This food is bomb!! I'm on the last hour of my time in Baltimore and I'm already planning my meals for the next visit. We split the "just enough" and it was more than enough for 2. The empanadas are large, flavorful, and mesh perfectly with the sauces. The chimichurri on the tostones was a big highlight for me. On top of all that, the cupcake that comes with it ain't no grocery store dessert! Lastly, the music was just perfect! I'll be back here every time I'm in Baltimore. read more

INSANE delicious, you must come try this! I came during jury duty - for $20, it's one huge empanadas, a side, a drink, and a dessert. It was a ton of food. I think even without the jury discount it was only a few bucks more. The empanada was amazing - I got beef, it was huge and filling. I also loved the tostones but I want to try the fried sweet plantains too! Dessert was also BOMB, some kinda bread pudding. So delish. Everything came quick and was hot and fresh. I know they do catering, I would definitely consider it. The space is also very nicely decorated with nice furniture and decor. Unfortunately, the area is a bit odd, not much to do around there. Service was also a bit strange. My server may have been having an off day but he was quite impersonal, I wondered if he was okay. Also note that tip is included (they call it "love" on the bill." Overall, I would definitely recommend The Empanada Lady and really want to come back! read more

See all

I came here for a Galentines day event that a shop was hosting here. The place is so cute and the Valentines day decor was the cutest. The music was hitting!!! Jams all night!! It was a group of us and our waitress was very nice and accommodating! The owner was also there getting pictures and joining in on the fun!! Such a good night!! I ordered the chicken Nada bowl! DELICIOUS!! The broccoli was the star of the dish!! It was cooked to perfection!! The rice was tasty, the chicken was kinda shredded and so flavorful!! The sauce was sooo good!!!! I would absolutely order this dish again. I've had the empanadas when she was at her other location, and they were great. I just haven't tried them at this new location but I will absolutely be back!! This place is such a vibe!! read more

The Empanada Lady - Valentines Day Decor - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

I came here for brunch with a friend on Sunday and really enjoyed myself. There was also a DJ there doing brunch. That ginger berry splash was so refreshing. And that crème brûlée French toast was delicious. Perfect amount of food and reasonably priced. Our sever was very attentive and checked on us often. read more

The Empanada Lady - Nada Brûlée French Toast Nada Brûlée French Toast - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

Love supporting black owned and happy we got to try it. Definitely a cool vibe, with a welcoming atmosphere. The owner is present and you can tell she is passionate about customer care and the longevity of her business. They have more than empanadas , so don't let the name fool you. We had a few minor issues that were appropriately handled and this is what you call good customer service. Definitely check this place out! read more

The Empanada Lady - Shrimp Empanada - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Had an amazing brunch at The Empanada Lady! The waffles were delicious, the empanadas were perfect--some of the best I've ever had--and the coquito was such a treat. The customer service made the experience even better. The general manager is so kind, the bartender was great, and our waitress took excellent care of us. They also had an excellent DJ spinning out the jams. If you're looking for a fun, flavorful brunch spot with consistently good food and warm hospitality, definitely give them a try. read more

See all

My friends and I visited after leaving an event at the power plant--only about 5 min walk. It was Friday and we made it in time for happy hour. We sat ourselves. It took a little minute for us to be greeted and get our orders taken. It seemed like the bartenders were also doubling as the waiters for tables. When we received our food, we were amazed. Everything was so flavorful. I've been dreaming about those perfectly seasoned fries ever since! Everything was the perfect temperature and delicious. I was happy to share this place with friends and I will be back again. read more

See all

I came here with a group of friends. It was their first time and my third. I can officially say, I can't recommend Empanada Lady for the food. Between us we had the salmon bites, beef nada bowl, corn, chicken open nada, beef empanadas, and bread pudding cupcakes. The highlight was easily the salmon bites. Flavorful and tender, we thought these were a hit. The empanadas were unremarkable, greasy, and bland. I'd avoid. The cupcakes were lukewarm to cold--blech! The drinks though-- the bartenders know what they're doing. To a person, we felt their cocktails were the best part of the experience. I wouldn't come here for food again but would recommend for drinks especially during happy hour. read more

