Empanada's Place

We so much love going to Empanada's Place. We have been going for years and it never disappointments. The owner is usually there, but all of the staff is the best. They will tell you everything you need to know. The place is so cute with a little gift area and cool photos and art on the walls. There is limited seating indoor and out. We have done it all, but we tend to just get a dozen empanadas and take them home. They are close to us. They don't stay open late so get there before 6 pm. The service is fast and the place is always ever so clean. They treat all customers like family and appreciate the business. They make all types of empanadas and some are mild and some are pretty spicy. They are great for gatherings of friends or holidays. They also have great sandwiches. You will love this place and they will love you.

Some food is so good that you black out while you eat it and this is exactly what happened. I got the spicy chicken empanada and it tasted like a chicken roast inside. The chicken was tender, easy to pull apart, and the filling was soupy but not too oily in the slightest. I had had a spicy chicken empanada before, which tasted like they just added hot sauce to the chicken, but this one tasted like it was slow cooked to actually let the flavors seep in. The atmosphere is very warm and the owner is super nice. Note that it’s cash only!

When I say this place is amazing I’m actually underselling it. I could eat myself into bankruptcy on these. Every one I’ve tried is better than the last. They even reheat well. So so so good. They are like $7/8 a piece and you will definitely eat more than one. I’ve been telling everyone I know about it since going for the first time. So much flavor. Cash only though

I was excited to try empanadas again after my trip to Argentina, then one of the bites I noticed this white hair inside. Probably the chef doesn't wear a hair net. We cannot see the chef or kitchen staff because they are in a separated room.

I take home to reheat in the oven. You can also freeze them and reheat for 25 minutes at 350 degrees.

I was craving empanadas and stumbled upon this place. It was a Saturday and I found parking easily in the adjacent lot but there was plenty of street spots open as well. The staff were so friendly. It’s cash only but there’s a gas station with an ATM across the street. The food came out within ten minutes and it was so fresh. I absolutely loved the flavors of each empanada I ordered plus there were plenty of vegetarian options for my friends. I will definitely be coming back!

So bomb. Cash only great empanada probably the best in Los Angeles, but there isn't a lot of competitors. A little pricey but still very good. You can eat there but it's really a take away spot.

This place is great. I ordered 2 criolla empanadas for takeout and I believe they were the best empanadas I have ever tasted. The guy at the counter was super sweet and offered me free sauce and a cookie :) would definitely go back!

I love this place! Bring cash, because it's cash only! If you have to, you can go next door to use their private ATM machine but that's not ideal. Anyway, I bring cash specifically to stop by here and I buy a dozen at a time to bring home to freeze and reheat later. Also, great for a party... I love these because they're tasty, full of flavorful, tender cooked fillings, and the crunch of the satisfying outer layer is just delicious. The empanadas are flash-fried, just so you know, not the plain, baked bread kind that you get other places. Also each one is rather large, not small like you get at other places. Although one is enough for me for a meal, I prefer two! My favorite fillings are the spicy chicken (not too spicy), the Aruba (it has a delicious, lemon-juice-brightened- ground beef filling that really works), and the vegetarian spinach one, but I've heard the corn one is delicious! The food tastes real, like your grandmother would make it this way, not researched and test-kitchened and definitely doesn't taste like there are chemicals or unnecessary ingredients. The cookies - don't miss these. They are soft and tender, like powdered sugar, and have a small light layer of dulce de leche caramel spread in the middle but not too sweet at all. I love the food here.

A true hidden gem for Argentinian empanadas! The place itself is filled with so much history and the staff is so kind! The empanadas are the best I've had on the West side. I had the ham and cheese and spicy beef and both were amazing with the salsa they gave on the side. Will be coming back whenever I am craving them! Also not pictured but the alfajores are the perfect sweet treat. So good that I got a box! Note that they are cash only!

