Global Spring Street Food Trend: Latin American Empanadas are Eclipsing Traditional Sandwiches

Spring 2026’s hottest food trend! Empanadas, the Latin American hand pies, are aggressively replacing standard sandwiches and burritos in street food stalls, cafes, and delivery services.

Why now: They are the perfect "grab-and-go" format for spring strolls. This season's most sought-after fillings include pulled pork (carnitas) and zesty lime-infused tempeh.

Convenient, portable, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside, they represent the gold standard for handheld dining.

Why Empanadas Hit the Mainstream in April 2026

• Presence on restaurant menus has climbed by over 7% in the past year, with experts forecasting continued growth.
• The fusion movement is driving the trend, as classic Latin American pastries are reimagined with Asian, Korean, vegan, and contemporary flavors.
• Consumers are swapping bland sandwiches for empanadas, drawn to their greater variety, engaging textures, and easy adaptability to various dietary needs.

Standout Signature Fillings for April 2026

1. Shredded Beef + Kimchi: This is a quintessential Korean-Latin fusion. Succulent, spiced shredded beef—reminiscent of birria or barbacoa—pairs perfectly with tangy, fermented kimchi. The result is a flavor explosion, balancing savory meatiness with the acidity and heat of the kimchi. Cheese or chimichurri sauce is often added for balance. Many are calling it the "season's ultimate spicy bite."
2. Smoked Tempeh: This is a standout vegan and vegetarian hit. Tempeh, a fermented soy product, is smoked to achieve a savory, wood-fired flavor before being used as a filling. It is typically combined with vegetables, spices, and occasionally plant-based cheese or sauces. It's the ideal choice for those seeking a hearty, meat-free option that doesn't compromise on "meaty" character. These variations are affectionately known as "tempenadas."

Other trendy variations this season include:

• Mongolian Beef
• Jerk Chicken with Cheese
• Jackfruit (Vegan) with Tomatillo
• Classic Picadillo with Modern Twists

Serving and Presentation

Empanadas are typically fried or baked until they achieve a golden, crispy crust. They are served alongside a variety of sauces, ranging from chimichurri and salsa to spicy aioli or even Korean gochujang. While sized for easy one-handed eating, they are generously packed with filling.