I first have to say that I haven't been to the brick and mortar location. The business hosted a spot at Baltimore's Black Mall event over the holidays, so that was my chance to give them a try. I had a chicken empanada which was probably one of the best I've had in a while. Piping hot, I had to wait until it cooled to enjoy its perfect texture of crispy exterior and chewy, meaty goodness on the inside. EL, you got it right. I hope to see you at your store location soon. read more

Just left Lady' Empanadas, Drinks were amazing, the star of the experience, bartender was attentive checking on us consistently not our server. Server was still very polite. Salmon bites were seasoned well with an aioli dip! Habanero Wings were great just NO heat I'm a Jamaican and use to heat EL turn up the heat, make a sweet chutney dip to balance the heat. They were more just sweet. Empanadas were suppose to be the star, they were assume premade to order and warmed up in an oven but were soft, pastry was just hard and broke off. Full of protein/ chicken with a small amount of cheese. I'd like more cheese, season well though. Owner was warm inviting us to sit anywhere even at the bar along them as family which was very warm and sweet. I'd wish when arriving she'd got up and welcome us and sat us. They weren't busy. That would I would have done, instead of sitting there waving her arm for us to sit anywhere. That's just me. Feedback, I'd work on training on servers to be consistent with checking on patrons being intentive to the guest. I left still 22% Solid experiences 3.5 stars read more

Found the empanada lady at Artscape. They offered 5 flavors of empanadas including veggie. Due to the crowd, the wait was over 40mins. I ordered two beef and one chicken empanada. The beef was perfectly seasoned and delicious. The chicken empanadas were flavorful and full of chicken. 4.5 Highly recommend a visit !! read more

The Empanada Lady - Chicken Empanada - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Such a dope spot! From the moment we walked in, the staff was incredibly welcoming and cool. My family came in with a party of 17, and they accommodated us with no hesitation and open arms, which is no small feat! The service was top-notch, super friendly and not rushed, which made the whole experience feel relaxed and enjoyable. The setting of the restaurant had such a nostalgic vibe, which really added to the atmosphere. Now, the food--so good. The empanadas were massive and absolutely packed with flavor. Everything was fresh, made to order, and came out surprisingly fast given the size of our group. While we waited, we played Jenga, Spades, and LCR, they've got games and great music going, so the vibe stays high the whole time. Overall, this place is a VIBE. Between the food, service, and aesthetic, I'd absolutely come back and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, flavorful, and welcoming experience. read more

See all

Can't believe I haven't reviewed the Empanada Lady yet! I am going to try my best to not be bias because I love Elisa and love what she's doing. The location isnt my favorite, getting down to this part of the city always feels like a chore to me and parking can be really hit or miss. But once you get in you forget your in the hustle and bustle of downtown. Staff wise is honestly kind of the same, I noticed that either no one is paying attention or everyone is, there is no middle. As far as food as long as you know what to order your all good, I got loaded nachos this last time and they were delicious. I will echo some other reviews here and say i've never had a bad drink, her bartenders really know their stuff! read more

This place was cute, colorful and decorated with insightful artwork. The service was kind of confusing. A lady sitting at the bar helped us more than the person behind the bar. Food came out in a decent amount of time but I witnessed them mess up other peoples orders while I waited for mine. The lemon drop I had was yummy so was my chicken quesadilla. The empanadas were a good size and filled well but they are greasy so have your napkin ready. I will say they give you a small amount of sauce for three empanadas and charge an absurd amount for extra sauce. I'd eat the food again but probably opt for take out. read more

First of all look at the size of those empanadas! They definitely give you your money's worth. I would recommend getting them to share with a friend and they have a deal where you can buy 4 and get 2 sides. The empanadas themselves were so flavorful. I'm not much of a cheese person but if you are, you're sure to love these! I ended up getting them to go and sat at the bar which the bartender was super accommodating asking me if I wanted water while I waited. read more

