Buena Onda Empanadas
Santa Barbara, California, Santa Barbara
(295)
Santa Barbara, California, Santa Barbara
(295)
We specialize in Argentinian food; wood-fired empanadas, asado, parrillada, fresh farmer's market salads, grilled vegetables, guacamole, chimichurri, alfajores, etc. Ceviche Peruano appetizer!
Please inquire with us for a full menu and options.
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295 customer reviews
Raechel I.
$30 we ordered a half dozen of different empanadas and Chimi Papas. Wow! I was pleasantly surprised at the whole experience. Buena Onda has a very welcoming Argentina flair to the store and front patio. Issa Vibe! We ordered 3 Guacho special (short rib & potatoes), 1 Pollo(fee range chicken), 1 Humita (corn & onions), 1 Hongos (mushrooms & mozzarella), 1 Carne (grass feed beef) and Chimichurri Papas. We took our order to go, and I greatly appreciate how they provided small plates, napkins, and wooden forks and knifes. We split the food between three people and we had leftovers to take home. I honestly did not have a favorite because they were all so good! The Humita was just corn and onion but it was sweet and delicious. The Gaucho reminded me of a pot roast, Hongos was cheesy goodness! I would order them again. It was the prefect food to take on a picnic. Can't wait to go back and try some more. Adding this spot to my Santa Bárbara Favorite Eats!! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Thomas C.
Amazing empanadas, and the fact they sell Havana Alfahores is pretty cool, they're the only place i know that sells them in the US.
Reviewed on Yelp
Kelley C.
I've enjoyed their empanadas more than once. The first time we were enjoying a trivia night in the Laguna district area and had them delivered. Delicious and reasonably priced. I met a friend at Mosaic Locale and enjoyed a beer with my empanadas that time. Great combo. I've tried most every flavor and have have never been disappointed. The sauce is a nice touch but also good without it! A friend and I walked there for a bite one day-she hadn't been and her husband isn't an empanada fan so we went. Again, delicious and will go again. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Connor B.
I had never tried empanadas before coming here, so with no expectations or points of comparison, I was blown away. The pricing is more than fair, with the ability to mix and match any of their different empanadas within your order allowing for great flexibility. It's worth noting that the restaurant is BYOB, with only a small area with 3 or 4 barstools inside and the rest of the seating outside (with heaters to keep warm). There is a liquor store right next door so drinks are convenient to grab while waiting for your order. The empanadas themselves come out fresh and hot, with vegetarian options available. Worth ordering for takeout or eat there. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Giovanni S.
WOW! I did not know a piece of Argentina existed in Santa Barbara! All that was missing was a cold glass of Quilmes, or my friends passing around la bombilla. I ordered a half dozen for NYE and everyone loved them! If I can recommend two absolute must-get/must try is the carne and the pollo. The carne empanada taste almost like the way my neighbor use to make them. And the pollo tasted just like the ones I use to have down in Buenos Aires. Both empandas were extremely flavorful and had a good amount of meats in them. I also ordered the Bondi, which was a special. That was incredibly delicious! The beer braised pork was so good, and the meat was tender and delicious. If they have that on the menu, it's a must get. The prosciutto was really good too. It was very cheesy, so when you eat it and then realize there's prosciutto is like a nice surprise. I also got the potatoes which came with a type of salsa golf, or a mayonnaise sauce with habanero. It gave a nice kick to the potatoes. If they start serving choripan, I would be here like everyday. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Jenay B.
First we had them as a gift to our office and I had to try the real deal. So we went to their location on Haley st. We ordered their combination of three; The beef one chicken one and a special that they had with potatoes was amazing. It took about 15 minutes but the wait was worth it everything was so hot and delicious definitely recommend this place. They have a small parking lot and street parking is a little crazy. I can now say that this restaurant will be added into our rotation of good eats in Santa Barbara. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Catherine B.
I stopped by during a recent day trip to SB to bring some home with me as I was curious about their vegan empanada. Service is friendly and the order was made fresh so it took about 10 minutes to make four for me. They have a nice outdoor seating area and a couple of bar stools inside. Once I got back to my car, I did sneak a bite of one without any sauce (because I was quite sure I'd end up with oil and herbs all over my car) and it was piping hot and had a nice flavor. I really liked the vegan cheese they used. I ate them the next day with the sauce and that took it to a whole other level. Delicious! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Eileen J.
