Best Empanadas in London: Authentic Colombian Flavours (Updated August 2026)
When searching for the best empanadas in London, true food lovers know that nothing beats the rich, comforting crunch of an authentic Colombian empanada. Unlike their baked Argentine counterparts, these golden delights are deep-fried in a signature cornmeal dough, creating a crispy shell that encases seasoned beef, shredded chicken, or potatoes.
Whether you are looking for a quick street food snack or a full sit-down meal, London’s Colombian food scene is thriving. Here is your ultimate guide to the most authentic spots in the capital for 2026, featuring local favourites Paula’s Colombian Bakery, Chatica, El Rancho de Lalo, DistriAndina, Donde Carlos, Blankita, Pueblito Paisa and Balboa.
Why Colombian Empanadas are Different
Before you eat, you should know what makes them special. Colombian empanadas are distinct because of their masa de maíz (cornmeal dough) which is deep-fried to a golden crisp. They are almost always served with Ají, a spicy, vinegary salsa made with cilantro, green onions, and chili that cuts through the richness of the fried dough.
1. Paula’s Colombian Bakery – Brixton Standout
📍 Location: Brixton
⭐ Best For: Overall quality, variety and recent critical acclaim.
Paula’s Colombian Bakery is frequently called the best by locals and was featured by Time Out in March 2026. 100% handmade empanadas with beef, chicken, cheese or vegetarian fillings, plus arepas and pandebonos.
Why It Stands Out
- The Empanadas: Fresh, authentic and highly praised (“the most amazing ones” according to Reddit users).
- Variety: Also excellent arepas, pandebonos and aborrajados.
- Charm: A charming little bakery that many walk past on Brixton Road.
Details:
- Address: 516 Brixton Road, London SW9 8EN
- Price indicator: Mid-range
2. Chatica / La Chatica Cafe Deli & Bakery – Elephant & Castle Classic
📍 Location: Elephant & Castle (railway arches)
⭐ Best For: Authentic community favourite, fresh daily.
Chatica (also known as La Chatica) is the most famous Colombian deli in the area and still actively making fresh empanadas in 2026. A long-time favourite with London’s Latinos under the arches.
Why It Stands Out
- The Empanadas: Pure maize dough, freshly fried, authentic fillings.
- Full range: Arepas, buñuelos, pan de yuca and pan de bono.
- Vibe: Heart of the Colombian community.
Details:
- Address: 2 Elephant Road, London SE17 1LB
- Price indicator: Budget to mid-range
3. El Rancho de Lalo – Brixton Budget Favourite
📍 Location: Brixton
⭐ Best For: Cheap, hearty, traditional empanadas.
El Rancho de Lalo has a long-standing reputation for excellent value. Family-run and repeatedly praised for its traditional beef-and-potato empanadas.
Why It Stands Out
- The Empanadas: Excellent value, freshly made, one of the best snacks in London according to The Infatuation.
- Atmosphere: Cosy, ranch-themed room above the gelateria.
- Price: Around £2.
Details:
- Address: 1 Buckner Road, Brixton Hill, London SW2 5BY
- Price: Around £2
4. DistriAndina – The Empanada Specialist
📍 Location: Elephant & Castle (and Seven Sisters branch)
⭐ Best For: Pure authentic fried Colombian empanadas on a budget.
DistriAndina is repeatedly praised for its traditional fried empanadas filled with seasoned beef and potato, served with ají. Generous filling, great value (around £1.50), and a strong local favourite.
Why It Stands Out
- The Empanadas: Signature product – crispy cornmeal dough, generous authentic filling, perfect with ají.
- Value: Excellent price point for London.
- Two locations: Convenient for South and North London.
Details:
- Address (main): Unit 6, Elephant Road, London SE17
- Branch: 266–268 High Road, Seven Sisters, London N15 4AJ
5. Donde Carlos – The West London Institution
📍 Location: Shepherd’s Bush (West London)
⭐ Best For: A full authentic sit-down meal.
Donde Carlos has been a staple of London’s Latin community since 2008. Located in the heart of Shepherd’s Bush, it acts as a cultural hub for Colombians seeking a taste of home.
