Discovering De Nadas: From Bethnal Green to Their Newest Home in Kew Gardens
I first stumbled across De Nadas back in August, and it’s one of those discoveries that instantly cements itself in your London food memory. They had just announced a mini pop-up with Tommi’s Burger Joint, featuring an empanada stuffed with aged Hereford beef, tangy gherkin, melted cheese and soft onions — all wrapped inside a perfectly golden, delicate pastry.
The idea of something that tempting being right on my doorstep in Bethnal Green was too good to ignore, so of course I went. And naturally, once I’d tried one, I ended up sampling more. (If you’ve seen my Instagram reel, you’ll know I did a very thorough tasting in the name of research.
What struck me then and still does now is how De Nadas manages to make something as humble as an empanada feel both artisanal and exciting.
Who Are De Nadas?
Launched in 2022 by Nako Martinez, Nico Buyo and Annabel Fox, De Nadas is the UK’s first dedicated empanadería, shining a spotlight on proper Argentinian, hand-shaped empanadas. What started with a single shop on Notting Hill’s Golborne Road quickly turned into a small but mighty London empire, with follow-ups in Shoreditch, Stoke Newington, and Bethnal Green, where all the empanadas are made fresh by hand. Their mission is simple: bring the cult status of the empanada, that warm, flavour-packed, portable pocket of comfort to London. And judging by their momentum, Londoners are fully on board.
The Empanadas: 15 Flavours, Endless Cravings
One of the joys of De Nadas is how varied and generous the menu is. All empanadas are baked, never fried, which keeps them lighter and perfectly crisp without losing that satisfying chew. Some highlights include, classic beef – deeply savoury and nostalgic, ham & cheese – gooey, moreish, an easy favourite, spicy lamb – rich heat and bold flavour to creamy Spinach, Caprese, Vegan Squash & Kale – brilliant vegetarian and plant-based options.
They’re available individually or in bundles of three, six, or twelve — dangerously ideal for spontaneous gatherings or I-don’t-feel-like-cooking nights. They also cater for events, making them a great alternative to the usual canapés.
De Nadas Comes to Kew Gardens
Fast forward to November, and the De Nadas team is adding a fifth location, opening just steps from Kew Gardens station. This new shop takes over the former Pether butcher’s — and thoughtfully honours its heritage by offering Argentinian beef and criollo sausages for customers to take home and cook.
Inside, the space will offer both front and rear seating, making it as much a neighbourhood café as a grab-and-go stop. Alongside empanadas, along with coffee and vermouth, a selection of Sout American Wines, and essential pantry staples such as alfajores, chimichurri, dulce de leche and yerba mate.
On weekdays (12–3pm), they’ll serve their Lunch Boxes — three empanadas plus salad — and for families, Kid’s Meals with empanadas, juice, ice cream, and even free self-serve popcorn, or pochoclo in Argentina.
Final Thoughts
Locals can also look forward to wine tastings featuring top Argentinian producers like Zuccardi, which makes this not just a takeaway spot, but a real community hub.
From that first bite back in August to the news of their expansion today, De Nadas feels like one of those rare London food success stories where heart, craft, and flavour come together effortlessly. Whether you’re a long-time fan or completely new to empanadas, their upcoming Kew Gardens opening is the perfect excuse to jump in.
De Nadas
16 Station Parade
Kew TW9 3PZ
De Nadas Website
De Nadas Instagram
Images courtesy of De Nadas
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