Chango Empanadas

Empanada Delights Paired with Chimichurri Bliss

On a sun-drenched Monday, I ambled into the bustling haven that is Empanadas Express, a dining gem that's found its way into many a heart despite the curious love-hate relationship with its new layout. Going by the passionate whispers both ecstatic and mildly brusque, I could hardly resist trying their empanadas, which have been garnished with edgy reviews. My expectations were piqued, a tad apprehensive but undeniably intrigued. What struck me first was the vibrant ambiance — a curious mix of casual intimacy with a slight Mediterranean allure, where one could imagine enthusiastically tossing back a few bites with equally as vibrant conversation.

Contemplations on proper heating aside, my foray into their empanada sextet was rather delightful. The spicy beef unfurled layers of flavor that hit all the right notes, reminiscent of slow dances in sultry, spice-laden airs of distant lands. The pumpkin and goat cheese variant offered a velvet smoothness, whispering sweet melodies of autumn evenings, akin to snuggling in a cozy knit. But it was the spinach and ricotta number that truly sang - a harmonious blend echoing familiar childhood comforts wrapped in golden, flaky pastry. As for their dare-to-try chimichurri sauce... let's just say it could make a stone taste good. On to sweets, and the maicena Alfajores were teddy-bear soft nostalgia treats chasing away any misplaced hint of a frozen misstep. Yes, the prices swagger a bit on the pricy side, but the attentive service coupled with undeniable culinary charisma makes Empanadas Express worth every pretty penny. A deserving newcomer's nudge-nudge-give-it-a-whirl offering an exotic retreat without ever needing a passport. — Milo Tastemaker