Why It Stands Out
- The Empanadas: These are substantial and packed with flavour. The crust is perfectly crunchy, and the meat filling (beef or chicken) is seasoned with traditional hogao (a tomato and onion sauce).
- The Menu: Beyond empanadas, they are famous for their Bandeja Paisa (a massive platter with beans, rice, chorizo, and pork belly) and Tamal Valluno.
- The Vibe: The atmosphere is vibrant and loud, often filled with Latin music and Spanish conversation. It feels less like a London restaurant and more like a trip to Bogotá or Cali.
Details:
- Address: 143 Goldhawk Rd, London W12 8EN
- Website: lugarlatino.com/blog/donde-carlos-restaurante-colombiano-con-sabores-tradicionales-en-londres/
- Phone: 020 8749 9575
6. Blankita – The North London Hidden Gem
📍 Location: Seven Sisters (North London)
⭐ Best For: Authentic street food on a budget.
Inside the reopened Seven Sisters Market (Latin Village, temporary setup since late 2025), Blankita offers excellent value Colombian food. Fresh, handmade empanadas straight from the fryer.
Why It Stands Out
- Handmade Daily: You can often see the empanadas being made fresh. They are served piping hot, straight from the fryer.
- Unbeatable Price: At around £2.00 – £2.50, these are an incredible bargain for London standards.
- Street Food Style: This is grab-and-go food at its finest. Pair your empanada with a chilled Pony Malta (a Colombian malt drink) or fresh fruit juice for the full experience.
Details:
- Address: Unit 6-7, Seven Sisters Market, London N15 5BT
- Website: blankita.co.uk
7. Pueblito Paisa Cafe – Ultra-Budget Legend
📍 Location: Seven Sisters / South Tottenham
⭐ Best For: Ultra-cheap, crispy beef empanadas.
Pueblito Paisa is legendary for ultra-cheap, authentic deep-fried cornmeal empanadas de carne with slow-cooked beef, potato and onion. Still active in the Latin market area.
Why It Stands Out
- The Empanadas: Thin, crispy crust and delicious stewy filling.
- Price: Historically among the cheapest in London.
- Location: Right in the heart of the Latin Village.
Details:
- Address: 235 High Road, South Tottenham N15 5JT
- Price indicator: Budget (£1–£3 range)
8. Balboa – Colombian Pacific Food
📍 Location: Greenwich
⭐ Best For: Highest ratings and family vibe with Pacific specialities.
Balboa consistently earns top TripAdvisor scores and is loved for its family-run atmosphere and excellent empanadas alongside Pacific Colombian seafood dishes.
Why It Stands Out
- The Empanadas: Frequently called among the best in London by recent reviewers.
- Rating: Around 4.9/5 on TripAdvisor.
- Note: Confirm current opening hours before visiting.
Details:
- Address: Greenwich area (check current listing – previously Trafalgar Road / Creekside)
- Price indicator: Mid-range
Comparison: Which One Should You Choose?
| Feature | Paula’s / El Rancho (Brixton) | Chatica / DistriAndina (Elephant) | Donde Carlos (Shepherd’s Bush) | Blankita / Pueblito (Seven Sisters) | Balboa (Greenwich) |
| Atmosphere | Bakery / Cosy family | Casual deli / Takeaway | Lively Restaurant, Sit-down | Casual Market Stall, Street Food | Family-run café |
| Price | Budget–Mid | Budget | Mid-range (££) | Budget Friendly (£) | Mid-range |
| Best For | Quality & value | Fresh community favourites | Dinner with friends, Full meals | Quick snack, Lunch on the go | High ratings + Pacific flavours |
| Location | South London | South London | West London | North London | South-East London |
Conclusion
London’s food scene is evolving, and Colombian cuisine is taking its rightful place on the map. Whether you head to Paula’s Colombian Bakery or El Rancho de Lalo in Brixton for quality and value, Chatica or DistriAndina in Elephant & Castle for pure authenticity, the bustling market stalls of Blankita and Pueblito Paisa in North London, the established tables of Donde Carlos in the West, or Balboa in Greenwich for top ratings, you are guaranteed an authentic experience. Las mejores empanadas en Londres.
Local Tip: Always ask for extra Ají sauce—it’s the secret to the perfect empanada experience! Las mejores empanadas en Londres.