About Us
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Inspired by Latin-American flavors, primarily puerto Rican, Empanada Grill is a place for everyone. Whether you're a foodie looking to try something new or a corporate office looking for a delicious breakfast catering, Empanada Grill is here for you!

Our Story
Empanada Grill was founded in 2021 by Rosa Melendez, a woman with a dream to share authentic Puerto Rican cuisine to her local NC community. With the help of family and friends, including her partner Laurie Conrad, the Empanada Grill food truck was refurbished and ready to roll!
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Incredible amounts of hard work proved fruitful, and it wasn't long before Empanada Grill was a fixture at many local events (Folk Fest and Summerfield Farms, to name just a few). Eager to ​innovate and grow, Rosa and Laurie brought in a friend with extensive knowledge of the local beer and wine industry and a passion for caffeination to expand not only their menu, but also their locale.
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Opening in early 2025, Empanada Grill is pleased to share the addition of a brick and mortar store on Inman Road. This location will function as a restaurant, a cafe, a lounge, an event space, a kitchen site for catering prep, and a place to gather together in community. Empanada Grill will continue to source locally and welcome community. We hope you'll come grow with us!
Meet The Team

Rosa is smiling, wearing a white shirt, black apron, glasses, and a black Empanada Grill ball cap.

Three stick figures with empanadas for heads holding hands. The original design, two empanada-headed stick figures holding hands, was created by a family member of our founder, Rosa. It was recently updated to reflect the addition of a third partner.

Three stick figures with empanadas for heads holding hands. The original design, two empanada-headed stick figures holding hands, was created by a family member of our founder, Rosa. It was recently updated to reflect the addition of a third partner.