The Empanada Lady - Apple empanada - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

Y'all wanna talk about great customer service?? The staff at the Empanada Lady delivered! The restaurant is small but so cute. I came during happy hour with my friends and had a ball. The happy hour menu had a great variety of options. I opted for a margarita, beef empanada and the garlic parm wings. The food an 8/10 only because I like my wings fried a little hard but the flavor was good. The beef empanada was good but the sauce on the side gave it what it needed to be great. I'll probably opt for another protein next visit. My friend, who's a pescatarian, got the shrimp and salmon empanadas which weren't on the happy hour menu. She enjoyed the salmon one the most out of the two. The margaritas were sneaky. Couldn't really taste the tequila but it snuck up on me. I'm definitely coming back again! read more

See all

This was the first time I ate here and I ordered the beef empanada to go. It was big flaky and filled with a lot of beef. Very good and the atmosphere inside is cute and very clean . I would recommend it. Beef was spicy but not too spicy . I definitely recommend it . read more

The Empanada Lady - Beef empanadas to go w sauce - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I stopped by The Empanada Lady and tried the shrimp and beef empanadas. The shrimp one was --super flavorful and juicy. The beef was good too, and both were way bigger than I expected (def a meal, not just a snack). The staff were really nice and I loved how casual and laid-back the vibe was. Everyone was dressed chill and it just felt super welcoming. Honestly, I think this would be the perfect happy hour spot if you're tryna grab a drink, eat good food, and meet people. I'll definitely be back. read more

See all

I don't even know where to start... this was hands down the worst food experience of my life. The food showed up looking like it had already been eaten once and sent back for round two. Cold, soggy, and somehow still burnt at the same time -- I didn't even know that was possible. The flavor? Imagine disappointment mixed with regret and a hint of "why did I spend money on this?" The seasoning clearly went on vacation, because nothing had taste except the overwhelming sadness on the plate. And don't get me started on the texture... every bite was a gamble I kept losing. I wouldn't serve this to my worst enemy, let alone pay for it again. 10/10 would NOT recommend. Save your money, your appetite, and your peace read more

If I could give the Empanada Lady less than one star, I would. My recent visit was beyond disappointing. Arriving at 6:45 PM, we didn't receive our food until close to 8 PM. An unbearable wait due to inadequate staffing--just one or two people in the kitchen despite the restaurant being crowded. To make matters worse, they called last orders at 7:30 PM. Who does that? When our food finally arrived, our group, each of whom ordered different empanadas, had all our food plated together on one dish. Not only did they fail to bring extra plates, but it felt unsanitary, with our hands stumbling over each other. Why not serve each order separately? The street corn was atrocious--burnt beyond enjoyment. They called it "charred," but what I saw and tasted was far from the appetizing photo I viewed on Yelp. Then the owner and the manager blatantly lied and said it states "charred" on the menu. I looked at the menu several times and no where it says it's charred. They didn't remake it and just offered 15% off. This is awful customer service. It's like they treat their customers like they are doing us a favor. Really??? The customers are who drives your business, and if you treat your customers bad you won't have a business! Despite offering a 15% discount, nothing could make up for the dreadful service. To top it off, being forced to pay a 20% gratuity for inadequate service was the final straw. We were patient with the delay, but the overall service was inexcusable. I cannot recommend this restaurant to anyone. read more

See all

Another visit to The Empanada Lady, I had to update my review! For starters, there is parking garages (multiple actually), in the surrounding area - less than 5-minutes in walking distance. I brought my girls here for a Saturday night dinner, and like others mentioned, the artwork, music, and overall vibe of this restaurant is great. The staff is attentive, there's board games for those in the mood, and just a good energy the moment you walk in. As for the food, I'm not sure if we missed anything when it comes to an empanada flavor. Between the 3 of us, I'm pretty sure we all ordered something different but unfortunately, there was no way for us to know if were biting into a chicken or pork empanada. Our plates kinda just appeared, and we were to find bite-and-go-seek ourselves. For future customers, a note in front of the specific flavor, a toothpick saying what's what, etc. would be appreciated - so we know what we're biting into. Other than that, we did enjoy our time here! I've gone once, twice, and will more than likely come back for a third time, and this time - sit at the bar. read more

