Discover the top 6 highest-rated dining experiences
Find the 6 best places for empanada in Houston. Curated list of top-rated restaurants serving exceptional empanada.
Houston's Premier Empanada Destinations
Houston’s culinary landscape offers a diverse array of handheld treasures, ranging from traditional Latin flavors to innovative global twists. This curated selection highlights the city's best empanadas, featuring savory pockets from Mexican favorites like Alamo Tamale Company and Caracol alongside the Italian-inspired creations of Gusto Gourmet and Pastel Pizza. Whether you are craving the hearty, meat-centric offerings of Che Gaucho steakhouse or the creative American fare at Belly of the Beast, these local spots showcase the incredible versatility of this beloved stuffed pastry across the Bayou City.
6 restaurants in Best Empanada in Houston | Top 6 Spots
- Alamo Tamale Company — Mexican · rated 4/5: The air is thick with the comforting scent of masa and slow-simmered barbacoa, drawing guests into a bustling space where every tamale is a hand-wrapped labor of love. Diners can dive into the rich, melted indulgence of quesabirria or explore a kaleidoscope of sweet pan dulce and delicate cakes that brighten the counter. From the first sip of a frothy, handcrafted coffee to the last bite of a golden empanada, the experience is a vibrant celebration of authentic heritage and sugary delights.
- Gusto Gourmet — Italian · rated 3/5: Gusto Gourmet captures the vibrant spirit of Latin American comfort, where the irresistible aroma of golden-fried tequeños and savory empanadas fills a warm, inviting space. Guests indulge in a colorful tapestry of textures, from the crunch of twice-fried patacones to the sweet, tender bite of mandocas, all served with a gourmet flair that elevates traditional street food into a soulful feast.
- Caracol — Mexican: Caracol transports diners to a sun-drenched coastal escape where the vibrant spirit of the Mexican shoreline comes alive through a celebration of the sea’s freshest treasures. Zesty aguachiles and citrus-bright ceviches sparkle with heat and acidity, while towering seafood platters and golden, crispy empanadas invite guests to linger over shared plates in an atmosphere of effortless, salt-kissed elegance. The experience balances the raw artistry of delicate tiraditos and chilled oysters with the smoky depth of tender lamb ribs, offering a soulful journey through the bold and refreshing flavors of the coast.
- Pastel Pizza — Italian: This vibrant eatery reimagines the handheld comfort of Latin street food, where the golden, flaky crunch of freshly fried pastelitos meets the savory soul of a classic pizzeria. Guests can indulge in a playful menu where gooey pepperoni and melted cheese are tucked into crisp, airy pockets, alongside traditional savory fillings and decadent Nutella-stuffed treats that offer a sweet, velvety finish. From the warm, cheesy stretch of a tequeño to the hearty satisfaction of a stuffed empanada, every bite celebrates the joy of crispy, golden-brown textures and bold, comforting flavors.
- Che Gaucho — Steakhouse: Che Gaucho transports diners to the heart of the pampas, where the smoky aroma of the grill mingles with the warmth of a rustic, inviting space. Golden, flaky empanadas and bubbling crocks of melted provoleta lead the way for a celebration of fire-kissed traditions, featuring everything from rich roasted bone marrow to a savory parade of authentic Argentine sausages and tender grilled sweetbreads. It is a vibrant destination where bold, soulful flavors and a convivial spirit turn every meal into a true South American feast.
- Belly of the Beast — American: Belly of the Beast invites diners into a world of bold, unapologetic flavors where the smoky aroma of grilled octopus and rich bone marrow sets the stage for an adventurous feast. Each plate is a masterclass in texture, from the golden crunch of potato-filled empanadas to the delicate, melt-in-your-mouth freshness of bluefin tuna tostadas. It is a vibrant, high-energy sanctuary for those seeking elevated comfort food that pushes boundaries and celebrates the art of the perfect, indulgent bite.
