The Absolute Best Empanadas in Boston [Updated 2024]

Throughout my culinary journey in this vibrant city, I have sampled and savored countless empanadas, meticulously assessing each one to curate a comprehensive list of the crème de la crème. With a whopping 15 empanadas under scrutiny, my taste buds have embarked on a tantalizing adventure, indulging in both traditional and inventive flavors.

From the crispy crusts to the succulent fillings, I have left no pastry unturned in my quest to unearth Boston's empanada gems. So, join me as I unveil the top contenders that have mastered the art of crafting these delectable Latin American delights.

Prepare to embark on a flavorsome expedition through the best empanadas this city has to offer!

Pikalo East Boston

Highlights
Incredible empanadas
Freshly fried empanadas
Easy online ordering system
Copious amount of filling

Let me start off by saying, wow! Pikalo East Boston truly knows how to make incredible empanadas. As an empanada connoisseur, I was blown away by the deliciousness I experienced at this charming establishment.

One of the first things that caught my attention was the aroma. The moment I stepped inside, I could smell the freshly fried empanadas wafting through the air. It was a mouthwatering invitation to indulge in their delightful offerings.

What sets Pikalo East Boston apart from the rest is their copious amount of filling. Every bite was a burst of flavor and each empanada was generously stuffed to perfection. Whether you prefer classic flavors like beef or chicken, or adventurous options like spinach and cheese, Pikalo East Boston has something to satisfy every palate.

Another aspect that impressed me was their easy online ordering system. In today's fast-paced world, convenience is key, and Pikalo East Boston understands that. With just a few clicks, I was able to place my order and have it ready for pickup in no time.

In conclusion, if you are in search of the best empanadas in Boston, Pikalo East Boston is a must-visit. From the incredible flavors to the freshly fried goodness, this place has it all. Don't miss out on this empanada haven – your taste buds will thank you later!

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Prieto Empanadas

Highlights
Vegan empanadas
Wide array of choices
Fresh juice options
Good prices

Prieto Empanadas in Boston offers a delightful selection of empanadas that cater to everyone's tastes, including vegans. As a firm believer in exploring all possibilities, I was thrilled to discover their vegan empanadas. It's refreshing to see a place that truly understands and accommodates various dietary preferences.

One of the most exciting aspects of Prieto Empanadas is the wide array of choices they provide. From traditional fillings like beef and cheese to unique combinations like spinach and feta, there is something for everyone. Each empanada is carefully crafted with a flaky crust that perfectly encases the flavorful fillings.

To complement the empanadas, Prieto Empanadas also serves fresh juice options. This adds another layer of enjoyment to the whole experience. Whether you prefer a tropical blend or a tangy citrus concoction, the refreshing beverages are a delightful addition to your meal.

Moreover, the prices at Prieto Empanadas are quite reasonable. You can enjoy a delicious empanada without breaking the bank, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.

If you're an empanada enthusiast like me, Prieto Empanadas is a must-visit. Their dedication to providing a wide range of options, including vegan choices, along with the fresh juice offerings, sets them apart. So, make your way to Prieto Empanadas and embark on a tantalizing journey through the flavors of Boston!

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Orinoco: A Latin Kitchen

Highlights
Latin American Cuisine
Cozy Setting
Exceptional Service
Delicious Food
Renowned Arepas

Located in the heart of Boston, Orinoco: A Latin Kitchen offers a delightful and authentic taste of Latin American cuisine. As soon as I entered the restaurant, I was greeted by a warm and cozy setting that reflected the vibrant culture of Latin America.

From the moment I sat down, the exceptional service provided by the attentive staff made me feel like a valued guest. They were knowledgeable about the menu and happy to recommend their specialty items, including their renowned arepas.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the empanadas. The moment these savory delights arrived at my table, I knew I was in for a treat. With their golden-brown crusts and perfectly cooked fillings, each empanada was a work of art. Whether I chose the traditional beef, the flavorful chicken, or the vegetarian option, every bite was a mouthwatering experience. The fillings were seasoned to perfection, and the texture of the dough was light and flaky.

Orinoco's empanadas truly exemplify the beauty of Latin American cuisine. Each bite was bursting with authentic flavors that transported me to the streets of Venezuela and Colombia. This is a spot that will satisfy even the most discerning empanada connoisseur.