AMAZING. We tried four different empanadas. Pork, beef, corn and chicken. The meat in the empanadas was tender and succulent! Ordered two entrees, one with a salad and one with potatoes. The salad had a really nice, light tasty vinaigrette and the potatoes were sublime! Can't wait to go back! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Rachel G.
Best empanadas I've had (granted I have never been to Argentina). Lots of mmmms and yums happening throughout the meal. Staff was friendly. We got the 2 empanada meal each and ended up getting a third. Highly recommended if you are in the SB area! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
asaf shamra
טעים מממש
Reviewed on Google Maps
Jennifer T.
I came here for the Holidays on Haley event and tried the mushroom empanada, soup, and sampled their brownie. The empanadas were the best I've ever had. The crust is amazingly flaky and tender and the filling was generous and perfectly seasoned. For the mushroom filling, it wasn't your typical generic gray pasty filling. You can see mushrooms and whole ingredients used so it tasted homemade and rustic. The soup was delicious as well and I highly recommend getting it to accompany the empanadas. I'd say get 2-3 for dinner. If I was in the area I'd be here every week. There's plenty of seating outside with heaters at night. The staff were very friendly and fast. I can't wait to go back to SB to pick up some more empanadas. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
John S.
Have been enjoying their empanadas for years now, they're amazing and always hit the spot. Love being able to sample a 2 or 3 different choices each time!
Reviewed on Yelp
Melody Faulkner
Nice site for tasty argentinian food. Visited Sat afternoon. Nothing but great experiences here. Food and feeling reminds me of Kansas City.
Reviewed on Google Maps
jase kidd
Argentinian food and service at this spot is great. Everyone at our table was quite pleased. The staff was very kind and attentive. I can see why they have a lot of positive reviews. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Laura A.
Amaaazing. Crst is somehow flaky and bready, I don't understand. All the fillngs were balanced, herby, well-salted, refreshing, savory. Favorites were corn one, ham one, and caprese.Liked quinoa one least, mostly tasted the goat cheese. (Though I'd still eat 10 of them!) More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Shane L.
Great empanadas. I spent five years in Latin America and these were as good as any I had South of the border. Will come here again!
Reviewed on Yelp
Raquel P.
This is such a cute little cafe, I'm visiting Santa Barbara so I'm not local which breaks my heart. I know I'll be back to Santa Barbara just for these empanadas. We ordered 5 different kinds. The carne, quinoa, pollo, humita and caprese. The carne reminded me of potato balls from Porto's, ground beef and spices. The quinoa was fantastic, quinoa leper's and goat cheese, only order this if you like goat cheese! The pollo was my absolute favorite, shredded chicken and onions, it tasted like my mother's chicken tacos. The humita has caramelized onions and corn so this was a sweet savory item. And the caprese, she was cheesy and yummy and truly a mozzarella tomato basil ball of goodness. We also got the chimmichurri potatoes which were a great breakfast item to me. Also the staff were all super helpful and knowledgeable. I'm happy and I will be back soon! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Anna C.
These are hands down the best empanadas I've ever had. I would 100% stop by any chance I have if I lived near by. They have a variety of flavors, which definitely makes them more unique. The outside is nice and crispy, and the fillings are delicious and flavorful. We got a variety to share, and they were all amazing. Be sure to check in on yelp to get a free empanada when you order half a dozen. I didn't notice the check in offer until after we ordered, but they happily still honored the offer and gave us an extra one. The service is great, and the food even better. Can't wait to go back next time I'm around! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Christina S.
Made to order, so the empanadas are incredibly fresh in addition to being delicious. I didn't realize this isn't really a dine-in establishment. There are two counters to sit at inside or there's seating outside in a courtyard. Normally, sitting outside would be fine, but we went when it was cold and windy. I'd recommend getting 2-3 per person if you're hungry. They're $3.50 each, so super affordable! Yelp check-in gets you a free empanada when you order a half dozen or more. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Yvette Keller
Great food, excellent price for delicious food made by friendly people. We love eating here!
