La Salteñeria Empanadas

A gastronomic journey through the north of the country would be incomplete without a visit to La Salteñeria Empanadas. This cozy establishment, located in the picturesque city of Salta, is considered a real find for lovers of traditional cuisine. Here, ancient recipes are honored, offering guests the authentic taste of the region in a simple and friendly setting.

The restaurant's main pride is its famous empanadas—juicy pastries that are a culinary symbol of the entire country of Argentina. Visitors are attracted not only by the high quality of the food but also by the warm atmosphere, which makes you feel like a welcome guest in a local's home rather than just a tourist.

This place is perfect for those who want to experience the province's gastronomic culture without unnecessary pretension. The combination of crispy dough, flavorful filling, and local flair makes La Salteñeria a must-visit spot for every gourmet exploring Salta.

To book a table or check the current menu, you can use the following contact details.

The main thing to do at La Salteñeria Empanadas is to treat yourself to a real tasting session. Be sure to order the classic beef empanadas (carne), made with knife-cut meat, which are famous for their incredibly juicy broth inside. Don't be afraid to get a little messy—it is customary to eat them with your hands, leaning forward slightly, which is part of the local ritual.

Besides the meat options, try the cheese (queso) or chicken pastries to appreciate the variety of flavors. The menu is often complemented by other regional dishes, such as tamales or humita in corn husks, allowing for a deeper dive into Andean culinary traditions.

Complement your meal with a glass of local wine. Salta is famous for its white Torrontés variety, which perfectly highlights the spicy taste of the pastries. Enjoy the unhurried rhythm of life, watch the staff at work, and soak up the atmosphere of true Argentine hospitality.

The La Salteñeria Empanadas restaurant is located at Catamarca 7, making it very convenient to visit if you are walking around the city center. This spot is situated literally a few steps away from popular walking routes, so you can reach it on foot from many central hotels in 10–15 minutes.

If you are coming from more distant areas, the most comfortable option is to take a taxi or use a "remis" service (private transport at a fixed price). Simply tell the driver the intersection of Catamarca and Caseros streets—it is a well-known landmark.

For those who prefer public transport, many bus routes (colectivos) pass through this area. The nearest stops are on San Martín Avenue, from where it takes just a couple of minutes to walk to the entrance.

Although La Salteñeria Empanadas may seem like a modern establishment, its essence is deeply rooted in the region's history. Salta is historically considered the "empanada capital" of Argentina, and local recipes have been shaped over centuries under the influence of both indigenous peoples and Spanish colonizers.

Interestingly, there is an unspoken but strict code for preparing the filling in this region. Historically, for a true "salteña" (empanada salteña), the meat is exclusively cut by knife (cuchillo) rather than using a meat grinder. This is a tribute to old traditions when kitchen utensils were simple, and the taste depended on the cook's skill.

The establishment supports the culture of so-called "antojitos" (little whims or treats), which were popular in old Salta during the siesta or evening gatherings. By preserving authentic folding and baking methods, the restaurant acts as a guardian of the city's gastronomic memory.

It is usually enough to set aside 1 to 1.5 hours to visit this place. This time is sufficient to leisurely study the menu, try several types of the famous pastries, and enjoy drinks in a relaxed setting.

Since empanadas are served hot and prepared quite quickly, there is usually no long wait for an order. However, during peak hours (Friday or Saturday evenings), it may take a little longer due to the influx of visitors eager to taste the local cuisine.

When planning your visit, pay attention to the schedule, as the establishment is closed on Mondays. From Tuesday to Saturday, the restaurant operates with a siesta break: during the day from 11:00 to 16:00 and in the evening from 19:00 to 23:30.

On Sundays, La Salteñeria Empanadas is open only in the first half of the day—from 11:00 to 16:00. It is recommended to arrive when they open or book a table in advance, especially if you plan to dine on weekends.

Exploring the surroundings after a delicious lunch can significantly enrich your travel impressions. The area around the restaurant is full of historical buildings and places to relax, making it easy to create an interesting walking route.