Empanadas and Co: A Culinary Oasis in Lagos
Nestled in the heart of Lagos, the quaint yet vibrant Empanadas and Co stands as a testament to the artistry of empanada crafting. On a recent gastronomic adventure through Spain and Portugal, our palates were treated to a crescendo of flavors at this charming emporium, elevating our dining experience to unforgettable heights.
The first thing that struck us was the warm welcome from the staff. Their genuine friendliness made us feel right at home, setting the tone for what was to become a truly exceptional meal. The seating arrangement was thoughtfully designed, offering a delightful mix of al fresco charm and cozy indoor comfort, perfect for any occasion.
Now, let's delve into the star of the show – the empanadas. Each variant that graced our table was a culinary masterpiece, a symphony of flavors encapsulated in perfectly flaky pastry. Whether it was the classic beef, savory chicken, or the innovative vegetarian options, every bite was a revelation. The empanadas here are generously stuffed, ensuring that every mouthful is an explosion of taste. But what truly elevated these golden parcels of delight was the house sauce. A closely guarded secret, it transformed the empanadas into a culinary legend in their own right. It was the perfect balance of tangy and savory, an irresistible accompaniment that left us craving for more.
And then there was the chimichurri. A sauce that has its origins in Argentina, this chimichurri was a revelation. It was the embodiment of freshness, with the aromatic blend of herbs and garlic infusing each bite with a burst of flavor that danced on our taste buds. Drizzled over the empanadas, it elevated them to a whole new level of gastronomic pleasure.
One cannot ignore the exceptional value for money that Empanadas and Co offers. With each empanada priced just right, you can indulge in a variety of flavors without breaking the bank. The quality of the food combined with the affordability makes this place a true gem in Lagos.
In the grand tapestry of our culinary adventures across Spain and Portugal, Empanadas and Co emerged as the crowning jewel. It was a dining experience that transcended mere sustenance, a journey of flavors that lingered long after the last bite. So, if you find yourself in Lagos, do yourself a favor and pay a visit to this empanada haven. You won't just be dining; you'll be embarking on a gastronomic odyssey that will remain etched in your memory as the highlight of...
Read moreThis isn't your average, run-of-the-mill, "five stars, great food" kind of review. This is about a place that reminds you why you travel, why you seek out the small, family-run joints that aren't on some slick, curated list. This is about Empanadas & Co. in Lagos, Portugal, a little slice of culinary heaven that sneaks up on you and sucker punches your expectations in the best possible way. You walk in, and it's unassuming. It's not trying to be anything it's not. The air is thick with the promise of good things—the smell of slow-cooked fillings, of dough being kissed by hot oil. You've had empanadas before, you think. Maybe you have. But you haven't had these empanadas. These aren't some sad, greasy pouches of mystery meat. These are little handcrafted parcels of pure joy. Each one tells a story: the shredded beef, slow-braised to a tender submission; the chicken, perfectly seasoned; the vegetarian options, bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that don't make you feel like you're missing out on anything. But the food, as magnificent as it is, is only half the story. The real magic, the soul of this place, is a young woman named Carla. She’s the owner's daughter, and she is a force of nature. She moves with a quiet confidence and a professionalism that belies her years. She’s not just a server; she’s a guide. She anticipates your needs before you even know you have them. She can recommend the perfect empanada, tell you about its history, and do it all with a grace and a smile that is genuinely disarming. And let’s be frank, she’s a beautiful young woman, but it's not just her looks. It's her presence. It’s the way she carries herself with such poise, the way she makes you feel like the most important person in the room. This isn't some contrived, corporate politeness. This is talent. This is a young woman who understands hospitality on a level most people never will. In a world full of cynical, half-assed service, Carla is a shining beacon. She elevates this simple, fantastic food into an unforgettable experience. So, go to Empanadas & Co. for the food. Go for the warmth. But most of all, go to be served by Carla. She is the kind of talent you hope to see in the world, and she’s the reason this place deserves every single one of these five stars. Don't think...
Read moreThe waitress was very nice so was everyone else actually! We ordered the empanada chicken, spicy beef, ham &cheese and the one with chickenpeas with coconut marinade. As extra we had 2 regular salads en chimichuri and roasted garlic sauce dips. The homemade watermelon drinks were spot on! The dressing for the salad is served separately (what I think is the way to do it). The dressing was just amazing, the best I ever had actually! The empanadas are full off flavor and not to dry at all. Some people don't like a thikker crust but we loved it and think that this is the way they should be. Price is just correct for fresh food served with a smiley and an overload of customer centricity. Just one advice: inside is very hot, a fan or 2 would be much better. ;) Love the way how you put the knives and forks in those...
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