Reviewed on Google Maps
Matt N.
Not much to say as there is already so many positive reviews. My on small caveat is they are very slow but that said the food is worth the wait. When the food came out it was so pretty it looked like it was being modeled for a good magazine and it tasted even better than it looked. I got a sampler and my favorite was the beef. Bummed I didn't realize they had dessert empanada until I left so no I'll have to go back for sure! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
J Olíval
The chimichurri is PERFECT! I always get the humitas y veganas and they're always deeeeelicious! I go here EVERY chance I get and sometimes make a trip across town just cuz I'm craving them
Reviewed on Google Maps
Celeste M.
I absolutely adore their mouthwatering empanadas, what more can I say? The dough is super flaky, light, and hot off the oven. You can taste the love they put into making them and homestyle taste. And best of it all, you get to savor them in their quaint outdoor patio. Absolutely recommend, just one mile from downtown SB More...
Reviewed on Yelp
J J.
These are the best empanadas and chimichurri I've ever had and I eat here EVERY TIME I'm in the area, sometimes I come all the way from Goleta lol my favorites are the humitas and veganas and I DROWN each empanada in an entire container of their churri EAT THERE NOOOOWWWWWWW
Reviewed on Yelp
Carl Thomas
One of my favorite places for tasty argentinian food. I was so full. I look forward to going back again.
Reviewed on Google Maps
Francesca P.
Wow. I first tried Buena Onda empanadas when they were catered to an event and I was so impressed I knew I wanted to try them again. I then started seeing these empanadas popping up at other locally owned bakeries and businesses around town like Old Town Coffee. I was excited to finally go to the location and try all the flavors. We used an Axxess deal to try each one and they did not disappoint. So many unique and interesting flavors, you can't go wrong. The outside patio has a cute dining area. Great place to stop for a snack. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Danah W.
What can I say that hasn't already been covered by Buena Onda's stellar 5 star reviews? I don't know but I'll try!Buena Onda tastes like it is made with love. It has that homemade, fresh-baked, family-meal feel. Upon first bite, I'm momentarily taken away from my surroundings and transported to an Argentinian dining room. The flavors, texture, and aroma ooze with culture. My favorite empanada is the Carne. I love dipping it in their Chimichurri and aioli sauces. I highly recommend ordering a dozen and trying a variety of empanadas. They reheat well on the off chance you cannot finish a dozen in one meal. It is not that they are small, it's that they're so delicious you'll want to keep eating them even after you're full. The outdoor patio is very inviting for being wedged in the middle of a busy urban street. It's a lovely place to dine alone or gather with friends. You can also enjoy live music a few nights a week under the twinkle of hanging outdoor lights. If you don't feel like dining out, call ahead and place an order to go, or have them delivered right to your doorstep via Grubhub. For those who have a sweet tooth like yours truly, the fresh baked cookies they sell are a must try! Easily the best cookies I have had in Santa Barbara. My favorite cookies are the Sprinkle and Turtle- moist, chewy goodness! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Jenna Schwartz
Great empanadas! Tasty fillings, great bake on the pastry.
Reviewed on Google Maps
Makayla Davis
Empanadas are great and the chimipapas are even better!
Reviewed on Google Maps
Colton Stout
argentinian food and the feeling at this location is super good. Great location to chill, eat some good food. I had a cousin come into town and she asked me to go back here. Bring your appetite because portions are large. Makes me feel like I am back in Tucson. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Sally T.
Who knew this was here. Wonderful! Best pastry dough and multiple filling choices. Can't wait to try them all! Had the Caprese and the the prosciutto. My friend had a pollo and a Carne...both excellent. We'll be back....soon More...
Reviewed on Yelp
360 MAGAZINE
Fresh, piping hot and a joy to eat. One of the best spots for Argentinian food in San Diego. The 'carne' are our favorite but I'm sure the vegan options are just as good. Perfect place for 'grab and go!'
Reviewed on Google Maps
John MacFarlane
Excellent empanadas, out of the way location. Top notch.