We so much love going to Empanada's Place. We have been going for years and it never disappointments. The owner is usually there, but all of the staff is the best. They will tell you everything you need to know. The place is so cute with a little gift area and cool photos and art on the walls. There is limited seating indoor and out. We have done it all, but we tend to just get a dozen empanadas and take them home. They are close to us. They don't stay open late so get there before 6 pm. The service is fast and the place is always ever so clean. They treat all customers like family and appreciate the business. They make all types of empanadas and some are mild and some are pretty spicy. They are great for gatherings of friends or holidays. They also have great sandwiches. You will love this place and they will love you.

My father has been coming here since he was young, these empanadas are the real deal. Full of flavor and freshly made. Nice place, nice service, a couple of tables to sit and eat. Keep in mind this place is cash only!

Ordered three of the beef empanadas for a great meal They are very flavorful with all the ingredients inside highly recommend this place

The empanadas are soo yummy! You can get all different types and for a really great price! If you are an empanadas lover, this bakery is a must try!!

I have been coming here for over thirty years: never been disappointed. Tried empanadas in several other Argentinian restaurants but there is absolutely no comparison: these (all of them) are by far the best. The corn one (Humita) is exceptional. Their chimichurri is excellent too and so are the beef milanesas.

Visit once a year to see family. Came last year following Yelp reviews and loved it. Came back this year and loved them again. Delicious and a nice treat. Rocky thanks!

Delicious empanadas! All of the options we purchased were super flavorful and flaky, but I was especially blown away by the criolla and the potato and cheese. I was a bit surprised by the price, but I also acknowledge that this might be necessary given the realities of inflation right now. I was extremely grateful for the server's kind offering of a free empanada to try since it was my first time! Note that the store is cash only, which, while being right next to a gas station with an ATM, was still quite inconvenient. Definitely a bonafide mom and pop store, but worthwhile for a hearty lunch or takeout (note that the shop is not open past 7pm and closes at 6pm on Sundays). They also have alfajores (which I hear are delicious!) and an assortment of Argentine products, including mate and tea supplies! I look forward to returning.

The go to for the best empanadas around - been coming here for over 30 years and it's hardly changed from the food to the decor - but why should it - the empanadas are still cooked to perfection - piping hot fillings and perfect crunchy outside fried doughy pockets. And the secret dipping sauce, gosh I think I could just drink that stuff it's soo good. Each one is quite a good size but I like to eat two. This place is like a time warp and never disappoints! Come! Enjoy!!

Wow what a hidden gem! This has to be the best empanada spot I've ever tried. Tons of vegetarian and vegan options everything made fresh to order! Most places always have that frozen taste to their empanadas but not here. Rocky the owner is also super friendly. I love this place I'll definitely be back

Did pick up of assorted empanadas. All were good. Ready timely and hot. Pleasant staff.

Literally the only empanadas I'll eat. Criollo and arabe are my faves, but their other ones I can vouch for too considering the folk I'll see crowd that tiny storefront. Don't skip on their lunch special either (2 empanadas and a sizable salad). And be sure to bring cash.

Small family owned place with a cozy small interior consisting of 5 bistro type tables for 2 people inside and 2 outside. Most people probably get to-go since the place is so small. But this place is on legit. Flaky and crispy outside crust, delicious fillings. Empanadas cost more but they are also a little bigger. We tried three Empanadas while we were there and took home another dozen. Dont expect superior service. The people are nice but it is one of those mom and pops so they are "realistic" and it's CASH ONLY! Free parking on the left side of restaurant when facing it.

A long-time, family-run establishment, Empanada's Place is the answer to all things Argentinian food, and I'm glad I got to try some incredible empanadas! The empanadas don't come cheap, but each is humongous and very filling. I had the spicy beef and spinach cheese, and I really enjoyed the fried and flaky crust, as well as the tender, flavorful beef and creamy spinach cheese inside. I'd go back to get more, should the empanada cravings hit!

The food was amazing crispy with so many flavors and our server gave us free cookies at the end i'm definitely going to go here again

Really amazing authentic Argentinian empanadas!!! Go there and get a mixed box of all

Yo benia aquí ace 10 años!!! Mesa mucho gusta de pasar y saber que todavía están estables!!! This place is family owned! The best pastelitos Argentinos que e probado afuera de Argentina!! Todo es sabroso y con mucho sabor! I recommend this place 100000000% They will not disappoint! Can't wait for my family to try them.

