Where are the Best Empanadas in Town?

 

Finding the best empanadas in Montevideo is a delightful culinary adventure, as this city offers a rich variety of flavors and styles that reflect its vibrant culture. Empanadas, a beloved staple in Uruguayan cuisine, are savory pastries filled with various ingredients ranging from meats to cheeses, and even sweet options. Here’s a guide to some of the top spots in Montevideo where you can indulge in these delicious treats.

1. D'la Ribera

D'la Ribera is often hailed as a favorite among locals for its oven-baked empanadas, which are known for their lightness and flavor. The establishment offers a diverse menu that includes classic fillings like cheese and olives, spinach with ricotta, and the unique meat with raisins combination. Their sweet option, the Martín Fierro, which combines quince paste with cheese, is particularly popular. D'la Ribera's commitment to quality and consistency has made it a go-to choice for empanada lovers in the city

2. La Chacha

For those seeking a more indulgent experience, La Chacha is renowned for its generously filled empanadas. The restaurant boasts an array of flavors, including spicy meat options and even variations like pepperoni and frankfurter. Their chocolate and walnut empanada is a must-try for dessert lovers. La Chacha's reputation for hearty portions means you’re unlikely to leave hungry.

3. Don Pedro

Don Pedro stands out for its creative fillings and playful approach to traditional empanadas. The spinach and cheese variant is particularly praised for its balanced flavor without any sour notes, while the sweet and sour pork empanada has captured many hearts. Don Pedro also offers a delightful apple empanada with pastry cream that serves as a perfect ending to your meal

4. La Mesada

If you’re looking for that home-cooked feel, La Mesada is the place to go. Their ham and cheese empanada is reminiscent of homemade meals, evoking nostalgia with every bite. Located in the heart of Montevideo, La Mesada combines traditional recipes with a cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors

5. Del Rodeo

As one of the oldest establishments in Montevideo, Del Rodeo has modernized its offerings while maintaining traditional flavors. They serve classic options alongside contemporary twists like stroganoff beef or Thai chicken empanadas. Seafood lovers can also find delicious gallega (Galician-style) and mussel empanadas here

6. La Campeona

A newer entrant on the scene, La Campeona has quickly garnered attention for its exceptional empanadas. Although still establishing its reputation, many locals recommend trying their unique offerings that promise to delight your palate

7. Carolina’s Empanadas

Carolina’s Empanadas has earned rave reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor for its variety of both sweet and savory options at reasonable prices. Customers often rave about their experience sharing multiple empanadas along with drinks, making it an excellent spot for casual dining or takeout

8. Empanadas La Cibeles

Another highly rated spot on TripAdvisor is Empanadas La Cibeles, which offers an extensive menu featuring both traditional fillings and innovative combinations. The cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect place to enjoy your meal with friends or family

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Conclusion

Montevideo’s empanada scene is as diverse as its culture, offering something for every palate—from traditional meat-filled pastries to innovative sweet varieties. Whether you prefer them baked or fried, each establishment showcases unique flavors that contribute to the city’s culinary identity. Embarking on an empanada tour not only satisfies your hunger but also provides insight into the local food culture that makes Montevideo special. As you explore these top spots, remember that each bite tells a story of tradition and creativity—making your quest for the best empanadas in Montevideo an unforgettable experience!

What to Eat in Uruguay - Don't Miss These Gems, Seriously.

 

Before we go into what to eat here, don't miss an asado. Yes, get them at restaurants and outside activities, but meeting locals and having them at someone's house in the backyard is an experience you need to have...and a great insight into the life and minds of the Uruguayans. But I digress...

Uruguay is known for its delicious cuisine, with a mix of Spanish, Italian, and indigenous influences. Here are some traditional foods you should try when visiting Uruguay:

1. Asado: Uruguayans love their barbeque, and asado (grilled meat) is a staple dish. You can try beef, pork, chicken, and lamb, all grilled to perfection.

2. Chivito: This is Uruguay's national dish, a sandwich filled with beef, ham, bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise. It's hearty and delicious.

3. Milanesa: Similar to a schnitzel, milanesa is a breaded and fried meat cutlet that is served with potatoes or salad.

4. Empanadas: These are savory pastry pockets filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. They are perfect for a snack or a quick lunch.

5. Uruguayan pizza: Uruguay has its take on pizza, with a thicker crust and lots of cheese. Try it with ham, mushrooms, and olives.

6. Dulce de Leche: This caramel-like spread is used in many Uruguayan desserts. You can find it on toast, as a filling for pancakes or croissants, or even on ice cream.

7. Tannat wine: Uruguay is known for its delicious red wines, especially Tannat, which is the country's flagship grape variety.

Enjoy your culinary journey through Uruguay!

 

Top 10 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Uruguay

Well, in no long winded way, here you go! Oh, and if you have something to add, let's hear it:

1. Beautiful beaches: Uruguay is home to many stunning beaches, including Punta del Este and La Paloma, where you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

2. Rich culture: Uruguay has a diverse and fascinating culture that reflects its European, African, and indigenous roots.

3. World-renowned wine: Uruguay is famous for its Tannat wine, which is considered some of the best in the world.

4. Delicious food: Uruguayan cuisine is a fusion of European and South American flavors, with dishes like chivito, asado, and empanadas.

5. Charming towns and cities: Uruguay's towns and cities are full of colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and friendly locals.

6. Music and dance: Uruguay is home to many different music and dance styles, including candombe, tango, and milonga.

7. Natural beauty: Uruguay is a small country with a diverse landscape, including beaches, forests, and wetlands.

8. Sports: Uruguay is a soccer-crazy nation, and you can catch a game at one of the many stadiums throughout the country.

9. Nightlife: Uruguay's cities come alive at night, with bars, clubs, and live music venues offering entertainment until the early hours of the morning.

10. Safety: Uruguay is one of the safest countries in South America, with a low crime rate and friendly, welcoming people.

Montevideo Empanadas - Today's Count: 7

I have to start rating my days, among other things, by the amount of empanadas I consume here in Montevideo. Today, not even thinking about it, I ate seven empanadas - lunch, dinner, and an after dinner snack. I know - I have already posted about these tantalizingly tasty treats, and I have included a picture as well. But in case you forgot...


First I stopped by Mafalda's empanada restaurant for a midday meal (had three of them). Just before I went to my tutor's apartment at 5:15PM, I had to visit La Taberna del Diablo for my favorite Calabresa empanada...and a few others. I also had to get my professor a Calabresa - just not right that he hadn't tasted this gift of grinds.

And again, without thinking, along the walk down the peatonal sarandi street I found myself in a little store buying a cold cheese and olive empanada. I am addicted. I can't stop myself - I don't want to stop myself. I decided today that I might have to talk with one of these owners and ask to do some grunt work during my empanada internship. Empanada, empanada, empanada.

Oh, and the empanadas didn't hurt my Nativa 10Km training either - ran 8Kms tonight. The race is this Saturday...hopefully I will be there. Hasta manaña.