I heart this place not just because it may be the only restaurant in metro Phoenix devoted to empanadas with dough that is so crispy and soft on the inside, but the owner is warm, friendly and just a really good guy. This place is only a block over from downtown Mesa's Main Street yet it feels so removed. It also at first glance appears not to be in the best neighborhood. The owner said there are quite a few halfway houses in the area. Still, instead of being intimidated by it, he offers a helping hand if needed. The place isn't that big but it's still an inviting space. That's in large part due to the repurposed wooden tables and the one long communal table. There are a couple of TVs but it doesn't feel like a sports bar.
As for the food, I had a special--arroz Colombiano--which came with shrimp, sausage and slices of avocado and red bell pepper on a huge pile of rice. It was kind of oily but still tasty. I thoroughly enjoyed my chicken and beef empanadas. Two is plenty for one meal. But by far, my favorite was the dessert one--fig, mozzarella and dulce de leche. That one is worth miles and miles of exercise. Definitely do yourself a favor and get that if nothing else.
The owner was flattered when I said I came all the way from central Phoenix, like it's super far. But he appreciated it because he knows there are a slew of choices closer to my home. I reassured him that I would be back!