Gina Z.
Yelp
My first visit to Boludo was a mixed experience. I didn't indulge in their most sought-after item, the pizza, but from an empanada perspective, I can't say I was entirely blown away.
One of several marks that make an empanada spectacular is the filling-to-dough ratio. I'll seldom mention price as a factor because I enjoy paying for a good meal, regardless of what it is. However, quality and value are also important to me. I didn't feel that the quality of everything I ate made up for the value.
I sampled the Messi, Pollo, and Carne.
The pollo empanada was my absolute favorite as it definitely followed the empanada ratio-rule. Juicy, well-seasoned, and stuffed like a pillow, this chicken empanada was baked to a beautiful golden brown perfection, enjoyable from start to finish. The pastry dough was airy, crisp, and tender, with just the right thickness for the filling. I dipped this bite in their house-made Chimichurri sauce, which amplified the flavors of the chicken. I could've easily eaten several. 10/10, no notes.
The Messi, Boludo's creation of a pizza empanada hybrid, was a bit messy. Because it's a fried empanada, the filling is steaming when you break into the empanada. The reggianito and mozzarella cheese filling ooze out, which may sound delicious, but along with a few slices of pepperoni, it's all the filling there is. So unfortunately, all of the filling fell on my plate, leaving me with empty empanada "husks" which I used to scoop up the filling. It was okay. I appreciate the attempt at an untraditional filling, but it wasn't a bite I'd necessarily suggest or order again.
The carne empanada was the most disappointing of all. Stuffed with beef picadillo, ají molidos, and olives, this empanada crumbled at the first bite. Compared to the chicken empanada, which shares the same dough, there was a difference in taste solely in the dough. The dough of the beef empanada was chewy, dense, and very crumbly. The picadillo filling was abhorrently dry. It was an overall miss for me.
Regarding the ambiance, I enjoyed my meal on their patio dining space while the sun was still toasty, which is an excellent option for people watching and enjoying views of the Twin Cities. This eatery is very casual. An option to consider if you're in the area and desire a quick, light bite. Offering counter-service only, you place your order, receive a number, and your food is brought to wherever you choose to sit. While there is no table service, drinks, cutlery, etc., may be brought to your table if you ask. The space indoors offers a few booths and tables for seating. There are lots of TVs inside playing different sports channels. Parking was challenging because there is only metered parking nearby, but Boludo is centrally located and also partners with a couple of food delivery services if you can't make it to them.