Discover the top 5 highest-rated dining experiences
Find the 5 best places for empanada in River North. Curated list of top-rated restaurants serving exceptional empanada.
River North's Premier Empanada Destinations
Discover the vibrant flavors of River North through its most exceptional empanada offerings, spanning a rich tapestry of American, Mexican, and Spanish culinary styles. From the authentic Mexican street food vibes at Xoco to the sophisticated Spanish plates at Havana Grill, there is a savory pastry to satisfy every craving in the neighborhood. You can also explore unique American interpretations of this classic handheld snack at local favorites like Deep Purpl, Theory, and Taste222.
5 restaurants in Best Empanada in River North | Top 5 Spots
- Deep Purpl — American · rated 5/5: Vibrant hues and bold flavors collide in this modern sanctuary, where the deep, velvety purple of artisanal acai bowls provides a refreshing counterpoint to the golden, flaky warmth of hand-crafted Argentinian empanadas. From the satisfying crunch of thick-cut toasts topped with creamy avocado or rich hazelnut to the savory comfort of buttery shrimp and grits, every dish is a playful celebration of fresh ingredients and global inspiration.
- Theory — American · rated 4/5: Theory pulses with a modern, eclectic energy, where the comforting aroma of griddled challah French toast mingles with the zesty, bold spices of house-made chilaquiles. This vibrant social hub transforms casual dining into a sensory celebration, offering everything from crispy breakfast empanadas to inventive Cacio e Pepe chips that invite lingering over shared plates in a spirited, welcoming atmosphere.
- Xoco — Mexican: The air at Xoco is thick with the intoxicating aroma of toasted cacao and sizzling griddles, drawing guests into a vibrant space where golden, flaky empanadas and griddle-crisped tortas celebrate the bold spirit of Mexican street food. Soul-warming caldos and creamy guacamole provide a comforting centerpiece to the meal, which inevitably concludes with the irresistible crunch of hot-from-the-fryer churros and a steaming mug of frothy, stone-ground hot chocolate.
- Havana Grill — Spanish: Havana Grill pulses with a vibrant energy, where the air is thick with the scent of sizzling spices and the rhythmic clinking of glasses. Crispy plantain tostaditos and golden-fried empanadas offer a satisfying crunch that gives way to savory, soulful fillings, while zesty ceviche and smoky chipotle crab cakes bring a bright, coastal flair to the table. It is a spirited escape where every spoonful of rich black bean soup or bite of a hearty chimichanga feels like a sun-drenched celebration of bold Latin flavors.
- Taste222 — American: Taste222 invites guests into a vibrant, stylish sanctuary where the air is perfumed with the comforting aroma of golden cornbread and bubbling, artisanal mac and cheese. The kitchen reimagines soulful classics through a sophisticated lens, turning out crispy firecracker shrimp and zesty empanadas that pair perfectly with the lively energy of a shared table. It is a culinary crossroads where bold, global spices meet elevated American comfort, creating an atmosphere that feels both indulgent and effortlessly social.
