Belén de la Cruz, Empanadas & Pastries

For those in the Georgia region seeking a truly authentic and flavorful culinary experience, Belén de la Cruz, Empanadas & Pastries offers a delightful journey straight to the heart of Argentina. More than just a local bakery, this Atlanta institution has earned a reputation for mastering the art of the Argentine staple—the empanada—alongside a stunning array of South American-inspired pastries rich with the beloved flavor of dulce de leche. It’s a specialty shop that skillfully blends savory satisfaction with sweet indulgence, all prepared with love and high-quality ingredients.

Belén de la Cruz has established itself as an 'empanada empire' in the metro Atlanta area, providing a unique and delicious alternative to standard bakery fare. This particular location, situated conveniently on Ponce De Leon Avenue, is a perfect spot for a quick, satisfying meal or to pick up an assortment of treats for your next gathering. The menu is crafted around the concept of simple perfection, featuring multiple varieties of their signature baked empanadas and decadent desserts that truly shine, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of Argentina. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch, an easy dinner, or catering for a large event, Belén de la Cruz consistently delivers authentic Latin flavors to the Georgia community.

The bakery’s founder, Belén de la Cruz, is celebrated as the ‘Empanada Queen’ for her dedication to the craft, starting her first location in Johns Creek and growing to multiple spots across Georgia. This expansion is a testament to the irresistible taste and high standards maintained across all their offerings, from the savory pockets to the luscious pastries. Every item is a taste of home for some, and an exciting, flavorful discovery for others.

A primary focus for the bakery is the quality of their empanadas. Unlike some versions which are deep-fried, Belén de la Cruz primarily offers a lighter, baked style, ensuring a perfectly golden, flaky crust that complements the generously filled, savory centers. They offer nearly a dozen different flavor combinations, ensuring there is a favorite for every palate—from meat lovers to vegetarians. This variety makes them an excellent choice for a family dinner where everyone has a different preference.

Beyond the savory, the pastry selection is an absolute highlight and a must-try for local sweet-tooths. Their decadent offerings are heavily inspired by Argentine traditions, with dulce de leche—a creamy caramel confection—featuring prominently in many items. From classic Alfajores to the unique Marquiz Square, these desserts provide the perfect sweet finish to a meal, or a delightful treat at any time of day.

Local customers consistently praise the food's authentic taste, noting that the empanadas are perfect for ordering and consuming immediately, or for a 'ready to reheat' option to enjoy later. This flexibility makes Belén de la Cruz a practical and delicious solution for busy Atlanta residents.

This particular Belén de la Cruz location is situated in a highly accessible area in Atlanta, making it a convenient stop for a quick bite or a planned pickup.

• Address: 725 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Suite 8500, Atlanta, GA 30306, USA
• Accessibility and Planning: Located within a popular local grocery establishment, this spot is ideal for a quick visit, allowing customers to easily grab their favorite items while running essential errands. The location is known for offering both in-store pickup and shopping.

For general business inquiries, catering information, or details about the other locations across Georgia, Belén de la Cruz can be reached by phone at 470-983-9432 (This number is associated with the Ponce de Leon Ave location, which is noted to be within a Kroger establishment). For a broader range of contact, patrons can visit their official website or inquire via email at empanadas@belendelacruz.com.

Belén de la Cruz, Empanadas & Pastries is proud to offer a comprehensive range of services for the local Georgia community, catering to individual cravings and large-scale events.

• In-Store Shopping: Purchase your favorite empanadas and pastries directly from the counter.
• Curbside Pickup / In-Store Pickup: Pre-order online or over the phone and pick up your items for maximum convenience.
• Delivery: The bakery partners with popular delivery services, ensuring your Argentine treats can be enjoyed at home or the office.
• Catering Services: Belén de la Cruz offers extensive catering options, including their full range of empanadas, pastries, charcuterie boards, and custom cakes for events such as birthdays, corporate meetings, and other special occasions.
• Wholesale: For local businesses like coffee shops, bars, and markets in Georgia, the bakery offers wholesale distribution of their USDA-certified empanadas.
• Cooking Classes: The owner occasionally offers cooking classes, providing a unique opportunity for locals to learn the craft of making Argentine empanadas.
• Ready to Reheat Empanadas: For delivery and sometimes for in-store purchase, empanadas are cooked to 80% doneness to ensure the highest quality, allowing customers to finish them at home for a fresh, hot, and non-soggy result in just two minutes in the oven.

What truly sets Belén de la Cruz apart and makes it an absolute must-visit destination in Atlanta is its dedication to authentic Argentine flavor and the quality of its offerings.

• Argentine Culinary Focus: They are a rare specialty bakery focusing on two South American staples: savory baked empanadas and decadent desserts featuring real Dulce de Leche.
• Extensive Empanada Selection: With nearly ten different savory fillings, including Beef, Cheesy Beef, Chicken Cheese, Caprese, and Spinach, they offer a vast assortment of flavors that go far beyond the typical offerings.
• Decadent Dulce de Leche Desserts: Their pastry menu is a paradise for sweet lovers, featuring treats like Alfajores, Marquiz Square (brownie, dulce de leche, and meringue), Flan, and Tres Leches Square. The richness of the dulce de leche is a signature highlight.
• Affordable and Convenient Meal Options: At a price point of $3.80 per empanada, they offer a delicious and inexpensive option for a quick, high-quality meal or snack. They even offer an optional side of Chimichurri for just $1.00 to enhance the experience.
• Flexibility for Consumers: By offering their savory pockets as 'Ready to Reheat' items for delivery, the bakery prioritizes food quality and customer experience, ensuring the product is fresh and hot when you are ready to eat it.
• Comprehensive Service: From individual treats to full catering services and wholesale, Belén de la Cruz is equipped to satisfy both the casual craving and the needs of a major event.

Choosing Belén de la Cruz means opting for a culinary experience that is both unique to the Atlanta area and rooted in genuine quality. Whether you’re stopping by their Ponce De Leon location for a quick Chicken Cheese Empanada and a rich Chocolate Mouse Shot, or planning to impress guests with a full catering spread, this bakery offers a distinct taste of Argentine comfort food. The combination of savory, flaky empanadas and delightful, dulce de leche-infused pastries makes this local Georgia gem an essential stop for anyone craving something truly special and delicious. Don't forget to grab an Alfajor, a popular shortbread cookie filled with dulce de leche, to complete your authentic Argentine treat.

Belén de la Cruz, Empanadas & Pastries

725 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Suite 8500, Atlanta, GA 30306, USA