The empanadas I tried were delicious! Each empanada is generously filled and full of flavor. Spicy chicken is shredded chicken with tomatoes, onions, and peppers (reminded me of chicken tinga). Arabe is ground beef with onions and spices (lemon flavor is bright and balanced). Spinach is the best and not overpowered by cheese. Despite being fried, they weren't oily. The crust seals in the juices and flakey. Raffi, the owner, was so sweet to offer me an alfajore on the house! He made sure I was taken care of without doting too much. He offered to go containers in case I wanted it, and their spicy sauce (like a very liquidity salsa). He suggested other breakfast options like Jelly Donut and YumYum (he recommended their ham and egg sandwich and gave an approving whistle). The space is incredibly cute and well-kept. The walls are adorn with pictures, little knickknacks from Argentina, and beloved plants make the space appear more welcoming and personable. Even the table linens matched the winter holiday season! I came in as they opened and waited a little less than 15 minutes for my order. $7/empanada is steep but well worth it. They are cash only, so please remember to tip!

Been going here for 13 years but WAY less as of late.. empanadas were $3.00 back in the day. I understand inflation but at what point do you cap the price of an empanada? $7.30 is absolutely robbery for something no bigger than a dollar. Sadly this is no longer feasible.

I've been coming here since I was in high school. I have so much love for this place. The owners are so sweet and the place always has that homey vibe. I know people are complaining about their price increase, but I'd rather pay this price to support this local business compared to chain restaurants. Empanadas are always delicious!

Great Food Great Service Great Ambiance See Roque, he'll take good care of you! I'm done with my review but they're asking for more characters, happy now?

I no longer live in LA, but prior to moving, I used to come here on the regular. I constantly crave the empanadas here, so whenever I'm back in town this is one of my go-to spots. Happy to say that the food and service are still as excellent as ever! The crisp and crunch are perfect and even when ordering takeout, they manage to make it the perfect temperature so it's still as delicious at home vs. eating in the shop or in the car. Just make sure you have cash! Worth every penny.

This place has been around for decades, and for good reason. The empanadas are authentic, with lots of tasty choices, and fairly priced. Our go-to restaurant for empanadas.

I've lived up the street from this place for 4 years and finally made my way in. The owner is extremely nice and welcoming. I ordered 2 empanadas - spicy beef and picante. Picante was truly the highlight! Really delicious poblano pepper and cheese with other flavors. They even give you a special sauce to try. The breading/crust is so flakey and perfect. Will definitely come back. Cash only but there is an ATM next door. Check it out!

This is THE place to go for empanadas! They have so many different filling varieties, including meat and vegetarian options. Each empanada is $7.30... which is a significant price increase from last year, but it's decently sized and has a good amount of filling. We got the Criolla and Ham & Cheese. The Criolla was stuffed with ground beef, eggs, green onions and they were well seasoned. The Ham & Cheese was more creamy with the mozzarella cheese and the ham was a classic addition. Both had incredibly crisp and flaky pastry on the outside. We also tried their Grilled Steak sandwich ($15.99) which was delicious as well. The sandwich was huge and came in a French roll with French fries on the side. The steak was so tender and was complex in flavors from the chimichurri sauce, mayo, lettuce, tomato and sautéed onions. Overall, this is definitely a must try if you like empanadas. Important note, this place is CASH ONLY so make sure to bring enough cash so you can get more empanadas!

We had takeout but I'm definitely eating in next time. Cool vibe, like you are not in the States. Great photos on the walls. Tried three different empanadas-fillings were just right-not too little not to much and the dough was crispy perfection. Combo of 2 empanadas and salad was great bargain. Man behind counter very kind. Please note cash only!!

Empanadas are the best, and the owner here knows from empanadas. And they even have Argentinian grocery delicacies, like Dulce de Leche. I'm headed there now.

