Hello dear
Welcome to Fonda Felix
At Fonda Felix, we celebrate the vibrant flavors of Latin American cuisine in an inviting atmosphere that welcomes everyone. Located in Santa Cruz, this Latinx-owned gem specializes in gourmet empanadas made with fresh, local ingredients. From the Monterey Bay Fish empanada to the vegan Mesoamerica blend, each bite tells a story of rich culinary heritage and creativity. With options for pescatarians and vegans alike, Fonda Felix ensures there's something for everyone. The warm, attentive service enhances the experience, making you feel right at home as you savor unique dishes and explore new flavors. Here, every meal is not just food; it's a celebration.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Monterey Bay Fish Fennel
Bacon Breakfast Burrito
2 Oz Chimichurri
4 Oz Chimichurri
About
Fonda Felix
Welcome to Fonda Felix, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. This delightful eatery specializes in empanadas that transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Argentina and beyond. With a quaint location at 402 Ingalls St and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Fonda Felix is a must-visit destination for food lovers and seekers of authentic flavors.
At the helm of this unique establishment are the flavorful creations that redefine the concept of empanadas. Each offering is crafted with love and creativity, featuring a diverse menu that caters to various palates. Here are just a few standout options:
- Monterey Bay Fish Fennel: A tantalizing mix of local white fish, seaweed, and fresh herbs. Priced at $6.20, it presents a taste of the ocean, balanced by earthy notes of fennel and sage.
- Caribbean Pork: Experience the deep, rich flavors of pork shoulder slowly cooked in banana leaves, enhanced with a touch of pineapple and tomatillos. Also priced at $6.20, this empanada is a celebration of Caribbean spices.
- Mesoamerica Vegan: For those seeking a plant-based delight, this empanada features a savory black bean mole with fried plantains, cilantro, and red onions. A compelling choice at $6.20 that does not compromise on flavor.
- Banana Dulce De Leche: End your meal on a sweet note with this dessert empanada filled with creamy dulce de leche and fresh bananas.
Fonda Felix goes beyond traditional empanadas by offering snacks that will delight your taste buds:
- Choripan In A Blanket: An enticing twist on the classic, featuring grilled sausage enveloped in fluffy dough. At $9.20 for three, it’s a perfect shareable treat.
- Chipacitos Pao Do Queijo: Gluten-free and bursting with flavor, these cheese and egg puff balls are impossible to resist at only $6.20.
The ambiance at Fonda Felix is just as inviting as the food. Customers describe it as an "empanada speakeasy," a hidden gem that requires a simple ring of the doorbell to experience its offerings. The staff are known for their courteous service, ensuring your dining experience is as delightful as the dishes served.
But don't just take our word for it—customer reviews are brimming with enthusiasm. Guests like Nicolas Larez rave about the "very flavorful and delicious empanadas," while Nicole Pefley suggests it’s one of the best places in Santa Cruz for Argentine-style empanadas. For many, it’s the chimichurri that steals the show, paired wonderfully with the savory options at Fonda Felix.
For those exploring Santa Cruz, Fonda Felix's convenient location near scenic spots like Natural Bridges makes it a perfect stop for a delicious meal to enjoy amidst nature. So whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to add Fonda Felix to your culinary map. One bite will have you returning for more!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Very flavorful and delicious empanadas. We really enjoyed meeting the owner and trying some of this type of food. Give it a try you are likely to return again. ”
“ One of the best places in Santa Cruz, and best empanadas outside of Argentina. We tried them at Santa Cruz Mtn brewing and Humble Sea, and every flavor esta riquisimo! There are options for vegetarians and veganssurprisingly their mesoamerica blend was one of the most delicious. Prompt service, and you can order full or 12 dozens warm or pop in the oven to enjoy later. And if you love Nate or havent tried it, the terere orange is an outstanding riff the classic. ”
“ These empanadas are amazing! Taste just like the ones from home in Argentina. Empanadas like this are hard to come by in the US, so happy to have this place here in SC. The terere is delicious and the chimichurri is exceptionally good! ”
“ Amazing food, courteous staff, and conveniently located close to Natural Bridges and other scenic areas to hang out while you eat. There is a small courtyard a few doors down as well, and the staff will bring your order there of you just let them know! FYI!! Ring the door bell with any questions you may have or to check on your order. This can be very helpful! ”
“ Worth every star! Like an empanada speakeasy. Ring the bell, wait for someone to take your order and in under 10 minutes youll have a warm box of treasures in your possession. My fave was the black cod. And definitely get the pao de queijo ... ”
“ Diego put on an incredible dinner for our 9 person microwedding in Big Sur via Colectivo Felix. From the first menu we were sure wed love the food but it really exceeded our expectations. They were on top of planning the whole time too and very easy to work with! We had two guests who are very into fine dining and they both commented it was excellent and the best food theyd ever had at a wedding. Just wish I could do it again! ”
“ Order from a iPad and have your credit card handy, these empanadas have delicious flavor and perfect for a picnic on the beach or appetizers for a party to go! Order here, be careful to close the kiosks lid so the tablet doesnt overheat as we had to wait for it to reboot. ”
“ Grateful that this place presented itself to me on Maps. Easy online ordering and pickup. Arrived just before they came out of the oven so they were literally fresh baked. The aroma in the car was anticipatorily savory. But I waited to open the deliciousness until I got home. Exceeded my expectations. So so good. Small cup of chimichurri was included with my half dozen empanadas but Im glad I picked up an additional container because it, like each of the empanadas I ate, was fantastic. ”