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Name: The Original Marini’s Empanada House
Address: Carillion Shopping Centre,10001 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX, 77042
Telephone: (713) 266-2729
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 4.35

The Original Marini’s Empanada House

Carillion Shopping Centre,10001 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX, 77042

(713) 266-2729
Store is closed

The Original Marini’s Empanada House Menu

Beverages

Soft Drink

Iced Tea

Bottled Soda

Bottled Water

Bottled Juice

Argentine Green Tea

Soft Drink

Iced Tea

Bottled Soda

Bottled Water

Bottled Juice

Argentine Green Tea
Salads

House Salad

Marini's Salad

Grilled Chicken Salad

Club Salad

House Salad

Marini's Salad

Grilled Chicken Salad

Club Salad
Meat Empanadas

Beef Gaucho Empanada

Texan Barbeque Empanada

Hot Tia Maria Empanada

Chuckwagon Empanada

Italian Marcello Empanada

English Empanada

Hippie Argentino Empanada

Chicken Diablo Empanada

Chicken a la Queen Empanada

Chicken Barbeque Empanada

Chicken Poblana Empanada

Beef Gaucho Empanada

Texan Barbeque Empanada

Hot Tia Maria Empanada

Chuckwagon Empanada

Italian Marcello Empanada

English Empanada

Hippie Argentino Empanada

Chicken Diablo Empanada

Chicken a la Queen Empanada

Chicken Barbeque Empanada

Chicken Poblana Empanada
Specialty Empanadas

Linda's Chicken Empanada

Nacho Macho Empanada

Las Pampas Empanada

Tex Mex Empanada

Mamma Mia Empanada

Hawaiian Chu Chu Empanada

Green Hulk Empanada

Las Adelitas Empanada

Chicken a la King Empanada

Oinker Empanada

Hot Piccata Empanada

Eggplant Parmigiana Empanada

Viva Mexico Empanada

Tuna Luna Empanada

Asparagus King Empanada

Linda's Chicken Empanada

Nacho Macho Empanada

Las Pampas Empanada

Tex Mex Empanada

Mamma Mia Empanada

Hawaiian Chu Chu Empanada

Green Hulk Empanada

Las Adelitas Empanada

Chicken a la King Empanada

Oinker Empanada

Hot Piccata Empanada

Eggplant Parmigiana Empanada

Viva Mexico Empanada

Tuna Luna Empanada

Asparagus King Empanada
Cheese Empanadas

Ham and Cheese Empanada

Pizza Empanada

Pancho Villa Empanada

Viva Zapata Empanada

Plain Cheese Empanada

4 Cheese Empanada

Ham and Cheese Empanada

Pizza Empanada

Pancho Villa Empanada

Viva Zapata Empanada

Plain Cheese Empanada

4 Cheese Empanada
Vegetable Empanadas

Vegetarian Empanada

Spinach Empanada

Avocado Empanada

Demichelli Empanada

Fugazetta Empanada

New Yorker Empanada

Tomato Basil Empanada

Humita Empanada

Vegetarian Empanada

Spinach Empanada

Avocado Empanada

Demichelli Empanada

Fugazetta Empanada

New Yorker Empanada

Tomato Basil Empanada

Humita Empanada
Daily Combos

2 Savory Empanadas Combo

#2 Regular Size Savory Empanada Combo

1 Dozen Regular Size Empanada Combo

1 Dozen Specialty Empanada Combo

2 Savory Empanadas Combo

#2 Regular Size Savory Empanada Combo

1 Dozen Regular Size Empanada Combo

1 Dozen Specialty Empanada Combo
Our Specialty Sandwiches

Churrasco Sandwich

Chicken Sandwich

Choripan Sandwich

Beef Milanesa Sandwich

Chicken Milanesa Sandwich

Milanesa a Caballo Sandwich

Milanesa a la Napolitan Sandwich

Rio Bravo Sandwich

South of the Border Sandwich

Marcello's Deli Sandwich

Poblano's Sub

Marini's Original Curly Fries

Churrasco Sandwich

Chicken Sandwich

Choripan Sandwich

Beef Milanesa Sandwich

Chicken Milanesa Sandwich

Milanesa a Caballo Sandwich

Milanesa a la Napolitan Sandwich

Rio Bravo Sandwich

South of the Border Sandwich

Marcello's Deli Sandwich

Poblano's Sub

Marini's Original Curly Fries
Kid's Menu

Kid's Marinitos

Kid's Marinitos
Dessert Empandas

Apple Empanada

Banana Empanada

Dulce de Leche Empanada

Strawberry Empanada

Raspberry Empanada

Blueberry Empanada

Cherry Empanada

Apricot Empanada

Pineapple Empanada

Peach Empanada

Pumpkin Empanada

Sweet Potato Empanada

Guava Empanada

Chocolate Empanada

Apple Empanada

Banana Empanada

Dulce de Leche Empanada

Strawberry Empanada

Raspberry Empanada

Blueberry Empanada

Cherry Empanada

Apricot Empanada

Pineapple Empanada

Peach Empanada

Pumpkin Empanada

Sweet Potato Empanada

Guava Empanada

Chocolate Empanada
Specialty Dessert Empandas

Apple Gabriella Empanada

Apple with Everything Empanada

Banana with Everything Empanada

Banana Empanada

Fig Empanada

Chio Surprise Empanada

Kiti Kiti Empanada

Elvis Melbis Empanada

Peter Pan Empanada

Snickers Empanada

Patty All the Way

Evita Peron Empanadas

Banana Carillon Empanada

Elli's Belli Empanada

Navidad Empanada

Apple Carnival

Apple Gabriella Empanada

Apple with Everything Empanada

Banana with Everything Empanada

Banana Empanada

Fig Empanada

Chio Surprise Empanada

Kiti Kiti Empanada

Elvis Melbis Empanada

Peter Pan Empanada

Snickers Empanada

Patty All the Way

Evita Peron Empanadas

Banana Carillon Empanada

Elli's Belli Empanada

Navidad Empanada

Apple Carnival
Sopaipillas

Sopaipilla

Sopaipilla

Healthy Meal suggestions for The Original Marini’s Empanada House

Beverages

Soft Drink [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Iced Tea [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bottled Soda [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bottled Water [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bottled Juice [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Argentine Green Tea [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Soft Drink [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Iced Tea [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bottled Soda [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bottled Water [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bottled Juice [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Argentine Green Tea [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Salads

House Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Marini's Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Club Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

House Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Marini's Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Club Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Meat Empanadas

Beef Gaucho Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Texan Barbeque Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hot Tia Maria Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chuckwagon Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Italian Marcello Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

English Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hippie Argentino Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Diablo Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken a la Queen Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Barbeque Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Poblana Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beef Gaucho Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Texan Barbeque Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hot Tia Maria Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chuckwagon Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Italian Marcello Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

English Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hippie Argentino Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Diablo Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken a la Queen Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Barbeque Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Poblana Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Specialty Empanadas

Linda's Chicken Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Nacho Macho Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Las Pampas Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tex Mex Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mamma Mia Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hawaiian Chu Chu Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Green Hulk Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Las Adelitas Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken a la King Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Oinker Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hot Piccata Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Eggplant Parmigiana Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Viva Mexico Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tuna Luna Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Asparagus King Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Linda's Chicken Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Nacho Macho Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Las Pampas Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tex Mex Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mamma Mia Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hawaiian Chu Chu Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Green Hulk Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Las Adelitas Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken a la King Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Oinker Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hot Piccata Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Eggplant Parmigiana Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Viva Mexico Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tuna Luna Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Asparagus King Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Cheese Empanadas

Ham and Cheese Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pizza Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pancho Villa Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Viva Zapata Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Plain Cheese Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

4 Cheese Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ham and Cheese Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pizza Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pancho Villa Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Viva Zapata Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Plain Cheese Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

4 Cheese Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Vegetable Empanadas

Vegetarian Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spinach Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Avocado Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Demichelli Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fugazetta Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

New Yorker Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tomato Basil Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Humita Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vegetarian Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spinach Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Avocado Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Demichelli Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fugazetta Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

New Yorker Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tomato Basil Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Humita Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Daily Combos

2 Savory Empanadas Combo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

#2 Regular Size Savory Empanada Combo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

1 Dozen Regular Size Empanada Combo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

1 Dozen Specialty Empanada Combo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

2 Savory Empanadas Combo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

#2 Regular Size Savory Empanada Combo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

1 Dozen Regular Size Empanada Combo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

1 Dozen Specialty Empanada Combo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Our Specialty Sandwiches

Churrasco Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Choripan Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beef Milanesa Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Milanesa Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Milanesa a Caballo Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Milanesa a la Napolitan Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Rio Bravo Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

South of the Border Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Marcello's Deli Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Poblano's Sub [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Marini's Original Curly Fries [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Churrasco Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Choripan Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beef Milanesa Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Milanesa Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Milanesa a Caballo Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Milanesa a la Napolitan Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Rio Bravo Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

South of the Border Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Marcello's Deli Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Poblano's Sub [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Marini's Original Curly Fries [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Kid's Menu

Kid's Marinitos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kid's Marinitos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Dessert Empandas

Apple Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Banana Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Dulce de Leche Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Strawberry Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Raspberry Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Blueberry Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cherry Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Apricot Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pineapple Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peach Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pumpkin Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sweet Potato Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Guava Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chocolate Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Apple Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Banana Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Dulce de Leche Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Strawberry Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Raspberry Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Blueberry Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cherry Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Apricot Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pineapple Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peach Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pumpkin Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sweet Potato Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Guava Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chocolate Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Specialty Dessert Empandas

Apple Gabriella Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Apple with Everything Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Banana with Everything Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Banana Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fig Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chio Surprise Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kiti Kiti Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Elvis Melbis Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peter Pan Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Snickers Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Patty All the Way [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Evita Peron Empanadas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Banana Carillon Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Elli's Belli Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Navidad Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Apple Carnival [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Apple Gabriella Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Apple with Everything Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Banana with Everything Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Banana Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fig Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chio Surprise Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kiti Kiti Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Elvis Melbis Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peter Pan Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Snickers Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Patty All the Way [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Evita Peron Empanadas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Banana Carillon Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Elli's Belli Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Navidad Empanada [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Apple Carnival [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sopaipillas

Sopaipilla [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sopaipilla [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

Matthew L.

My old office building used to be right behind this place. We've moved downtown now, and one of the things I miss most about the old office location is this restaurant! This was the first restaurant I tried at my new workplace, and I have to say, it was my favorite by far. Delicious empanadas, all fried to order. Empanadas of all sizes and flavors. Spicy, salty, sweet - you name it. Wonderful dessert empanadas as well! As an added plus, the workers were fantastic! Always made for great conversation, and I always felt welcomed there. I don't know how they do it, but the moment I walked in the door, they made me feel right at home.
(5)
Ray M.

My first time having real empanadas (not from a stand). I had three - beef gaucho, argentine hippie and another beef one ( forget the name). The best was the gaucho. It was good but not good enough to come back for. More restaurants to explore. Nice ambience.
(3)
Zaid R.

An original establishment, family owned. That's a good place to start. I've only been here for lunch and the first time I did, I was surprised by the line reaching the door. And it was well worth the wait! My favorites: The English (Can't go wrong with pastie done in empanada dough) The Gaucho: Egg, beef, olive (good all around) Four Cheese (Gooey and the crust's texture plays well with cheese) The chocolate one is good, love the use of bittersweet. The soup-or-salad-combo will run you about ten dollars but it's more than enough food. Comes with their daily dessert and soup. So, in conclusion, if you want a quick, tasty lunch served to you by happy people, then come here.
(4)
Niklas J.

These guys have the warmest and most authentic customer service in Houston. They are just super nice. The food is great too, and I was delighted when they had a screen to watch sports today. It is a perfect spot for a lunch, and fairly quick too. The empanadas are unique and very tasty, and it is fun to experiment with various picks.
(4)
Tony D.

I decided to check out this place due to recommendations from my fellow yelped and they were not wrong. This place is delicious. I had the mamma Mia and nacho macho for the main course and for dessert I got the apple special. I would definitely go back again.
(5)
Monik H.

Marini's has the best empanadas hands-down. The empanadas are authentic Argentinian and they have such a great variety.
(5)
Keith O.

Really glad (except for my waistline) that I found this place. Went based on Yelp reviews and was not disappointed. You have to go around back and I generally find it much busier at lunchtime than dinner time. Super nice staff and delicious savory (and dessert) empanadas. Have had many different ones and not disappointed by anything yet. My girls like coming here too and I've gotten the fruit-filled ones before to go for breakfast the next morning.
(5)
Maria S.

I like the fact that you can take their food to Vintropolis across the parking lot. Vintropolis even has a menu so you can call Marini's. I will give them three stars because one can't order a single baked empanada. You have to order some sort of minimum for the baked option. Since I prefer to not eat fried food, I don't know what their empanadas taste like. I had a tortellini soup which was quite tasty and a dinner salad.
(3)
Rachel P.

Just got back from eating here and it was pretty darn awesome. I am tempted to give it 5 stars but on principle I don't do that for places I've only eaten once... gotta know it's consistent. I'm in Houston for work, staying at the Marriott next door. I pretty much just wanted something fast and delicious for dinner. This could not have been more perfect! I rolled in around 8 and there were only a couple other groups of people there. It was the perfect kind of casual and quick service for eating by yourself and not being awkward (always an issue when traveling alone!) You just order at the counter and they bring you your food. The place has a cozy vibe to it... it felt like my own personal "neighborhood empanada place" even though I don't live in this state and had never eaten in an Argentinian restaurant before. I got 3 savory empanadas--spinach, Demichelli, and Green Hulk--and a Chio's Surprise, on the recommendation of the girl at the counter when I asked for a dessert suggestion and confirmed I liked bananas. And I washed it all down with a tasty Saint Arnold amber... can't get that in Tulsa! All the empanadas were great, although I should have realized in advance that warm avocado (on the Demichelli) would be a little weird. Definitely add the chimichurri or whatever it is that comes in the little plastic cup... it's delicious. They had rolls of paper towels on the tables instead of napkins, which I always appreciate. Apparently all the paper towels in the world are not enough to save me from an empanada dripping with hot bananas, melted chocolate, dulce de leche and powdered sugar... but it was worth it.
(4)
Billy H.

2nd review: This place is wickedly good! The crust, perfect. Love the "Marcello": Italian sausage, pizza sauce, mozzarella, provolone. Everything blends so well! The English is okay, reminds me of a roast or stew in a pie crust. Still good though! Las Pampas: Ground beef, onions, avocado, and mozzarella...good, but I really came for dessert! (And I don't even like dessert!). My CHIO Surprise! Banana, chocolate chips, and dulce de leche stuffed in a light, fluffy, powdered crust! OMG! It is delicious! I waited 10 months for their dessert empanadas! Just outrageously good! Got a couple dozen dessert empanadas to go for my journey back to Chicago tomorrow. The west side of Houston really does have some of the best places to eat!! Some day I'll return to this glorious arena to swallow down some more empanadas and wash it down with a nice mate tea.
(5)
Trenae F.

I was looking for a quick snack after work and happened upon this place. The service is great; I was overwhelmed by the choices and the guy behind the counter was helpful and patient. The empanadas are tasty, right sized, and well priced. I ordered dessert to go. I will definitely be back.
(5)
Gerard Y.

The other day I got a work e-mail asking to bring a dessert item. I figured, everyone going to bake cookies, cake, pies, or something like that. I'll bring in something different. I haven't met a person who doesn't like empanadas. I did some search and decided to try this place out. I called the night before and said I wanted to order 2 dozen empanadas for pickup the next day. The lady on the phone who took my order was friendly and helpful. I asked for suggestions and I said basically something chicken and meat. 4 orders were made 2 chicken (spicy and regular) and 2 beef (spicy and regular) or something like that. It was a short drive from work and picked it up around noon time. You might want to take a free parking spot as soon as you find one because the lot seemed pretty full around lunch time. Anyway everyone liked it at work since nothing was left. I enjoyed myself. Small, yet not too hard or crunchy with just enough filling. They have a wide variety of empanadas too. I'll have to come back just to try out that Snickers empanadas or some of their fruit filled ones. Sounds interesting and tasty.
(5)
Jessica L.

My coworker and I came by for Friday lunch. Whenever I try a new place, I often like to ask for recommendations. I went with Combo #1-- 2 meat empanadas, 1 house choice dessert empanada, and a soup or salad for $8.95. The lady at the front counter recommended the Beef "Gaucho" (ground beef, hard-boiled egg, olives, onions and spices) and the Hot "Tia Maria": (chopped brisket, onions, jalapenos, tomato sauce, and spices) The combo came with the soup of the day and the dessert empanada of the day-- the chocolate empanada made with Ghiradelli chocolate! After paying at the counter, you receive a number and seat yourself. It didn't take long for the food to come out. The soup was pretty good-- I can't remember what kind it was now but there were short noodles, tomatoes, and mozzarella in the soup. What really stood out, however, were the empanadas! I really liked the Gaucho-- I'll definitely be ordering that one again (I actually ate this one later because I couldn't finish all the food!). The Tia Maria was good although I didn't think it was all that spicy. I added a little chimichurri sauce to the empanadas-- delicious! The mini chocolate empanada topped with powder sugar was great as well-- how can you go wrong with Ghiradelli chocolate?! The lady behind the counter gave us some little alfajores de maizena (dulce de leche cookies made with corn starch) to try-- yum! I ended up buying some to gift. I'll definitely be back!
(5)
Andrew L.

empanadas are underappeciated in the modern cuisine. Marini is trying to change the perception of empanada with this awesome House. But hold on... its not a house at all ... its part of a large shopping center with tons of parking. The place is not great for groups with a standard walk to the counter order service. This is one of those places that you just have to go and experience because there is nothing quite like it. Go expand your empanada horizon and eat At Marini's
(5)
Misty B.

Got the gaucho, chicken poblana, nacho macho, all were good but the poblana was the best. Wife got milanesa a caballo beef sandwich with fries. Was huge and the fries are fresh and delicious. For dessert I got the apple Gabriella with dulce DE Leche cream cheese and apples. I could have eaten a plate full of just those. Great little place.
(4)
Jimmy D.

Okay so I went here this past Wednesday and It was hot !!! Well to start when me and my gf walked in she was so excited after reading all the yelp reviews and I myself have wanted to try this place... so we walk in and stare at the big menu above the cashier/order station only to realize a small menu was right at the entrance. We got the soup of the day: chicken noodle (not like the typical kind you would think of but trust me this was tasty with a nice kick to it) My gf wanted the flan but they ran out already at 2!!!! so she got i believe two different types a chicken empananda, a beef one, and a apple cinnamon one . she said she loved the chicken one, but she didnt care much for ground beef (prob cause she just inst a fan) now i on the other hand got me the soup/crap i forgot but i got a spicy brisket one and the first chicken specialty empanada/and the peach one. Oh man when i bit into that brisket one it was so juicy! and the chicken was cheesy butt enough (i let my girlfriend take the last bit ... well sort of she looked at me weird when i didnt let go. ... i wanted the end of the empanada!) now that peach was so delicious i should have also got a peanut butter one or the recommened dulce de leche !!! but that would be for another time!
(3)
Heath B.

This is the REAL DEAL. The dough is incredible and they don't skimp on the fillings. This is a must have during the HOLIDAYS.
(4)
Kathy Z.

So I literally just got home from eating at Marini's Empanada House and had to get on the computer to rave about this place on Yelp. I've had this restaurant bookmarked for just about forever. I don't live or work any where near the Westchase area, but today I make the trek anyways. The restaurant is very casual with lots of indoor and outdoor seating. Now I've only ever had empanadas in a small village hut in Honduras, so I don't really have many prior experiences to compare to. These empanadas are made by professional. Each are perfectly molded and fried to order. My husband and I had the Beef Gaucho, Avocado, TexMex, and Texas BBQ. My favorite is the Gaucho. The olives add acidity and pop of flavor. The meats in the BBQ and TexMex are savory and tender. The avocado is a great vegetarian alternative. The filling was an avocado paste with various chopped vegetables mixed in. Let me take a sec to compliment the sangria. It was delicious and cheap! Ok, done. My only complaint is the wait. I estimate that we waited around 10 minutes for our order, although that's definitely not going to deter me from coming back.
(4)
C S.

What a find... Thanks Yelp! My wife and I were in Houston on business for 10 days. We intended to eat at a different local place each night. But, we ate at Marini's on the second day. Since we kept going back, we missed out on several nights of different foods! But we didn't miss out on experiencing different foods since the menu was so large! The variety of empanadas was amazing. Oh, make sure you get a dessert empanada. The folks that work at Marini's are very special. They are family and treat you like another member of the family. One time I asked a question about a cookie. The young lady at the counter wanted to make sure of the the answer, so she called Grandma - who had made the cookies earlier! Look, want a great meal served by great people, surrounded by great customers, come here. If not, go to some overpriced chain. Marini's doesn't need customers, they want customers. And once you go there, you will want to be their customer all the time.
(5)
Katherine B.

Delicious!!!! I have gluten sensitivities but i'll risk a stomach ache for these babies. My usual suspects are the Pizza, Pamaps, and the Patty all the way (for dessert). It's just so tasty! you can't have just 1...or 5... or a dozen. and this family is so cool. Mr. Marini is amazing. such a nice man with an awesome mustache. One of his daughters (she'll kill me for forgetting her name haha) is usually at the register. she's always cool and let's me use the coupon on the site (for a free dessert empanada) even if i don't have it with me. my only complaint, i wish you'd open one in the loop! :)
(5)
David N.

