Why Locals Love Mr.Empanada - Carrollwood
Nestled in the heart of Carrollwood on N Dale Mabry Hwy, Mr.Empanada - Carrollwood serves up a vibrant slice of Latin American flavor that delights both regulars and newcomers alike. This casual, cozy spot is a true gem for anyone craving authentic empanadas and Cuban-inspired bites with a modern twist.
The cuisine here is a celebration of bold, comforting flavors, anchored by their star offerings: handcrafted empanadas and the ever-popular Cuban sandwich. Each empanada bursts with fresh, rich fillings like the savory crab—remarkably authentic and reminiscent of the Caribbean’s pristine coastal flavors—and the creamy guava & cream cheese dessert empanada, which perfectly balances a subtle sweetness with smooth richness. Whether you choose the classic apple empanada or venture into the broccoli and cheese variety, each pastry is a flaky, golden delight with every bite.
The Cuban sandwich stands out as a crowd favorite, with patrons singing its praises for rivaling and even surpassing many Latin markets in the Tampa area. Served hot or cold, it’s fully customizable with traditional components like mustard, pickles, tomatoes, mayo, and lettuce, and delivers a satisfying harmony of smoky, tangy, and savory notes. This sandwich is the kind of meal that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly handmade, perfect for a quick yet substantial lunch or a leisurely bite on a sunny day.
Dine-in patrons will appreciate the unpretentious, laid-back atmosphere — ideal for a relaxed lunch break or a friendly catch-up session. For those on the go, the fast and friendly service ensures a smooth takeaway experience. You can even enjoy your meal outdoors, taking in the pleasant Tampa weather while savoring every flavorful morsel.
Complement your meal with a refreshing drink from their selection, including an energizing shot of espresso or bottled favorites like Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, lemonade, and pure bottled water — all perfect to round out your dining experience.
What truly makes Mr.Empanada - Carrollwood special is its consistent quality and heartfelt service. Loyal customers rave about the impeccably fresh empanadas and the genuine warmth of the staff, making every visit feel like coming home to your favorite comfort food spot. As one satisfied customer put it, it's “great for a quick bite or to sit outside and enjoy the weather,” with food that never disappoints.
If you're in Tampa and crave a quick, protein-packed meal steeped in authentic Latin flavors, Mr.Empanada - Carrollwood is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of homemade, lovingly crafted food in every bite.
See the Space & Food
What Makes This Place Friendly
- Outdoor seating
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Drive-through
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
- Fireplace
- Serves local specialty
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
- Quick bite
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Toilet
- Casual
- Quiet
- Family friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
- University students
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
- Free of charge street parking
- Free parking lot
- Parking
Real Reviews from the Community
- Feb 22, 2026
Great customer service every time we visit as myself and husband are regulars ( more my husband as he works near here ) Empanadas are always freshly made Great choice for something quick and high in protein as well
- Feb 18, 2026
In my many visits I have yet to find a reason to take away a star. 2 things surprised me...they make a cuban sandwich as good or better than many latin markets and the flavor of their crab empanada is so spot on authentic they compare to some I've had in the carribean albeit they are smaller. Good place for a quick bite or sit outside and enjoy the weather.
- Dec 21, 2025
Has a good experience here. Friendly customer service, quick food preparation, and food was fantastic. We had a Cuban sandwich, the broccoli and cheese empanada, and the guava and cheese empanada and everything was great!!
- Dec 14, 2025
Good stuff. I've stopped at many Mr Empanada locations. Consistently dependable. Hot and good. The new Cuban sandwich is really good too. This one is tucked away in the shopping center, corner space. Easy to miss. It's worth the effort to find it.
- Dec 6, 2025
I love to have lunch at Mr. Empanada because the food and the service are always amazing.
- Dec 5, 2025
Offers and awesome quick bite for empanada lovers everywhere. Even if you are not a fan this place offers something for everyone. The beef and cheese is the classic, however multiple flavors allow for everyone to find a new favorite. The cuban sandwich is a delight as well. Multiple restaurants in the area.
- Dec 3, 2025
They know me by name, always ask if I want hot sauce(and always provide enough), very quick with my order, always ready before I arrive even with hardly any notice, and even when there's a line in the drivethru it always moves quick. Never had a bad experience with these guys!
- Nov 27, 2025
Great place! I came to grab a couple empanadas for dinner. I had beef & cheese, crabmeat and a guava and cheese. All 3 were amazing, the guava cheese was the best! The guys in the drive through were friendly and helpful. Definitely recommend coming here