OK, I've been searching for PR empanadas that mimic the roadside stands I visited outside Luquillo, PR. This is very much what I remember, of course it's a few thousand miles from home but we were able to try the menu on our last 2 days in Captain Cook. Everything was great, quick, simple, spiced just right and deep fried to perfection. The grandmas pork pie was it, the other meat pies were outstanding too. He also has a couple with a Hawaiian twist, the Ube pie was great, little sweet, little fried, little delicious. As soon as he figures out how to ship these things to the mainland, I'll be in trouble. Can't say enough about this hole in the wall, just so good. Hint.... Buy in bulk. read more

July, 2025 There is a small, unassuming shop next to Gypsea Gelato that is serving up some authentic Empanadas. The owner is a super nice guy who makes everything by hand and cooks them up to order. I recommend calling ahead and stocking up at the beginning of your trip. These empanadas keep well, reheat well, and even taste good cold. We were there 10 days and always had them on hand for snacks, and food on the go. We also enjoyed sitting on the patio and then having a guava ro taro filled empanada and gelato for dessert. He is also usually at Food Truck Fridays (4-8 @ Target parking lot) Look for the Puerto Rican flag. You will not be disappointed. read more

Tony does the best empanadas, regardless of which one you buy. They remind me of the ones we used to buy when we lived on the island. They're perfectly seasoned, and the dough is thin and crispy. Hard to pick a favorite among the Grandma's (pork), the chicken, or carne con papa ( ground beef with fried potato chunks). Dessert, anyone? He's got you covered! Order the guava and cream cheese and the ubay. Both have the perfect sweetness. Don't miss the opportunity for a great meal! Also, wonderful for dinner parties. Thank you Tony not only for your wonderful empanadas, but your wonderful service. read more

WOW!!!! I would have never expected to find traditional empanadas on the Big Island. These were SO AMAZING! The guy is using his grandmother's recipe, I think. There are a variety of options, with plenty to choose from. It's kinda a hole-in-the-wall spot, but has plenty of parking. Look for the Gypsea Gelato sign on the same building, and there is also a yellow banner/flag that says "empanadas". Super great local fare! read more

I have nothing but good things to say about this place . I stopped by twice in one day . The service kind and friendly . Easy . The grandmas pastelitos reminded me of the island and was authentic to Boricua cuisine . On top of that the other empanadas like the Ube added new Hawaiian flavors and they were also a must have . 5 stars for me ! read more

My husband and I stopped here during our vacation, and I'm not a big fan of meat, but oh my goodness, the pollo loco and Grandma's empanadas were a flavour explosion ! I'm tempted to drive back the 30 minutes for more ! Highly recommend. The proprietor was also very friendly and provided excellent recommendations. read more

The food is incredible, the best empanadas I have ever had and a treat worth making a trip for while on the island. The service is amazing - food is made to order and fast, always extremely fresh. The guy who runs the place is a one man show and is super friendly. My favorite place on the island! read more

Self owned and operated. Family recipes passed down. This is my second time visiting, because it's just that good! Ube empanadas with a subtle sweetness and crunch from the outside shell. Grandma's empanadas are delicious, the ground pork is well seasoned with perfection. Service is always great! read more

Randomly stopped here, delicious! The meat was seasoned well, food was on point. I will definitely be coming back. Also wanted to point out that the owner was so kind and made everything fresh. Great job! Parking was easy, in front or on the side of the building. read more

Boricua's, if you're looking for authentic pastelitos (empanadas), look no further! Service was prompt, Tony explained each pastelito on the menu, and he even offers vegan/ vegetarian options too. This was definitely worth the drive from Waimea to Kealakekua. read more

I was so excited about this new food in the neighborhood that I created a Yelp account but apparently new users don't rate according to Yelp... If you scroll down far enough you'll see that this cute little friendly empanada shop is highly recommended read more

The empanadas are excellent. Tony has meat and vegetarian options. I've tried them all and can't decide which is my favorite. Grab a bag of homemade sweet potato chips as well. You can text ahead and they will be ready when you arrive. read more

I'm born and raised in Kona and we love coming to Aloha De Nada! Their food and service are excellent! Our picky eaters (kids) love their empanadas as well! If you are in South Kona it is worth a stop in or even an order ahead online. read more

These are simply the best Empanadas you can find on the Big island. If you are in Kealakekua you MUST stop here and try their Grandma Empanadas. Blissful! read more

It had amazing tasting Empanadas ( If you go there get the Net York one it has the best flavor) it also had nice staff and I liked the outside seating. read more

We absolutely loved the empanadas here!!!! The fillings were delicious and the crust flaky and perfectly proportional. Highly recommend!

Amazing food and great service. Very welcoming and walked us through the entire menu to make sure everyone got what we wanted.