So to all my followers, sorry for all of the boring service/shopping reviews. It's time to talk about some delicious eats! I try to keep most of my food trips in the loop (ITL), however when you have a 4 1/2 star average with almost 100 reviews you better believe you're worth checking out. When I arrived I was like whoa! Didn't realize it was in this shopping center. There is plenty of parking in this strip, which is a plus for real estate outside of the loop (OTL). Upon entering, you're hit with a very HUGE menu. It took me a few minutes to look over it all before ordering. My friend and I decided on 6 empanadas: In order of my favorites: Chicken poblano Mamma mia Egg plant parmigiana Beef gaucho Texan bbq Chicken bbq Just because they were on the lower half of the list did not mean they were bad, they just weren't as good. I was full, not stuffed but full, but my friend was still hungry! So I told her if you order more get another chicken poblano!!! It's so freaking good with their homemade mole sauce! So on our 2nd round we got chicken poblano with two dessert empanadas: sweet potato and banana with dulce de leche. Both were great finishers. All of the empanadas were made fresh to order so it does take a bit of time, but well worth the wait.
(5)
Lore P.

Everything on the menu is delicious and homemade!!! Must try!
(5)
Kyle J.

OK...here's the skinny...this place doesn't lend itself to keeping you skinny, but man is the food good! I have to say that I really enjoyed the empanadas that we tried. But here is the biggest reason why I didn't rate it all the way 5 star fantastic, out of this world awesome...we ordered like 5 different types of empanadas and I was not able to tell them apart! I know that sounds lame but I would like to at least know which one to get and which one to avoid next time. But with that said, I really knew that one of the empanadas was the Tia Maria...dude, seriously good stuff! Not to mention the Avocado stuffed empanadas were amazing. For dessert, top it off with the Gabriela and you are set! Service was fantastic, little place has great charm...wonderful date place. Owner/manager was so welcoming, offering her advice and really made you feel at home. Will come again with family and friends!
(4)
edgard k.

The place to go get a fix of empanada in Houston - I think it has the most extensive kinds of empanada. My favorite are chicken a la queen, beef gaucho, chicken a la king, It also serve great sandwiches as well: the choripan and milanesa a caballo are what I usually get.
(3)
Simplehiccup D.

Pitcher of Sangria, $15- it was delicious... little apple cubes floating around in it. Empanadas, about $2.50 each. I enjoyed the avocado a lot. We ordered an assortment of the dessert Empanadas and the sweet potato was our favorite. The price is great. The service was prompt and friendly. The food is tasty.
(5)
Antonio Z.

I had been to the similar yet different Marine's Empanada shop twice before my first visit here. I liked Marine's. They had good empanadas and great Colombian coffee. Yelpers said I was crazy though. They said I that I didn't know what a good empanada was, and that I was supporting a bunch of imposters! Well today I saw the light. I tasted the difference that a "not-for-sale" dough recipe can make. You see, long ago the Argentinian Marini's owned the now Colombian Marine's empanana shop. Marini sold the shop and let them retain most of the menu, but he would not sell them the dough recipe. I was told all of this today by the Marini grand daughter. My only complaint about Marini's is that they don't serve coffee. Insane. The only way to enjoy such an amazing pastry like these empanadas is with a hot cup of coffee. That alone almost makes me want to go back to Marine's.
(4)
Yashwanth C.

The best empanadas ever. So fresh made and a friendly atmosphere. A little cozy though
(5)
Chip D.

Normally - empanadas, even good ones are pre-made, but these are made to order as far as I can tell. Great filling choices and the soup was pretty good! Ultimately - a great curveball to change up the lunch routine during the week.
(3)
John D.

Amazing food. You'd expect to need to order more, but 2 empanadas makes a meal.
(4)
Will K.

This is my third time to dine in. After coming to lunch here with co-workers, I knew I had to bring my wife and daughter. As expected, they loved it. The quality has been consistently good. There is plenty of variety on the menu and the prices are reasonable. We ate very comfortable in the casual atmosphere. I anticipate this becoming a regular place for us.
(5)
Fregilia L.

A friend and I decided to go here for lunch since it was a nice day out in Houston. He mentioned to me that we should try Empanadas at Marini's. I had never had an empanada before and I was really hungry (little thing about me...I don't like trying new foods when I'm starved) but since it was his treat I decided to just go for it. He suggested that I order the tomato basil empanada along with a strawberry dessert empanada. Let me just say that my mouth was in heaven the entire time! I love when I can eat comfortably without utensils and this is definitely a meal for using your hands. I was so impressed with the service and the food. I will definitely be going back.
(5)
Kyla C.

This place has it all! Tasty freshly made food, amazing caring staff and family owned. My husband is a regular, they know him by name and will offer us free food once in a while. All of them are tasty but a few of our favorites are their fries, the beef gaucho, the sweet potato, linda's chicken, and the chocolate. My mom took some back with her to Michigan and said that they reheat pretty well. One of my top restaurants in the world really.
(5)
Erica C.

How can there be two empanada houses with almost the same name a few miles away from each other?! I was suppose to have lunch with a friend on Friday but I sent her to Marine's Empanada house while I ended up Marini's Empanda House. Car-razy! I'm glad I ended up here though. I love me some crispy pastry stuffed with meaty goodness. I got the daily special #2 which comes 1 savory empanada, 1 dessert empanada, and uh, curly fries. I chose a beef empanada with avocado and an apple empanada for dessert. The beef was yummy and gooing with avocado goodness. I'm not a huge fan of dessert empanadas, the apple was good but I mostly just ate the filling. The outside goes more with meat to me. They have yerba mate tea there too!! I love mate teas! It has just as much caffeine as coffee plus the benefits of herbal drinks. Yum! I am determined to come back and try more empanadas!
(4)
Anthony G.

Â¡La comida es muy delicioso! My order usually consists of one of their sandwiches and one of their specialty empanadas. I recommend the Churrasco sandwich and the Nacho Macho empanada. Both are real good and meaty. Both the chimichurri sauce and the spicy sauce take the food to the next level.
(5)
Charlie T.

Great crust on empanadas. Filing was ok. Still the price per empanada was such that it should be perfect. Glad I tried it but not sure about a repeat.
(2)
Jessi L.

I got the #2 combo which includes 1 savory and 1 dessert with frenchfries and a drink. I got chicken poblano (mole sauce) and added another hot Tia maria (brisket and chiles) and apple Gabriella (appley cream cheese and dulche deleche) . the poblano was great , nice hint of chocolate and nuttiness, Tia maria was juicy and little to no spice. the dessert could have been tastier but I appreciate their sweet concotions. overall it was averagely satiating. would come again for a nice Argentinian bite.
(3)
James H.

I can't believe I waited so long to try this place, but I can safely say I was not disappointed even after the pedestal I put them on in my head after 2 and a half years of attempting to get to their establishment! That being said, they are closed Sundays. Don't be like me and repeatedly try to go on a Sunday when you're hungover (or possibly still drunk) while completely ignoring simple resources such as the internet or phone. It says on all of them "Closed Sundays", trust me! I can't remember what exactly I had, but everything was bursting with flavor. I know I had 3 savory and one sweet empanada and nothing was left afterward. I even went back into line after I finished with the intention of stockpiling until I could make it back on a non-Sunday, only to find a long line which I quickly decided against waiting with the other line patrons. All the empanadas were fresh and made to order. The dough was perfect, the stuffing (I don't know what exactly to call it) was so flavorful that I'm drooling just thinking about it. They also make their own Iced tea. My suggestion is read the menu (and the hours of operation) and try everything that you can. I am truly in awe of how great everything tasted.
(5)
Gary P.

I started eating at this place in the early 1970's but it was located near downtown I think. I was a child and remember it being a real treat. I wrote my name on the wall as a child and still remember the whole nice experience. I thank these people for good childhood memories. It's still a great treat for my family to eat here. Infact I remember the owners kids running around playing near the register and now they are running the place. That alone is really cool to see. Great place!
(4)
Rosa F.

Yup! Delicious! Even the sangria was great! The owner is so nice and makes you feel at home. Prices are really reasonable. We will be back again.
(4)
Michelle M.

This place has some of the better empanadas I've found locally. The empanadas are a good size - I couldn't quite take down three. They are also doughy enough and have a lovely crispy outside. Of what I ordered: 1. Humita (corn) - Delicious and totally authentic. It made me miss my time in Buenos Aires. Would definitely order again. 2. Ham & cheese - Solid but not a game changer. 3. The New Yorker (cheese, broccoli) - What was I thinking? I liked the individual ingredients and thought they'd be good as an empanada. It was like some Hot Pocket gone wrong. Was not a fan. Oh well, you have to be adventurous sometimes. The thing to do, it seemed, was to have your dinner on the patio, weather-permitting, and enjoy the company of friends, maybe a glass a wine, and a cigarette (if you're a smoker.) I prefered the indoor air-conditioned space that provided a slight barrier to Texas's state bird (the mosquito). Very friendly service. Cute picnic tables. Mate and fountain drinks as well as other alcoholic beverages. Alfajores. Will come again.
(4)
Sam L.

Just got back from having lunch at this establishment. The lady behind the counter (the daughter) was friendly and personable. The ambiance of the place is nice with lots of "flare" pieces all around but they somehow felt more genuine then the items at say a TGIFridays. Also lots of outside seating too, both in the shade and full sun. Today's Houston weather called for a full soaking in the sun seat! I had the combo #2 with a Gaucho (beef) empanada and patty all the way (dulce de leche, chocolate and cream cheese) dessert empanada. The combo came with curly fries and I ordered an additional soup. The beef empanada was good and juicy, some of the juices dripped into my soup (woohoo! more flavor). I liked the thinly cut curly fries, while not seasoned, they were totally freshly made with real potatoes. I don't have a huge sweet tooth so the dessert empanada was just ok for me, but it was amply filled and probably delish for a person with a sweeter tooth. I plan on hitting this place regularly as my work is right in the vicinity. Also if you go to their website they have a coupon there you can print out for either a soup or dessert and it never expires. Oh and there are little containers of chimichurri sauce next to the fountain drinks, super yummy!
(4)
Cindy Q.

The best empanadas I've ever had! The staff is the sweetest, and make you feel like your at home. Definitely a must try.
(5)
Frances L.

I thought the vegetable empanadas were way tastier than the meat ones. I liked my chocolate dessert empanadas The speciality avocado empanada was great. The soup was also pretty good but I realized it was pretty salty as well. The combo is a good value if you want to try different things ($10 for 3 empanadas, soup or salad, and a drink). Be warned the small 2.50 dessert empanadas come out really small so just upgrade to the $3.00 one.
(3)
Jeffy T.

Great emapanadas. Crisp crust, great flavors. I recommend the las pampas, beef gaucho and banana w dulce de leche. The Sangria is amazing here.
(4)
Julia H.

I LOVE Mama Mia empanadas. Yum!!!............ ;D
(5)
Bobbi W.

Amazing food and superb experience. Love visiting this restaurant! The dessert empanadas are to die for. As far as your meal, any choice you make will be the right one!
(5)
Natasha G.

Beef gaucho. Texan bbq Chicken bbq Chicken poblana****** Mamma Mia Grandmas Chicken (new) Eggplant parmigiana. Sweet potato Banans with dolce de leche ALL FREAKING DELICIOUS!
(5)
Adam B.

This wonderful place is a regular stop for me.
(5)
Donna X.

I visited again yesterday and tried two more empandas this time. One was the eggplant which tasted very much like eggplant parmesan inside an empanada. I really like eggplant, though I understand why many people don't, so if you have any fondness for eggplant parmesan, I would recommend trying the eggplant empanada. I also tried the banana with everything dessert empanada which was also delicious...bananas, cinnamon, cheese, raisins, and nuts. The cheese surprised me a bit at first, but I actually thought it added a nice balance that prevented the empanada from being overly sweet. Wonderful experience, wonderful food yet again. :)
(5)
Diana L.

I ordered a few dozen for a work event. We tried the gaucho (beef), ham & cheese, humita (corn), four cheese, and fugazetta (onion & cheese). The empanadas here are fried, which are better than baked, in my opinion. They come with a chimichurri sauce, but I never use it. Overall, the empanadas were well-seasoned and tasty, but pricey ($2.50-$3.00 each) for their size. I didn't really like the 4-cheese or the fugazetta. The cheese wasn't very high-quality and the empanadas were mostly hollow inside.
(3)
James W.

Good empanadas for meal. Every single thing we ordered was good. It takes My only qualm is the food is pretty greasy. Service was excellent. We initially ordered the pumpkin empanada for dessert, but the lady running the registrar recommended the apple instead and actually gave us a complementary empanada so we could sample both side by side. She was right. The apple is better than the empanada.
(3)
Devon M.

Gosh, how could I have not reviewed Marini's yet? Anyway, Marini's is amazing! I've been impressed with my food every time I've been here. Granted, all I ever get are empanadas, but they're so good I have yet to explore the menu more. The dough is good, the fillings are always delicious, and as long as you don't have the appetite of a stereotypical teenage boy, you will be full after only eating 2 or 3 empanadas. My favorite dinner empanadas are the Hot Tia Maria, Nacho Macho, Spinach, and the Demichelli. As for dessert, I recommend guava with cream cheese, and the chio surprise (dulce de leche, chocolate, and bananas). Marini's is definitely worth trying out. Even though it's a bit of a drive for my friends and me to get there, we will gladly make that drive for the delicious empanadas that await us.
(5)
Ian P.

Ordered take-out from here for a light dinner. I really liked the ingredients and the prices were very reasonable. Based on the decor and the friendly service it seems like it could be a fun place to eat with some friends. My main reason for 3 stars is because I'm spoiled when it comes to empanadas. A friend of my mother's makes unbelievable emapanadas and a place right near me in Chicago makes fantastic empanadas as well; these just weren't comparable. At the end of the day though I would definitely visit here again if I was in the area and would say if you're not spoiled like me to give this place a shot.
(3)
Kim M.

This is an absolutely fun place to eat. I had no idea you could have so many different empanadas. Cashier was really helpful to us newbies and we each had two for our meal and shared one for dessert. Well, I only got a bite the 10yr old ate the rest. Their walls are full of people enjoying their food and years of community service certificates. If we lived in Houston we'd love to be regulars here!
(4)
Marianne H.

I decided to go for a snack before heading out to party. We were not dissapointed! The very outgoing handsome young man - who we came to find out is the owners son left us feeling like family even though the place was packed! We had the lindas chincken - top choice and full of flavor, my now favorite...humias? - as a semi vegetarian (haha so oxymoron) i could eat this all day long! , and if you like beef...the great tia maria. Most importantly...we needed a sandwich to take back to our hotel after alcohol drowned our night. The Chicken Milanesa sandwhich....omg. if you could see me, ive got my fingers to my lips italian style. Thank you Marinis!!!!!!
(5)
Jay G.

This place is Goooood!!! Perfect lunchtime meal...salad is great but the dressing is outta sight!!! Prices are fair...the Sangria is refreshing i could drank a whole pitcher by myself! Loll (pitcher is $15.00 by the way) imma try the dessert today...ill keep u posted!
(5)
Nroop B.

I'm a huge fan of empanadas. And that's why this is like heaven to me where I can select from more than 20 types of empanadas. Though I am not vegetarian, I would totally consider it as vegetarian-friendly place. Thoroughly enjoyed... Strongly recommended.
(4)
Yuan Q.

The combo is worthy to try.
(5)
Katie W.

My only regret, I should have ordered more. Hands down some of the best empanadas I have ever eaten. Delicious!
(5)
Alessandro G.

I love this place! Empanadas are the best in Houston. The atmosphere is nice, and the place is clean. At lunchtime line can get long (15 minutes wait just to place the order, plus 10-15 minutes to prepare the order).
(5)
Shervin J.

Thought I would give this place a second try. First time I thought it was fine. I went with the entire family. I was happy to see there is something for everyone. All of the empanadas can have ingredients excluded which is great since many of them had peppers too hot for the kids. Relaxed little place in Westchase deserves your patronage. Staff was quite friendly.
(4)
Eric M.

I don't normally Yelp places with so many useful and insightful reviews, but I eat here so often that I thought I'd share what I love about the place specifically. For starters, the staff is all very friendly and very welcoming. They make ordering a happy experience, like looking at puppies, and always have useful advice when you can't decide on what to eat. My Favorites: Churrasco Sandwich: Oh God So Delicious. I order this about 90% or times I eat at Marini's. It's not for everyone, but those of you who love a thin line of juicy, succulent, delicious fat on the edge of their steak, this sandwich is a must-eat. The sandwich comes with chimichurri already spread inside, so if you don't like it ask them not put it in. If you do like it, think twice before adding more, because I've had a couple of friends tell me that they regret making their sandwich too tangy. The 'wich comes with a side of fries, which I love, but you can never go wrong with their salad, which they top with a delicious honey vinaigrette that is quite unique in flavor. The Italian Pizza Empanada: That's not its real name, but you'll recognize it. I love all things pizza, so yeah, take it how you will. The Guava w/ cream cheese Empanada: Like an angel pooped a log of awesome in your mouth. The Apples Gabriella: I don't know who this Gabriella is, but I like her apples. Quick Hits: The Argentian beer, Quilmes, is worth trying. Mil Hojas, eat it. They cater, so Party Time could be Empanada Time.
(5)
Roy M.

This place has great variety, and everything you order will be of great quality. Because there are so many flavors, you will probably find that some are to your liking and others are not, but the quality still cannot be denied. The atmosphere is also very enjoyable, including some cool, homey, eclectic decor. And the family that runs the place are warm and wonderful people. We've already been to Marini's a couple of times, and will definitely be back!
(5)
Mimi C.

Had their daily special for two empanadas, one dessert, with a soup or salad and a drink for $10. Sounds like a lot, but not really since the goods are very small in potion. The empanadas were very good. Hot and flavorful. It does taste like a mini calzone. I didn't know there is the option of bake empanadas until I read another yelper's review just now. Next time I will try the bake ones out since bake is less fattening compare to deep fry for people watching their diet. Btw, give the yerba mate tea a try too. It is better for you than sodas.
(4)
Jed B.

Tomato basil bleu cheese, spinach, beef gaucho, poblana chicken mole, beef lentil soup flan. Didn't love flan. Rest was wonderful.
(5)
Mike W.

Delicious no matter what you get! Fillings were all tender and delicious. The crust tasted light yet held its contents well. Wait time went by quick, staff was friendly, place was clean.
(5)
Lorin H.

their sauces are amazing! the atmosphere is very family oriented and relaxing. definitely recommend going at least once!
(5)
Sarah S.

Absolutely delicious. We stop in a few times a year and are never disappointed. I could eat their four cheese and chocolate empanadas all day every day. My husband loves the hawaiian one and I go for the las pampas. Always a crowd pleaser. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is the cashiers always seem miserable. A smile would be nice!
(4)
Tien T.

after my recent discovery of empanadas (i lived a very deprived childhood), i cant get enough of this place. i usually stop by for lunch, ordering their daily combo #1 (2 savory empandas, a soup or salad, dessert, and a drink- all for about $10). the prices are great here, the mini empanadas are only $1 each. they always have really good soups available. the ONE thing i have to rave about - their chimichurri sauce. this sauce .. its like crack. its vinegary, herby, crack. it adds the right amount of tang to the empanadas and i just cant get enough. my usual order typically consists of the chicken poblana (awesome mole sauce) and the nacho macho (be careful of the jalepenos inside!) i try to stop by this place when im on lunch break because its closer. the ladies at the front are very funny and friendly and always up for a fun chat. its a family run place and the love shows in the food. definitely worth the trip, but i'll try to make it out to their katy location to show the love as well.
(5)
Kathryn W.

I've been a fan of Marini's since it was located in that hippie hut down on lower Westheimer back in the day... After being away from Houston for 20 years, I'm back in town and so psyched to see they're still around (albeit in a more conventional building). My favorites are still on the menu and the service is quicker than I remember. I don't live close by, but I'll make the extra effort to swing by for lunch if I'm within 10 miles. The Elvis Melbis makes my day, everytime.
(5)
April M.

Nothing makes me happier than a nacho macho empanada! There are a bunch of reasons I always have to eat here when I'm in the area: the staff is always friendly, the place is always clean, the lunch special is always filling (and easy on my wallet) and the food is always good. They care about their food and it shows. Since it is made to order it won't come out super fast but they got it down to a science and you won't wait as long as you would at other places.
(5)
Alan B.

First time here after reading other Yelp reviews. Had the Gaucho Beef which was excellent, but the real winner in my opinion are the Chicken Mole empanadas. Based on this experience I'd find it hard to believe anything here would be less than good. Lady taking my order was very helpful and friendly I'll be coming back soon!!
(4)
Jessica C.

I absolutely LOVE this place! Not only is the food super good, but the people who own and run this place are so friendly. They are always in a great mood and are helpful when it comes to picking out your empanadas from the long list. I always order two veggie empanadas and one dessert empanada. Three is usually a good sized meal. If you can't find a combination you like, you can always make up your own. Some of my favorites have included: -Avocado: mashed avocado, tomato, onion, bell peppers and garlic. This one is my favorite! -Humita: corn, cream sauce, onions, mozzarella and provolone. Like the center of a chicken pot pie with no meat. -Spinach: cooked spinach, lemon juice, garlic, mozzarella and provolone cheese. Very good with the green sauce. The dessert empanadas have all been delicious. My favorites (in order) are: -Ellie Belly: dulce de leche, cream cheese, coconut and walnuts -Chio Surprise: dulce de leche, Ghiradelli chocolate and banana The woman at the front is always offering samples. One time I was there she told my sister and I to try to Argentina green tea. Another time, she gave me a taste of chocovino, and when we went with a group, they brought out a whole box of Alfajores (marked at $10 normally). They said the cookies were to thank us for our business. The Alfajores are small handmade cookies with dulce de leche in the center and a light coconut dusting on the outside. You can tell they really value your business, and I love to support a place like that. This is a fun place to take people. It's worth the drive to outside of the loop.
(5)
Edward W.