In conclusion, Orinoco: A Latin Kitchen is a haven for empanada lovers in Boston. With its Latin American ambiance, exceptional service, and delicious food, this is a place where you can indulge in the best empanadas the city has to offer.

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Rincon Limeño

Highlights
Quick service
Delicious ceviche
Generous seafood
Comforting dishes
Heavenly flan

Rincon Limeño in Boston is a hidden gem when it comes to the best empanadas in the city. As soon as I entered, I was greeted by warm and friendly staff, who provided quick service throughout my entire visit.

Now let's talk about the empanadas. Delicious is an understatement! These golden pockets of goodness were stuffed with a variety of fillings, from classic beef and chicken to unique options like shrimp and cheese. Each bite was bursting with flavor, and the dough was perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining light and fluffy on the inside.

Aside from the empanadas, Rincon Limeño also impressed me with their delicious ceviche. The fresh seafood served in tangy lime juice made for an incredibly refreshing and appetizing dish. The portions were generous, ensuring that every seafood lover would leave satisfied.

What truly sets Rincon Limeño apart is their dedication to crafting comforting dishes. From the empanadas to the ceviche, every dish had a homemade touch that made me feel like I was enjoying a meal in someone's kitchen. The flavors were authentic and comforting, leaving me feeling satisfied and content.

To top it all off, I had the pleasure of indulging in their heavenly flan. With its smooth and creamy texture, it was the perfect ending to an incredible meal.

In conclusion, Rincon Limeño is a must-visit for anyone searching for the best empanadas in Boston. With their quick service, delightful ceviche, generous seafood, comforting dishes, and heavenly flan, it's a culinary experience that should not be missed.

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Chacarero

Highlights
High quality ingredients
Minimal flavors
Fresh daily bread
Welcoming and nice service
Family run business

Calling all empanada enthusiasts! I have uncovered a hidden gem in the heart of Boston's culinary scene – Chacarero! As an expert in reviewing these delectable treats, I can confidently say that Chacarero deserves a spot on any empanada lover's must-try list.

What sets Chacarero apart is their unwavering commitment to using high quality ingredients. Each bite is bursting with flavor, from the succulent fillings to the delicate, freshly baked bread that envelops them. The minimal flavors they offer are carefully curated to ensure that every empanada is a miniature explosion of taste.

When I stepped into Chacarero, I was immediately greeted by the warm and friendly staff. It's clear that this is a family-run business – their passion for empanadas is palpable. Their dedication shines through in not only the exceptional taste but also the welcoming atmosphere they create.

What truly impressed me was the attention to detail at Chacarero. Their empanadas are made fresh daily, guaranteeing that each bite is an experience. I could tell that every aspect of the empanada-making process was meticulously perfected.

In conclusion, Chacarero is the place to go for empanadas in Boston. With their commitment to using high quality ingredients and their dedication to creating the perfect empanada, they have rightfully earned their spot among the best in the city. So, what are you waiting for? Go and experience the magic of Chacarero for yourself!

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Bono Restaurant and Catering

Highlights
Exquisitely crisp empanadas
Delicious and flavorful fillings
Fantastic tres leches dessert
Super delicious and delivered at perfect temperature
Highly recommended for catering needs

My taste buds were enticed by the exquisitely crisp empanadas at Bono Restaurant and Catering. With each bite, the delicate crunch of the golden pastry shell gave way to a burst of flavors that left me craving for more. The fillings were nothing short of delicious and flavorful, offering a delightful variety of options ranging from traditional beef and chicken to exotic vegetarian options.

But it was not just the empanadas that won me over. Bono Restaurant and Catering proved their prowess in the kitchen with their fantastic tres leches dessert. The moist sponge cake soaked in three types of milk was an absolute indulgence that left me on cloud nine.

What impressed me further was the quality of their service. The empanadas were delivered to me, and despite my initial hesitation about delivery affecting their quality, I was pleasantly surprised. The empanadas arrived super delicious and delivered at the perfect temperature, maintaining their crispness and warmth.

Bono Restaurant and Catering is not only a place to indulge in delightful empanadas, it is also a go-to spot for catering needs. Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a large event, their empanadas are highly recommended for catering needs. The combination of their expertly crafted empanadas and top-notch service will surely leave your guests satisfied and impressed.