I've been to The Empanada Lady multiple times but only to get Elite perks there (which were absolutely wonderful!), but this past Friday was the first time I went on my own desire. I had a feeling that The Empanada Lady would be a vibe on a Friday night...and I was 100% right! I sat at the bar, enjoying the space. I love the style in there and it seems like the furniture moves to different and better configurations every time I visit. The music was a good mix of hip hop, but at a nice conversational level. I ordered a beef empanada and the white rice and bean stew, which were both excellent and I gobbled them up per the usual. The staff were super nice and I felt seen and taken care of. Unfortunately, I was wearing just a tank and shorts when I visited, and the AC was bumpin, so I was frozen out of there and had to leave much sooner than I wanted. But I'm glad I went and look forward to spending other Fridays here (and I'll make sure to bring a cardigan/hoodie or something). read more

The Empanada Lady - Beef empanada and stew - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I was visiting and stayed at a nearby hotel so I just dropped in to try it. The empanadas were good. They were fried hard which I liked. They were crunchy, cooked fresh and had good fillings. They also have a nice bar. read more

I've been to The Empanada Lady twice now, and both times the food has been absolutely delicious. The first time, I ordered the three-empanada platter (beef, pork, and chicken), along with tostones and plátanos, and everything was perfect. The coquito was amazing- smooth, rich, and one of the best I've had. Out of the three meats, the pork empanada was the standout. Perfectly seasoned and full of flavor. Because of that great first visit, I recommended the restaurant to my business partners. This time, we ordered two three-empanada platters for a group of five, and everyone wanted pork after hearing my review. I called ahead, placed the order for all-pork platters, and paid over the phone as requested. When we picked up the order, though, we discovered it was the standard sampler (one beef, one chicken, one pork) instead of all pork. It was a bit disappointing since we had been specific, and I would have gladly paid extra if there had been a price difference. I completely understand if the sampler mix is the default or if custom platters aren't typically available, but a quick heads-up about that on the phone would've made all the difference. That said, the food still saved the day. Everything was delicious, and the staff has always been warm and friendly, both in person and over the phone. I really love the vibe of this place. It's lively, welcoming, and full of good energy. I plan to eat in next time, and I'm still hoping to encourage my business partners to consider The Empanada Lady for some luncheons in early 2026. The flavor and authenticity are truly there. I'm hopeful future orders match that same level of excellence in service. read more

The Empanada Lady - Beef empanada and platano - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I've been watching this restaurant on social media for quite some time and today December 26th, 2024, I finally made it. Immediately walking in, you can't help but notice the warm vibe, the vibrant colors of decor, chairs, walks, artwork, etc. the restaurant itself is well-kept, very clean and spacious. We (my daughter & I), were immediately greeted soon as we walked in, we were able to pick our own seat. After finding a cozy little corner, the server (Taylor), immediately came over, greeted and acknowledged us and brought us water. Taylor was very attentive, pleasant and courteous! The menu was on a QR scan/code, but easily accessible. We order garlic Parmesan wings and hot & spicy wings and appetizer. I order beef, chicken and shrimp empanadas and my daughter did as well. JUST WOW! EVERYTHING WE ORDERED WAS DELICIOUS!!! The wings were hot, fresh and delicious! Now babbbyyy let's get into these empanadas, they were made with love. The shrimp empanada was simply amazing along with the beef! I didn't make it to my chicken empanada because I was full, lmbo!! The Red Sangria was delicious!! Along with my daughter's Hibiscus Lemonade! The owner was very welcoming and bringing food out as well. The restaurant is giving very much warm, cozy and good ole delicious comfort food! We will be back again & again!! read more