I grew up with this spot. It's been around since before I was born and it remains my favorite spot in the area for empanadas. I always get the chicken or spicy chicken with extra jalapeño juice on the side and the quality has always been consistent. I usually order take out but on the occasions that I do dine in the service is consistently good as well and you never have to wait long for your order. The environment is very cozy , nostalgic and peaceful just as it was when I was a kid. Prices have definitely gone up since then but it's not bad for what you get. If you're ever in the area and want a quick comfort meal then be sure to call in and place an order for the Combo Special which is 2 Empanadas of your choice and a salad but if you're absolutely starving then I'd recommend adding an extra empanada to your order. It is CASH ONLY here so that's something to keep in mind, don't pass up on this spot and don't forget to request jalapeño juice for your empanadas especially if you get chicken, it's a game changer!!

Even after 12 years since I last came here the location remains the same, friendly service, empanadas taste as great as I remember them.

I haven't been there since I moved out of Culver City in 2011 but I recall I was always pleased when I ordered empanadas. I think my favorite was the cheese and onions but I enjoyed them all. I'm happy to see you are still putting out your excellent creations.

One of the best empanadas I have tried! I uncovered this place from a Facebook group who vouched for the high quality of this place, and I decided to visit for a casual afternoon snack with a friend. I got the $15.99+tax combo - 2 empanadas plus side salad. The 2 empanadas we got were the criolla and spicy chicken. The criolla is a beef empanada with raisins and eggs, which provides a nice contrast of sweet and savory. The spicy chicken has chicken (of course), bell peppers, and onions, which was also good. I personally like the criolla one more, but both are excellent. Both empanadas have a nice crispy exterior texture with a slight buttery taste. 1 empanada is sufficient for a satisfying snack, and 2 would make it about a meal or less. The person working there is pretty nice, but do note that this place is CASH ONLY!

Excellent food, the best empanadas in town!!! The service is phenomenal and the ambiance is cozy and comfortable. Definitely a top place to frequent in Los Angeles!

I am giving this place a 1 star due to the fact that they have surpassed the price for an empanada, come on now. I used to come here back in 1999-2000 and prices were reasonable slowly they started raising the $$$ & now they have more than doubled. Ive gone back to NJ and NY where they really know how to make Argentina empanadas and nobody sells empanadas for over $7 each unbelievable. 1 Doz over $80 really...

The food was amazing. Handmade fresh empanadas. The owner behind the counter was extremely helpful and so nice! And did I say the empanadas are HUGE!!! Cute little restaurant very reminiscent of old world style. I'll be back!

This place doesn't ever disappoint. I have been coming here for many many many many years.... Entire family loves it. Even my granddaughter asks to come when it's my day to pick her up from school. The parking is a bit of a Chanel le ge... but do NOT let that keep you away. The empanadas are totally worth it. I have literally have had every single item in the menu at one time or another and I have to say I have never had something that I didn't like. They are super friendly. And the table and decor are super cute. It's a nice cozy place.

Charming hole in the wall, best Empanadas on the West Side. A bit overpriced nowadays, but worth it to support a delicious small business once in a while. Our favorite empanadas are the spicy chicken, ham and cheese, and corn. Family owned and operated, friendly service, food to die for!

If I were you...and you have never experienced Empanada's Place, I'd scoot right down there now before you miss out on the westside's only real Muso and Franks before it's not so young owners retire. You don't want to miss out on authenticity like this! It is not fancy, very affordable and full of CHARM. When I'm in the neighborhood, which is rare for me, I beg my wife to head over there. The food is yumptuous, the scene memorable beyond time and space. Even if you have never been to Argentina, EP will make you nostalgic for comforting, romantic snacks that may inspire you to learn the tango, improve your Spanish or just dream about possibilities. Your life will be better for it and your stomach will rejoice!!!

Let's keep yelp real!!! Overall experience was great! FYI it is CASH ONLY. This is a quaint place to get your empanada fix. Upon entering I was greeted warmly, provided recommendations, and just given an overall warm feeling. After eating we were given complimentary alfajores (nice touch). My wife and I really enjoyed our food we had the criolla, spicy beef, beef, & potato and cheese. The empanadas are sizable and stuffed, we were pretty full after 4. My only trouble with the establishment are the prices. I understand we are on the Westside but $30+ dollars for 4 empanadas is a tough pill to swallow. If your in the area and want to support a local empanada spot, check it out.