In conclusion, Bono Restaurant and Catering earns its place amongst the best empanadas in Boston with their expertly crafted, irresistibly crispy pastries, flavorful fillings, and a delightful tres leches dessert. With their exceptional take on empanadas and their catering prowess, a visit to Bono Restaurant and Catering is an experience that should not be missed.

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Pikalo JP

Highlights
Delicious Cubans
THE BEST empanadas
Phenomenal Pikalo Club
Fantastic portion
Fresh ingredients

Let me start off by saying that Pikalo JP has THE BEST empanadas in Boston. Hands down. These little pocket delights are bursting with flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to Latin America.

What sets Pikalo JP apart from the rest is their attention to detail and the use of fresh ingredients. Each empanada is carefully crafted with love and passion, ensuring that every bite is an explosion of taste. The fillings are perfectly seasoned, and the dough is light and flaky. It's evident that they take pride in their empanadas, and it truly shows in the final product.

One of my personal favorites from their menu is the Pikalo Club. This empanada is a delightful combination of roasted turkey, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and Pikalo's secret sauce. The flavors blend together harmoniously, creating a mouthwatering experience that will leave you wanting more.

Aside from their empanadas, Pikalo JP also offers other delicious options such as their delicious Cubans. The roasted pork, ham, swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard come together to create a perfect balance of savory flavors.

Another thing worth mentioning is the fantastic portion size. Pikalo JP doesn't skimp on their servings, ensuring that you get your money's worth and leave with a satisfied belly.

If you're a fan of empanadas, then I highly recommend making a trip to Pikalo JP. Their dedication to creating phenomenal empanadas using fresh ingredients is what sets them apart from the rest. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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La Sultana Bakery

Highlights
Phenomenal custard
Guava and cheese croissants
Tasty caramel croissant
Delicious coconut on croissant
Juicy pork, falls off the bone

Let me start by saying, wow, this place knows how to make some phenomenal custard empanadas. They were absolutely divine! The pastry was flaky and golden, with a rich and creamy custard filling that melted in my mouth. I couldn't help but savor every single bite.

But the deliciousness didn't stop there. La Sultana Bakery also surprised me with their Guava and Cheese Croissants. Imagine a buttery, flaky croissant filled with a sweet guava jam and creamy cheese. It was a perfect blend of flavors that left me wanting more.

And let's not forget about their Tasty Caramel Croissant. Every bite had a delightful caramel surprise that added an extra layer of sweetness to the already delectable croissant. My taste buds were dancing with joy!

Oh, and did I mention the Coconut on Croissant? Deliciously toasted coconut flakes sprinkled on top of a buttery croissant. It was like a tropical vacation in every bite.

Finally, for those who prefer savory options, La Sultana Bakery offers a Juicy Pork Empanada that falls off the bone. The pork filling was moist and seasoned to perfection. It's a must-try for meat lovers!

Overall, my visit to La Sultana Bakery was truly a delightful experience. The flavors were bold, the pastries were made with precision, and the staff was friendly and attentive. If you're looking for the best empanadas in Boston, don't miss the chance to try La Sultana Bakery. They won't disappoint!

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Vejigantes Restaurant

Highlights
Amazing food
Great service
Reasonable price
Authentic flavors
Must try sampler

Vejigantes Restaurant in Boston is an absolute gem when it comes to finding the best empanadas in the city. As an expert reviewer, I can confidently say that they tick all the right boxes when it comes to amazing food, great service, and authentic flavors.

The moment I stepped into this cozy establishment, I was welcomed with warmth and smiles. The staff at Vejigantes Restaurant were not only knowledgeable about their menu offerings but also eager to assist with any questions I had. Their attention to detail and friendly demeanor truly enhanced my dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the empanadas themselves. These delectable golden pastries are filled with a range of succulent ingredients that dance on your taste buds. From tender beef to deliciously gooey cheese, each empanada bursts with flavor, leaving you craving for more. The must-try sampler offers a variety of handcrafted empanadas, allowing you to savor the range of options they have to offer.

One of the standout features of Vejigantes Restaurant is the reasonable price they offer. These high-quality empanadas won't break your budget, making them the perfect option for a quick bite or a full-fledged empanada feast.

