Maria Empanada Opens Sixth Location in Union Station

The popular empanada eatery has officially debuted a new storefront within the historic Denver Union Station Great Hall.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Gouache-painted editorial illustration of an empanada sitting by a grand stone archway, evoking a local food shop in a transit hub. — Maria Empanada has opened its sixth Denver location, establishing a new storefront within the recently renovated Great Hall at Union Station. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Maria Empanada has expanded its local footprint with the opening of its sixth store in Denver at the Union Station Great Hall. The new shop joins the transit hub following recent facility renovations.

Why it matters

The expansion brings the brand's signature empanadas, sweets, and coffee to one of the city's highest-traffic transit landmarks. This launch marks a significant growth milestone for a business that began with just a modest initial investment.

The new storefront is the sixth Maria Empanada location in Denver, marking a rapid scale from the company's initial $300 investment in 2011. The shop operates daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The players

Maria Empanada

This Denver-based restaurant chain specializes in traditional Argentine-style empanadas.

Lorena Cantarovici

She is the founder who started the restaurant business in 2011 with a small initial investment.

Denver Union Station

This historic transportation hub recently completed a series of upgrades to its Great Hall, Cooper Lounge, and guest facilities.

The details

Located in the recently renovated Great Hall, the restaurant serves a selection of empanadas, sweets, and coffee to travelers and commuters. Customers can purchase food items individually or by the box, with ordering options available online.

2011: Lorena Cantarovici founded Maria Empanada.
October 16, 2026: The Denver Union Station location officially opened.

Market Landscape

The restaurant opening follows the successful renovation of Denver Union Station's Great Hall, signaling a broader effort to revitalize the transit hub as a culinary and hospitality destination. This move positions the brand within a high-traffic sector that competes for both tourist and local commuter foot traffic.

Commuters and visitors at Union Station can now access Maria Empanada's menu during daily operating hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Online ordering is available for those looking to secure food before arriving at the station.

The takeaway

Starting a business with minimal capital can lead to significant regional scaling if the concept finds a consistent local audience. Travelers should consider ordering online in advance to save time during busy commute periods at the station.