My biggest fear in eating an empanada is having it to dry where the empanada sucks your inner mouth. Marini's empanadas are nice and moist inside. Soup wasn't all that but I was really impressed with the juicy humongous empanadas. They sell desert empanadas too. I got the combo plate and I was very pleased with both the beef and chocolate empanada. My combo plate came with a unique drink Yerba Mate herbal tea. It was different. Can't say I like it or not like it. Outside it looks like an ordinary patio cafe with a drive thru but the inside is so full of character. Inside is an adventure filled with pictures and memorabilia. I am definitely coming back to try the other flavors of empanadas.
(4)
Nicole S.

Went in there with a huge party of about eight, and everything was really great. I wasn't super hungry, but the options were very tasty so I ended up trying three different options: the Demichelli (aka lots of veg and cheese), pineapple, and dulce de leche empanadas. (as seen in my pics) The only one that I might not re-order only, because it was very rich is the dulce de leche, but I noticed it was paired with other options on the menu, so I would probably snag one of those. I also took home a bag of their homemade chips, and they are really awesome. I even picked up another bag when I recently saw them at the International Festival. Overall, one of the best places I have been to with empanadas so far. :)
(4)
Sydney G.

This place is wonderful! Went once with a coworker and then back a few times after that. I hate that they're closed on Sunday but their food is just that tasty!
(5)
Ricardo B.

Empanadas are juicy, tasty and the right size. Friendly staff and cozy place. We even left a note on the wall. Our favorite type of place for a family bite.
(5)
Ken R.

Yum. My wife had a baby and someone brought these over to the house.... SO good. We had all fruit/dessert Empanada's and they were awesome. The banana/strawberry/cream cheese was my favorite. They sinkers one was a bit too rich for my taste - but was also a hit with our house. I've since gone to their location for a few pick-up items and the service was friendly. Seems like a nice family-run place.
(5)
Deanna J.

The Nacho Macho Empanada....OMG! If you go here, try it. Please. You won't be disappointed. It's the perfect combination of spicy (because of the jalapenos) and savors (because of everything else). And the Apple Gabriella Empanada is another winner. Like another reviewer said, you can tell they care about their food. To me, there is definitely a down-home feel inside and outside. Lots of aloe vera plants and other plants are growing in pots everywhere. The way the place is decorated makes you feel very comfortable and inviting. There are TVs inside too, but I was so into every bite of deliciousness I was eating, that I don't even remember what was on at the time. You know something is good when you eat it at night, go to bed, and wake up thinking "I have to go back." That's how I feel after eating here.
(5)
Alison H.

Pretty tasty although I think it's hyped up a little much, would say three and a half stars. Got the lunch special and had the Las Pampas and a Dulce de Leche empanadas with fries. The Las pampas's filling seemed a little acidic, watery and lacking in meat. The dulce de leche was very tasty but the fries were kinda soggy/ not crisp. My partner in food crime got the eggplant parmigiana and said it tasted a bit like a hot pocket. I will definitely try this place again, but maybe with different savory choices.
(4)
Anita C.

So after trying many different Argentinian restaurants (in town and out of town) I can't say if the Marini's empanadas look and taste like the ones you would get in Argentina, but I do can say that their food is very tasty and cheap! I come here for lunch at least twice a month, they are FAST, CLEAN, and the staff is very friendly. I always ask for the lunch combo #1, just so I can get one of their delicious soups, two savory empanadas and a dessert empanada, oh and the drink all for like 11 bucks! So far, in Marini's I haven't tried one empanada that I din't like it, so feel free to order/try any of them, including the dessert ones.
(4)
Edwin Q.

I read all the other reviews regarding this place and thought they were a bit exaggerated. Well, they are not! The empanadas are amazing and the attention and service are superb! Try the sangria. You will not be disappointed! They really treat you like family here. Love it!
(5)
Gretchen P.

The thing that really grossed me out, no I'll start with the good. No, never mind, again, the thing that grossed me out was that they have sugar free MatÃ¨ in a can...in the refrigerator. Great that there's another sugar free canned bev in this world, boo that it's matÃ¨. MatÃ¨ should be hot. You put the loose tea in a small, handle-less mug, stick a metal straw with a strainer at the bottom in it, and pour hot water into the cup. Think loose herbal tea that you may be more familiar with, then reverse it. But canned? With preservatives? What is matÃ¨, you ask? It's the national drink of Argentina. It's actually called Yerba MatÃ¨. It's a legal herbal drug that contains caffeine. It both wakes you up AND relaxes you. Ironic, no? Moving on, I stopped by Marini's for a lunch with some fellow Yelpers. I drove thirty minutes out of my way, because well I like a good Empanada and two of my dear friends are leaving: Tony and Shazia. Waiting in line, I got a little nervous. Everyone seemed to be ordering more than I...and grabbing bags of cookies at the register. I had decided on three different ones: Hawaiian (ham, pineapple, mozzarella), spinach (spinach, mozzarella, provolone), and fig (fig, mozzarella, walnuts). None of the ingredients were fresh. I suppose at roughly $2.50 a pop, you can't expect sauteed fresh spinach, but as far as fat and caloric intake it seems a waste of a jog around Memorial. The Hawaiian was pretty bland. The spinach was good, but the frozen spinach was a bit too icky. The fig was better than average. Fig preserves mixed with chopped walnuts mixed with melted mozzarella? All that was missing was a nice glass of Riesling. Beyond empanadas, they also serve salads (second time in my life that I almost took Shazia's salad away from her), and sandwiches. I'm going back soon. It's a thirty minute drive during lunchtime, but there are a few more I need to try. The English, Chicken a la King (how Texan!), Viva Mexico, and apricot are all calling my name.
(4)
P P.

Another place I wish I made before I left town...but alas I ran out time and had too many restaurants and this one was just a bit far out of my way...but still fond memories. As far as I know this is still the place to go....but it has been a couple years.
(4)
Julia S.

After visiting this place several times, I finally found my favorite empanadas! Count me as a fan of the Beef Gaucho and Hot Tia Maria, both empanadas are very flavorful, no chimichurri sauce needed. The Hot Tia Maria has a slight kick to it, I love it! I've also had the English and Spinach empanadas once. Both were just ok, I probably wouldn't order it again. Another thing I wouldn't order? Their lentil soup. Now, I'm a sucker for lentil soups but this one was covered in so much salt! Sorry, not for me. I'll stick to the empanadas. One good thing about this place is you can customize your empanada with no problems. My concoction? Sweet potato with walnuts. Yum! My favorite dessert empanada there.
(4)
Roxy R.

Very good. Especially the banana with raisin empanada.
(4)
Kelly N.

Hmm..so I like dough...I like meat...and I like a good sauce. Who would have thunk of empanadas? I remember eating them once at Rustika Cafe but it wasn't memorable. Since I work around the area and felt like eating something new and cheap, thought I would give empanadas another shot. I was craving something bbq-ey, so I ordered the Tia Maria. They were like little pizza pockets full of filling. I thought it was pretty good but I think what really put it over the top was their sauce. Not sure what it's called but it looks like pesto sauce from Amazon Grill but it had a sour kick to it. Man, it was delicious! I kept dipping my Tia Maria in that thing! I think that alone bumped this review to 4 stars. Didn't try the sweets, but I intend of trying some in the near future. Prices were cheap, too. Ranged from $2.50-$3. And the menu online is just their partial menu. They have much more selection in store.
(4)
Jenny L.

It was ok. I'm argentinean so when it comes to empanadas, I'm a tough critic. My original review was only 3 stars because the first time I went, I wasn't blown away! I've eaten empanadas from countless restaurants and home made ones so I've had a wide variety of empanadas in my lifetime! I ordered the classic ones: meat, humita, spanish and ham & cheese. The first time I went they were deep fried and REALLY greasy.. I wasn't a fan, I had to take an alka-seltzer afterwards.... HOWEVER, I recently returned willing to give it a second chance, and MY GOD, BAKED empanadas, are TO DIE FOR!!!!!!!! Give it a shot, make sure you ask for baked empanadas!!!!
(5)
Victor C.

The best darned hot pockets I ever did eat.
(4)
Alice T.

Ever since I found this great empanada place in DC, I've been searching for one in Houston... and this one is definitely the one! This place is so homey and cute with its colors and posters all over. We got Tia Maria, chicken bbq, humita, fugazetta, sweet potato dessert, and blueberry with cream cheese dessert. All of the meal empanadas probably could have had more flavor, but they were still delicious. Now the sweet potato empanada... it was like eating sweet potatoes for thanksgiving... complete with marshmallows and everything. So rich and so good. Oh and the empanada dipping sauce.... it's this vinegar and basil green salsa concoction. Delicious! My only complaint was the semi-long 10+ minute wait for the food (despite the restaurant not being too busy) and the awkward flirting going on between the cashier and the guy in front of us. And don't forget the coupon on their website for a free dessert empanada or cup of soup.
(4)
Desiree W.

Great food, great service! I went this past Tuesday and I'm actually going back there tonight. We were greeted by the owner who walked us through the menu, gave us the history of both the family and the restaurant, and put a smile on our faces. The food is extremely cheap for the quality. It is all handmade from scratch but arrives to your table quickly. Our server who also is a Marini daughter made sure to educate us on the chimichuri sauce which is delicious. She was very friendly and actually brought us a free mini cupcake after we began talking about their daily desserts. I have no complaints!
(5)
Jay S.

Awesome empanadas of all variety. Must say their dessert empanadas are ridiculous good.
(5)
Schuyler W.

I absolutely love empanadas and this place is worth the drive to fill my fix. Don't fall for the trap and go to Marine's Empanadas- they are fake. The Original Marini's Empanada House is the real deal. Great menu with tons of savory and sweet choice and few traditional Argentinean dishes like skirt steak sandwiches. I have never had anything bad here. I miss it immensely!
(4)
Karen G.

I just discovered Marini's 2 weeks ago. If only they had a place inside the loop (or conveniently down the street from me) I would be there all the time. I'd also be very fat. For an average of $2.50/empanada (STEAL!) and with a massive selection of different variations of empanada fillings, it's hard to hate like this place (unless you have a gluten intolerance or just mad crazy). The little Argentinian restaurant is family owned and the atmosphere is very homey and inviting; coming here is like eating at the Marini's own dinner table. The daughter takes your order behind the counter, while the mom cooks and the dad delivers the food. Every step of the way, they interact with their customers with a smile. Plenty of vegetarian filling options and they can veganize your order as well. I highly recommend getting whole wheat (+ $.50) as it adds flavor, nutrition and has a slightly crunchier texture than the plain dough. The original Marini's was located in the Montrose area, but burned down in 1985. I HATE driving outside the loop so hopefully, maybe one day, they'll come back into town. We can probably do with less sushi joints and more South American food!
(5)
D. W.

Good God this place is amazing! The owner made us feel like family and welcomed us with open arms. The empanadas were made fresh when we ordered them using high-quality ingredients. Seriously, I never wanted to stop eating. They were sooooo gooood. Aaaand, there were so many options for me (vegetarian) and my bf (carnivore). It was hard to choose. We are definitely returning soon.
(5)
Stephanie C.

Was just here last night, and loved it! We had all empanadas for dinner! The macho nacho, chicken diablo (same as mamma Mia but without cheese) and tomato basil were so delish! 6 empanadas served two hungry college-aged individuals for about 21$. We also had desert afterwards. . The Elvis Melbis And raspberry were very much comfort food for us! The staff is awesome. Seems to be a family run place with that italian family vibe! We returned once and will return again!
(5)
Lauren J.

Update: It is their anniversary and they are giving out loyalty stamp cards - for every purchase of $5 or more you get a free dessert empanada. An awesome lunch spot just got awesomer.
(5)
dean d.

Made/fried fresh only when you order them, and with dozens of fillings from authentic/ethnic to more Amercian options, this was a good find. I enjoyed the Hot Tia Maria brisket, sweet potato (boring) and dulce de leches dessert (delicious) empanadas. The Empanada is thinner than others, although the edge is an edible thick wad of dough only good for grasping. BUT... they just can't touch Empa Mundo In Irving Texas: sorry Houston.
(3)
Kristin H.

I am more than happy to give this place a full five stars. I used to work right down the street from their Katy location. For two years, I passed up this delicious, dirt cheap eaterie and I want to kick myself in the friggin' teeth for it. Talk about options! My head was spinning. Empanadas make an amazing blank canvas to cater to any flavor palette, be it carnivore, vegetarian, or sweet tooth. I had the tradtional Argentinian "Beef Gaucho" and the "Apples Gabriella". The Beef Gaucho can only be described as pure win. $2.50 people! The Apples Gabriella was very unique. Granny smith apples, cream cheese and dulce de leche in an Empanada? Absolutely! Dulce de leche and cream cheese make an excellent combo. The only complaint that I have is the either put too much cheese or not enough dulce de leche in it. If you mention to the girls making your empanada that you have an extra sweet tooth and would like it on the sweeter side, they are more than happy to accomodate! The service is also impeccable. If you are confused, the staff is more than happy to make a few suggestions. The sweet woman taking my order even told me how in Italy, they drank club soda with lime and told me to help my self to some for free when I mentioned that all I wanted to drink was water. The enviornment was very friendly too. A gentleman walked in looking confused as it was his first time frequenting Marini's as well and one of the other customers stood up and help him choose something off the menu after finishing her own empanadas. That was something that actually made me giddy with joy to see. I know... I'm lame.
(5)
Lauren K.

Yum yum yum! This place has great flavor combinations, from authentic Latin flavors to American classics. I usually go for 2 savory empanadas and a sweet for dessert. I've never had one I didn't like, but my favorites include Texas BBQ, Viva Zapata, Chicken Florentine. The dessert ones are super decadent. You can't go wrong with dulce de leche or Ghirardelli chocolate. The staff is also super friendly, and the atmosphere is very relaxed.
(5)
Warren T.

Owners here are SUPER friendly and nice. Food is pretty good. A bazillion different hot sauces and other condiments to place on your empanadas. Would try them more if I lived closer.
(3)
Tracey L.

Pary All the Way (Dulce de leche, Ghiradelli chocolate, and cream cheese): OK. Would have been excellent minus the cream cheese. I mean, this is a dessert so if you are going to throw in some kind of cheese, shouldn't it at least be sweet?? Fig (Fig with mozzarella cheese and walnuts): Abandoned it when all I tasted was mozarella cheese. Chui Chui (Ghiradelli chocolate chips and peanut butter): Excellent! Banana w/ Everything (Diced bananas, mozzarella cheese, cinnamon-sugar, and raisins): Good--didn't really taste the mozzarella cheese, so that was positive! Snickers (Snickers â„¢, dulce de leche, and peanut butter): DELICIOUS! Should have just ordered 6 of these.... Evita Peron (Dulce de leche, sweet potato, and walnuts): Very tasty!! Loved every bite! Overall even though I only tried the dessert empanadas, with a few being very good, I won't go back. Too many calories for the sweets offered, too long of a drive and too expensive for the satisfaction offered.
(3)
Riley M.

Good was delicious, staff was very welcoming, an the atmosphere was great! You can tell the owners take pride in this business and want you to feel like part of a family. I can't eat fried food much anymore but I would go here even if meant spending the next 30 minutes in the restroom.
(5)
Catherine H.

Well this is a first for me, Im actually here at Marini's eating the chicken diablo while writing a review! I have heard so many great things about this place that I had to try it for myself... Im always by here since im a starbuck junkie and never came until now! Boy was i missing out! Can i just say that you just dont find Family Owned resturants too much with this great service! Upon entering, i was kinda nervous since there was so much to choose from but i was reassured by the young lady working there! I let her choose and she picked out the Favorites, the Gaucho and the Chicken Diablo (i hope i got these names right) The Owner, God bless his argentina heart is such a doll.. :) I def got a homey type of feel for this place, I love that its all about the family, They have pics every where of their family and that just warms my heart! I took the empanadas to go, so i could sit outside, THe owner(i have to get his name) brought out my plate and was so kind and got me napkins.. Reminds me of my grandpa.. So sweet! :) Now the food, I can def see why the chicken diablo is one of Houstons favorite, one bite and I am HookedED! IF you hold just a bit i can tell you about the gaucho...... **taking my first bite!** simply.... amazing!!! wow.. that bite was so good, i wanted it to last forver! Defitnely come here for any occasion, lunch dinner, to hang out.. ANYTHING to get a bite of these darn great empanadas!!
(4)
Gayathri I.

Maybe I went in with big expectations, but I was sort of disappointed. I do think I'll be giving it another short because some of the empanadas were delish. The honey, fig, cheese and nuts empanada was a-m-a-z-i-n-g! As was the bananas with everything emapanada. The savory ones were the major let downs. The only ones that were flavorful were the Spinach and Demichelli, the rest were really flat on the palate. Also, a lot of them were undercooked which made it even worse. I think the next time I'll just be sticking to the dessert empanadas.
(3)
Vonne T.

These are not my kind of empanadas. I like empanadas that have a flaky, almost pie like crust. These were definitely more bread like, thicker and chewier than a pie crust. It was almost like eating a mini calzone with various fillings. I got four different kinds and none of them were really memorable. I had two chicken kinds which were both shredded chicken with a tomato base and then the Beef "Gaucho" which was okay but nothing spectacular. The apple with dulce de leche was my favorite. The ordering part was fast but it took them 15-20 minutes to get the empanadas out so I'm sure they fry it fresh for every order but I wasn't expecting to wait that long for a to-go order. I still prefer empanadas from Mi Luna in Rice Village or Amazon Grill on Kirby. With all the other great empanada places in Houston, I doubt I'll be going back. The fries and sandwiches looked good though.
(3)
K C.

I am obsessed with this place. Everything is $2 or $3 and so so so good. The dessert is probably the best but I love the savory variety as well. The dessert empanadas have fruit, dulce de leche, cream cheese, oreos, etc, etc, I can't get enough. It is a family owned restaurant and very friendly and fast. It is clean and sells homemade candy and treats. They have a few TVs as well and free WiFi. I come here often and highly recommend it. I just wish their hours were longer and they were open on Sundays!!!!!
(5)
Thomas C.

So many empanadas to choose from. Definitely needs a few visits to try them all out. I came here because of Robb Walsh's list to check it out. I usually don't eat sweets, but the banana, ghiradelli chocolate chip and dulce de leche was pretty awesome.
(4)
Jonathan L.

Last week I had the great fortune of be introduced to this Houston gem, and I'm already anticipating my return! What is there not to say about this place?? Warm, witty, and helpful staff: check. Massive selection of flavors to satiate any empanada craving you might have: check. Delicious dessert empanadas: check, check, check. Another bit that caught my eye was the brew Yerba mate tea, I actually did not get a chance to try the tea since I was downing delicious Sangria, but the Yerba mate tea is on my "to try" list. My only complaint is that there is not an Austin location... I'll just have to suffice to eat here whenever I'm in Houston. Pro tips: 1) I had the Hot Tia Maria, Nacho Macho, and Las Pampas empanadas. All excellent, but the Las Pampas with avocado inside was to die for. My girlfriend had the Beef "Gaucho" which was also excellent. 2) Empanadas are filling! You might want to start with two... you can always order more. I got three savories and a dessert and was stuffed. 3) There is a Colombian empanadas place not too far away with a similar name, make sure you got to the place you want!
(5)
Didi R.

So many to try so I keep going back, been here about 4+ times. Chocolate ones, meat ones, veggie, such variety and good low prices and you get full. All were good that I tried. Support this place. Its a jewel. Comfy homey decor. Yes, I love to write food reviews. Houston is awesome place for food.
(4)
Lesley H.

When I came to the empanada house I had some high expectations. First off because my friend who is a health freak and doesn't eat anything slightly fatty raves about this place and will only cheat on his diet here and because the only other time I've had empanadas was when I was traveling in Argentina and Uruguay. I even learned how to make empanadas from a sweet little Argentine lady in her precious BA apartment. They get pretty fancy with their empanadas here. I've only had very traditional and simple empanadas. All the meat ones I ordered were off the specialty list. Pretty good but I think they may be too fancy for me. I got the nacho macho and las adelitas. They honestly tasted pretty similar but probably because they had very similar ingredients excpet one was chicken one was beef. The humita is a must if you like creamed corn. So delcious! Thats a repeater for sure. And the dessert ones..... omg so decadent! I got the apple gabriela.... apples, cream cheese, and dulce de leche... how can it not be good?!?! the boys i was with all go the elvis melbis. all i have to say was they had already had 5 empanadas and after they finished, they had to go back for a second elvis melbis. after our visit we vowed to have tried every empanada on the menu by the end of the year... which we all agreed would be met pretty easily.
(4)
Richard C.

I had never had Empanadas before, sure I have had food called empanadas. I beleive they were actually hot pockets in restraunts. These however were delicious. I highly recommend them.
(4)
Leila S.

