delicious and well-prepared empanadas. crispy on the outside, savory on the inside, and attractive presentation. even though they're deep fried, you'll hardly notice. sidesare not heavy at all, so the meal itself winds up not making you feel guilty about it. decor is pretty spartan, but they have a nice, long communal buddy bar, which invites you to get to know your neighbors while dining. their lunch special is the way to go (two empanada, three sides, $7.95), and it was evident that you need to get there early. as we were dining they were continually going up to the board and erasing off the ones they were out of. i went with ham & cheese and cheeseburger, and both were delicious, made more so by what they call their 'green sauce' to dip in. service was very friendly and welcoming. great lunch with zomato/urbanspoon buddy bill joyce--and of course--we chattered like foodie parakeets. a very welcome respite from chasing teenagers around this whole vacation...