From Martiniboys.com, by Francoise Snobel

Hidden amongst Kensington Market’s vintage clothing and bustling fruit markets is a little Chilean gem called “Jumbo Empanadas.” At first glance, one might assume this aesthetically simplistic eatery is… well, simple. But for what “Jumbo Empanadas” lacks in flashy décor, it makes up for in flavour. And I’m not talking about just the food.

The story of owner Irene Morales is enough to warm the soul along with the belly. Upon moving to Toronto from Chile, Irene worked as a secretary during the week and baked empanadas for the Chilean community on weekends. Five years later, the demand for her mouth-watering doughy delights led her to purchase a hotdog cart, which immediately became an empanada cart parked on Kensington’s Augusta Avenue. And after years of developing a loyal Toronto following, Ms. Morales was finally able to open up a restaurant for her beloved empanadas.

For those of you unfamiliar with the namesake dish, Irene’s empanada is a chewy egg-glazed savoury pastry, jam-packed with a delightful mixture of raisins, olives, egg, onion and beef. And yes, as the eatery’s name suggests, the empanadas are “jumbo.” The cheese empanadas are smaller, but still packed with goodness in every bite. This is also due to the spicy salsa side (meant for some serious empanada dippin’). The Corn Pie is another culinary treat diners should be sure to indulge in. Think Sheppard’s Pie, but south of the equator. Corn Pie, baked in a casserole dish, layers a mixture of meat (beef and chicken), olives, onions, eggs and raisins beneath a sweet corn mash. The Chilean salad is another popular dish, made with lettuce, avocado, onion and broccoli, topped with a cilantro and olive oil dressing. And to wash it all down, why not treat yourself to an inexpensive tumbler of surprisingly tasty Chilean wine? For those of you who enjoy people watching Augusta’s eclectic mix of passerbys (who wouldn’t?), Jumbo Empanadas’ patio offers a perfect view of the bustling street beyond.

Tasty food, warm service and very easy on the wallet, “Jumbo Empanadas” just might have to expand once again. As for the hotdog cart, it’s now parked in the store’s backyard…a clunky stainless steel monument, symbolizing tradition, hard work and determination… and the home for some lovely potted plants.