Houston, Texas, is known for its diverse population and vibrant culinary scene. From Tex-Mex to Vietnamese pho, the city offers a rich tapestry of international flavors. But one delicious category that’s steadily gaining attention is South American snacks. These handheld bites of joy, full of bold spices and authentic ingredients, bring the flavors of countries like Venezuela, Argentina, Colombia, and Brazil straight to the heart of Houston. Among these, empanadas in Houston have emerged as a beloved snack, delighting locals and visitors alike.
The Rise of South American Snacks in Houston
South American cuisine is incredibly diverse, reflecting the continent’s varied geography and cultural influences. In Houston, a city that celebrates international tastes, this cuisine has found a natural home. Whether you’re craving a crispy Argentine empanada, a cheesy tequeño from Venezuela, or Brazilian pão de queijo, Houston offers an expanding list of eateries and snack shops that specialize in these flavorful treats.
Food trucks, cafes, specialty bakeries, and family-run restaurants are introducing Houstonians to traditional recipes passed down through generations. What makes South American snacks particularly popular is their accessibility — they’re usually portable, affordable, and packed with flavor. And as more South Americans call Houston home, demand for authentic, home-style snacks continues to grow.
Empanadas in Houston: A Snack Worth Celebrating
No conversation about South American snacks would be complete without highlighting the empanada. This savory pastry, which originated in Spain and took on countless regional variations in South America, is a cornerstone of Latin American snacking. In Houston, empanadas are now as common as tacos and burgers — and every culture adds its own unique spin.
Here are a few popular types of empanadas you can find across Houston:
Argentinian Empanadas
Argentinian empanadas are typically baked (though sometimes fried) and known for their flaky dough and savory fillings. In Houston, shops like The Empanada Factory and Buenos Aires Café serve up varieties like beef with olives and hard-boiled eggs, ham and cheese, and spicy chicken.
Colombian Empanadas
Colombian empanadas are fried and made with corn flour dough, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Common fillings include ground beef, potato, and shredded chicken. These are often served with aji — a zesty Colombian hot sauce that elevates every bite.
Venezuelan Empanadas
Venezuelan empanadas differ in their use of corn flour as well, but the fillings are uniquely Venezuelan. Look out for empanadas stuffed with pabellón (shredded beef, black beans, and plantains), or cheese and ham options for a milder bite. Local favorites like Sabor Venezolano and Moncheo’s showcase these Venezuelan delights in full.
Beyond Empanadas: Must-Try South American Snacks in Houston
While empanadas might be the star, there are plenty of other South American snacks Houston that are worth exploring:
Tequeños (Venezuela)
These cheese sticks wrapped in dough and fried until golden are a popular party snack in Venezuela — and they’ve taken off in Houston too. Crisp on the outside and gooey inside, tequeños are the perfect companion to a coffee or papelón con limón (a traditional sugarcane drink).
Pão de Queijo (Brazil)
These small, chewy cheese breads are a gluten-free wonder made from tapioca flour. Best enjoyed warm, pão de queijo is both a snack and a breakfast staple. You’ll find them at Brazilian bakeries like Galleria Market or Emporio Brazilian Grill.
Coxinhas (Brazil)
Coxinhas are teardrop-shaped snacks filled with seasoned shredded chicken, then battered and fried. They’re crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside — a satisfying bite at any time of day.
Arepas (Venezuela and Colombia)
Arepas are cornmeal cakes sliced open and stuffed with various fillings such as cheese, meats, avocado, or beans. They serve as both meals and snacks, and are easily found in restaurants like Arepa Grill or Budare Arepa Express in Houston.
Pastelitos (Various Countries)
Sweet or savory, pastelitos can be found throughout South America. These puff pastries are often filled with guava and cheese or seasoned meats. In Houston, look for them at bakeries with Venezuelan or Cuban influences.
Where to Find the Best South American Snacks in Houston
If you’re looking to explore the vibrant world of South American snacks in Houston, here are a few spots to start:
The Arepa Station – A food truck and catering business offering Venezuelan street food like arepas, empanadas, and tequeños.
Sazón Latino – This cozy restaurant offers a variety of Colombian snacks, including empanadas, pandebono, and buñuelos.
Cafe Piquet – A Cuban restaurant that features pastelitos alongside traditional Cuban cuisine.
Empanadas by Lady C – A hidden gem known for its Argentine-style empanadas, both savory and sweet.
Pairing Snacks with South American Beverages
To elevate your snack experience, consider pairing your treats with traditional South American drinks:
Chicha Morada (Peru) – A purple corn drink that’s sweet, spiced, and refreshing.
Guaraná (Brazil) – A carbonated soda with a fruity, slightly herbal taste.
Mate (Argentina/Uruguay) – A strong herbal tea enjoyed in social settings.
Malta (various countries) – A sweet, non-alcoholic malt beverage.
Why Houston Is the Perfect Place for South American Snacks
Houston’s openness to cultural expression, paired with its entrepreneurial spirit, makes it an ideal city for small food businesses and immigrant-owned eateries to thrive. The city’s food lovers are adventurous and welcoming of new flavors, which has led to a flourishing scene for South American snacks.
Empanadas, tequeños, pão de queijo, and more — these aren’t just snacks; they’re stories of migration, tradition, and community. For many South Americans in Houston, preparing and selling these snacks is a way to stay connected to their roots while sharing their heritage with others.
Final Bite
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Latin American cuisine or just starting to explore its many flavors, Houston is a treasure trove of South American snacks. From crispy empanadas to cheesy bites of pão de queijo, the city’s offerings are as diverse as they are delicious.
Next time you’re out and about in Houston, skip the fast food and opt for a handmade empanada or a warm arepa. You’ll be supporting local businesses and tasting the heart of South America — one bite at a time.