Spinach empanada - very good Beef empanada - okay, had some egg. Kind of like a fried mini breakfast burrito lunch salad - very good Went for for lunch special which came to almost $20 after tax / tip. Empanadas are larger than usual so that filled me up, but was not too heavy either.

I actually live around the corner and had always wanted to stop in, but it wasn't until this weekend that I got to try them Can only attest to the hours-old empanadas that were brought to a beach rave - but I will say this if after being ravaged by hungry 20-year-olds while music is blasting and sauce is everywhere, and these still held up, then definitely check them out A friend who arrived at the beach brought a dozen or so - he had an array, but after all the pickings, and hours after them being out, I ended up trying their ham empanada very flavorful, and regretfully I wish I had tried it sooner, but honestly so good Cash only from what my friend told me, so they suggest pulling funds from the atm located across the street at the gas station definitely will be back to try other flavor options

I was STARVING when I had this and so this might be a slightly biased review, but I'm still thinking about this many weeks later, so I deem it fair and honest. The service here was warm, homey, kind and cheerful - so obviously they have my loyalty forever. On to the food - I had the Spicy Chicken Empanada and it was perfect. Freshly made with a piping hot, perfectly seasoned filling, and a flaky buttery crust, this was a HUGE empanada with a perfect crust - filling ratio. I also bought a bunch of alfajores to inhale and distribute to friends and they were a big hit. I am very partial to dulce de lece, so this made for a joyous teatime treat. This spot is cash only, so word to the wise. I was a little surprised at the prices, but these were so good, and the people behind the spot are so lovely that I can't wait to go back and try more flavors.

I don't know too much about empanadas but I've heard this place is the real deal! I got the Criolla (the classic), Ham & Cheese, and Corn. I thought the Criolla was going to be my least favorite of the 3 but it actually turned out to be my favorite! The ground beef and egg was juicy and jam packed with flavor from all the spices. I like that the crust is not too thick and is flaky with the perfect amount of filling.

Love their empanadas! We travel from Pasadena just for these. We've tried many places but these empanadas are the best. We've tried them all and all are good. The dough is flavorful and all the fillings are tasty. Owners are super nice. Quaint interior. There is parking in the back.

The service was great the owner himself took our order and served us. He was very friendly and made us feel at home with some history of the establishment. One of the best Empandas and chimichurri I have had in Los Angeles by far. With a quaint rustic feel.

Sooooo good! Love the size of the empanadas, love the customer service and the fact that this place feels like family as soon as you enter! I ordered the spicy chicken, beef, criolla and the arabe. My fave were the criolla and arabe due to their unique flavor and fresh ingredients. Definitely worth trying!

Known by many patrons, Empanada's Place has been around for a very long time and has staked itself into my list of LA's food staples for they are historic to fact of over 30 years. Their focus for this favorite hand pie, and being an Argentinian focus is amazing. Sawtelle, being their original location has survived the decades. Some may even recall their Hollywood location, so intimate a place, the walk-up bar atmosphere brings back many memories of how simplicity is so underappreciated. The selection of empanadas are plenty, and I do not recall any single flavor being poor. They are all rich in flavor encompassed by both vegetarian and non-vegetarian examples. There are also other entree items and an excellent Argentinian Milenesa that is delicious. Being a patron for many years, I just don't quite understand the hike in pricing. I hate to harp on the yesteryears of affordability, but the sense of value comes to mind. Fortunately, my taste buds make the argument that there is no better example of a favorite Argentinian empanada. Bring your proud crisp bills, for "cash is king" here.

The best place! Not from around here, but wonderful customer service, and clean. The gentleman at the counter was very accommodating and attentive- yummy options.

Oh my nom the picante was delicious!!! Served at the right temperature and the combo of the tomatoes, onions, and cheese was nicely balanced.