This place ROCKS! I was recently introduced to Marini's by my eating partners in crime. The menu is a bit overwhelming, not in a bad way, so it took me a while to figure out what to order. Once you order your yummy morsels of joy, they make them to order right there behind the counter. Now I know empanadas are fried little pies, but these bad boys are not greasy at all. Almost makes you believe you're eating something isn't fried. The sisters who run this place are extremely friendly and funny! During our wait, they gave us samples of the chocolate liquor and the Argentinian green tea. Talk about awesome service - these ladies have it down ... In addition to my empanadas, i left with a box and samples of their mate tea and a huge smile on my face. Not having even tasted their treats, I left Marini's feeling all warm and fuzzy - like I had just visited some friends that had given me some food to take home, rather than picked up some goodies to take home. I just love places like that! Seriously makes you want to go back for more. I brought home my goodies and the punkin and I tried the guava and cheese, which was highly recommended by the middle sister (I think her name was Debbie). It had yummy bits of fruit with a kiss of cream cheese. The chocolate was tasty, but a bit on the rich side. Hubby thoroughly enjoyed the fig and nut and sweet potato, even though he swears up and down that he's not a dessert person. Partners in crime swear by the dulce de leche. I'm not a big caramel fan, but after all the rave reviews, I may have to just have one bite, maybe two. :) We'll definitely be back for more! Looking forward to trying the savory ones as well.
(5)
Vincenzo P.

One of my favorite restaurant in Houston. All the empanadas are delicious, included the desserts. Love also the mate tea. People are very friendly and kind.
(5)
Megan P.

I snuck over here one day while my boyfriend was still at school. The woman at the counter ignored me when I first walked in, so I browsed the cookie selection for a couple of minutes while waiting to place my order. Another woman came to the register and helped me choose my meal. I ended up getting the combo with a humita empanada, curly fries, and a dessert empanada stuffed with strawberries, bananas, and cream cheese (on her advice). Simply put, it was amazing. Messy, but amazing. The corn filling in my savory empanada was delicious and piping hot, and even though I'm a fairly neat eater I managed to slop it down the front of my shirt. Yikes. The curly fries, which I expected to be greasy and a waste of money based on the reviews, were delightful. Long, curly strips of fried potato, free of seasoning so that you can add your own. They were some of the best fries I've ever had. Finally, the dessert was perfect - creamy and cool from the cheese, warm and sweet from the berries. I didn't end up buying any of the cookies to take home, but I'll definitely be back to try them.
(5)
Andy S.

My wife and I would rather eat here over anywhere in the city. We love the food and the owners. Try the chuckwagon or Linda's chicken empenadas, the Marini's salad, and the chocolate or dolce de lecce desserts. Don't forget some jerba mate tea!
(5)
Polly R.

I think I could have been able to pay more attention to religion if God Almighty's heaven was described as something that resembles Marini's. This location hasn't been around very long, but Marini's empanadas have and I am sad I haven't reviewed them before. Their menu of empanadas can feel a slightly overwhelming at first, so much to choose from. It's unbelievable. They make empanadas I could have never dreamed existed. The ham and cheese are my favorite though, and I stick with them. Always have and possibly always will. The "Patty" dessert empanada is insanity fried. This thing has Ghirardeli chocolate, cream cheese, and dulce de leche... yes.. all in the same place, oozing together to create what may be the end of you. Along with the main thing we go there to eat, is other goodies. Pastries such as alfajores which I grew up with and will always want around. As long as Marini's stays up and running, I will happily come back for more.
(5)
Daniel H.

Get the chicken a la queen!, amazing dessert empanadas!! People are so helpful and friendly here.
(5)
Shazia C.

Unforgettable......that's what you are Unforgettable ....though near or faaaaaaaaar Like a song of love that clings to me How the thought of you does things to me Never before has someone been more.. Oh my Lord ! Forget the Empanadas ..forget the chimichurri..hell ..even forget the churrasco.. Just go for their Argentinian cookies...Alfajores because they truly are UNFORGETTABLE!!
(5)
Nathan C.

This place is the best in Houston for empanadas. It is a small family owned place and man does it show in a good way! They have very creative and tasty food. One or two of the types of empanadas are a bit of a miss but thats what the creative process is all about. Over all the food is awesome. I will definitely be back to try there other options. OOOH! and best part is, if you find a way to improve upon one of their recipes, and they like it, they will put it on the menu under your name! cant beat that!
(4)
Advait S.

So awesome. Cheap and delicious.
(5)
Vincent B.

My experience at Marine's Empanadas on Hilcroft had left me extremely unimpressed and, more importantly, craving exceptional empanadas. I can comfortably say that Marini's on Westheimer easily the best commercial empanadas I've ever had and is a strong competitor amongst the best homemade ones I've had. I grew up in a Mexican household, so I grew up thinking that all empanadas were sweet and baked. It was not till I made some Colombian friends that I discovered the fried, savory empanada. I love the fact that you can get a whole wheat crust if you want, and I usually do for the savory empanadas I usually get. I have yet to have a bad sample, but the Green Hulk and the Humita were particularly good. However, I feel like the real story is the desert empanadas. The Evita Peron (walnuts, dulce de leche, and sweet potato) is to die for....or kill for. The Elvis Melbis makes one question whether or not this is the best incarnation of the peanut butter and banana combination. I have yet to try the entire menu, but am slowly making my way through it. Like other reviewers, I find it a bit odd that they have yerba mate tea served cold instead of hot, but as I enjoy iced tea in almost any form, I don't really mind. But make sure you save a little extra room for their delicious alfajores (cookies). The staff has been extremely sweet and patient with me while I stand there, usually for a full five minutes trying to decide which three empanadas to try. (I can barely eat two, but usually manage to stuff the last one down anyways!)
(4)
Chris L.

Cooked fresh? Check. Dizzying array of filling options? Check. House made chimmichuri? Checkity, checkity, check. This place is awesome. Cheap, tasty, and filling. Run, don't walk, mofos and get your fried pie on.
(5)
Mark N. T.

I had never heard empanada and this restaurant.I just went there because i had a Houston Polyglot Cafe meeting.I checked a menu.What's the empanadas?The empanada's price ranges were $2-$4. I ran into the owner. I just following his instructions. I ordered a combo.It looks like some Chinese dumpling.I like my emparadas.This was my new favorite food.The restaurant was located on Westheimer and Belt 8.Good Location.Very quick service.The owner was super nice to me.He walked around the restaurant and talked to his guest.I asked him to take a picture.I also found his picture on the wall..He was eating empanadas on the picture.I tried to steal his empanadas.I couldn't, because the empanadas was on the picture.The name of the restaurant is too long for my Japanese tongue.I would call it " Empanada" Hope that many people visit the restaurant.Say the owner, " Hola, Como esta?senor, Muy bien, Gracious.Adios.These are the only Spanish I know.Jajaja.
(4)
Meredith V.

Ok...I really haven't had much experience with empanadas, but I know what I likey and me no likey Marini's. I was a little put off right as I walked through the door. It was way more "hole in the wall" than I imagined. After reviewing the menu of mostly inauthentic (IMHO) fillings for empanadas (eggplant parmesean or pizza empanada anyone?) I settled on one with refried beans, jalapenos and cheese and one with avocado and veggies. They probably weren't authentic choices either, but how the hell is this blonde supposed to figure it out with a gagillion empanada offerings in a walk up and order setting? Meh. Both were hotter than hell on the outside with warm to cold ingredients in the middle. The cheese in both wasn't melted consistently. I used loads of chimichurri and BOTH tabascos to add flavor. My friend ordered some fries. I think they should have been a lot crispier. In addition to the less than marginal food, the decor and music are beyond loud and annoying. Since I have a minor in art history, I'm gonna throw this out there...Marini needs to concentrate on preparing and serving good food before she creates anymore Jackson Pollock knock-offs in pastel shades and throws them up on her wall with a price tag of $300 and up. I don't know if it was the "art", the empanadas, or a combination of the two but my tummy just doesn't feel right.
(2)
Sara W.

I'm so happy I finally tried this place! I've only had empanadas on combo appetizers and things of that nature. This was my first time visiting a true empanada house. It was amazing. Tucked away in a quiet little corner of the Carillon shopping center, this place is easy to miss. The restaurant itself is pretty small, but the patios are fantastic and add lots of seating. The patios are covered with beautiful potted plants and there's a mix of shaded and sunny tables. Absolutely perfect for spending some time outside my beige, sunless office over a lunch break. I visited today with a small group, and only one of us had been to Marini's before. The rest of us were treated to a lesson in empanadas (in Spanish and English!) by the incredibly nice woman at the cash register. A couple combo options were available. #1 came with two meat empanadas, soup or salad, and the dessert empanada of the day (today was sweet potato) for $8.95. Combo #2 came with one meat empanada, and one dessert empanada plus a drink for $7.95. I'm not really into sweet potatoes, and I knew I wanted two meat empanadas, so I ordered a la cart. One beef gaucho, one chicken diavlo, and one dulche de leche - plus a drink. After tax, I spent $9.20. So, after you order, you get your drink and take your little number and grab a table. I don't think the empanadas took more than ten minutes to come out. My favorite (and my tablemates favorite) was the beef gaucho. I've never had anything like it, so it's hard for me to describe, but it was very flavorful. I couldn't taste the individual olives, egg, etc. but the combo of all those flavors and the spicy red sauce was fantastic. The chicken diavlo was also good, just not quite as flavorful. The dulche de leche was really, really tasty, but it was seriously like eating a puff pastry completely filled with caramel. Say it with me - RICH! I had to squeeze out a little of the caramel so I didn't pass out from sugar overload, but it was wonderful. I just now read about the Snicker's empanada. I didn't see it on the menu, but I wasn't looking for it specifically. I will definitely need one of those next time! Overall I was really pleased. I was afraid a lunch of only fried creations would be heavy and greasy, but the empanadas were not greasy at all. The crust was thick, and had a nice crunch to it, but no grease. We got there around 11:30, and it was pretty quiet, but things really picked up around 12. If there's a line, wait in it. It is so worth it!
(4)
Emily C.

This place has the best alfajores I have ever had!!!! As for the empanadas and other food, it's not bad. Nothing too impressive, just the standard grilled meat and etc. Their sangria is not strong but tastes pretty good. The server there, who apparently was part of the family, was not friendly at all. Anyway, altogether the place has some character.
(4)
Eva L.

Oh.Mah.Gah! The moment I walked in, my inner voice started singing Yummy Yummy Yummy, I's got love in my tummy...actually, I think I may have start singing out loud and I was definitely doing a little happy dance. My friend was rather worried I had lost my mind. Meat empanadas AND dessert empanadas? Well, slap me happy! First let me say that argentinian empanadas are completely different from central american ones (or at least the ones I grew up with in Panama). Central American empandas have a very light and flakey crust - try the ones at Churrascos to see what I'm talking about. The Argentian ones are more dense and have heavier ridges. In my humble opinion, if you combined the crust of the Central American style with the fillings of the argentinian style, you'd have perfection. Just saying.... I felt like a kid in a candy shop and luckily I had visitors with me who felt the same way. We loaded up on beef gaucho, chicken poblana, chicken diablo, dulce de leche, chio surprise, guava and cheese, and I'm pretty sure there was another one there with chocolate chips and bananas, but I think I went into sugar overload and zoned out for a moment.. The menu is deliciously extensive and we didn't even touch a third of it. I know, brings a tear to my eye too. Yes, they have Malbec wine, yerba mate, alfajores and other offerings from the home country but I say stick to the empanadas. You really can't go wrong with any of them - I like both the meat and dessert empanads equally and that's saying a lot fora dessert freak like me. Oh, and it's super cheap! What are you waiting for? Go already!
(4)
Kevin S.

I went into Marini's Empanada house excited as can be. I have been visiting their website for the last couple of years looking forward to the moment I could enjoy their products. It took me driving over an hour to make it to the location. Lucky for me I left relatively early because almost immediately after ordering the place got smacked with lunch rush customers. These people were all made up of business professionals who seemed to have decided long a go that Marini's makes a killer lunch. My order consisted of the Milanesa sandwich, and a dozen empanadas. The high level of courtesy shown to me included a drink while I waited. I went with the Argentine Tea known as yerba. The empanadas I ordered includes gaucho beef, the chuck wagon (brisket and mushroom), and ham and cheese. All of it was good, but I definitely enjoyed the milanesa sandwich! The Empanadas were very well put together and all was made to order. The place is so far away from where I live but the location, service, cleanliness, and great food choices will ensure my return.
(5)
Ana W.

I'm Argentinian, so when I say this place is mostly legit and I'm a fan, well then I mean it. It's mostly legit in the sense that the music playing in this tasty little restaurant is definitely NOT Argentinian, and they serve Yerba Mate in ice tea form (as opposed to heated, and sipped through a bombilla). But the empanadas are totally authentic, and my Argentinian parents were extremely impressed. I'm a vegetarian, so I ordered from the relatively extensive vegetarian menu (it's all relative when Argentinians are known for their carnivorous ways). I selected the humita (sweet corn, cheese and sauteed onions), spinach, and fugazetta (cheese and caramelized onions). The humita tasted just like it does in Buenos Aires, and it was my favorite of the trio. My parents went with the uber traditional beef empanadas, which come with ground beef, raisins, hard boiled egg, and olives. I miss that combination so much, I recently bought myself some soy beef to try and imitate it at home (I doubt it will be anywhere as good). Besides the fact that we had to drive out to the boonies, I mean Westchase, and the fact that Bachata was playing instead of something a little more Argentinian, I encourage you to check this gem out. And be careful because a couple of those empanadas, which are fried, will fill you up and you want to save room for alfajores and flan.
(4)
Cara S.

Would you believe before going here I had never had an empanada? My best friend said I simply had to check it out. We went there along with my husband for dinner last Friday. The place picked up and my gf said it was busier than she'd ever seen it. For dinner we all ordered the Combo #1. My girl ordered the soup, and the hubby and I asked for curly fries instead of soup. My friend did get her food about 10 minutes after we did, but she wasn't upset, since they were busy, and she said that was the first time anything like that happened. The owner apologized to all of us and said next time we come we could get a free beer. OK, we'll take it. For my two empanadas I ordered the Demichelli (avocado, tomato, onion, bell pepper, garlic, mozzarella, and mushroom) and the Viva Mexico (poblano peppers, onion, and cheese). I struck out with the Demichelli, but I really enjoyed the Viva Mexico. I don't blame the restaurant. I think it's more that I don't like the taste/texture of cooked avocados (so if you're like me you'll want to steer clear of this one and the Avocado one. My husband tried the Chuck Wagon (chopped brisket, tomato, mushrooms and red wine). He said it tasted weird, but my gf recommended it, so I think with this place it's to each his own. If you do not like something, try something else the next time. My friend said you do this until you find out what your favorites are. It's kind of like sushi in that way. The curly fries were great, but given that the empanadas were already fried, I'll probably go with soup or salad next time. Just something to think about. The dessert empanadas were yummy. Both my hubby and gf went with the Paddy All the Way (dulce de leche, Ghiradelli chocolate, and cream cheese). I had the Chio Surprise (banana, ghiradelli chocolate chips, and dulce de leche), but after trying the Paddy All the Way, I know what I'm ordering next time! The Verdict: Great food at reasonable prices. I will definitely visit again.
(4)
Kim N.

Friendly customer services, solid and huge selections of empanadas. I ordered tia maria, chicken diablo, and las pampas. Tia maria is by far my favorite, tad bit spicy but with the savory brisket and the sauce its so good. Chicken diablo had good amount of chicken cubes but it's too dry imo. Its a self-served kind of place, you order at the counter get a number and grab a seat. Placing my odrers was quick, the line move fast but it took about 20-25minutes to get my food. Next time I will avoid lunch rush hours. I will definitely come back and try other flavors and their sweet empanadas.
(4)
Rue S.

Sooo checked this place out after work as its next to Starbucks. I ordered 2 empanadas after taking in the massive menu. This was just incase I didn't like it and I was right. This was a total miss. The highly fried bubbling guts of bbq and Italian (which was "decent" as it was a mini pizza) just sat there. No bells. No whistles. Nothin. I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't what I got. I will stick to my Jamaican meat patties or patty pies like i am used to. But this was just...no. So uninspired. Good thing it was cheap :/
(2)
James D.

Came here for some dessert empanadas with my fiancÃ©. The empanadas were hit, fresh, and delicious and the service was very friendly. I got two one with peanut butter in them, and they were excellent. She got one with apple and one with chocolate, also both very good.
(4)
Lacey C.

The dessert empanadas are amazing. The place is cute and the atmosphere is really cool. The people are warm and friendly, really make you feel like they know you, even when you are a first time visitor as I was. We didn't eat anything bad!
(5)
Jusbin P.

Great food, staff, and ambience. So many choices for empanadas. I picked 3 and two were great, one was meh. Advice: don't get any with ground meat.
(4)
Victoria W.

I called in a to go order last night and was told it would take about 15 minutes to prepare. I thought there was no way that would be true so after 20 minutes I got in my car to drive over so that I wouldn't have to wait inside. Once I arrived I was so pleased that I got my 4 hot, fluffy empanadas right away, for less than $10, and was out the door in 5 minutes. I got the New Yorker, Viva Zapata, Dulce de Leche and Demecelli (didn't care for that one so much just because of personal taste, but the others were awesome!). I would absolutely come here again and I'm debating whether or not I want these for dinner tonight. I'm upset that I'm not in this area more often.
(5)
Laura S.

Pros: -variety of options -they have authentic Argentinian food but still have options that can be considered American -Taste fresh -dessert options are good -location -parking Cons: -restaurant is dated -soda fountain looked old and had NO gas once poured -isolated in the back of shopping center I would come back again.
(3)
Andy R.

Fantastic variety of flavors in their deep menu of empanadas; always cooked perfectly, and really good value. You can stuff yourself for under 10 bucks. The westheimer and Katy locations are both great, no falloff in quality at the Katy restaurant. Every time I come here, I curse myself for living so far from either location.
(5)
Arcadian B.

Awesome empanada place with a huge variety of different types from Hawaiian to New York and etc, the stuffings were so good and savory, can't wait to come back to this place A must try!!
(5)
Michael C.

Supper friendly staff and unique ethnic food. Don't be afraid to ask for help on your first visit. They have traditional empanadas and those designed for the American palate. I think some of the seasoning and combinations are an acquired taste. This is a good choice if you are looking for something new and the servings are small enough to try a few different tastes in one sitting.
(4)
J V.

I think I was too hyped up from all of the outstanding reviews for my own good. I didn't feel it lived up to those expectations, but none the less it was a good little meal. Had the following: Nacho Macho Tex Mex Green Hulk Four Cheese New Yorker Las Pampas Liked them all but the Green Hulk (had a vinegary taste I didn't care for). My favorites were the Nacho Macho, New Yorker and the Tex Mex. Both had good flavor.
(3)
Nazia H.

The empanadas are always great. The service was hit or miss the last time I went. It took me close to half an hour to get a small order, and the place was about half full. The people around me seemed to be getting wrong orders and having to send them back since the server didn't seem to understand which order went to which table even after being told several times. I'll still be back for the food though.
(4)
Mark O.

Day 2 of Houston Food trip. Second stop. Marini's is located in the back of some restaurant complex in west Houston. It looks like a sit down Argentinian restaurant from the outside but it is really a much more casual counter style diner setting. The menu is HUGE. I have never seen a place offer so many types of empanadas anywhere. It's just amazing. Even better is that they definitely make them on the spot since you can customize any of them with different ingredients and sizes (mini, regular or double). The service was quite friendly as well. Savory: Texan - 3/5 - Although a bit plain, I liked it. Their bbq sauce is pretty tasty. English - 2/5 - Boring and plain. Skip. Las Pampas - 4/5 - I didn't really enjoy it but I can see why everyone likes it. Lots of flavor and very savory. Tex Mex - 5/5 - Combines all the best. Cheesey, spicy, meaty. Get this Sweet: Pumpkin - 3/5 - Ok, but there are better dessert options. Guava - 4/5 - Didn't get to try this until they were cold later in the day, but they were still great. Probably amazing warm and fresh. Apple carnival - 5/5 - So good. Loved the walnuts mixed in with the dulce de leche and apple. Banana everything - 3/5 - Not as good as the Banana dulce, still decent. Banana dulce - 4/5 - Delicious. Elli's Belli - 3/5 - I was hoping these flavors would come together more. The coconut got lost in there. Overall, I really wish this place was in SF because I would go here all the time. I love empanadas and I definitely love having options. This place has both in spades. For empanadas, this is definitely "as good as it gets."
(5)
Chris O.

I've had Marini's Empanadas over 10 times in the last seven months for lunch. I'm never disappointed by the quality - at such a low price - of the empanadas. Their vegetarian options are excellent: I went with the Demichelli, New Yorker, Viva Mexico, and Humita. The Humita, which is just corn and cheese, is my favorite. I really enjoy the hot sauce (red and green) that Marini's makes as well. They actually stock ten different kinds of hot sauces, but the house red hot sauce is excellent. Marini's has excellent service and awesome people. One time, my to go order (for nine people) took a few extra minutes and the elderly woman working there gave me a box of cookies. The woman working the cash register also knows my name, always helps me with my annoying orders, and is a very cheerful person. I wish they kept more Perriers on hand, but otherwise, this place is a fantastic experience every time.
(5)
Chris S.

First off, I would give this place a 4.5 but I don't see that option. The options at this place can be overwhelming. I had the itilian, tex mex and banana empanadas. All were great, the only issue I had was the curly fires that came on the side were a little to greasy. Staff was very friendly and atmosphere was nice. Will definitely be back with friends.
(4)
Zain R.

This place is extremely cute. The decor is Latin American cafe to the t. This place has a much more homier feel than Argentina Cafe. Being that this place screams Argentina, I think it does a good job in reflecting the cafe culture. Their yerbamate is on point. I am not going to go into the details of which empanadas we got because we ordered a smorgasbord of them and they were all great. We went back to order more because we just loved all of them. The flan was amazing as well. The lady at the counter was super sweet. We got there a little after 5 and it was pretty empty. There were two students studying. The TV was a little too loud for my comfort and the lack of music was not something I was digging. The walls are covered with family photographs and news clippings about Argentina. It was very reflective of Argentinian pride. The Vamos vamos Argentina!
(4)
Jeremy T.

