flavors

  • Vegetarian options are plentiful

  • Friendly and fast service

  • Cozy and casual atmosphere

5411 Empanadas | Southport

4.5396 reviews
Southport Corridor, 3715 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613, United States

5411 Empanadas | Southport located in the Southport Corridor of Chicago, offers a variety of unique and flavorful empanadas that have garnered a 4.5-star rating from 396 reviews. The restaurant provides different service options like outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. One of the highlights is their fast service. Known for being popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offering a cozy and casual atmosphere, 5411 Empanadas attracts a diverse crowd including groups, tourists, and university students. Customers have praised the vegetarian options available and the fact that the empanadas are baked and not deep fried.

La Nonna, Chicago#7
What sets it apart
  • Cozy spot with fantastic food at reasonable prices. Great value for money.

  • Consistently amazing food quality with beautiful outdoor seating.

  • Delicious and vegetarian-friendly dishes. A must-try for all.

  • Generous portions, delicious food, friendly service, and clean restaurant environment.

La Nonna

4.7778 reviews
3400 N Lawndale Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, United States

La Nonna is a cozy Argentinian restaurant located in Chicago. They offer various services such as Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. The restaurant is known for its fast service, great coffee, and great dessert. They are popular for serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as being a great spot for solo dining. La Nonna provides a casual, cosy, romantic, and trendy atmosphere. They also have various amenities like toilets and offer wheelchair-accessible facilities.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

ELocal pick
#8
What sets it apart
  • Authentic Cuban flavors

  • Excellent customer service

  • Cozy ambiance

  • Generous portion sizes

El Cubanito Restaurant

4.72,215 reviews
2555 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60639, United States

El Cubanito Restaurant is a popular Cuban restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of delicious dishes served with fast service and great coffee. Customers can enjoy delivery, takeaway, or dine-in options in a casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, perfect for solo dining or group gatherings.

With a rating of 4.7 based on 2215 reviews, customers rave about El Cubanito Restaurant for its:

If you are looking for a place to enjoy a delicious Cuban meal in Chicago, El Cubanito Restaurant is the place to be!

Fons Empanadas, Chicago#9
What sets it apart
  • Excellent service with sweet and attentive staff. Margherita empanada is a must-try.

  • Large variety of empanadas, including unique options like Tinga and Mushroom.

  • Authentic Brazilian flavors delivering a plant-based delight for all taste buds.

  • Quality empanadas with flavors that will keep customers coming back for more.

Fons Empanadas

4.5121 reviews
32 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

Fons Empanadas is a renowned Vegan restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of delectable empanadas. Their Service options include Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Customers love the Atmosphere as it is described as Casual and Trendy. The empanadas are praised for being packed with flavor and creative fillings.

CLocal pick
#10
What sets it apart
  • Fresh, tasty food with a great bar selection at reasonable prices. A bit of wait time, but worth it for the quality.

  • Immaculate decor, fantastic empanadas, and friendly service. An excellent place to grab a bite and chill.

  • Cozy vibe with friendly staff. The delicious empanadas do not disappoint. A definite recommendation for anyone looking for a great meal.

  • Exceptional food quality and service. The empanadas are rich in flavor and not greasy. The owner ensures a VIP experience for all guests.

Chicago Empanada Mama

4.5133 reviews
1703 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

Chicago Empanada Mama is a popular Puerto Rican restaurant located in Chicago. They offer a variety of services including Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Known for their fast service, they are a go-to spot for lunch and dinner, whether dining solo or with a group.

Customer reviews highlight the delicious food and welcoming atmosphere of Chicago Empanada Mama:

5411 Empanadas | Wicker Park, Chicago#11
What sets it apart
  • Customers appreciate the quick and decent food options.

  • Visitors rave about the quality and freshness of the empanadas.

  • The diverse variety of fillings and the delicious chimichurri sauce have garnered high praise.

5411 Empanadas | Wicker Park

4.4487 reviews
2045 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

5411 Empanadas | Wicker Park is a renowned Argentinian restaurant that offers a variety of mouthwatering empanadas in Chicago's bustling Wicker Park area. Customers can enjoy services such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, with a reputation for fast service that sets them apart.

Whether you're a fan of traditional flavors or looking to explore unique combinations, 5411 Empanadas | Wicker Park is a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic Argentinian cuisine.

5Local pick
#12
What sets it apart
  • Fantastic empanadas with a charming interior

  • Authentic Argentine flavors and delicious alfajores

  • Cozy and relaxing space with great service and unique flavors

  • Small portions and expensive condiment sauces

5411 Empanadas

4.4517 reviews
2850 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657, United States

5411 Empanadas is a well-known Argentinian restaurant located in Chicago. The establishment offers a variety of services and features that cater to a diverse clientele. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is popular for its lunch specials and the option for solo dining. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, perfect for tourists and university students alike.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.4 stars, 5411 Empanadas is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Argentinian cuisine in Chicago.

