Empaisanas: Bringing the Flavors of Colombia to Tallahassee's Culinary Scene

Tallahassee is about to embark on a delectable journey as Empaisanas, a family-operated restaurant, prepares to open its first brick-and-mortar location in the city. Offering a taste of authentic Colombian cuisine, Empaisanas aims to immerse the community in the vibrant culture and traditions of its owners' homeland.

Savoring the Essence of Colombia in the Heart of Tallahassee

Empaisanas: A Culinary Homecoming

Empaisanas' journey to Tallahassee has been a labor of love for owner Nataly Munoz. After starting as a hot dog stand catering to events and pop-ups in her hometown of Miami, Munoz seized an opportunity to expand her business with the help of a close friend, Victor Carranza of El Jalisco. Encouraged by the belief that Tallahassee was the perfect place for her authentic Colombian cuisine, Munoz decided to make the move and bring her family's legacy to the city of her alma mater, Tallahassee State College.

Embracing the Local Culinary Landscape

Empaisanas' new brick-and-mortar location on West Pensacola Street will sit just minutes away from other locally owned Colombian eateries, El Rincon Latino Colombian Restaurant and Super Perros Colombian Restaurant, both on West Tennessee Street. This strategic positioning allows Empaisanas to become part of a growing community of Colombian food enthusiasts in Tallahassee, offering residents and visitors a diverse array of options to explore the rich flavors of the South American country.

Crafting Culinary Connections

Munoz's journey to establishing Empaisanas in Tallahassee has been a collaborative effort, with the support of friends, family, and the local community. During the two-year planning process, Munoz worked closely with Kitchen Share, a communal kitchen rental program, to hone her culinary skills and receive valuable feedback from customers. The food truck's initial operation in the space next to The Puff Smoke Shop on West Tennessee Street further allowed Munoz to gauge the community's interest and build a loyal following.

Bringing Grandma's Recipes to Life

At the heart of Empaisanas' menu are the family recipes that have been passed down through generations. "These recipes are grandma's recipes, mom's recipes, and no one else's, so that's what makes it special," Munoz proudly declares. From the traditional "bandeja paisa" to the signature salchipapas, each dish is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Colombia, offering Tallahassee diners a unique and authentic taste of the country's vibrant food culture.

Fostering a Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Empaisanas' new location is strategically positioned to cater to a diverse clientele, with a focus on creating a family-friendly atmosphere. Munoz has plans to host Sunday brunches and Saturday night events, catering to both students from the nearby universities and local families seeking a taste of Colombian hospitality. By blending the energy of the student population with the warmth of a family-oriented setting, Empaisanas aims to become a hub of cultural exchange and culinary exploration in Tallahassee.

Embracing the Tallahassee Community

Empaisanas' arrival in Tallahassee has been met with enthusiasm from the local community, particularly among members of the Tallahassee Foodies social media group. Patrons have already shared their positive experiences with the food truck, praising the delicious salchipapas and the availability of authentic Colombian sodas. As Empaisanas transitions to its brick-and-mortar location, the community's support and anticipation for the restaurant's opening are palpable, setting the stage for a vibrant culinary partnership between Empaisanas and the city of Tallahassee.