Two can dine here for around $20. I've been to many argentine restaurants trying out empanadas every since I dated a girl from Argentina years ago and Marini's is one of the better places. They have so many flavors to choose from (savory & sweet), and if you don't want empanadas, they also sell sandwiches and their soon to be famous french fries. On my recent visit, I ordered the Daily Special #1 and asked for beef gaucho and chicken poblano as my two savory empanadas. I never got the chicken and ended up with a 2nd brisket one instead, durn!! The soup that came with it was tomato basil and house dessert of the day was macaroon. Not a bad deal for $9.99 To add to my order, I also got the eggplant parmigiana, a 2nd beef gaucho and a Hot Tia Maria. This was a very filling meal and could have been split between 2 ppl. I love how the condiment / drink bar has several hot sauces and condiments to choose from and small bags and plastic containers to try and take to go. It would take you several visits to be able to sample every empanada they offer on the regular menu. Look for the sign on the bottom right that shows their daily new empanada flavors as well.
(4)
Brandon R.

This place is legit! Too many options to list!! Try a dessert empanada also! Family atmosphere and the empanadas are a real good size, you get your money's worth!
(5)
Melanie S.

So yummy! My boyfriend and I dined at Marini's on a Saturday around 5 pm. It was not very crowded (which was nice). We both ordered the #2 combo, which comes with one savory, one sweet, curly fries, and a drink. The sweet empanada is sprinkled with powdered sugar. Fun story: While we were both eating our savory empanadas I noticed mine didn't have refried beans in it, like I thought it would. My bf said his was a lot sweeter than he thought it would be. We decided to try each others'. Upon taking a bite of his "savory" empanada, I discovered that it was filled with dulce de leche (which was what I had ordered for my dessert empanada). At that point, we knew something was up! So, I split open my sweet empanada and it was the chocolate one he had ordered. He split open his "sweet" empanada and it was the savory one I had ordered (except covered in powdered sugar). Basically, they had given us the wrong meals and in the meal meant for me, they had covered the wrong empanada in powdered sugar. Very confusing, but we worked it out amongst ourselves and continued eating. They do have spicy ketchup! All in all, I loved Marini's and look forward to going back to try MORE EMPANADAS!!!
(4)
Minda W.

Mmmm, empanadas done right, I love it. I ordered the Chicken "Diablo" and the Grandpa Marini (mozzarella and cinnamon sugar). The empanada was a little doughy, but the filling of both was very well done! The chicken diablo had impressive flavors and a great texture (I've had several empanadas where it's just a mush of meat, but that's not what you get here!). It wasn't super spicy, but if somebody just gave me a big bowl of this filling, I could eat it up. The fresh chimichurri sauce prepared in house was excellent! The Grandpa was very tasty, but a little bit small to justify the $3.50 (iirc). I thought the entire empanada would be filled with mozz, but there was just a small layer smothered in cinnamon sugar. It tasted really good, but I think I'll stick to savory empanadas. All in all, I would definitely recommend and return!
(5)
Christopher M.

While my Wife was was in Houston for business again I decided to vist. She raved about this place so after a day trip to Austin we stopped here for a late dinner. She was wrong, it wasn't really good, it was EPIC. My wife ordered dimicelli(sp) which had avocado, mushrooms and mozzarella. I ordered 3, the Chicken Diablo , Tex-Mex and Texas BBQ. All come with a perfectly light and crispy empenada shell, not over done or saturated with oil. The Chicken Diablo was flavorful and wasn't really spicy like the name suggested. Texas BBQ had extremely tender brisket with a killer house BBQ sauce. The Tex-Mex has the same brisket and sauce but it also has pepper jack cheese and spicy peppers (pablanos I think). So damn good with quite a kick. Also they have two versions of Chimichuri sauce, normal and spicy. To this day I believed my Sister-in-law made the best Chimichuri on the planet.....no longer the case. So fresh and tons of flavor. After we finished I brought our plates up to the counter and told the guy at the counter they needed one in NY. He said he wished and told me he can make some raw for my wife to bring back with cooking instructions or if I wanted they would teach me make them. So cool. I know where I am coming for food next time I'm in town.
(5)
Caroline B.

Honestly, I don't want to give this place a good review so that it doesn't get overcrowded with people, but it is SO amazing and the people that work there are so great that I had to! I went today for only the second time and the owner came out and met us and thanked us for coming. He was so sweet and went out of his way to talk with one of my colleagues I came with who is a regular customer. As for the food... I made a point to try a bunch of different empanadas (even splitting and sharing with my colleagues) and everything is good. It's now on my list of regular lunch places around the office. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Cherry K.

This Argentinian place has a variety of empanadas to suit your taste. I was happy to see so many vegetarian options. We tried the Demichelli (creamy avocado, with vegies and shrooms), Humita (corn & cream sauce), eggplant parmigiana and viva mexico (poblano peppers, onions & cheese) among the savory ones and banana with dulce de leche on the dessert empanada list. My fav would be eggplant parmiagiana, followed by banana, demichelli, viva mexico and lastly humita. Will have to get back to try the other ones.
(4)
Lisa K.

First visit after reading reviews! We came the start of lunch rush 11:30am. I would recommend coming after 1:00pm if want to try it out. The place has several seatings, however, during a lunch rush would be hard to find a seat. It would help to have some space to form a line to put in order. Otherwise you have people blocking the aisles. Apparently, it has worked for the place thus far. ;) Food was Amazing!! We had a party of 6. We ordered the Chicken, beef, pizza with cheese. Everything was so good. I really liked the beef! Nice and hot! The desserts we had was the dulce leche, Apple, and flan. Dulce leche was yummy. Flan was kinda thick and it taste like it came out of a package. I love flan, but wasn't a fan of theirs. I would definitely go back after the lunch rush is over!
(5)
Jenny S.

I think this place might be slightly overhyped. It's a great concept and I see why people like this place though. I had the beef gaucho and chuckwagon. Both were good and made even better by the sauces they provide. Be sure to grab some! I would definitely recommend the beef gaucho to first-timers here. The empanadas here make a great on the go meal and for a great price. Next time, I'd like to give the sweet empanadas a try!
(4)
Miriam H.

The people and atmosphere is very family oriented. We ordered combos Nacho Macho( not much flavor)LaPampas(delicious), Texas Gaucho For dessert we had Kiti-Kiti, Apple Gabriella(the cheese tastes more like Sour Cream) and the Snicker: too much thick peanut butter it was overbearing. They mistakenly put powder sugar on the pizza empanadas. I probably won't visit again just because it's a little pricey for how small they are.
(3)
Sha P.

We met some friends for dinner at this place. Ordered a dozen empanadas and shared. Food came out quick. They have a little outside seating area and if you're lucky and it's not too hot you get to sit outside. Most of the empanadas, specially the ones with cheese, were good and flavorful. I'm not Latino and this was my first experience with empanadas, so I don't really have a point of reference to judge if they tasted how they're supposed to or they have been modified to American taste; as a tourist trying foreign food I thought the quality of food was good. They close at 9 on Thursdays. My husband went in to order desserts at 8:59 and was told they have already closed the kitchen. That was a bummer and I can't believe they sent him away. Overall, not a bad experience. I thought it was an inexpensive dinner, but don't expect fancy.
(4)
G M.

Went here based on the Yelp reviews and are we glad we did! The empanadas were absolutely fantastic! We tried about seven different ones and they were all great... Both the entree ones and the desserts! They are made fresh when you order and the fillings are delish. This is a really friendly Mom and Pop place. The service is friendly, effcient, and fast. What a great find. Will definitely become a regular!!!
(5)
Mikhail K.

Great food! Good atmosphere and wine. Don't be afraid, get the hippy, save room for desert. The guava is amazing.
(5)
Chelsea Y.

I've had Marini's bookmarked for foreverrr and I'm glad I finally got to try it today! From the pictures, I thought it would be in a run down, hole-in-the-wall kind of place, but it's actually located in a nice looking plaza. It's really hard to choose from the huge menu of different savory and sweet empanadas, but we finally decided to try the English, Chuckwagon, Las Pampas, Green Hulk, and Spinach. My favorites were the Las Pampas and Green Hulk ($3 each). They all had a decent amount of filling, but the empanada shell is way thicker and not as crispy as I expected. I do like that it doesn't feel super oily and heavy after you eat it though. The dessert empanadas were also really good! I loved the Apple Gabriella and the Elvis Melbis because I'm a sucker for all things cream cheese and peanut butter :P. I was scared they would be way too sweet with the dulce de leche, but they were just the right amount of sweetness. The Chio Surprise is also supposed to be pretty popular but I thought it was way too chocolatey (I didn't know that was even possible but I guess it is...). I wish I could come here more often to try the other fillings, but it's kind of far from inside the loop. I would come back again if it was convenient, but I probably wouldn't make a trip just for this.
(4)
Khanh H.

By far, my favorite place for empanadas. Hearty portions, a range of flavors, cheap prices...Marinis is a personal favorite and should be yours, too! As a friend once said, it's one of those places you have to bring your out of town friends to. I kind of dream about them for days after I eat there. Faves: The Hippie Argentino: salami, onions, raisins, tomato sauce The Hot Tia Maria: watch out! This one has a kick to it! Brisket, tomato sauce, serranos, and other veggies I can't think of at the moment. It's savory and delicious! THE BEST: the fig, walnut and cheese. Try it, you won't regret it! Tip: grab their online coupon for a free empanada or soup! It can be combined with their already cheap lunch combo. New to empanadas? That combo is more than enough food for one person.
(5)
Brendan C.

This restaurant makes great empanadas. The crust is crispy and delicious, and the fillings are unique and flavorful. I had the dulce de leche, chuckwagon, artichoke, nacho and bbq ones. Yes, I shared with a friend; I can't eat that much. The crust is consistent every time, and some of the fillings were a bit strange, but the dulce de leche and artichoke were my favorite. Tangy meaty empanada filling turned out tasting a bit off due to the crunch empanada clashing with tangy beef, but that's my fault for ordering in an attempt to try something ...exotic? Happy eating!
(4)
Mayra C.

Very delicious enpanadas! The staff are super friendly and even the owners greet you with a smile. Once you try this place, you will definitely want to come back.
(3)
John H.

Great meat pies and not greasy. Too many flavors makes it hard to choose. Sometimes there is a huge line, but it is worth it. Try going at non-peak times. Easily one of the best restaurants in Houston.
(5)
Marleigh T.

First off, this place is super cute on the inside. I'd honestly no idea it even existed, but I'm somewhat glad to finally try it out. Upon entering, we were informed that "she will be with you shortly", which was incredibly ambiguous and a little confusing. Nonetheless, it gave us time to peruse the extensive empanada menu. I decided on the daily combo which includes 2 savory empanadas (I ordered bbq chicken and the hot Tia Maria), a drink, the house dessert, and a soup or salad ( I got the soup). Mum ordered the Churrascos Sandwich. We waited for about 10 minutes before our food arrived. Moms fries were stale, so they immediately substituted them for fresh fries (and brought her a heart cookie after telling her they brought out the wrong fries... Right...). Her sandwich was pretty disappointing in fact (very chewy...chef brought out a steak knife so she could cut it) so I do not recommend that. My beef lentil soup was delightfully warm in temperature with nice flavor and no mushy lentils (yay!). The empanada crust was... flaky, but I'm uncertain when they were actually made. The hot Tia Maria was far better than the Bbqchicken, and deliciously spicy. The surprise dessert empanada was filled with raspberry and cream cheese, and was not too sweet which I enjoyed. Might return to try their specialty empanadas which seem fresher and more popular.
(3)
Cheryl V.

We stumbled on this place looking for someplace to eat, close to our hotel. I saw the word "empanada" but didn't want to believe that this place was exactly what I was hoping for. Too good to be true- an empanada house...no way!? IT WAS! It really was!! About a hundred different kinds to choose from. What's that popular phrase: I died and gone to heaven!? I sho did!! It was my husband + I. We ordered 3 savory + 1 sweet, EACH. Oh yes we did! Having never been there, the girl behind the counter was real sweet + patient with us. The atmosphere is very cute. Kinda like visiting your Aunt's house and getting fed some really down home-cooked food. I won't tell you what flavors we ordered, cuz I want you to have that element of surprise like I did! I will say however, that each one we ordered was DELICIOUS. If there's anything you get, please oh please order the GUAVA WITH CREAM CHEESE!!?! I'm still dreaming of mine. We stayed in Texas for 4 days, and Marini's was our first meal stop. I wanted to eat there for every meal til we left!! They don't ship to Cali yet, but you better believe I'm counting down the days until they do!!
(5)
Hadley H.

Absolute must try! Biggest empanada selection I've ever seen - meat, vegetable, sweet etc. The empanadas are cooked perfectly, not greasy or heavy. I tried two meat, one vegetable, and one sweet. Both meats were great, with good spice. I got the avocado, which was essentially guacamole in dough. The dessert - apple with dulce de leche, AMAZING! Chunks of real apple, cream cheese, and Argentinian caramel. The service was good, and my order came out very quick. I ended up taking one to go that I couldn't finish, and they happily provided me with to go materials. I will definitely be coming back whenever I'm in the Houston area for work again.
(4)
David G.

Found this place when I first moved to H town. This truly one of the closest I have come to Empanadas since my travels thru South America. The owner is very personable. Very warm environment, good variety of empanadas and fresh. I think they are planning cooking class in the near future which would be worth the adventure. I give this 5 stars for taste, welcoming and flava!!!
(5)
Kevin R.

This was fun! We ordered 5 different empanadas, all very tasty. I forgot which ones we ordered by the time they were ready and by the end they all tasted the same. I was disappointed that the closed while we wee eating so I could order dessert.
(4)
Melissa H.

I decided on combo 2 - this included 2 empanadas, a desert empanada, a side salad, and small drink. I chose the chicken diablo, chicken a la queen and apple. The salad had a unique dressing, almost medeterranian in flavor. Emanadas were filling. There was a long line and long wait for food (I got there around 12:15 and left about 12:50 just to pick up food). The food was mild, nothing out of this world but it was a decent lunch. $10 bill.
(4)
Steven C.

Went here today with my sister and the Empanadas were muy delicioso!! I had the #1 daily combo which is 2 savory empanadas of your choice, house dessert, soup or salad, and a small drink for $9.95. I chose the Chuckwagon and the Chicken Poblana. The Chuckwagon really sold me with the combination of chopped brisket, tomatoes, mushrooms, and red wine. The Chicken Poblana had diced chicken cooked in mole sauce. Mole sauce is a combination of several different chili peppers and CHOCOLATE (YUMM!), which settles the fiery flavors of the peppers. Both of the empanadas I had were very good. They also serve Yerba Mate here, which is an Argentinian green tea beverage! I have yet to try it but i plan to the next time I go to Marini's Empanada House! Overall I had a great casual lunch with my sister and the staff was very friendly! Can't wait to go back! Yay for Empanadas!
(5)
Lala C.

Wow, this place was hopping at 8pm on a Wednesday night. Located in a strip mall with lots of cuisine choices near my hotel. Could have walked but did not feel safe walking at night by myself. People sitting outside the front door, on the patio, inside all enjoying the vast selection of reasonably-priced empanadas. These are actually made to order and the woman taking my order at the counter was so helpful- thank you! I ordered the tuna with some added satueed poblano peppers - definitely a winner. Second choice was the spinach and cheese which had lots of spinach but not so much flavor or cheese. The house made chimichurri sauce was a welcome addition. Also ordered the larger house salad and finished about half it, enjoyable toppings. A couple of price options 2 empanadas, small salad, and drink only $10. Definitely a tasty fresh bargain meal. I had ordered this to go and my only recommendation is to enjoy the empanadas there. The crust was very soft and almost was soggy by the time I had stopped by the grocery store and made it back to my room.
(4)
Tecolote B.

So, Mexicans and Argentines have a natural rivalry. I wanted to hate this place so bad because, hey, they knocked us out of two consecutive World Cups. But if there's anything that's going to erase the memory of Maxi Rodriguez's last-second goal in 2006 or the no-calls in 2010, it's going to be Marini's Empanadas. For their price, for their atmosphere, and for the taste. People in the Westhcase district are incredibly lucky to have this place right around the corner, and when you compare it to the other establishments in the area, there's no question that Marini's comes out ahead. The fact that the owners are right there, giving their recommendations, taking your order, serving you the empanadas, just adds to the family environment that Marini's has cultivated for years. So, what should you get there? Take your pick. For me, personally, I always get three empanadas. Two of them are my regulars and the third is my "experimental" empanada, which I use to sample an empanada I haven't tried from the menu. My go-to choices are usually the spinach, a delicious blend of lime-soaked spinach and white cheese; and the four cheese empanada. The gaucho is really good, the brisket is really good, and I can't think of a single empanada that's been 'bad'. And they're cooked RIGHT THERE to perfection. Really, you're doing yourself a disservice if you haven't come here.
(5)
Alon S.

I'm embarrassed to say that until yesterday my only experience with empanadas was a Taco Hell. The empanadas here are fantastic. I had the Nacho Macho, the Texan, and a couple of others. As the sign at the register says, 3-4 make the perfect sized meal. They offer a large assortment of hot sauces also. It's very casual and comfortable with outside seating available. The people are friendly and helpful. Make sure you get the coupon on their site for a free dessert empanada. I was staying at a nearby hotel and couldn't download it so I had it on my phone. The cashier didn't ask to see it, the fact that I knew about the coupon was enough for her. Another great find thanks to Yelp.
(4)
Josue B.

Their empanadas are great I recommend the dulce de leche if you are in the mood for dessert.
(4)
Claire B.

Looking for a cheap, delicious, filling meal? Look no further than Marini's. It looks more like an old-school Italian restaurant on the interior, but they have a spacious and beautiful patio if you can stand the heat. The empanadas are all made and fried to order, so the fillings are super hot and the shells are nice and crunchy. The savory empanadas are good, but I was bummed to find mostly non-traditional flavors. I really missed the Chilean-style ones I used to get in DC. The dessert empanadas are a revelation. I loved the apple gabrielle, with the mix of apples, caramel, and cream cheese. It was like a mini pocket of cheesecake. I highly suggest stopping in here, either for a meal or a nice snack to tide you over. One more thing: they will deliver to the wine bar on the other side of the plaza. Awesome!
(4)
Jack S.

Awesome. My first empanada ever and it was great. Service was great. The atmosphere had that rusty spoon/hole in the wall feel to it that ive been looking for in Houston. Best part is its walking distance to my home :). Great food at great prices.
(5)
Cecily H.

They have just about any flavor combination your heart desires. I choose viva Mexico, eggplant parm, and a New Yorker, all were fantastic. The lady taking my order was very sweet, makes you feel as your a friend and not just another customer. She added one of their authentic flavored empanadas at no cost for me to try, since I was new to the empanada world. I believe it was called gapacho? It was definitely my favorite flavor. Fantastic empanadas and customer service!
(5)
Ritza A.

I love this place. I haven't had a single empanada that wasn't absolutely delicious. I usually get about 3 or 4 expands for one meal and I'm stuffed but oh so happy afterwards. It's a great place to meet up with friends and has a large patio to sit on for great sunny days. It can get pretty packed at lunch time, so try to get there early if possible.
(5)
Sarah V.

I love their empanadas. The crust is always flaky and crunchy. My favorite is the ham and cheese. I'm Very traditional on my empanadas coming from the Cuban South Florida. So while their meat one is good, it's not traditional. Same with the other empanadas. And they have many. I had their churrasco sandwich and it was ok- nothing special.
(4)
Brandon K.

I was blown away by how good everything was. The pastry texture is the bomb!!! Nothing is too salty or too greasy or too sweet. This is honestly the best restaurant I've eaten in so far this year. Will come back many times
(5)
Racquel D.

The food here is EXCELLENT. I've gotten so many empanadas that I can't name specific ones to recommend. Everything I've had here is just that good. If you're eating the big-sized empanadas, you only need two to get full. If you eat the mini ones, I don't know. You can probably stuff your face with about six. Or that's just me. Staff is very friendly. The place is so cute. There are news stories and writing all over the wall from fans of the restaurant. I cannot stress enough how much I recommend this place. Try it, and you will not be disappointed.
(5)
Ann C.

Empanadas are exactly what you need after weathering the terrible traffic around Westheimer. Each crispy, perfectly baked pastry runs from $2-$3 and is stuffed full of fresh savory or sweet filling. My favorites were the Las Pampas (ground beef, avocado, mozzarella, onions) and the spinach (the spinach tasted so fresh and garlicky, smothered with provolone). I wasn't a huge fan of the Chicken Diablo (chicken was a bit dry) or the Mama Tia (the flavoring was too acidic for my taste). My favorite dessert empanada was the Elli's Belli - dulce de leche with cream cheese filling and coconut sprinkles...it was divine. They have a frequent buyer stamp card that comes with a free dessert pastry every time you order! Free dessert, world!! If you order to-go, they arrange them nicely in a box with the names labeled on the top of the box so you know which one's which when you get home :)
(4)
Jeff G.

