La Mancha Empanadas

Todd and I were sitting in one of our favorite quick-bite places, La Mancha Empanadas on Austin street, when a man walked in and asked if they had any low-fat options. Fortunately, they do not. The guy behind the counter (I think he may have been the owner) mentioned some healthier fillings but confessed that the dough, which is thick and flaky, is not low in fat (thank goodness!).

He was equally frank with me when I asked, upon taking one to go, if it was hot. "Yes. If it weren't, it'd be like a brick." I don't know how they do it. The empanadas are piled high in the case, but I've never had one here that was anything but fresh and hot (except for the dessert ones - apple, cherry, guava and on one occasion chocolate and cream - which are served cold). I can't pass up the spinach and cheese, but Todd's tried a few - chicken, pork. They have other nontraditional fillings, like pizza, barbecued pork and ham and cheese.