See all

I was finally able to check out this spot after driving past it darn near every day. I got there as soon as they opened, so there wasn't anyone there. Music was jumping and I love that when I go to any restaurant. I was welcomed by two lovely employees with great personalities. I went there for breakfast & a few drinks, but they only do the breakfast at brunch on weekends. At that point, I ain't really want anything. My partner wanted to stay since she's into empanadas. We got the buffalo wings, half mild, half sweet Thai chili with extra sauce. 7/10. Not bad. Great size and the blue cheese was official. 3 empanadas ... beef 2/10...apple 5/10. It tastes like fresh apples, but just too hard.. & shrimp 6/10. All of them were just fried extremely hard & lacked flavor. Couldn't get into it at all. I paid about $60.00. Glad I was able to give it a try. I'll go back to try their brunch prob. I love the setting & vibes for sure. Park in the parking garage across the street, cause you'll go crazy reading all the parking signs out there. Plus them meter maids be out there heavy. Enjoy. #TeamDiesel4Evaaa read more

I just want to say how good of an experience this place was from the food to the vibes. I don't even eat empanadas really but saw salmon and turkey and wanted to try. When we walked in we found seats at the end of the bar but the place was lit, there was a person on the Mic and great music playing. The service was good, the bartender addressed us immediately, the drinks were strong, I ordered the French 718. Now obviously I came for the empanadas, I ordered 3 (beef, turkey and salmon). My favorite ended up being the beef, I was disappointed in the turkey because it is ground turkey and not pulled pieces of turkey like the beef Is. The salmon was ok but not flavorful like the beef. I would definitely return one day, hope the owner tries pulled turkey empanadas next, maybe for thanksgiving? read more

The Empanada Lady - French 718 Turkey Empanada Beef Empanada Salmon Empanada - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

The food the ambiance I love everything about this establishment.. the boss lady always so attentive and customers really appreciate her presence read more

So glad we stopped in! Generous portions, fun ambiance with card games and jenga available, full bar and cartoons on TV for the kids! We could see the kitchen from our table and saw them chopping all the veggies. It took a while for the food to come, but certainly worth the wait for authentic Puerto Rican! Esp loved the tostones and vegan options! Can't wait to come back! read more

Why did I wait so long to go here??? Empanadas were huge and appropriately priced, not to mention DELICIOUS and very filling. Just two is enough for a whole meal, so don't give into the temptation to get a third. Next time I go, I wanna try the drinks. Cute interior, good music, and kind service. read more

The Empanada Lady - Turkey Empanada and Apple Empanada - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I had the pleasure of FINALLY having the Empanada lady at Charm City Live! I had the turkey empanada--I know it sounds basic, but trust me it wasn't. The crust had the perfect crisp and the filling was immaculately seasoned and was just so good. I can't wait to visit again and try other flavors . read more

See all

First time at The Empanada Lady while visiting Baltimore for a concert! Very cute restaurant.. our waiter took a little while to get to us, and it took forever for our food to come out. I had the roasted salmon with potatoes and eggs and a beef empanada. The potatoes were too salty and I didn't really care for the mix that came on top of the salmon. The salmon itself was perfectly done! The beef empanada was really good, and I honestly could've had that as a meal by itself. They were out of red sangria so I tried the white. I didn't like it at all. I am used to my sangria coming with fruit. This just had some kind of flavored syrup in it with a lemon garnish. Glad I was able to try this place, but I don't think I'd come again. Oh and FYI 15% gratuity is automatically added to check. read more