Marini's offers great empanadas, at a reasonable price, in a good atmosphere. We ventured to Marini's one evening, as my wife had a meeting on that side of town, and we needed a spot where I could meet her to grab the kids. I saw that the restaurant had 4.5 stars on Yelp, but had never heard of it, so we decided to give it a try. Marini's is tucked away in an expansive shopping center in Westchase, near a Sherlock's that I used to frequent on trivia nights in my younger days. Walking in, you are assailed by pictures, newspaper articles, and kitsch covering the walls, and a massive menu hanging above the ordering counter. To be honest, the menu is a bit overwhelming, and it took a second to figure out that we could just get combo meals for my wife, the kids, and me. I chose to get the savory/dessert combo with fries and my wife got the combo with salad. The Los Pampas was excellent, with the right balance of cheese and meat, and a wonderful soft, doughy crust. The Kiti-Kiti dessert empanada was amazing, with chocolate and peanut butter (my favorite) melting throughout. Actually, it was really rich for me, and I found myself covered in powdered sugar. Service was very friendly and prompt, given that they are hand-making every empanada after you order it. I found myself glancing at all of the graffiti on the walls, which contributes to the charm of the place. We were able to feed the whole family for under $30, which is an achievement on most nights. Overall, great food, and something that I have already recommended to others.
(5)
Xavier C.

Had a quick lunch with a friend. I really enjoy the empanadas here. They are very consistent with flavors and quality. It was my friend's first time having an empanada and he really liked it. The empanadas are always filled with a lot of meat and flavor. I normally go with the gaucho empanada, to keep it simple and classic. Always happy to come back.
(4)
Jennifer B.

I have been here several times and have been very satisfied with my experience every time. My husband who wasn't sure he'd like it is now a believer! My favorite is the Nacho Macho and the peach. The cream cheese in the sweet empanadas takes it over the top. I love that I'm greeted every time I walk in the door. Oh, and the sauces are a must try!
(5)
Xandra T.

Finally was able to check this place out after years of driving by and just saying I would. I ordered the hulk which is some shredded chicken and sautÃ©ed spinach and mushrooms. And the nacho macho which is just like the name describes - like a little plate of nachos in a little package. The nacho empanada was slightly spicy. Both were yummy and made fresh. It's a cute little family owned place tucked away in the shopping center. The walls are covered in handwritten messages from their customers and employees. So to sum up it's got some yummy empanadas and other items on the menu I'd like to try so I'll definitely be back again.
(4)
Robert C.

Great family run Argentina restaurant. Here eating delicious empanadas and watching the FIFA Argentina vs Iran game.
(3)
Vickie L.

My first time to an Argentina restaurant. It tastes good, better than expected! The owners' hospitality make you come back. It's a great place to hang out with friends while having these delicious Empanadas.
(5)
Steven V.

Came her for a late lunch. For those that have no idea what to order, get the mini empanadas and ask to mix up a 12 pack. They make them fresh!!! The spinach, Linda and beef were really good! I also love that the wine bottle only cost $20!!! We enjoyed our meal on its outside patio. Great friendly staff!
(5)
Ben M.

Haven't had a bad experience here and have been a handful of times. It's not like anything I've had before.
(4)
Raquel C.

YES! Hells yes! these tiny pockets of goodness are a delight. they have both sweet and savory empanadas. I ordered 3 and it was enough to satisfy my hunger, but not my sweet tooth. i ended up getting some of the chocolate covered cookies from the counter and the vanilla flan. this place fills up pretty quick, especially during soccer games. not too much seating but also it is cafe style seating. if the inside is full, try the patio. plenty of parking available. the owners are very nice people. TRY THE CHIMICHURI SAUCE!! i poured it on everything, its such a hot tease. lastly, i know they say not to use forks and knives when eating but those empanadas are pipping hot. i only opened them so that the inner heat can be released and i could devour them quicker without burning my mouth.
(4)
Sarah W.

So this place is a great value. You really can't beat the price and the staff was incredibly friendly. The concept was really fun. I was sort of disappointed though in my entree. I got the avocado empanada, it didn't quite taste fresh and something just seemed odd about the taste. But I literally cannot say enough though about the dessert. It was one of the best deserts I've had in the whole city. While I probably won't be back for dinner, I will definitely come here for desert and bring my friends.
(3)
Jessca S.

Absolutely delicious. They had so many options to choose from, it took me forever to order. And a Corona and lime to wash it down? Perfect!
(4)
Victor L.

They have a great selection of homemade Empanadas and sandwiches with daily soups! It's one of my favorite quick bites to eat in Houston. They pay a lot of homage to their home country Argentina with their great wine selection. The dessert list is simply divine with delicious twists to classics like the snickers. It's family owned and the owner is usually always here and such a great gentleman. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone new to Empanadas or anyone who feels homesick and wants a simple bite to remind them of home.
(5)
Pooj T.

Need authentic Argentinan food with friendly service? Look no more! This IS THE place. I come here so very often because their empanadas, regardless if its savory or sweet, it's definitely worth driving to.
(5)
Paulo B.

Everything is great, from service to flavor, this family owned place had the best tasting empanadas I've ever had, my favorite are the Spinach and the Texas BBQ. as dessert I'd recommend Chio.
(5)
Vito S.

Fantastic food, empanadas first and foremost. But even sandwiches. The sangria is hit or miss. I had it twice, but won't fault them for that. Second time was much better. But great prices on everything. Nice atmosphere, the woman at the cashier will recommend the right empanadas for you too! I'll be back again and again!
(5)
Dany A.

This place is great for empanadas food is good and can't go wrong with the selection. As well don't make the mistake of leaving without ordering one of the dessert empanadas too
(5)
Melissa D.

OMG. the poblano MOLE empanadas are so good! A friend ordered a ton for an event and they were a hit. The next day I put them in the microwave for a minute and then in a toaster oven to get them crunchy and they were still divine. This place is totally worth the drive to get your empanada fix!
(5)
Michael S.

Marini's is one of the few places I've been to lately where I was actually inspired by the owner's passion for food. They are a family owned restaurant where the family seems to remain active. Each time I go, I see the owner there. We spoke during my first visit about his homemade hot sauce and the delicious pesto-ish sauce. They are both very tasty, but the hot sauce is definitely my favorite. It has a sweeter taste and a quick burn that doesn't linger too long. Anyway, the Empanada's, the reason you are bothering to read the reviews at all! First off, the most delicious one I have had so far was the desert fig empanada. Just fig and cheese. That's it. But what makes it so delicious is the quality figs they use. Whole fig preserve, quite literally just like my grandma used to make. My 91 year old grandma who learned to preserve food during the Great Depression. Yeah, that's what I'm saying, Great Depression good. Now, my experience with the savory empanada's has been more mixed. Some are definitely better than others, and I typically stick with the more Mexican/Spanish/whatnot styled because that is what I preferred. But if you don't prefer that style, they offer Italian, and even British varieties. AKA the Shepard's pie - they haven't ventured in to the classic eel pie yet - and for good reason. While these were not my favorite, they were all very well made and worth a try. You may like them much more that I did.
(4)
Nicole W.

I didn't even know that there was a restaurant in the back. This place is definitely a gem. The ordering is fairly easy and the lady behind the counter is so nice. I got the Tia Maria and fig empanada. Both are sooooo good. The Tia Maria had a great "kick" in the spicy factor and the dessert is delicious. The place is fairly casual. Will be back to try something different.
(5)
Oluwatope F.

I am sitting in this restaurant right now and the service is wonderful! The wonderful Abuelita is cooking away creating heavenly deliciousness in the kitchen. We are from Chicago so we got a dozen to share with my family! We got Chicken diablo, mole, vegetarian, spinach, four cheese, apple, and banana to name a few. Perfection! We will come here every time we go to Houston :-) Oh and don't skip the cookies!!! The chocolate ones are so delicious and soft, like the best cookie candy bar mix. I bought the originals for my mom so I haven't tried those yet.
(5)
Allison E.

Awesome place, lots of attention to detail and cool history. Ask the what the recommend and they will guide you right. Warning. Empanadas are crazy hot when they come out.
(5)
thomas b.

Yummy and satisfying. The authentic Argentinean beef empanadas really hit the spot, 2 of them make a nice lunch or afternoon dinner. I love the dulce de leche cookies, but they are expensive.
(4)
Moe W.

This place has awesome decor. The selection of empanadas was very impressive and the 4 or 5 shared between my girlfriend and I were delicious.
(5)
H K.

Absolutely adore Marini's! The place is full of character and has a great menu! The service was lively and the food came out pretty fast. The layout is simple but what stand out are their fun pictures and messages all over the walls. The empanadas are spectacular! They looked so good, I ate them before I could take a picture... I had the Tex Mex which had spicy meat and the Hawaiian which had ham cheese and pineapple. For dessert I had the chocolate empanada which tasted powdery and sweet!
(5)
Noreen R.

I had my 1st experience here last week. I called on the phone because I needed some info on ordering a to go order. I must say, the customer service was extrodinary over the phone. When I went to pick up the food I ordered the person behind the counter was super nice and you could see they have repeats customers for a reason. The food was quiet delicious. Only thing that I can say is the price I was told was higher but the online price and in store menu over the counter reflected lower priced which when I mentioned this she gave the price online.
(4)
Damaris Q.

My whole family loved this place! Prices were awesome, hands down great place to take the family. Lots of seating inside and out, so good for groups. In fact, a graduation party walked in and were quickly served fresh empanadas and steak sandwiches (churrasco sandwich). We visited Saturday around 2-3 pm. Service could not have been better! Debbie, one of the owner's daughters amd the cashier, was so patient, friendly and knowledgeable about the menu and knew how to ask a few questions to recommend something you'd love. The owners, Mr. Marini and his wife were also available and super friendly. Mr. Marini greeted us at door, explained the menu, offered suggestions, joked with us, asked us how the food was, and lent a "Cheers" vibe to the place, like we were old friends. I'd have gone back just to visit him and his friendly family! But the food will definitely bring us back! Empanadas: (See my ratings (R: ) on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being best.) I ordered the Las Pampas (R: 10) and the Oinker with Mozzarella (per Debbie's personal recommendation) (R: 9). My husband ordered the Chicken A La King (R: 7) and the Italian Marcello (R: 5). For our daughter the 6 yr old, we got the Four Cheese (R: 8) and the Pizza (R: 7). Literally could not believe how good the las Pampas was. The dough shells were fried and crunchy but soft and pliable. My husband loved the crust, but, I was more into just the fillings. My total for two adult combos and one child combo, which included specialty empanadas, came to $29. We all ordered the combos, which came with drinks and soup or salad, and thin curly fries for the kids basket. The adult basket also came with a little alfajor cookie, but not the kid's basket (our only complaint, since the kid wanted her own dessert too). We all shared the cookies and they were great. Alfajores are shortbread cookies with anise seeds flavoring and powdered sugar coating. Very Argentinean, and these were very fresh and good. He had the salad with his combo, but I disnt taste it, he said nothing special, but good and fresh. He thought the dressing was very unique and pesto-ish. I had the soup, which was the vegetable creme for the day, and I loved it. It had mozzarella cheese sprinkled in and both my daughter and I couldn't get enough. It was creamy, yet light, fresh and buttery squash tasting with maybe potatoes. Get the soup. We didn't have any of the bigger desserts, but since it was our first time and I was eyeing the Sangria, Debbie offered me a complimentary glass and I shared it with the hubby. Wow! It was perfect! Sweet, but not syrupy, served with little diced apple pieces, it was smooth and not weak or watered down. We ordered a pitcher to go for $20 which is reusable and sturdy plastic, along with more empanadas for the road. Yay! Overall, we all had a great time and can't wait to go back. Btw, decent wine assortment. Not sure about beer.
(5)
Alea H.

These were good empanadas. The menu has a lot of delicious looking choices. They are not very big so order more than one. I didn't like the salad dressing at all. Although the empanadas were yummy, I wasn't extremely impressed. I was satisfied. I don't know if I'll be back, and I guess I don't understand the hype.
(3)
Brittney A.

So good! I loved the English and the Bananas empanadas. I will definitely be back to try others.
(5)
Jessie D.

Oh Marini, I'm in love! The hubby had a random craving for empanadas, and Marini's had the best reviews. Now I know why. First off, the service is great, super friendly, and fast. It's clearly a family place. There's pictures of the family everywhere, and one of them right behind the counter to greet you. I asked if the soup of the day (black bean tortilla) was vegetarian. I got a quick yes. Awesome! The soup was fantastic. It had black beans (of course), tortilla strips, a little cheese, and just the right amount of spice. For our empanadas I had the veggie (a little too much cheese and a bit greasy), spinach (perfection in an empanada), and the new "okie dokie artichokie" (very good if you're a fan of artichoke hearts). The hubby had linda chicken (he didn't care of the carrot in it, but other than that ok), tex mex (his favorite. It had brisket and cheese. Who doesn't love that?), and the nacho macho (ground beef, refried beans, onions, chese). We HAD to try dessert. The hubby had the apple which he loved. He said it was like apple pie in empanada form and not too sweet. He also had the Snickers. It has snickers, dulce de leche, and peanut butter. Just now I asked him to recap his feelings about the Snickers flavor. His immediate response, "Oooh, yummyummy!" I had the banana with dulce de leche for dessert. I'm a sucker for banana, and it was great. Warm, gooey, sweet, and just enough banana to make you forget about the calories. The best part? It's an easy drive from the office, so I will be back... and SOON.
(5)
Stanley C.

If this is what empanadas are then I love it, because it is the best thing I ate. I love how the environment is friendly and they really treat you like a family. The cashier which I think is the manager gave me a free dessert for being cute. I'm definitely going back to eat some more
(5)
Vin R.

I love me some empanadas and this place is fantastic. We happened to be staying at the nearby Marriott Westchase for a wedding and had a break between the wedding and receptions, so I talked my wife (who had never had an empanada) into crossing the parking lot for some empanada action. We were both glad we made the trip! We went for an assortment to explore some options--Texan Barbeque and Tex Mex for meat samples, a Vegetarian because it looked interesting and Kiti-Kiti because chocolate and peanut butter. Everything was awesome and my wife is now an empanada convert. As I live in Columbus, OH, I probably won't become a frequent customer of Marini's, but you can bet next time I'm in Houston, I'll definitely be back.
(5)
Adriana O.

Such a cute place and a great variety of empanadas! The owners are super sweet and always greet you when you arrive. I loved my tomato basil and blue cheese empanada! I also had a chicken hot Tia empanada (I believe that's what it was called) that was tasty as well. Authentic, homemade empanadas..can't go wrong. Service is very nice and accommodating as well.
(5)
Pete T.

This place is fair. When your coming in and expecting a real empanada it's lacking. I spent several months in Argentina and never did I have an empanada as running as these in fact never had a runny empanada. When I left this place the plate was saturated with empanada juice that squirted out. Flavor also was a little boring. When coming here expect to eat an empanada in the non traditional way, with a fork. I used more napkins for this meal than the entire time I was in Argentina. The nice part was a great little patio in the front to sit at and the Malbec, well when is Malbec not good!!!!
(3)
Traci R.

We got takeaway and live about 35 minutes away so they may have been much tastier if we would've eaten them there but we were recovering from a delicious meal from Rudi's Lechner's. The cashier - he was helpful, friendly, energetic and a major hottie. I wasn't a fan of the chocolate and only took a bite out of that one. The other dessert ones were fantabulous. I'm looking forward to a repeat.
(3)
Nelly N.

I'm still a huge fan of Marini's, but the last time I tried their Chicken a la Queen empanada the chicken was very dry and tasted odd... you know when chicken tastes overcooked and a bit too... "chicken-y"? It was gross. However, everything else I've had at marini's is great and I will give them the benefit of the doubt with my last visit. Their dessert empanadas are still fantastic (dulce de leche is my favorite) and they have a great selection of savory empanadas that I still have faith in (including the humita and the ground beef empanadas).
(3)
N K.

Who knew empandas could be a whole meal? I came here for lunch and while the location and restaurant interior were nice, I absolutely loved the food! I ordered 3 empanadas thinking I may still be hungry but they were filling and just right. I got the Fugazetta, Asparagus and Dulce de leche. The savory ones were great but the dulce de leche has forever been ingrained in my mind and my taste buds... the thought of it is making my mouth water again. I must have it now. Perhaps for lunch today... Anyways, priced at around $2-$4, the meal was inexpensive and amazing. They are made swiftly which made for the perfect lunch spot. Totes going back. TOTES.
(5)
Laani G.

I swear this is one of my new favorite places to go. The empanadas are cooked fresh and to perfection and the French fries are real and delicious! My favorite so far is the gaucho but I haven't tried them all so maybe I will find a new favorite! The dessert empanadas are absolutely to die for and it doesn't hurt that they are one of the few places I've been to in Houston that actually know what go customer service is. I will definitely come here regularly.
(5)
Megha A.

Ah Empanada! Your house held hostage to so many deliciously deep fried empanadas that were begging the customers to set them free. Vegetables, marinated meats, fruits, chocolates, cheese, what more can you think of deep frying with flour which inevitably tastes awesome-like. I mean, empanadas everywhere amigos! First off, this place is hidden inside a strip mall filled with other eateries that you might just overlook it if not for yelp reviews like these( *self-fi*). If you dont know what empanadas are, google it right this second. Highlight the word in this review and google it. And when you've had enough of those visual stimuli making your stomach go "I must have you NOW", drive over to westchase for this House of calories galore. The title has Original because, well, its originial (think authentic joe's pizza and joe's authentic pizza in NYC). You get in, you take one look at the menu right above your head or a paper menu with every form of protein serenaded with oil, you take your pick and walk over to the cash counter, only to realize they have house made sangria! Win and win. We ordered vegetable empanadas( avocado, eggplant parm, spinach and cheese and new york) along with curly french fries and they were holy freakin good. The avocado was a sincere suprise, with all the frying making it melty and just right amount of tang to make it taste like heaven. Eggplant was a little oozy but no complaints about the taste. We then ordered dulch-de-leche and apple empanadas for dessert and they were just the right amount of sweet and surprise to constitute as dessert. Who knew that you could have the same thing for meal AND dessert, if you chose your ingredients right? Argentians did, praise the lord.
(5)
Tony K.

Came here for dessert and man was it good. My only complaint was the snickers empanada had too much peanut butter, it overpowered the overall taste of a snickers, other than that I'll definitely be back for the salty selection
(4)
Harold T.

One of my favorite Houston restaurants. Love the family and the food! Great price and taste definitely worth a visit
(5)
A L.

They make the best empanadas!! They are fresh, have a crisp exterior, and a fluffy interior. My husband and I tried a few and below are what we though of them: Ham and Cheese: my favorite! Pizza: also amazing Tomato Basil: runny and not so great Chios: amazing Kiti Kiti: also great, but a little too thick Blueberry: my husband's favorite Banana Carillon: the strawberry tastes and looks like its from a can, but this empanada is still delicious) Pumpkin: I didn't like the taste and didn't finish it. Maybe if there was something sweet with it
(5)
Joy B.

Loved it! Coming in from out of town, this was suggested. Fed 3 people for $23. Empanadas were terrific. Had Las Pampas , spinach, and an apricot Empanada. Tasted heavenly, not oily at all, crust was soft and airy. Lady at the order counter so friendly and helpful.
(5)
Kathleen T.

I am a huge empenada lover, so naturally I stumbled in this restaurant. And I was not disappointed. The empenadas are cooked to perfection and served with a savory green dipping sauce( if you get chicken). One is good for a nice quick snack. The round bread with the cheese inside of it is always made fresh and delicious as well. My mouth is watering just thinking about it, I'm certainly trying to become a regular around here!
(4)
Hali T.

To commemorate my finally getting a Yelp Elite badge, I introduce one of my favoritest meals in the world, Marini's empanadas! I discovered the Katy location around 2+ years ago and have been addicted ever since, because how can anyone not love a mini pocket pie. It's mini and it's in a pocket. And it's pie. Three of the best things rolled into one. I frequent this place way more often than the Katy one now, although they are both equally delicious, this place is just way more fun to be at. Super cheesy spanish soap operas on TV during lunch? Count me in! Some of my favorites are of course the curly fries, which are very In-N-Out-esque (refer to my Katy location review) and infinitesimally long (I swear to having eaten a fry the length of half my body), the English, Chicken BBQ, Eggplant Parm, Tomato Basil, Dulce de Leche and honestly the list just goes on. I don't think I've tried everything on their menu yet, mostly because I'm stubborn and once I find something I like I stick to it, but I aspire to one day conquer the menu. Their meal combo is an incredible deal: two savory empanadas, a house dessert, daily soup or salad and a drink for like $11 bucks, and I always leave completely stuffed. I typically go for this combo whenever the soup sounds amazing, which is pretty much all of the time. I always hope a hungrier friend orders fries when I do get the combo, so I can mooch off of them without over-ordering for myself, like I always seem to do. Little me can only eat so much before I get morbidly obese :( It's a daily struggle. I saw Marini's at IFest awhile back and got the stamp card which gets you a free dessert empanada with a $5 purchase AND after 10 stamps you get a free meal! MIND EXPLOSION. I, unfortunately, lost my card not too long after I got it (I wanted to die, trust me), but am glad to hear from Lauren J's review that they might still be giving them out! These past few months of watching my friends use their stamp cards without me has taken it's toll on my food loving soul. I want to spend less while eating more too, guys! And lastly, to the kind hearted stranger that nominated me for Yelp Elite, you are now and forever my profile's 'Current Crush.' I know, I know. It's too fast, too soon, but I want the world to know! :D
(5)
Mabry S.

