My Empanada: A journey through Colombian flavors

My Empanada, a culinary venture by husband-and-wife team Juan and Claudia Urrea from Colombia, brings the rich and diverse flavors of Latin America to the West End. Specializing in the art of empanada-making, these golden brown, crescent-shaped pastries offer a taste of street-food culture from South America and the Caribbean. With a focus on authenticity and cultural roots, My Empanada uses traditional family recipes to craft freshly baked empanadas, both ready-to-eat at their mobile food vending carts and available frozen for home baking.

The journey of My Empanada begins with a deep appreciation for the street food culture in Colombia, where empanada vendors are as popular as burger joints in the United States. After numerous adventures in the food industry, the founders decided to hone in on empanadas and share the culinary secrets and flavors of their Latin culture with the residents of Richmond.

The menu at My Empanada reflects the couple's dedication to authenticity and nostalgia. Empanadas are offered in a variety of sweet and savory flavors, inspired by different regions of South America and the Caribbean.

The culinary journey doesn't end with empanadas. My Empanada offers a range of salads, such as the Kale Salad with a zesty sour dressing and the Greek Spinach Salad with a light three-herb dressing. These salads are perfect complements to the empanadas, adding a refreshing and nutritious touch to the menu.

Signature items include the Salpicón, a refreshing watermelon juice with chunks of peaches, pineapple, and strawberries, and the Milhojas, layers of puff pastry with custard cream topped with dulce de leche. Other desserts include Tres leches cake and Alfajores, soft, crumbly shortbread sandwich cookies filled with smooth dulce de leche and sweet flakes of coconut. Additionally, My Empanda offers Colombian smoothies, leveraging the tropical variety of fruits available in the region. These smoothies are distinct for not mixing fruits, allowing customers to savor the authentic flavor of each fruit.

Beyond the traditional offerings, My Empanada stands out with its commitment to serving the diverse community of Richmond. Catering services are available for personal or corporate events, featuring party trays with 25 assorted empanadas and boxed lunches.

As a local business, My Empanada actively participates in community events and celebrations. Visit the restaurant on Facebook and Instagram for announcements, updates, and additions to the menu.

With a dedication to authenticity, a diverse menu, and a commitment to community engagement, My Empanada invites locals to embark on a culinary journey that goes beyond food – it's a celebration of culture, nostalgia, and the joy of enjoying a meal together.

Visit My Empanada at 1421 Blue Jay Lane, Henrico, Virginia 23229 (near Regency), call (804) 203-3473 or email empanadadotcom@gmail.com.