I visited this place for the first time this Saturday before a concert. The atmosphere was a pleasant surprise, with vibrant decor and great music. However, the service was quite slow, and our food took an unusually long time to arrive, making us late for our event. While our server was friendly, they didn't check in often, leaving us wondering if our order had been forgotten. Arrived 6:30 ordered at 6:40 and got food at 7:35ish. The pricing seemed steep for the portion sizes. The OG platter, which we shared, included three chicken empanadas, two small sides, and a cupcake for $35. We also ordered the crab and shrimp balls for $25, only to receive three small balls. Although the food was delicious, the pricing seemed unreasonable, especially considering the serving sizes. On the positive side, the empanadas were generously filled with flavorful chicken and cheese. The street corn with white cheese sauce was a standout, offering a delightful blend of cheesy and tangy flavors. The crab and shrimp balls were also tasty, albeit undersized for the price. In summary, while the food quality was commendable (8.5/10), the service (6/10) and affordability were disappointing. Considering the prolonged wait and high prices, it's unlikely I'll be returning soon. I believe improving the speed of service and adjusting the pricing could make this place more appealing and successful in the long run. Lastly, they add a 20% gratuity to all checks so me mindful. read more

See all

This is the best empanada I've had in Maryland! It never disappoints. I almost don't want to give up this gem because it's perfect spot for a Saturday to catch day party vibes. The music is always on point and good vibes. read more

The Empanada Lady - Beef Empanada with cheese - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I didn't care for the sticky tables in the restaurant, nor we like the food. There was something off with quality of the empanadas. The specialty lemonades were also not very good in my experience. read more

This was my first time dining here. And let me say it will not be my last. Can't wait to go back. This place is such a vibe. The decor and setup is really cute. The staff was friendly. Our waiter Taylor was the bomb. She was friendly, knowledgeable, attentive, and just a vibe offering great service. The food was super amazing, hot, and fresh! Now baby the cocktails and shots were on point. Perfectly crafted and super delicious. I can't wait to go back especially to try them for brunch. Do yourself a favor and check this place out pronto. read more

See all

Stopped in and did a large order for my coworkers and I. I even messaged the owner on IG to "warn" her in advance. Overall, there were at least 13 empanadas, a bowl, wings and 5 bread pudding cupcakes ordered. Not a single complaint was made. Everyone loved it. I accidentally ordered 2 extra empanadas. One coworker said he'll try it and take it off my hand. Less than 5 minutes later he's reaching for the other one saying, "yeah I'm gonna take this one too." Lol The Crab is my favorite but that Shrimp empanada, smh, definitely a close second. Next I want to try the salmon. Maybe I should just try all of them. The young lady at the bar was very patient with me and did a wonderful job getting my order correct ( she did a better job than I did). I want to go during brunch. Seems like a fun time. read more

The Empanada Lady - Entrance - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Cute restaurant and a nice vibe. I went for brunch and there was a DJ which is always a nice touch, especially when there's bottomless drinks. I just wish there were a little more options on the brunch menu and some more creativity. Overall pretty good. read more

The Empanada Lady - Beef Empanada - Empanadas Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

Upgrading my review to 4 stars in view of good customer service which offered a partial refund and the quality of the food. ORIGINAL: First time ordering. I'm giving only one star because they screwed up my take-out order. I ordered shrimp empanada (and "shrimp" was written on the container). However, it was not shrimp, probably chicken. Tasted good but I ended up being overcharged by $3 since it was not shrimp. Portion size was good. Also ordered Thai spicey string beans. They were also good but portion size was on the small side. Would order again but not the shrimp empanada because you don't know if it will actually be shrimp. read more

It's a quaint place. Visually appealing. Took a min to find parking. My initial drink before the bottomless mimosa was extremely good. Like a lot of establishments, bottomless isn't really bottomless when they only refill a glass at a time (we did someone later on w. a carafe). 45 min into ordering the bottomless lemon drop, I opted to cancel it because the sole bartender was making drinks, taking orders and serving pplmat tables. No way I'm drinking 4 drinks in 45min. After I canceled the order, my server wasn't as attentive.. Overall the food was ok. Not something that I would specifically come again for, but the empanada appetizer was good. Then the bill comes and there's a "love" charge for 15% that the server acted like he didn't know what it was. I would rather full disclosure then lying about it or hoping I wouldn't see that charge on top of the tip. Basically I got hit was an extra $10 on top of gratuity. Just seems like a sneaky surcharge. The principle will keep me from coming back. read more