I absolutely love Marini's, just everything about it. The prices are good for what you get, there's a lot of variety to try new things, delicious classics you have to get every time, and just a quant family environment. The whole place isn't the tidiest, but all the pictures and writing on the walls from previous customers really helps you feel like you're at an experience, and the Marini's experience is top notch. Everything the restaurant has to offer is delicious, and though I definitely recommend the Chicken Diablo and Beef Gaucho Empanadas, I also highly recommend you trying for yourself and picking your own favorites. There's something for everybody, even those picky kids who refuse to eat anything new.
(5)
Cristina M.

Great empanadas and soups. Many options for all types of diets. Everything from meat empanadas to veggie empanadas to sweet empanadas. My favorite is the lunch special that includes a cup of their soup (chicken soup my fav). Great sauces to accomodate your empanadas!
(4)
Carmen Lourdes A.

A good place to try something different for lunch or maybe light dinner. Good variety plus is served directly to your table. It's typical Latino place and you will like it. Try the churrasco sandwich Yum yum Yum!!!
(4)
Deborah N.

Wow, what a cute hole in the wall place! I never knew you could make such tasty and different empanadas! This a great cheap date and lunch date! 2.50 empanadas, at the most 4.00! I had the ITALIAN empanada and it was so tasty!
(5)
Ha C.

*quick tip* Print out their coupon for free soup or dessert empanada My friend wanted to have dinner at Marinis. I was in shock how busy the place got on a Friday night. We had the #2 combo. Which is one empanada, one dessert, Curley fries, and drink for about $8 w/tax. We both had the Mia Tia. Nice spicy kick of brisket...however the portion is small...wish it was a little bigger! I got the dessert with dulce,cream cheese, and chocolate. That was not good..too much richness. I love their Curley fries!! My friend was addicted to their spicy ketchup. There was tea they offer..ugh beware it taste very herby...but looks refreshing! As for the dough, as I'm browsing thorough yelps photos, the consistency of the dough texture were all different, one looks all flat and pretty, the others, all air bubbles. The decor In there is too much, reminds me of joe s crab shack.
(3)
Christina V.

Love love love. I haven't had anything I didn't like here. The service is great, the place is clean & the people are friendly. Definitely try the sangria.
(5)
Adam J.

The place was nice! I enjoyed the atmosphere and the service was great too! I had three empanadas: the king a la king, las pampas and the dulce de leche. King a la king: it had spinach, mozzarella and chicken. It tasted pretty good the outside was nice and flaky and the inside was juicy. Las Pampas: was very juicy and it was my favorite out of the three. Dulce de leche: was bad, I would not recommend this one to anyone. I got a huge glob of cream cheese in half and the other half was the dulce de leche.
(3)
Sofy G.

What will you find here: Really good "Empanadas" BEST Alfajores in Town, you must trust me I'm a huge fan of Alfajores and I've tried them in many places :) Chimichurri, Just go and grab one bottle! It will change the taste of everything (in a good way) forget about salt and pepper. Interesting decoration ;)
(4)
Jamie M.

First things first, get their punch card. Not only do you get a free sweet empanada, you also get a free meal at the end (10 visits). And it's free! I stopped here with a coworker during lunch, and we definitely got there earlier than the rush. I was talking to the woman behind the counter, and when she asked if I wanted dessert, I said, "Oh, maybe later... We'll see because I might be too full." She promptly responded that when it's later there will be a line and I'll regret not getting it now. Then she gave me the card, and a free apple empanada (though she wouldn't tell me what kind she was giving me before I took a bite into it). I got two spicy empanadas -- though I can't remember their names, they were both pretty delicious. One was a spicy chicken empanada, and the other a spicy beef one. The beef was spicier, and after eating it I regretted getting two spicy ones. Who does that? Stupid people. Either way, I was very happy with my food. The dough was flaky and crisp. The guy who delivered our food said the lack of humidity -- which is rare in Houston, so I guess we picked a great day to come -- helped the dough get these lovely qualities. By the time we were on our apple empanadas, the line was out the door. If you don't eat a lot, two savory empanadas is perfect. If you like to eat more, get three. You'll definitely leave feeling very full, and very happy.
(5)
Roel A.

All the empanadas rock. I had the chicken Diablo (a must), Hot Tia, Beef Gaucho and Adelita's and I have to say I would get them all again. 3 empanadas is good enough per person, 4 if your starving! This has to be one of my favorite empanadas place!
(4)
Amber M.

I had been wanting to try The Original Marini's Empanada House, but its location outside the Loop always made me hesitate. Finally, much later after Friday rush hour, I made the trek....and boy, was it worth it. The menu of offerings is expansive. There are a variety of meat, vegetable and cheese, and dessert options with influences from all over the world. This would be a great spot for groups, as you're likely to find something for everyone (except for someone who is vegan or gluten-free), and you can try more of the menu! As a dessert-lover, I found the dessert empanadas to be outstanding. The Snickers empanada had a mini-sized Snickers bar, dulce de leche, and PB in it, and it came out melty and so so delicious.The Apple Gabriella was also good. Service is friendly and helpful, and parking is plentiful. If you go online to their website, they have a coupon for a free cup of soup or dessert empanada. Now you don't have a reason not to go!
(5)
Miguel T.

This place is delicious... casual and relaxed. Grab yourself some empanadas, some chimichurri sauce and a beer. You'll have a good time :)
(5)
Lard Belly E.

The empanadas were great and really easy on the wallet. One thing I didn't like was the TV was on the news. It's hard to digest the good food while there is death and destruction blaring overhead. NIce family run joint.
(4)
Daniel P.

First time I was here I ordered pizza and they incorrectly made the pizza. not the end of the world. I called them and they quickly wanted to make it right. I've just received the gift card from them. To me it's not the mistake that maters. Because they can't help they have humans working for them. For me it's more about what they do turn it around. These people not only have THE BEST pizza in Katy but they really do care. Thanks William!! By the way excellent beer selection you should be proud of it!!
(5)
Nicole V.

Wow. Probably the best restaurant made empanadas I've had. They seem to be made by hand and you have to wait a few minutes, they aren't super quick, but the wait is reasonable giving how good they are. I was alone for dinner and the atmosphere was perfect. The prices were great too. I'll be back!
(4)
Jennifer D.

I used to live in paradise aka Miami Beach. Beautiful sunsets, daily walks along the beach, bachata music, and a delicious neighborhood Argentinian bakery. When I took a bite into one of their empanadas, I regained a little bit of that Miami Beach magic. I say "a little bit" because most of the empanadas are Tex-Mex, so maybe I'm walking along Miami Beach in cowboy boots. The empanada crust is amazing! It is thick, bready with a slight outer crunch. The filling options seem endless! You are going to want to take minute to analyze the menu to figure out what the delicious crust is going to encase. So far, my favorite savory ones are: Beef "Gaucho" Texan BBQ: A must try if you love sweet BBQ sauce! Nacho Macho Tex Mex Las Pampas My favorite dessert one is the guava with cream cheese because this combination is the best I've ever had and absolutely screams Miami! Don't forget to stop by their website, and print out their coupon for a complimentary soup of the day or a regular dessert empanada! This coupon expires NEVER.
(4)
Amy T.

I love this place!!! I used to work around the corner and would eat here once a week. Everything I've had has been either good or great - you can't expect everyone to love everything they offer, but it's worth trying at least once...and again, and again! Their chimichurri sauce is worth buying to take home, and for Christmas presents...seriously. Favorites: Meat: Nacho Macho, Las Pampas, Chicken Diablo, the English. Veggie: Tomato Basil (every time), Humita Dessert: Evita Person, Elvis Melbis, Sweet Potato
(5)
Craig J.

When it comes to lunch spots, I give this place the highest possible ranking. First of all, the family that runs the place is adorable! The grandfather, grand mother, and mom are wonderful people that I have developed a relationship with over the years. All the food comes from family recipes and you can literally taste the love in every bite. Their empanadas are off the hook, but I keep going back to the same order....Grilled Chicken Sandwich and a large bowl of whatever soup they are serving. I literally don't even ask what the soup of the day is. Don't care. Why bother. Just order, eat, and STHU! :) They have a special Argentinian "green" tea that tastes great and supposedly has cleansing and magical powers. Whatevs, I love the stuff! If you haven't been, go! You are missing out...
(5)
Leslie T.

How good are these empanadas? If you go on Saturday don't blame me if you are disappointed - because you can't go back on Sunday. The location is closed on Sunday! You want to go back right away and have more!! This little strip mall area is dotted with chain and horrid restaurant options. Outback, Chili's, Subway and that super terrible Fornos of Italy. So to find this little oasis of yummy scrumptousness was such a treat! You walk in and there's a huge menu that if you let it will suck you into buying 6 or 7 of these little delicious pie things. Do it! Just order them and share with whoever came with you. Favs so far in order of "I will order this every time": Chicken a la Queen: Diced chicken, tomato, mushrooms, and white wine Green Hulk: SautÃ©ed spinach, chicken and mushrooms with special sauce Chio Surprise: Diced banana, Ghiradelli chocolate chips and dulce de leche English: Ground beef, peas, carrots, potatoes, spices, and Worcestershire sauce Beef "Gaucho": Ground beef, hard-boiled egg, olives, onions and spices All were good and we have soooo many more to try that looked good. The wonderful lady behind the counter said we could add or subtract items to our liking. Yeah! Service 5 stars - family owned and operated, order at the counter and they give you a number and bring you were food, cost 5 stars - $2.50 -$3 for each lovely little gem of a pie and the daily special of 2 empanadas, soup or salad, dessert and a small drink for about $10 seems perfect, parking available in the big parking lot, beer and wine (but get the sangria), fun stuff to look at on the walls, a little patio filled with plants if you want to enjoy the sun and a couple TVs that weren't on at the time we were there. We came in about 5 on a Saturday before heading out for the evening and by the time our first round of empanadas came there was a line of 8-12 at the counter. The secret is out. You can get some to take to a party...little "cocktail sized ones". And why wouldn't you get a dozen or two for your next Super Bowl or family gathering or whatever.
(5)
Ninad O.

Be it their dessert empanadas or the savoury ones, this small family owned restaurant is full of character and flavor. Their sangrias are really good too!
(5)
Kate W.

We already went back, this time for a dessert run. They were so friendly and taking a to-go order is a breeze. We got (in order of deliciousness): *Elvis Melbus - No brainer. So good. *Evita Peron - Loved this one, with sweet potato, walnuts and dulce de leche *Gabriella - Awesome! Apple, dulce de leche and cream cheese *Snickers - Also very good! Snickers, peanut butter and cream cheese *Carillon - Didn't wow us, but still OK. Strawberry, banana and cream cheese
(5)
Gina M.

Great concept, horrible execution. I am half Cuban and make legit empanadas so I was really disappointed at their lack of traditional flavors and fresh ingredients. The avocado empanada was made with pre-made over limed guacamole and the spinach empanadas were made with slimy defrosted frozen spinach. The chicken tortilla soup was all tortilla strips and almost no chicken. Maybe the pizza empanadas are good, but that's actually a calzone right? In conclusion, fresh ingredients and a proper Picadillo empanada on the menu would have made all the difference.
(1)
Janine B.

Cool little spot, kind of hidden if you are not from this area of town. We would have never found it without the help of Yelp. The salad I had was nice & very fresh, and the Sangria was really, really good. We ordered various types of Empanadas & enjoyed them all. Lots of choices & variety.
(4)
Rosemary L.

I LOVE this place. My family is from Argentina and this place tastes like home. Everything from the alfajores to the empanadas it's all so yummy!! Totally worth the drive from the woodlands!!!
(4)
Dan G.

I absolutely love this place. For one, the empanadas are amazing. In addition, they serve yerba mate. I love the yerba, especially with a little syrup. The best part about the empanadas is the selection. There is an empanada for everyone. I do have to caution you that they are mighty hot when they come out. So, please contain yourself for a couple minutes to prevent burns. I always end up ordering about 4 or 5 empanadas. The Beef Gaucho is a go to empanada. I feel that this one best epitomizes Argentinian cusine. The Texas BBQ empanda is like a pulled beef sandwich. Slathered with bbq sauce which goes well with the empanda shell. The Chuck Wagon, Las Pampas, and English are among my favorites as well. But honestly, explore the menu. Pretty much everything tastes awesome when wrapped in dough and fried such as these empanadas. Also, the fries are worth the splurge. They're super curly and fried just right.
(5)
Tee W.

Oh em gee! This place is delish! I know, you're probably thinking "what's the big deal...it's just empanadas. How great can it be". Do not be fooled. You must try this place! The chimichurri (?) sauce makes the empanada taste even better. We ordered three each (two meat ones plus a dessert) but I was really wishing we ordered more. I was tempted to get back in line but the hubby gave me the disapproving-do-you-really-need-more look. Lol! Chio Surprise is heaven in your mouth! Bananas, chocolate & cream cheese?! Yes, give me two to eat now & two to go! MMmmm...mouth is watering just thinking bout it. The family member working the counter was friendly & helpful when I asked for recommendations. He told me grandma still bakes all the desserts out front. Impressive. Will definitely try them next time because there WILL be a next time! I told the husband I would find an excuse to go out that way (it's a bit of a drive for us) just to have these scrumptious empanadas again & again & again.
(5)
Lea V.

Family owned, freshly fried (with the option of baked) Argentine empanadas made with delicious and fresh ingredients! Think of it as a hand pie filled with meats, cheese, vegetables, endless options! In the mood for something sweet? They also fill them with sweets. Recommend - gabriela (fresh green apple, dulce de leche, & cream cheese). Salads, sandwiches, soups are available too. Homemade salad dressing and homemade soup of the day, every day. Can get busy at lunch, but they efficient.
(5)
Igno R.

I don't understand the hype. I never had an empanada before but wanted to try it out. I heard about this place and checked it out. This place was hard to find because it doesn't face the street. You order at the counter, yet the lady seemed to rush me since there were people behind me. If you're going to do the walk-up and order, don't rush me. Especially if I've never been here before. So I ordered a couple empanadas to see if they were any good. Not impressed. It was like this tiny folded piece of fried dough. It tasted bland and boring. Not much cheese. The dough or oil they used to fry it in just made it taste like junk. It made me think of someone who had never cooked before and tried to make one of these. I can't really compare empanadas to other places, but this place seems like one of those places to trap yuppies who think they are eating culturally rich food. Even the lady tried to act all ethnic greeting me with, "Hello my friend" when she could obviously speak good English. I thought that was kind of funny. Save your money. Maybe I ordered the wrong thing but I thought this place was known for empanadas?
(2)
Yin Q.

I went by coincidence. The environment was authentic, the food was great tasting if a bit plain. The empanadas were fried, I was hoping for baked. We also had fried plantains which were soft and sweet, pretty good. There were also lots of options for vegetarians that eat cheese. Not sure if I would crave the food though.
(4)
Brian D.

This place is great. Come every time I'm in town on this side of Houston. Great place for family. Lots of choices.
(4)
Monica G.

Fresh, made to order, delicious empanadas. Every time without fail. They make you feel at home. Don't forget to try a desert one too.
(5)
Fermin V.

I love this place i come here every saturday. Lots of seating inside and out. We like to order the dulce de lenche empanadas and a churrasco sandwich with yerba mate tea.
(5)
Jennifer T.

Marini's came to the rescue as I needed a quick and easy meal for a girl's night I was hosting. They make all their orders fresh and it took only 15-20 minutes for an assortment of 20 empanadas. I ordered their best sellers, chicken diablo, beef gaucho, and spinach, and they were all well received. I am looking forward to trying more of the flavors, but I could eat the chicken diablo every day. The staff was very friendly and the service was great!
(4)
Anthony C.

Some of the best Empanada's I've ever had'; however, I have nothing else to compare them to so I will update after I've eaten others. The restaurant is very homey and cluttered with old family relics. Basically the best kind of restaurant... a hole in the wall! The business is family run and the staff is awesome. Co-workers and I went during lunch this summer. Only to have mother nature rain a storm on us. Mr. Marini himself came running out of the kitchen with paper towels for us to use to dry our selves. Great service. They also offered to allow us to borrow umbrellas. Try the English - Ground beef, peas, carrots, potatoes, spices, and worcestershire sauce and the Chicken Al A Queen - Diced chicken, tomatoes, mushroom, and white wine.
(4)
Kirti S.

Feeling happy!! Lets celebrate at The Original Marini's Empanadas House. Feeling sad!! Lets go to The Original Marini's Empanadas House to be happy. Feeling hungry!! Lets go and grab something delicious at The Original Marini's Empanadas House. I have written their name so many times :) shows how crazy I am about their empanadas . The first thing that catches your attention are the walls full of the messages. They give you the pen to write down your sweet message for your memory. So lovely ! isn't that! Yes, their empanadas are super delicious. As I am a vegetarian, I always get very little options to eat anywhere I go but here I have many options to choose. Me and my hubby have sweet tooth. We just love the Chocolate Empanada.. that's yummy!!!!! Ambience is so good that you can sit and eat . Watch their beautiful paintings around. Not much noise but seems as everyone spend a happy time there. Their staff is very cool and friendly. :) A must go place in Houston!
(5)
Gus V.

This place was greatly promoted for great tasting food so I decided to try it. Unfortunately, it was not what I expected. The food was prepared promptly but or wad so bland and had no taste whatsoever. I thought it may have been me, but my friend said the same thing. I recommend they add some taste or seasoning to what could be good empanadas.
(2)
William R.

I was staying in the Hilton across the street from this restaurant--in town to visit my girlfriend. We went in my first night into town and both the food and service were excellent! My girlfriend had already had dinner, but still enjoyed an avocado empanada as well as a beef one. I had a spinach one which was excellent as well as one with avocado, tomato, mushroom, and cheese that was good, but that I probably wouldn't have again. I was curious about their deserts and loved the one with sweet potatoes! I went back for breakfast the next morning and they were having problems with taking credit cards. They still took my offer and when I couldn't find anything to drink that I liked there, suggested I could grab something from the Starbucks next door. I came back and they served me--and insisted that I eat while things were still hot--and I still hadn't paid. Excellent service and excellent food! For breakfast I enjoyed two savory empanadas--the vegetarian, as well as the tomato basil which were excellent. I also had a dessert one--with apples, cinnamon, and walnut. It was perfect for breakfast!!!
(5)
Vicky J.

I have recently been frequenting this place for lunch, and the first time I went, I was not too impressed, but as I keep going there, the food seems to get better each time...strange, huh?? I think this is a place that has to grow on you. As far as the menu goes, they have an enormous selection of empanadas that you can choose from. Since I go for lunch, there is like a lunch combo where you can choose 1 savory empanada, 1 sweet empanada, curly fries, and a drink all for $7.95. They allow you to substitute the sweet empanada for a savory with an up charge of $1....not too bad of a deal if you aren't into sweets. So far I have tried the Chuckwagon (has brisket, tomatoes, mushrooms) and Texan barbeque (brisket in bbq sauce) for the savory empanadas, and the chocolate empanada for dessert. My favorite is the Chuckwagon so far...but the best part of the meal has to be their curly fries! Overall, I think his place is good for lunch, so if you work around the Westheimer/Beltway 8 area, check this place out!
(4)
Anthony H.

I have been going to Marini's regularly for months now so how on God's Green did i never see the Snickers Empanada on the menu. If there were ever such a thing as fried sex in a pastry then this would be it. Go get yourself a mouthful and sod the bloody calories.
(5)
Mike Z.

i was really amazed to find out that we had a true empanada house in houston. i never knew it existed, boyeeee! so i've had the english, tia maria, chicken diablo, gaucho, dulce de leche, and sweet potato. sounds like a lot? don't judge me. my favorite from them all still has to be the traditional english empanada. i did like the brisket one as well, but i might want to try the bbq one next time. not to mention that i also heard the italian one is good as well. so all in all, you really can't go wrong with any type of empanada. it just matters on what kind of a mood you're in. not to mention the dessert ones - they have some on their online menu but doesn't even cover what you see is there until you see the menu in the store. i'll have to go back and try out the ridiculous Snickers empanada. yayuh! it's a cool looking place to chill as it's not too crowded, or at least when i went. i'd definitely hit it back up when the moment strikes.
(4)
Joyce T.

Love this place!! OH EM GEE!! The ladies in the front are super friendly & very helpful! Don't forget to try their Argentine green tea... it's supah good & I heard a rumor that it's a fountain of youth... it supposed to make you looking younger... =P I usually get 2 meat empanadas & 1 dessert empanada for my meal... My faves are: beef gaucho, tia maria, chicken diablo & hawaiian chu chu... & the dessert empanada I always get them to make me a special one which consists of banana, dulce de leche, chocolate, and cream cheese.... OH YESSSS!!!! that's a win for me! Love their outdoor seating area, although it's a bit small.... Another definite MUST-TRY if you never been here!
(5)
claudia e.

5 stars for a true Argentinean experience. The place to go for a casual lunch, dinner, or catering. Excellent quality, service, and atmosphere. The set up is very tango-like, family run, memories are pasted all over the wall -reminiscent of the long and diverse trajectory of the owner, Marcelo Marini. He himself will seat at the table with you and have a little chat while you wait for your food to be served, and if you don't mind, tell you about his many awards in journalism back in Mendoza (Arg.) and his later years as news editor of Telemundo. When the food arrives, well, it will take you to the South in a split of a second. The real thing, with a wide variety of empanadas, and many other items typical items like mate, wines, alfajores de maizena, home-made dulce de leche, dulce de batatas y membrillo, mates y bombillas to buy, yerba, palmeritas, etc, etc. If you try empanadas, at least have one"gaucho" -juicy and full of tender and flavorful meat just like the ones down there. A tip: these are so juicy they will drip, that's why they call them empanadas de patas abiertas.
(5)
David S.

