kentucky
Kentucky
Kentucky

World Empanada Day: 4 places to honor it on its day

From classic meat or ham and cheese empanadas in a bodegón to more innovative ones with pastrami and shrimp fillings.

Carola Cinto
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If we quickly tried to make a list of the most eaten or representative dishes of Argentina, the empanada would undoubtedly be on it. Although it didn’t originate in this country (its origins are said to date back to Ancient Greece), the empanada has become deeply rooted in our culture.

From the empanada vendors that roamed the plaza of the Cabildo on May 25, 1810 (many of us even had to portray them during school acts) to the different recipes that vary by region (the ones from Córdoba are sweet and sour, while those from Salta always include potatoes), empanadas and Argentina go hand in hand.

There are a thousand classic and innovative varieties, but there’s something that made them popular and keeps them relevant: they’re easy to make, affordable, and can be eaten on the go anywhere. On this World Empanada Day, we’ve picked four places where you can try, enjoy, and honor them.

1. Mil y Pico

Eating empanadas here is a true journey: first, because their varieties are inspired by different cities around the world, and second, because some are colorful: green, yellow, and brown.

For example, the Barcelona empanada is a seafood casserole (finger-licking good) perfect to pair with a draft Imperial IPA for a fresh and intense flavor. A bite of the Manhattan is a direct passage to the Big Apple: it’s made with Katz’s-style pastrami, one of the most famous New York spots to try this cured meat. Pair it with an Imperial Cream Stout to enhance its smoky flavor.

Tip: Danilo Ferraz is the creator of this place and the soul behind the Hell’s Pizza chain.

Where: Av. Los Incas and Constituyentes, Parque Chas; Golf Club Golfers 2898, Tortuguitas.

2. Grappa

This is a classic Italian cantina on a very picturesque corner in Palermo Hollywood. It’s one of those ideal spots for enjoying a hearty family lunch on Sundays. The empanadas here have a unique feature: they’re mini-sized and served in sets of three. Of course, they’re meat-filled and fried, the kind you need to bite into carefully to avoid getting greasy on your clothes. An easy-drinking, light Imperial Golden would be the perfect complement. For the rest of the lunch, they offer everything from meats to pasta. If you’re looking for more lunch options in Buenos Aires, here’s a list.

Tip: They’re open every day, and reservations can be made at +54 9 22994936.

Where: El Salvador 5802, Palermo Hollywood.

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3. Kentucky

Many might think including this place in the list is a mistake, as everyone knows Kentucky for its exquisite deep-dish pizza. However, as part of its menu, the chain (with over 30 locations across the country) also offers great empanadas. You can choose from three classic varieties: meat, ham and cheese, or chicken, all baked in a clay oven. For any of the three, we recommend an Imperial Extra Lager, with a fresh taste but an intense touch that enhances the flavors.

Also of interest: The tavern that's been around for over 22 years and exports its Argentine dishes to Europe

Tip: The pizzeria has been around for more than 80 years, and one of its most iconic locations is on Av. Corrientes.

Where: Various locations in the city.

4. El Boyo

This is a historic bodegón in La Plata where you can eat well, in large portions, and at a good price. It’s located on a corner in Villa Elisa, and anyone passing by can easily spot it due to the old objects, like a motorcycle and barrels, outside.

While the menu is varied and includes some striking dishes like the Alto Berretin (a 60-centimeter sandwich), empanadas are also among the most ordered. Classic ham and cheese ones are joined by others like La Bomba (onion, bacon, blue cheese, and mozzarella) or roasted pork shoulder empanadas. To go with them, a pint of Imperial Roja with a caramel flavor and persistent foam.

Tip: You can reserve at this link. They also offer takeout.

Where: Calle 6, corner of 50, Villa Elisa, La Plata.

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