Sacramento's Best Empanadas [Updated 2026]

After countless hours of munching my way through the city’s vibrant food scene, I’ve narrowed it down to 12 top spots that serve up empanadas worthy of your taste buds. Trust me; I’ve savored every flaky crust and mouthwatering filling, so you can skip the guesswork and dive straight into the deliciousness.

Whether you're a fan of classic beef, adventurous spinach and cheese, or something a little more exotic, I’ve got the scoop on where to find your next obsession. So grab a fork—or just your hands—and get ready to discover the empanadas that will have you coming back for more!

Delicias De Veracruz

Highlights
Authentic Mexican flavors
Friendly and attentive service
Fresh and hot food
Clean and welcoming ambiance
Special Saturday offerings

Delicias De Veracruz truly lives up to its name, as every bite of their empanadas takes you on a delightful journey through the flavors of Mexico. The authentic Mexican flavors are an explosion of taste, with a perfect balance of spices that make you feel like you’re indulging in a family recipe. I was instantly charmed by the friendly and attentive service; it felt like being welcomed into a friend’s home.

As I took my first bite, I was greeted by a warm, flaky crust enveloping a steaming filling. You can tell that the empanadas are made fresh and hot because the flavors pop with a vibrant energy that’s hard to match. The ambiance was clean and welcoming, making it an inviting spot to enjoy a leisurely meal.

What really set Delicias De Veracruz apart were the special offerings on Saturdays. If you're lucky enough to visit then, be prepared for some unique twists on traditional empanadas that will leave your taste buds singing.

In summary, Delicias De Veracruz isn’t just about feeding your hunger; it’s about savoring an authentic experience that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine. Don't miss out on this gem in Sacramento!

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Chicha Peruvian Kitchen Midtown

Highlights
Delicious Peruvian cuisine
Warm and attentive service
Beautifully presented dishes
Clean and inviting atmosphere
Must-try Alfajores dessert

When I stepped into Chicha Peruvian Kitchen Midtown, I immediately felt the warm embrace of their inviting atmosphere. The walls are adorned with vibrant art, setting the perfect backdrop for an evening of culinary exploration. As one of the stars on their menu, I had my sights set on their empanadas, and I was not disappointed!

As I took my first bite, I was greeted with a perfectly flaky crust that crumbled delicately away, revealing a savory filling that danced with Peruvian spices. Each empanada was carefully crafted, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to delicious and authentic cuisine. The blend of flavors was compelling and left me wanting more.

But the experience didn’t end there! The staff provided warm and attentive service, enhancing my visit even further. Their passion for food and hospitality is evident, making every guest feel like family. To round off my meal, I simply couldn't resist their mouthwatering alfajores—a delightful way to finish my gastronomic adventure.

In Chicha, I found more than just empanadas; I discovered a vibrant culinary experience that I can't wait to share with others. A true gem in Sacramento!

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Tapa the World

Highlights
Inviting and warm ambiance
Great cocktails and dessert
Mixed paella and bread options
Better empanadas than tapas
Fun date night spot

Review of Tapa the World

Tapa the World is a cozy gem in the heart of Sacramento that beckons both casual diners and culinary explorers. When you step inside, the inviting and warm ambiance welcomes you like an old friend. As I settled in, I couldn’t resist trying their empanadas, which truly outshine even the notable tapas on the menu.

These empanadas were a delightful surprise! Each pocket of dough was perfectly crispy on the outside and warmly filled, bringing a burst of flavor with every bite. Honestly, they’re better than a few others I’ve sampled across the city, making them a must-try on your visit.

To complement the meal, the cocktail selection is impressive, ensuring that your taste buds are entertained from start to finish. And while you’re at it, don’t skip dessert; the sweet options here are as delightful as their savory counterparts. If you’re seeking a fun date night spot, Tapa the World offers a perfect combination of romance and vibrant flavors that will keep the conversation flowing. If you’re on the hunt for the best empanadas in Sacramento, you won’t be disappointed here!

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Forgotten Bakery

Highlights
Awesome special order service
Flavorful empanadas
Diverse menu options
Charming corner location
Great bagel sandwiches

Forgotten Bakery is a delightful gem tucked away in a charming corner of Sacramento, and I couldn’t resist diving into their flavorful empanadas. As soon as I stepped inside, the inviting aroma of baked goods enveloped me, whispering promises of delightful culinary experiences.

The menu dazzles with a diverse selection that goes beyond traditional offerings, showcasing a variety of fillings that cater to all taste buds. Each empanada I tried was a burst of flavor, from savory to slightly sweet, all encased in a perfectly flaky crust. It’s evident that they take pride in their craft.

One of the highlights of my visit was the awesome special order service. The staff was not only friendly but eager to accommodate my empanada cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a delicious lunch, their great bagel sandwiches are also worth considering if you're looking for a change!

