A Taste of Puerto Rico in Oakland Park

Craving a taste of authentic Puerto Rican cuisine? Look no further than La Empanada Loca in Oakland Park. This unassuming eatery is a hidden gem known for its homestyle dishes and mouthwatering empanadas. No wonder it’s our most fan base referral!

The menu features a wide variety of Puerto Rican favorites, including mofongo, trifongo, pasteles, and, of course, empanadas. The empanadas are made with fresh dough and filled with a variety of delicious ingredients, such as beef, chicken, pork, and cheese. Our waiter, Tony guided us through the menu and greatly helped us make excellent choices.

The atmosphere at La Empanada Loca is casual and relaxed, making it the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner with friends and family. The service is friendly and attentive, and the prices are reasonable.

This is our second visit and it just keeps getting better. On the first visit, Doris had the Sopa Del Dia and a side of Arroz con Gandules.  She said that it was just like being back in Puerto Rico.  I ordered the Mofongo con Pollo a la Plancha which was absolutely delicious. On our second visit, we started off with a shared appetizer, a delightful alcapurria which is fried banana fritter stuffed with ground beef.  This is a must order.  For our entrée’s I had the Chuleta de KanKan which is a 3-pound pork chop that was cooked to absolute perfection. Doris ordered the Trifongo with Camorones al Ajillo. Doris was curious as she’d never had the trifongo and liked it.  The added sweetness hit it right out of the park for me.  I now have a new favorite Puerto Rican dish.

If you’re looking for a taste of Puerto Rican cuisine that’s both authentic and delicious, I highly recommend La Empanada Loca. Be sure to try their empanadas – If I was a betting man, I’d bet that you won’t be able to stop at one!

Tips & Notes:

  • Take note of the artwork in the dining room, it was all done by the owner’s brother.
  • Do not miss out on Sancocho Sunday
  • Try the Trifongo!!!!!
  • Get there early because they fill up fast.
  • Best genuine Puerto Rican food in the area.

Address: 4820 Dixie Hwy, Oakland Park, FL 33334

Chef Diaz
Author: Chef Diaz

With over 40 years of hands-on experience in the hospitality industry—beginning his journey shucking clams on the Jersey Shore boardwalk—Chef Dan has built a career dedicated to culinary authenticity and independent food journalism. As the Co-Founder, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Editor of SoFloDining, he champions an uncompromised reviewing standard. Under his direction, the publication relies entirely on unannounced visits, self-funded meals, and multi-year municipal health inspection records, rejecting paid endorsements and staged influencer promotions in favor of true culinary craftsmanship. Beyond editing and publishing the brand's digital magazine editions, Chef Dan expands SoFloDining's reach across multiple media channels. He hosts the weekly video interview series "Who's at The Chef's Table," produces syndicated podcasts, and manages an extensive network of regional community dining groups across South Florida and the Florida Keys. Whether he is scouting roadside gems along the Overseas Highway, advocating for independent restaurant operators, or collaborating with his wife and business partner Doris, Chef Dan remains a passionate, trusted voice celebrating the diverse food culture of South Florida.