After starting as a humble food stall in the St. Roch Market, Empanola has grown into a multi-state chain, with locations across New Orleans. The company is currently planning to open a new Central Business District location inside the Holiday Inn at 203 Carondelet St. as part of its ongoing plan to expand the brand.
Co-owner Jimena Urrutia recently told What Now New Orleans that the new location will be able to serve hotel guests, the surrounding business community, and tourists in the French Quarter when it opens in May.
“We’re planning on not only serving people staying in the space, but it’s a location very close to Bourbon and Canal streets,” Urrutia noted. “There are a lot of offices coming back into town, and we’d like to bring our empanadas to those offices. I think we’re the perfect handheld food.”
The brand’s growth has been fueled by a significant investment in technology and the opening of an industrial kitchen three years ago. Today, Empanola produces roughly 15,000 empanadas a week, serving three existing New Orleans locations (Freret Street, Magazine Street, and the Quarter) as well as franchise locations in Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida.
Unlike some satellite locations, the CBD spot will feature the full Empanola menu, ranging from traditional meat options to vegan varieties. There will be an increased emphasis on the beverage program to cater to morning commuters and hotel guests. The shop will serve Lavazza coffee, featuring a range of signature lattes, cappuccinos, and cold brews.
The CBD location will also lean heavily into the professional market, offering delivery via third-party apps and robust catering services. Urrutia mentioned that their website offers wholesale pricing for larger office events and gatherings.
Renovations are currently underway to bring the “Empanola vibe” to the new space, which is expected to open by mid-May. Looking beyond Carondelet, Urrutia confirmed a new franchise agreement has been signed for Birmingham, Alabama, and the team is currently fielding interest for expansions into Washington DC and Texas.
“We’re trying to grow, but being responsible,” she said. “We want to make sure we can still maintain impeccable quality and service.”