El Mercado, Chicago#13
What sets it apart
  • Customers praise the delicious and fresh empanadas

  • Many enjoy the variety of flavors available, including vegetarian options

  • People appreciate the friendly and helpful staff

  • Some highlight the affordable prices and the convenient cash-only payment option

El Mercado

4.6146 reviews
3767 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613, United States

El Mercado is a well-loved Butcher shop located in Chicago, offering a variety of services and features. Customers rave about the fresh and flavorful empanadas offered at this establishment.

If you're looking for a place to satisfy your empanada cravings with a touch of authenticity, El Mercado is the place to visit!

El Nandú Restaurant, Chicago#14
What sets it apart
  • Steak lovers will delight in the flavorful skirt steak and entraña served at the restaurant.

  • Guests have praised the friendly and welcoming ambiance, with some even being encouraged to dance by other patrons.

  • Visitors recommend ordering dessert and enjoying the varied drink options available.

  • Many diners appreciate the attention to detail in the food, from the steak dinners to the delicious empanadas and desserts.

El Nandú Restaurant

4.5589 reviews
2731 W Fullerton Ave #3015, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

El Nandú Restaurant is an authentic Argentinian restaurant located in Chicago, that offers a variety of services to cater to its diverse clientele. From kerbside pickup to dine-in options, this restaurant ensures that customers can enjoy their delicious meals in a way that suits them best.

The restaurant is known for its fast service and great dessert options, making it a popular choice for those looking for a satisfying meal. Live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere, creating an enjoyable dining experience for all.

Customer reviews highlight some key points:

Experience the taste of Argentina at El Nandú Restaurant and savor every bite in a cozy and inviting setting.

ArePA George, Chicago#15
What sets it apart
  • A group of 7 diners praised the excellent service, prompt food delivery, and recommended trying the beef empanadas and various arepas, highlighting the generous portions and traditional flavors.

  • A visitor mentioned the delicious meals, perfectly cooked meats, and highlighted the impressive salad, but noted the surprising higher prices and the odd lack of pricing on the in-house menus, all line items defaulting to Market Price.

  • A satisfied customer raved about the friendly and professional staff, fresh ingredients, great spicing, and perfectly cooked food, while praising the spotless kitchen and cozy, inviting ambiance.

ArePA George

4.4743 reviews
1552 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60651, United States

ArePA George is a renowned Colombian restaurant in Chicago that offers a delightful experience for all food enthusiasts. This cozy spot by Humboldt Park is popular for its delicious arepas and mouthwatering Colombian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its prompt service, friendly staff, and a casual, bright atmosphere that attracts a diverse crowd.

This restaurant prides itself on its Latino-owned identity and offers various service options like outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in facilities. The menu includes comforting coffee, wholesome and vegetarian options, and a variety of small plates. With a 4.4-star rating and glowing reviews from customers, ArePA George promises a truly unforgettable culinary journey for all guests.

Golden Tuzo, Chicago#16
What sets it apart
  • Customers rave about the flavorful green mole pastes and tinga empanadas.

  • Many attendees loved the charming ambiance and friendly customer service.

  • Some mentioned the messy eating experience due to the pastry dough used in the empanadas but appreciated the unique flavors.

Golden Tuzo

4.4241 reviews
5648 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60639, United States

Golden Tuzo is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago. They offer a variety of services including Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Known for their delicious Coffee, Comfort food, Quick bite, and Small plates, Golden Tuzo provides a cozy and trendy atmosphere for all customers. They are also family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a transgender safe space. The restaurant accepts reservations and offers amenities like gender-neutral toilets.

The comparison in brief

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Thimi's Empanadas 5.069
#2Lito's Taco and Empanada House 4.7221
#3Cassava Empanadas 4.782
#4Lito's Empanadas - French Market 4.771
#5Lito's Empanadas 4.746
#65411 Empanadas | Southport 4.5396
#7La Nonna 4.7778
#8El Cubanito Restaurant 4.72,215
#9Fons Empanadas 4.5121
#10Chicago Empanada Mama 4.5133
#115411 Empanadas | Wicker Park 4.4487
#125411 Empanadas 4.4517
#13El Mercado 4.6146
#14El Nandú Restaurant 4.5589
#15ArePA George 4.4743
#16Golden Tuzo 4.4241

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Map of Empanadas in Chicago

Craving empanadas in Chicago? Look no further! Check out this map pinpointing all the best spots to indulge in these delicious Latin American pastries throughout the city. From traditional Argentinean beef empanadas to creative spin-offs like buffalo chicken or Nutella-filled treats, you're sure to find a flavor that satisfies your cravings.

Tips for choosing Empanadas in Chicago

  1. Traditional Argentinean empanadas.
  2. Fusion empanadas.
  3. Cozy neighborhood joints.
  4. Trendy food trucks.
  5. Various fillings and flavors.

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