Reviewed on Google Maps
Carol Kruckenberg
All different. Well made and tasty.
Reviewed on Google Maps
Stephanie K.
Loved it! Everything tasted fresh and homemade. They came out piping hot and even still tasted good a few hours later. I can't even say that any one flavor was my favorite because I liked all the ones I tried. I will definitely be returning!
Reviewed on Yelp
Chandra K.
Absolutely amazing at every bite. We tried the half dozen and got the yelp check in offer of one free with it so we had a total of 7, which was all the varieties they had that weren't already sold out. We loved them all but our highlights and ones we are so fast we almost bit our fingers were the prosciutto, the caprese, the vegan and the quinoa. Yum and we will definitely be back. Also reminder they are closed on Mondays as we craved it so much we tried to come back. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Tashia S.
Super delish and some of the best empanadas I've ever had. Don't skip this place. The prosciutto was the ultimate BEST!
Reviewed on Yelp
J. R.
Taste like home! I have tried every empanada on the menu and there are all very delicious. I can't get enough. Everytime I go in I order a box of 12 for myself. Location vibe and staff is excellent too. This location sells maté and bombillas I just wish they had a better selection *hint hint ;)* The vegan empanadas are to die for. Nos vemos pronto. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Skyler P.
Love these oven baked empanadas. The fillings are great, and the dough is standout for sure. Price is reasonable, staff is friendly, and they are great to share, take on the go, or reheat! Definitely a go to spot for a little comfort food :) More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Christian Lejeune
Incredible empanadas. Legit
Reviewed on Google Maps
Judy Z.
Soooo good! Soooo fresh! We were impressed with the empanadas here in this quaint little spot. We had 6 different empanadas to share with the potatoes and chimichuri sauce and it was delicious. Highly recommend if you are in the mood for something different. Enjoy! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Richard Feuerstein
Uma das melhores que já comi!
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Donna C.
This is my favorite empanada place! I went often during fall and now I go back once a week during spring during my lunch hour since it's half a block away from my school. The staff is really friendly, the prices are great, and the food is amazing. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Charles Z.
Amazing find! Love the patio seating, Service was awesome and empanadas were amazing! We will definitely be back. Try the Carne, Prosciutto, and caprese!
Reviewed on Yelp
Jenny Y.
THIS PLACE IS SO SO GOOD. My friend Ryan recommend this place, saying it was the best empanada place he's ever been to. I am a skeptic but I decided to give it a try. Even though my expectations were high, Buena Onda managed to meet every single one of them. They make the shapes of the empanadas different depending on the flavor which is a nice creative touch. Will definitely come back when I visit my friend Ryan again! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Natalie S.
This place made me fall in love with Santa Barbara. We stopped in for lunch and had the best meal. Split the half dozen empanadas and the next one was better than the last. We will be back :)
Reviewed on Yelp
L J.
Stopped in to give this place a try and it did not disappoint. I had the pollo (chicken) and prosciutto, and if I was really hungry I could have eaten two more. Cool spot. Staff was helpful and friendly! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Jin Y.
Good pie and good taste. Not salty and flavor is just good enough. Pie is crispy and tender inside. If you are looking for salty pie, adding salt might be a good idea.
Reviewed on Yelp
Ashley O.
Great food, great service. Found this place on Yelp, and it has the cutest outdoor seating by a few unexpected parking spots. Their current special, the Bodhi(sp?) was really delicious. They also had vegetarian options and a new vegan option. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Jason B.
Fresh. Delicious. Don't forget to get the chimi papas. Outdoor seating ambiance is cool, and the music being played was pleasant. Great place to bring a small group and order a half dozen empanadas since they offer a good amount of options. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
What’s your signature dish?
Artisan Baked Empanadas / Wood fired oven upon request
How do you go about creating the perfect menu for your clients?
We listen to your needs and vision and based on that offer you the best menu.
What do you love most about your job?
Being able to share our culture through our food. Its been amazing to be able to do so in our beautiful Santa Barbara.
What inspired you to start your own business?
To share the best empanadas with the community by using local, seasonal ingredients.
Why should our clients choose you?
Because we are unique, fun, easy going and full of good vibes (Buena Onda!)