This place is AWESOME. Out of town from Alabama and read the reviews on yelp. I might actually go back this week. I got the #1 combo which includes 2 empanada's, soup or sald, dessert empanada, and a drink for like $10. I got the Beef Gaucho and the Tex Mex empanada. The gaucho is the original and you have to try it. The Tex Mex was really good and i actually liked it more than the Gaucho. Got a Cream of Sweet Potato soup which was pretty good. (was too much and couldnt eat all of it) As for the dessert empanada, i ordered the Apple Gabriella which was fantastic. As a to go item, i got a Snickers Empanada. If i known how good the Snickers one was, i would've ordered 3 more as it was AMAZING. This is a must stop place to go and has a really good price. I will recommend to anyone i know coming to Houston.
(5)
Jeff G.

I went to the Empanada House twice during a three-day conference at the hotel next door. (Yes, empanadas are addictive... I had to go back again.) The lunch special with two meat empanadas, a salad and a dessert empanada was just perfect. I also tried the matÃ© (South American tea) and I actually managed to stay awake during the afternoon conference sessions! Mr. Marini was right there to greet me the first time (at least he looked just like the man in the large painting on the wall who I assume is the namesake of the place.) What friendly service!
(4)
Rick V.

Okay first of all, we walk in and look at menus as we stand in line to order, an older gentleman greets us with a big smile and we know this a family-run place. As we order, I noticed the man actually FOLDING and pinching the empanadas in the open kitchen. As we're eating, he's walking around chatting with customers at their tables and people he actually knew. And as we wait on our to-go orders (because we had to have some more empanadas), we see a picture of him when he was younger opening the restuarant. He was the owner and you can tell he loved what he did and it showed in the food!!! My favorite is the tasty tasty "chuck wagon" and the banana empanadas.
(5)
Esther P.

This was our second time enjoying this restaurant. Thanks to yelp we discovered it the first time. We don't live in Houston, but this place has become a must for us. Our family loves it there. The empanadas are phenomenal; both the sweet and savory are delicious!!!! Lots of variety which makes it convenient for every taste. We had a group of 6 and the empanadas came out pretty quick as well...good for a hungry crowd (in this case teenagers). Also the ambiance is cozy and the people are sooooooo very friendly. The owners are typically there and they are so gracious and just genuinely nice people. You must try this place it is well worth all the hype!!!! (Patricia is so funny and a joy to talk to). P.S. My favorite so far is Las Pampas empanada (Ground beef, onions, spices, avocado and mozzarella cheese). Also the chocolate empanada is amazing!!!
(5)
Christopher D.

I had heard of this place so I decided to try it out thursday after work. Its pretty hard to see as it is on the backside of the shopping center and is not facing Westheimer. Place looked like a mom and pop store with pictures of the owner and his family on the walls. People working were friendly. I ordered 4 empanadas: 1 texan barbecue, 2 italian marcellos, and 1 ham and cheese. When I got them, they were hot and ready to eat! The bread was cooked perfectly, as it was not hard or soft. The best of the 3 were the italian Marcellos. The ham and cheese was good too. The texan barbecue wasn't really my thing. The sauce with the meat was kinda strong. Overall good place to eat.
(4)
Edgar V.

Yum! Great place for a satisfying meal. Who says that Yelp reviews don't have an impact? After reading Anthony H's and Emerson F's reviews, I stopped in here earlier today for lunch on Veteran's Day. Had the day off and moseyed on over after hitting the mall. Cheerfully decorated in warm colors, the place was humming with a good amount of people. Ordered 3 empanadas for lunch (entree at $2.50 each, dessert for $2.35). Beef Gaucho had shredded meat, hard boiled egg, and red wine. Was okay. Demicheli was a vegetarian one: avocado, mushrooms, cheese, and tomato chunks. Awesome! Dessert was pineapple with cream cheese. Originally, was just going to have plain pina but the cashier talked up adding cream cheese - fantastic move. Delicious! If you're in the Westchase area, stop in and enjoy! Closed Sundays.
(4)
Kee M.

Great, friendly service. The empanadas are good - but in the several times ive been here - I noticed that the quality of the dough and the manner in which it is fried is not very consistent. There have been times when I would get the perfect crust but have also had undercooked, thick-ish crust here. To my mind the crust of my empanada makes or break it. I just wish it were more consistent...and less oily. Again - this is a consistency issue. Ive eaten here when I feel that my empanada was not given enough time to drain off its oil and ive had to wipe it down with a paper towel.
(4)
John R.

OMG! So good! Went there on a whim. But now its going to become a regular stop when I am in town... that is until I get to move back! :)
(5)
Andrea H.

Yummy Yummy for my tummy and my wallet!! I frequent Marini's since I found out about them a year and a half ago. I had been to the one in Katy several times. Both are great places. Very different in the decor. I love that the staff mainly consists of the actual family. Sergio (son) and his wife and kids run. The one on Westheimer in the Carrillon is run mainly by Debbie and Patricia (daughters). I frequent the one on Westheimer since it is closer to my house and job. I love the Beef Gaucho! Yummy ground beef, sauteed onions, hard boiled eggs and green olives. The Churrasco sandwich is pure grill heaven on a french roll with curly fries. Hot, crispy, curly fries!!! Don't forget to add chimichurri sauce. A yummy, not spicy sauce that goes great with any of the "salty" empanadas. And for dessert... the homemade cookies made by mama Marini, Debbie and Bianca (granddaughter) are out of this world. Try some of their Argentine wine. I fell in love with the Cristobal 1492. Went great with my Beef Gaucho. Ellie(granddaughter) definitely knows her wines and recommended this on to me. Delish!!! They have about 80 flavors ranging from bee, chicken, pork, tuna, cheese, vegetarian and fruit filled. I definitely recommend Marini's to anyone on a budget and looking for great comfort food, great atmosphere and the sense of feeling right at home. They treat you like you were part of the family. It's a fun, family friendly atmoshphere. Enjoy!!!
(5)
P S.

I'm a fan of empanadas and this place was ok. First, authenic empanadas are not fried. Secondly, the chimichurri sauce didn't come across too well. Not enough flavor. I had the churrasco sandwich and the meat was a bit tough. I gave this restaurant 3 stars for the decor, the friendliness of the owners, and menu variety. I was a bit disappointed here.
(3)
Becky L.

We tried the Tia Maria, Chicken Diablo, Texan Barbeque, Italian Marcello, and Demichelli and the only one worth eating again is the Tia Maria. The others were just so-so. Kind of like a glorified hot pocket. The service is really friendly, the green sauce is pretty tasty, but other than that, I was pretty disappointed. Not worth the drive out, probably won't be back.
(2)
Dan C.

Went to eat here, and was excited because they have the biggest empanada selection I have ever seen. I ordered a sandwich & two empanadas. My empanadas came out first, which I was ok with. When I went back to inquire about my sandwich (I waited for it like 15 minutes) they had neglected to make it. So they made me my sandwich quickly, and it tasted like it. The fries were undercooked. The steak on my sandwich (it was the first one I can't remember the name) was greasy. The gaucho empanada I ate was passable, I would try them again, if I was in the neighborhood. I may not have gotten the ones that are the best.
(2)
Didi U.

At first I was skeptical but my friends invited me out here and I was glad I went. I have missed eating quality meat pies and this sufficed! I tried at least three empanadas: English (almost like the real European meat pie), la something king and the Ellie for dessert. Fantastic stuff.
(4)
Christine Kassandra H.

Did you know you can request a vegan empanadas??! The crust is vegan (water and flour) and they are made to order so they can easily leave off the cheese. I got the eggplant empanadas san cheese and it was delicious. Crust was not greasy and it tasted fresh out of the oven!
(4)
Hunger E.

Since I needed to pick up 1 of my buddies from H-Town's airport, I decided to maximize my trip and do a 2 part H-Town Getting Fat Food Adventure. It wouldn't be an adventure w/o company so I asked my Food PIC (partner in crime) Jenni T. to accompany me. It didn't take much convincing as I just said I'd grab some Argentine & Jamaican food, and she was in. If only picking up women was this easy. Anyways, The Breakdown... Food Purchased: "Hot" Tia Maria, Linda's Chicken, & Dulce de leche empanadas. Verdict: The empanadas were really good. The firm outer edge w/ the relatively softer remaining surface made for a nice covering. The soft brisket & tasty flavors of the Tia Maria is a must-try while Linda's chicken was essentially a Argentine calzone. The dulce de leche empanada was rich and yummy. Rating: 4 Final Remarks: Them empanadas are muy pequeno, so get more than 1.
(4)
Ganesh S.

This place was recommended by a foodie friend of mine. The nice thing about this place is that it is run by Argentineans, so it is authentic. The bread on the empanadas is spectacular. I have tried quite a few of them, the Humita is probably my favorite. The dessert empanadas are also pretty tasty. The green chimichurri sauce is authentic but tastes awful. Re: sauces, I wish they would deviate from authenticity and have a wider variety available. Overall, I think it is a good lunch and dessert place, but I would not eat dinner here. On a side note, the lady that is behind the cash register is the daughter of the owners, and she is very friendly and informative about any questions you may have regarding the food for empanada newbies.
(3)
Melissa W.

I dream about the Humitas empanadas! Best. Empanadas. Ever.
(5)
Anthony M.

Very good empanadas. Wide variety as well. Well done Marini's. Very friendly too. Try this place for sure. Very authentic. Their gaucho empanada was fantastic.
(4)
David D.

A fun and surprisingly adventurous way to try so many different tastes in small packages. The experience is made doubly enjoyable by the bargain prices and the friendly family service provided by the Marini family. I look forward to returning and trying more of the creative combinations. Chicken a la Queen and the original Beef Gaucho were delicious meat empanadas.
(5)
Dave B.

I love this little empanada shop! Went there for dinner and was impressed. Service was friendly and quick. There are a lot of choices, and all were very tasty. The dough is excellent and they use just the right amount, so not to be too doughy. The filling is aplenty and hot, so be careful! Overall: Great place to eat in or get take out. Empanadas are delish!
(4)
Sarah P.

Has something for everyone! Very extensive empanada list, even for the vegetarians. a South American comfort food, with the best cookies!! I recommended it. The people that work here are lovely!!
(5)
Ted H.

Sometimes service isn't quite stellar (although you are always greeted with a smile which can be the difference in your day taking a wrong turn)...but the food has yet to miss it's mark. On what has become a regular weekend treat I decided to try an entirely new line up, with the exception of my Evita Peron for desert. To skip my saturday rendezvous with that delicious blast of sweet potato and dulce de leche would break my heart. Did I forget to mention the walnuts, dear god the walnuts! We'll see how the new selections go. Viva Mexico was like a new take on the Pancho Villa (jalapeno and 3 cheeses). Poblano , sauteed onions and mozerella made for a rich but not overly cheesy treat. While missing the vinegary punch of the pickled jalapeno's the Viva Mexico was prefectly suited for a good dose of Marini's house made chimmichurri. And I think Marini's has my favorite chimmichurri in Houston, but then I am not a huge fan of the overly oily substabce you get from the Cordua-owned establishments around town. A perfect blend of spices and vinegar and enough oil for flavor without 'lubeing' up your crispy golden empanadas. Must be an Argentine thing, because Marini's hasn't waivered in their quality or flavor since i first found them back in 1996 (behind the old House of Pies on westheimer) The Las Alemedas (? i hope thats the right name? - chicken, beans, cheese and peppers) was good but not neccesarily my favorite. It was full and hot and a good mix of chicken to other fillings, but the beans just sort of took over the flavor. I think I will go back to my old friend the Hippie Argentina next time. There is something about the simple but oh so complex combination of the golden sauteed onions, soft salami and plump juicy raisans...it may not be for everyone, but it sure is a favorite of mine. Finishing up this review gets me craving a new order. Maybe I can convince M to have empanadas for dinner. :-D BTW if you are dining in, be sure to browse through the hot sauce selection to the left of the drinks...they have some delcious and suprising selections. Until my next meal...
(5)
Mike F.

Empanadas are outstanding here! You definately have to come multiple times to try out their enormus menu of specialty empanadas. 3-4 are more than enough to get you full.
(4)
Juan V.

Whenever we're in Houston--this is the place we visit first and the last before heading back to Fort Worth. We try and time our arrival to just before the noon rush but when we arrive later, the line usually moves fast. The Beef Gaucho is my favorite. Lots of flavor and very generous filling--I usually order 3 of these and a dessert empanada like "An apple with everything" which contains cinnamon apples, raisins and mozzarella cheese. The ladies behind the counter are so friendly and I've told them that we need a Marini's in the DFW area....they offer to send us some by overnight mail but there's nothing like eating a hot/fresh empanada fresh out of the fryer. Buen Provecho!
(5)
glenna g.

My boys and I love this place! The empanadas are awesome! My mom used to take us to Marini's when I was a kid and was so glad to see one open up so close to home. The banana with dulce de leche is the bomb! Also, the ham and cheese or the pizza ones are good too. They also have some awesome French fries-I think that's my boys favorite part! :)
(5)
Suemy K.

This is a hidden gem! Located in the Carrillion Center on Westheimer, this family-owned empanada restaurant provides these savory pastries filled with practically ANYTHING your heart desires. My favs are the Chicken "Diablo": Diced chicken, onion, bell peppers, tomato sauce, and spices; Sweet Potato: Sweet potato cooked with a touch of sugar and vanilla and Apple Gabriela: Diced apples, dulce de leche, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and nuts and Chicken al a Queen: Diced chicken, tomatoes, mushroom, and white wine. Did I mention the FRESH HOMEMADE SANDRIA!!! Go and try it you foodies! Its a very casual atmosphere and the daughters and the cousins and the sisters all work there and theres never a dull moment if you start talking to them!
(5)
Emerson F.

The food here is excellent. Mr. Marini is a Telemundo executive and his wife is the head chef here. Their daughters work there as well. It is a very family friendly and family oriented business. I had never eaten an Empanada prior to visiting there, and man had I been missing out. They are great, filling, and inexpensive. They have dessert ones as well. And, as the previous review stated, there are 2 patios which are perfect for drinking a beer and listening to the band from Sherlocks do their thing. Overall, it's a great place to swing by and eat.
(5)
lefty p.

i grew up eating these empanadas in the little house on westheimer, and for me they are the gold standard. i have tried eating others around the country, but they never live up to my memory of marini's. a few years ago on a trip back to houston i rediscovered the empanada house (thought they closed shop many years ago) and the first bite brought back so many memories.... they tasted every bit as good as i remembered!!!! now no trip to h town is complete without a stop here!! just wish they were still conveniently located in the montrose!!
(5)
Melanie M.

We didn't actually go here, but we visited Vintropolis next door and had our Empanadas delivered while enjoying some wine. There are tons of options for fillings and we tried several and loved them all. Nice and light, not heavy on the grease and very flavorful. We'll have to go back and try the other flavors soon.
(4)
Sandra L.

Two stars may be a bit harsh--- if there was half a star available, i would add it and give it a two and half stars. My coworker and I were looking forward to our friday splurge lunch. What better way to utilize our one fatty lunch for the week with delicious empanadas?! We tried the gaucho, the tia maria, humita, dulce de leche, and a palmier. The gaucho was supposed to be the go-to empanada, the one that works even if others are a fail.... i only ate half. With an overwhelming taste of oregano, and not enough good flavors to compensate, the whole thing fell flat....Same thing with the tia maria--- blah... Humita was decent, but after the first bite you can't help notice that it tastes like canned cream corn. The palmier was delicious---- who knew the side cookie would be the best part of our meal. I coudlnt' have been more disappointed. Next week we are going to try the place down the street.... maybe it will erase this bad taste from our memories.
(2)
Jack H.

Trying to eat relatively healthily on a daily basis can make it rather difficult to justify patronizing a place where fully 80% of its menu items are served in fried pouches. Though exceedingly efficient as a means of conveyance, I hesitate to review the empanada's nutrition information. In fact, partly for that reason and partly because it was so tough to decide on one of the many empanadas on offer, the first time I visited Marini's I ordered a salad. Rest assured it was delicious, as are those you can get on the side with a combo, but it is those almohadas de carne that are the main attraction here. So I dutifully returned and went with the TÃa MarÃa (stuffed with savory brisket and jalapeÃ±os) and the Chicken Diablo (full of tender chicken and bell peppers), which came out quick and piping hot. Feigning caloric responsibility, I forewent the dessert menu, though in retrospect I immediately regretted that decision. Thankfully the as-yet-untried English empanada - essentially an encapsulated shepherd's pie - has left me with sufficient reason to revisit Marini's and rectify that mistake.
(3)
Ashley P.

I spent last summer traveling Argentina, and this place has empanadas to rival the local Cordobese. A bit greasy, but what do you expect from a fried meat pie? The Gaucho was the most authentic and delicious I ate, but they also had tons of interesting combos plus some Texas takes on the traditional. Mrs. Marini waited on my grandparents and I and was very helpful in ordering. They had really great iced mate (which is a strange concept for any mate drinker) and even gave us some free samples of fresh alfajores (little cake like sandwich cookies with dulce de leche). Plenty of Argentine wine, lots of Malbecs and Cabs. They also cater and will make cocktail size empanadas for party platters. The only thing missing is some cuarteto and a nice fernet y coca. Will definitely go back for the great food, great prices, great atmosphere. Che, es re linda!
(5)
DeWayne R.

Was in the area and was looking for something that I liked, but a place I'd never been to. On Google Maps pops up this Marini's and it was on like Donkey Kong and I was an empanada craving primate! I've never had anything Argentinian (unless you count that Chili's waitress back in....Never Mind), so this was an awesome chance for me to sample some of the flavors. The restaurant was nice, clean, and the walls were filled with photos and other stuff relating to the restaurant. You have to order from a window and there is a huge menu for choosing all that your heart desires. After being amazed by the choices, I ordered from the $3 Meat Specialty options. I got one Linda's Chicken: Chopped chicken in a tomato chipotle sauce with American and Monterrey Jack cheese - and one Nacho Macho: Ground beef, sautÃ©ed onions, refried beans, American, Monterrey Jack cheese and jalapenos. They were both soooooo good! I had to eat them while on the road and wound up pulling over into a parking lot, after my second bite. I was in empanda heaven. I was expecting the little containder filled with green stuff to be a hot, green chile salsa, but it turned out to be something different. Can't put my finger on the ingredientes, outside of their being a loit of what tasted laike cilantro. Never-the-less, the food was great and I will be making another trek across town for it soon!
(4)
Amanda H.

Nice little Italian restaurant in the neighborhood. Food is pretty good for the price they charge.
(4)
Irene E C.

Great place! Love the delicious empanadas! They had every kind of empanadas you could think of. Excellent service and great cozy atmosphere! Will return!
(5)
Melissa M.

What an interesting meal! I met a friend here for a weekday lunch and wasn't sure what to expect. I always think of empanadas as appetizers and not actual meals. I checked out the menu online before heading over and decided I needed some the the sweet and savory empanadas. Upon arrival I was glad to find lots of parking. I headed in to find a line. It seems that a line is the norm for Marini's. I got there at 12:30pm and stood in line longer (10 minutes) than it took to get my empanadas. I was amazed at how quickly they came out. I ordered 3 savory empanadas and 3 sweet ones to go (dessert at home for me and the hubby). The ham and cheese empanada was more cheese than ham and toward the end I just pulled the cheese out and ate the pastry crust. The chicken a la Queen said it was chicken, veggies, and white wine. Silly me! I thought that meant white wine sauce and not an alcoholic empanada. When I started to eat the empanada, I swear I got a buzz. I don't especially like alcohol, but I can't imagine anyone really enjoying the white wine taste in this one. Ok, so one empanada saved the day. The chicken diablo (not spicy at all!) was delicious! I wish I had gotten three of those and left it at that. The chicken and veggies inside were the perfect mix and I loved it! When I go back, and yes, even with those two others I didn't like, I'd go back, I'll be ordering the chicken diablo only. It really saved the meal. I ordered three dessert empanadas to go. I wasn't impressed with any of them. The raspberry one my husband had was way too tart. He loves loves raspberry and he couldn't finish it. I had a chocolate and peanut butter one, which is one of my all time favorite combinations, but it just wasn't good. Yes, I heated them up in the oven, but maybe they just don't travel well? I still give this place 3 stars because I could definitely eat a whole bunch of the chicken diablo empanadas and be a happy. I'll give the sweet empanadas another try but I'll make sure to eat them right then and there. Also, another friend told me that you can ask them to bake them instead of frying them as long as you have a minimum order. Sound good to me.
(3)

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Address : Carillion Shopping Centre,10001 Westheimer Rd
Houston, TX, 77042
Phone (713) 266-2729
Website https://www.theoriginalmarinis.com/
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm

Specialities

Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes

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The Original Marini’s Empanada House

Carillion Shopping Centre,10001 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX, 77042

The Original Marini’s Empanada House Menu

Beverages

Salads

Meat Empanadas

Specialty Empanadas

Cheese Empanadas

Vegetable Empanadas

Daily Combos

Our Specialty Sandwiches

Kid's Menu

Dessert Empandas

Specialty Dessert Empandas

Sopaipillas

Healthy Meal suggestions for The Original Marini’s Empanada House

Beverages

Salads

Meat Empanadas

Specialty Empanadas

Cheese Empanadas

Vegetable Empanadas

Daily Combos

Our Specialty Sandwiches

Kid's Menu

Dessert Empandas

Specialty Dessert Empandas

Sopaipillas

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