Best Empanada in San Francisco | Top 16 Spots

14 restaurants in Best Empanada in San Francisco | Top 16 Spots

• Woods Lowside — American · rated 4/5: Tucked away like a hidden neighborhood gem, this vibrant haunt pairs the flaky, golden-brown crunch of artisanal empanadas with a rotating tap list of botanical and experimental brews. Savory fillings like earthy mushroom and spiced beef find their perfect match in effervescent pours of hibiscus-infused ales or honey-kissed lagers, creating a laid-back sanctuary for bold flavors and casual conversation.
• Morella — Italian · rated 4/5: Morella invites diners into a world of rustic refinement, where the smoky allure of Argentinian asado meets the vibrant, sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean. The air hums with energy as guests share golden, hand-crimped empanadas and tender charred octopus, punctuated by the decadent richness of roasted marrowbone and paper-thin Jamón Ibérico. Every plate is a celebration of bold textures and unexpected pairings, crafting a sophisticated yet spirited atmosphere perfect for lingering over long, flavorful evenings.
• Harmonic Brewing — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this vibrant taproom where the clink of glasses harmonizes with the aroma of warm, salted pretzels and golden Argentinian empanadas. The kitchen turns out a playful array of handheld delights, from zesty tacos and loaded nachos to crisp apple salads, creating a social atmosphere where every savory bite is designed to complement a cold, craft pour.
• Woods Cole Valley — Mexican: This sun-drenched neighborhood taproom invites guests into a rustic, wood-accented sanctuary where the aroma of golden, flaky empanadas fills the air. Patrons linger over creative, small-batch brews infused with local honey and botanical notes, perfectly paired with hand-folded pastries bursting with savory fillings like seasoned beef or earthy mushroom. It is a vibrant community hub that captures the laid-back spirit of the valley, offering an effortless blend of artisanal craft and cozy, casual comfort.
• Prubechu — American: Prubechu captures the sun-drenched, communal spirit of Guam, inviting guests into a vibrant space where the smoky aroma of grilled meats and the bright tang of citrus-marinated kelaguen fill the air. The experience centers on the legendary Fiesta Table, a soulful spread featuring golden-crusted empanadas and pillowy Chamorro sweet rolls slathered in rich, velvety tuba butter. It is a masterful celebration of island hospitality that blends traditional heritage with modern finesse, transforming every meal into a warm, tropical homecoming.
• Taqueria Los Mayas — Mexican: Taqueria Los Mayas transports diners to the heart of the Yucatán, where the vibrant energy of a bustling market meets the comforting warmth of a family kitchen. Crispy, hand-pressed panuchos and golden empanadas offer a satisfying crunch that gives way to savory, traditional fillings, while the signature Taco de la Abuelita evokes the soul-warming flavors of a cherished home-cooked meal. Whether sharing a mountain of loaded nachos or savoring a hearty, crusty torta, every bite celebrates a rich culinary tapestry in an atmosphere that feels both festive and deeply personal.
• ¡Venga! Empanadas — Mexican: Step into a vibrant slice of Argentina where the air is thick with the comforting scent of golden, oven-baked pastry and savory, toasted spices. Each hand-crimped empanada serves as a portable feast, ranging from the traditional richness of spiced beef and smoky chorizo to earthy mushroom and nutrient-dense kale. Whether grabbing a quick breakfast pocket or lingering over a spread of spicy gallina, diners find a soulful celebration of South American street food in every flaky, flavorful bite.
• Loló — Mexican: A kaleidoscope of color and kinetic energy, this lively destination invites guests into a whimsical space where the spirit of a modern cantina comes alive. Zesty citrus notes from bright ceviches dance alongside the smoky richness of bubbling mushroom queso fundido and golden, hand-pressed empanadas designed for communal sharing. Every plate, from the crispy charred Brussels sprouts to the tender pork carnitas nachos, celebrates bold, playful flavors that turn a casual gathering into a spirited feast.
• La Fusión — Mexican: At La Fusión, the air is thick with the mouthwatering scent of spice-rubbed rotisserie chicken spinning to a perfect golden crisp, creating a warm contrast to the bright, zesty chill of citrus-marinated ceviches. This lively destination brings together the comforting crunch of hand-folded empanadas and vibrant, garden-fresh greens, offering a soulful dining experience where traditional Latin warmth meets modern coastal flair.
• Santeria — Mexican: Santeria pulses with a spirited, high-energy atmosphere where the air is thick with the irresistible aroma of charred corn and bubbling cheese. Friends gather around shared plates of velvety house guacamole and golden, crispy cauliflower, diving into a menu that balances smoky BBQ nachos with the zesty crunch of traditional flautas and savory empanadas. This lively sanctuary transforms casual dining into a bold sensory celebration, where every bite of spice-dusted esquites or bubbling queso fundido feels like a festive occasion.
• Nopalito — Mexican: Nopalito pulses with the vibrant energy of a sun-drenched Mexican kitchen, where the air is fragrant with the scent of toasted chiles and freshly pressed masa. Crisp totopos and zesty ceviche tostadas offer a bright, coastal crunch, while soulful offerings like steaming Veracruz tamales and golden beef empanadas provide a comforting, deep-rooted warmth. From the jewel-toned pomegranate seeds atop achiote-roasted sprouts to the restorative depth of a traditional caldo, every dish celebrates the bold, colorful spirit of authentic regional flavors.
• Fogo de Chão — o is a "Ste: The air hums with the vibrant energy of Southern Brazilian hospitality, where the smoky aroma of fire-roasted meats fills an expansive, sophisticated dining room. Skilled gaucho chefs provide a theatrical tableside service, carving succulent cuts of Wagyu and prime meats alongside an array of coastal treasures like shimmering seafood towers and buttery Chilean sea bass. From the golden crunch of warm empanadas to the sizzle of the open churrasco grill, every detail invites guests into a decadent, communal celebration of bold flavors and tradition.
• Chile Lindo — Mexican: Chile Lindo invites guests into a vibrant celebration of Chilean soul, where the golden, flaky crusts of hand-folded empanadas give way to savory fillings like the traditional Pino or the smoky, spiced heat of Merkén. The air is rich with the comforting aroma of sweet corn from bubbling bowls of Pastel de Choclo, while bright, zesty spoonfuls of house-made pebre add a refreshing kick to every authentic bite. It is a cozy haven where the warmth of South American hospitality meets bold, rustic flavors, creating an experience that feels like a flavorful escape to the heart of Santiago.
• Venga Empanadas — Spanish: Golden, hand-crimped pockets of dough emerge steaming from the oven, releasing the savory aroma of slow-roasted meats and traditional Argentine spices into a vibrant, welcoming space. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch that gives way to rich, flavorful fillings ranging from classic spiced beef and smoky chorizo to earthy mushrooms and vibrant kale. This cozy spot captures the soulful essence of South American street food, offering a warm and flavorful escape perfect for a quick morning bite or a leisurely afternoon feast.