BORN IN MIAMI. MADE TO MOVE.
ABOUT US
BORN IN MIAMI.
MADE TO MOVE.
Half Moon Empanadas was born in Miami with one mission: to bring people together through bold, handcrafted empanadas made for life on the move. From our first storefront to airports across the country, we've built a brand rooted in flavor, tradition, and the spirit of the city that started it all.
OUR STORY
In 2008, in the middle of a financial crisis, our first store opened in Miami. It didn't go as planned. The store struggled and eventually failed. But what came out of that moment shaped everything that followed: resilience, creativity, and a belief that there was something special in what we were building.
Then came a breakthrough. At a street fair, our empanadas sold out almost instantly. Soon after, a university offered us a small kiosk. That changed everything. Instead of waiting for people to come to us, we went to where life was already happening—campuses, hospitals, and eventually airports.
BUILT THROUGH RESILIENCE
Like many small businesses, we've fought for every step forward. When the pandemic hit in 2020, we were forced to shut down our locations. Instead of closing our doors for good, we pivoted, preparing meals for hospitals and senior facilities. Our team adapted overnight, doing whatever it took to keep going and to support one another. That experience strengthened who we are.
Today, Half Moon Empanadas is a growing national brand with locations across the country and a strong presence in major airports. It is still owned and led by CEO Pilar Guzmán, who has been part of the journey every step of the way.
From Miami to Denver to Chicago, we've proven that empanadas resonate far beyond one culture. They belong anywhere people are on the move.
MORE THAN A FOOD BRAND
Our business has always been about more than empanadas. We're proud to create real opportunities—for our team, for the entrepreneurs we partner with, and for the communities we serve. We believe business can open doors, build careers, and create lasting impact. And that belief continues to guide how we grow.
FOOD THAT MOVES WITH YOU
Our empanadas are always fresh baked, inspired by authentic Latin recipes. They're portable, satisfying, and full of flavor. They fit how people live today: fast-paced, always moving, but still looking for something real. We call it grab-and-go greatness, food that's convenient without ever compromising quality.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
Whether you find us in an airport, a neighborhood, or somewhere in between, the experience is the same:
- Authentic flavors rooted in Latin tradition
- Fresh, high-quality ingredients
- Food designed for real life—busy, fast, and always moving
- A bold, vibrant energy inspired by Miami
Because at the end of the day, we're here to do one thing well:
Nourish the hustle and heart behind every journey.