The Original Marini's Empanada House
Marini's is a small restaurant in Houston serving homemade empanadas in Argentine style since 1971. The casual spot with a few tables offers more than forty different filled pastries, including savory options with beef, chicken, or cheese and sweet versions with fruits, dulce de leche, or chocolate.
The Marini family arrived in Houston from Argentina in the 1960s and started making empanadas in 1971. The original business in the Montrose area was destroyed by fire, prompting the family to reopen in Katy in 2004 and later add a second location in Westchase in 2007.
The restaurant carries the Marini family name, reflecting their Argentine roots that remain present today through recipes and traditions. The simple decor with handwritten signs and welcoming staff creates a space where first-time guests quickly feel like returning friends or even part of the family.
The restaurant offers casual meals and snacks you can eat here or take away. Service is quick and friendly, with staff happy to help you choose fillings and combinations so you can find something that works even if you are in a hurry.
The Apple Gabriela is a special creation of diced apples, dulce de leche, and cream cheese in a baked pastry that surprises many first-time visitors. This unusual combination shows how the family has explored new flavor pairings while respecting the traditional empanada form.
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