In summary, Forgotten Bakery has truly captured the essence of what makes empanadas so delightful. If you find yourself in Sacramento and are on a quest for impeccable empanadas, I highly recommend making a stop at this quaint bakery!

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Papas Porky

Highlights
Amazing fresh and delicious
Addictive empanadas
Delicious and original potato waffle
Savory and well-cooked meat
Great portion sizes

Papas Porky is nothing short of a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Sacramento! As I approached the quaint establishment, the aroma of fresh empanadas wafted through the air, beckoning me closer. Once I dove into my feast, I discovered that these empanadas are not just food; they're an experience! Each bite was bursting with flavor, showcasing an addictive quality that left me longing for more.

I couldn't resist trying one of their savory meat-filled creations, and let me tell you, the quality of the meat was nothing short of excellent—perfectly seasoned and reliably tender. The accompanying potato waffle was a delightful surprise, offering a unique twist that perfectly complemented the savory fillings.

Portion sizes at Papas Porky are generously satisfying, ensuring you leave feeling content and happier than when you arrived. The passion for crafting these delicious empanadas shines through in every detail, making them a must-try for anyone in Sacramento. If you’re on a quest for the best empanadas in town, don’t skip this place—it’s sure to become a staple on your culinary adventure!

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Lola's Lounge

At Lola's Lounge, I was treated to a delightful culinary journey! Their empanadas are a heavenly blend of flaky pastry and savory fillings. I indulged in the spicy chicken and tangy salsa verde, a combination that dances on your taste buds. The crispy exterior gives way to a juicy interior, making each bite a delightful surprise. The atmosphere is vibrant, perfectly complementing the bold flavors of the food. If you’re hunting for authentic empanadas with a twist, Lola’s is a must-visit. You’ll leave with a smile and a satisfied palate, eager for another round!

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La Esperanza

At La Esperanza, every bite of their empanadas is a delightful journey! The crispy, golden crust cradles a variety of fillings—my favorites being the savory beef and the zesty spinach and cheese. Each empanada bursts with flavor, making it hard to stop at just one! The charming atmosphere adds to the experience, inviting patrons to linger and savor their food. If you're in Sacramento and looking for authentic empanadas, this hidden gem should be at the top of your list. Get ready to indulge—La Esperanza will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!

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Los Arcos Taqueria Y Panaderia

Los Arcos Taqueria Y Panaderia is a delightful gem in Sacramento that brings a burst of flavor with every empanada. I was immediately captivated by their golden, flaky crust, which cradles a warm and savory filling that is simply irresistible. The chicken empanada boasts perfectly seasoned meat balanced with a hint of spice that dances on your palate. Each bite is an adventure, from the generous portions to the delightful aroma wafting through the air. The friendly atmosphere further enhances the experience, making Los Arcos a must-visit for any empanada enthusiast. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it!

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La Esperanza Bakery

At La Esperanza Bakery, each bite of their empanadas feels like a warm hug on a plate. Flaky, golden crusts cradle generous fillings—my favorite being the savory chicken and cheese blend. The flavors burst forth in a delightful dance, and I found myself savoring every delicious morsel. Plus, their spicy salsa takes the taste experience to new heights! The cozy ambiance wrapped around me like a favorite sweater, making it the perfect spot to indulge. If you’re in search of empanadas that make your taste buds sing, La Esperanza is an absolute must-visit!

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Bodega Kitchen & Cocktails

At Bodega Kitchen & Cocktails, the empanadas are a delightful surprise! The golden, flaky crust cradles a savory blend of seasoned beef, making each bite a joyous explosion of flavor. What truly sets these apart is the accompanying spicy chimichurri sauce that adds a zesty kick, elevating the experience to new heights. The ambiance is vibrant and inviting, perfect for a relaxed evening with friends. If you’re on the hunt for empanadas that blend creativity with tradition, this spot is a must-visit. Bodega has certainly earned a prominent place on my list of Sacramento's best empanadas!

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Zócalo Restaurant

At Zócalo Restaurant, I discovered a delightful twist on the classic empanada. The perfectly golden crust cradles a savory fusion of fillings that dance on the palate. I opted for the chicken and poblano, which was bursting with flavor yet light enough not to weigh me down. The accompanying salsa verde added a refreshing kick that elevated each bite. The ambiance is vibrant, making it an inviting spot to share these treasures or enjoy solo. If you’re in search of a culinary adventure, don’t miss Zócalo's empanadas—they're a delicious fiesta for your taste buds!

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Panaderia La Jerezana

At Panaderia La Jerezana, I was instantly enchanted by the delightful aroma wafting through the air. Their empanadas are nothing short of a culinary hug—each bite oozes with flavor and nostalgia. I tried the chicken and jalapeño variety, which perfectly balanced spice and savory bliss, all wrapped in a flaky, golden crust. It’s evident that every pastry is crafted with care and love. The bustling atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a cozy spot for a tasty treat. If you’re in Sacramento, don’t miss out on these empanada treasures; they’re a little piece of heaven!

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