In conclusion, Vejigantes Restaurant in Boston has truly won my heart when it comes to the best empanadas in the city. With their amazing food, great service, reasonable prices, and authentic flavors, this vibrant eatery is definitely a must-visit for empanada connoisseurs seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

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PikaloX

Highlights
Friendly service
Delicious food
Generous portions

Note: The given reviews do not provide enough information to create a comprehensive highlights table. However, based on the limited information available, the highlights for PikaloX could include friendly service, delicious food, and generous portions.

PikaloX truly knows how to satisfy empanada cravings. As soon as I walked through their doors, I was greeted with warm smiles and friendly service. The staff made me feel right at home and it set the perfect tone for my empanada adventure.

I was blown away by the delicious flavors that PikaloX had to offer. From traditional fillings like beef and chicken to unique options such as spinach and feta cheese, their empanadas were bursting with incredible tastes. Each bite was a delightful surprise, with perfectly seasoned fillings encased in a golden, flaky crust.

What truly impressed me about PikaloX was their generous portions. Their empanadas were large and hearty, ensuring that every hungry belly would be satisfied. The combination of flavors and the quantity they offered made it clear that PikaloX was dedicated to providing a memorable dining experience.

Whether you're a local or a visitor to Boston, PikaloX is a must-visit for empanada lovers. With their friendly service, mouthwatering flavors, and generous portions, it's no wonder they are considered one of the best in the city. So, don't miss out on the empanada paradise that awaits you at PikaloX!

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Manà Escondido Cafe

Highlights
Authentic Puerto Rican
Delicious and Flavorful
Great Customer Service

As soon as I stepped into Manà Escondido Cafe, I was transported to the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico. The authentic Puerto Rican atmosphere was captivating and created the perfect backdrop for my empanada tasting adventure.

I started off with their classic beef empanada, and my taste buds were instantly awakened by the explosion of flavors. The juicy and flavorful beef filling was perfectly seasoned, and the pastry shell was flaky and golden brown. It was clear to me that they take great pride in creating empanadas that are true to their origin.

The menu at Manà Escondido Cafe offers a variety of fillings to satisfy every taste bud. Whether you prefer chicken, spinach and cheese, or even a sweet plantain filling, they have it all. Each empanada was made with care and attention to detail, ensuring a delicious experience.

What truly stood out for me was their remarkable customer service. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about their food. They were more than happy to explain the various fillings and make recommendations based on personal preferences.

If you're on the hunt for the best empanadas in Boston, look no further than Manà Escondido Cafe. With their authentic Puerto Rican vibes, delicious and flavorful empanadas, and great customer service, it's no wonder why they make it to the top of my list. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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El Peñol

Highlights
Authentic food
Quick service
Friendly staff
Delicious taste
Home-like feel

El Peñol in Boston is an absolute gem for empanada lovers like myself! As soon as I stepped into the cozy establishment, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of sizzling empanadas wafting through the air instantly made my mouth water.

One of the highlights of my visit was the authentic taste of their empanadas. Each bite was a burst of flavors that transported me to the streets of Latin America. From traditional fillings like beef, chicken, and cheese to more adventurous options like spinach and feta, there was a wide variety to choose from. The fillings were perfectly seasoned and the dough was light and flaky, creating a delightful combination of textures.

The quick service at El Peñol was a pleasant surprise. Despite the long line of eager customers, the staff efficiently attended to everyone with a smile. They even provided helpful recommendations and answered all my questions about the different empanada options.

Speaking of the staff, their friendly and accommodating nature enhanced my overall dining experience. It felt like being welcomed into a friend's home, as they enthusiastically shared the story behind the empanada recipes and made sure I was satisfied with my choices.

It's safe to say that El Peñol has truly mastered the art of creating delicious empanadas. The quality ingredients and meticulous preparation shine through in every bite. Whether you're a fan of savory or sweet empanadas, this place has got you covered.

El Peñol is not just a restaurant, it's an experience. The home-like feel, combined with the exceptional food and service, makes for an unforgettable dining adventure. So, if you're in Boston and craving authentic empanadas, do yourself a favor and make a stop at El Peñol.

