The Gringo — Restaurant in Delray Beach

Forget the restaurant chains in downtown Delray Beach. Head south down SE 5th Avenue for the best empanadas in the area. My wife, eight-year-old daughter, and I went on a Saturday morning in July. Here’s our experience.

1. Food: The owner Allen makes fresh Argentinian empanadas in 12 flavors, including a vegan option and sweet one. The savory empanadas range from classic to more American inspired like the Cheeseburger Empanada.

We ordered the Carne Empanada and Spicy BBQ Pork Empanada. Both were excellent- full of flavor, fresh, and so good. We ended up ordering an extra Carne one because our daughter loved it too.

They also sell smoothies and acai bowls. We all enjoyed the Acai Nutella Bowl with raspberries, bananas, and more. (Ask for extra spoons to share.)

2. Drinks: They sell coffee drinks like lattes and cafe con leche and Coca-Cola products. Three kinds of beers are on the menu too.

3. Service: Allen runs the entire shop. He’s kind and passionate about the business he’s building for his family. Food comes out quickly.

4. Space: Inside a tiny space within a building with local shops and murals, The Gringo comes with a tiny window where you order. A few picnic tables are nearby with umbrellas for shade.

So far, The Gringo is the best food experience we’ve had in...

The empanadas are SO insanely good. After ordering a few I kept going back up to the window for more... couldn't stop myself! I tried the Birria, Cubano, Pizza Pie, Lobster Mac & Cheese, Chipotle Chicken, and the Sweet One... that's right, 6! The Birria and Cubano were my favorites - the slow braised meat is tender and deeply flavorful. But even better than the fillings was the dough - it is so light and flaky, which is a standout compared to any other empanada I've had and shows the talent in the kitchen. I love that I could eat my fill without feeling heavy or greasy.

On top of the awesome food, the atmosphere is inviting and relaxing, and the guys who run the shop are so welcoming and inviting. I live in another state but wish I could come back here every day - locals, let me live vicariously...

Some of the best empanadas I’ve had my entire life as a native who’s ate empanadas from Tampa to Orlando to South Florida. As a self-proclaimed foodie I would rate 10/10. The shell is a bit different texture than traditional empanadas, but I think that is just part of what sets it apart while offering a quality empanada experience. I purchased the smaller size in Birria, Chipotle, and Truffle Mac. Birria was definitely my favorite, LOVED the dip with it, but also loved the Chipotle flavor. If you have a strong appetite I recommend purchasing the larger size, as I only purchased the smaller sizes for variety. The churros were also on point too!! Some hot caramel/drizzle would be my preference, but their accompaniments were...