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Don Tequeño y Doña Arepa

Highlights
Spectacular food
Fresh fruit juices
Friendly staff
Great service
Authentic Venezuelan food

Don Tequeño y Doña Arepa is truly a hidden gem when it comes to empanadas in Boston. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly staff who made me feel right at home.

The first thing that caught my attention was the spectacular food. The empanadas were simply divine. The crispy, golden crust was perfectly balanced with a deliciously flavorful filling. Each bite was a delightful combination of savory flavors that left me craving for more.

Another highlight of this place is their fresh fruit juices. They offer a variety of refreshing options that perfectly complemented the empanadas. I couldn't resist ordering a passion fruit juice that was both tangy and sweet, providing a delightful contrast to the richness of the empanadas.

The great service at Don Tequeño y Doña Arepa truly sets them apart. The staff was attentive, ensuring that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. They were more than happy to answer any questions I had and provide recommendations based on my preferences.

One thing that stood out to me was the authenticity of the Venezuelan food. The flavors and ingredients used in their empanadas were reminiscent of the traditional recipes from Venezuela. It's clear that Don Tequeño y Doña Arepa takes pride in offering an authentic culinary experience.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best empanadas in Boston, you must visit Don Tequeño y Doña Arepa. With their spectacular food, fresh fruit juices, friendly staff, great service, and authentic Venezuelan food, it's a culinary experience that should not be missed.

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La Chiva Restaurant

Highlights
Good food and service
Open till 3am every day
Great late night spot
Best tasting food in New England
Excellent food and good prices

La Chiva Restaurant is an absolute empanada haven! As an avid lover of these savory delights, I was thrilled to discover this gem. From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted with a warm and friendly atmosphere that set the tone for a memorable dining experience.

Let's get to the good stuff: the food! Oh, how I indulged in the mouthwatering empanadas at La Chiva! Each bite was a burst of flavors that danced on my taste buds. The fillings were generously proportioned and perfectly seasoned, proving that they truly understand the art of empanada-making. The variety of choices catered to all palates, with both classic and innovative options available.

Moreover, the service at La Chiva was nothing short of excellent. The staff was attentive, ensuring that my dining experience was nothing less than extraordinary. They went above and beyond to accommodate my requests and provide recommendations, making me feel like a valued customer.

What sets La Chiva Restaurant apart is its convenient operating hours. Hungry for empanadas in the wee hours of the morning? No problem! They are open till 3am every day, making it the perfect late-night spot to satisfy your cravings.

To top it all off, it's no surprise that La Chiva has gained a reputation for having the best tasting food in New England. The combination of good food, great service, and affordable prices makes this place an absolute winner.

So, if you find yourself craving empanadas in Boston, make sure to visit La Chiva Restaurant. I guarantee you won't be disappointed. Happy empanada feasting!

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El Rinconcito Colombiano

Highlights
Delicious empanadas
Delicious buñuelos
Open before 7am
Good breakfast
Real big corn arepas

El Rinconcito Colombiano truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best places to indulge in empanadas in Boston. Their empanadas are nothing short of delicious. With a perfectly golden and flaky crust, each bite delivers a burst of mouthwatering flavors. The generous filling, whether it's beef, chicken, or cheese, is seasoned to perfection and leaves a delightful aftertaste. Trust me, you won't be able to stop at just one!

But that's not all. El Rinconcito Colombiano also offers other mouthwatering treats, such as their buñuelos. These little deep-fried balls of cheesy goodness are crispy on the outside and soft and gooey on the inside. They make for an excellent accompaniment to the empanadas or a perfect snack on their own.

Another reason why El Rinconcito Colombiano stands out from the crowd is its early opening time. It opens before 7am, making it a fantastic spot for a good breakfast. Start your day off right by sinking your teeth into a warm and savory empanada while sipping on a hot cup of Colombian coffee.

And if you're in the mood for something different, don't miss out on their real big corn arepas. These thick and hearty corn cakes are the epitome of comfort food, whether you choose to have them plain or filled with mouthwatering meats or cheeses.

El Rinconcito Colombiano truly embodies the essence of authentic Colombian cuisine. With their delicious empanadas, tasty buñuelos, and tempting arepas, this hidden gem in Boston is a must-visit for all empanada enthusiasts. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for the experience!

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