Logan Square Gets Cafe Tola’s Acclaimed Empanadas This Week

Empanadas are the business at Cafe Tola — the family-owned mini chain that debuted in 2012 in Lakeview — and business is good. Last week, Victoria and Gerardo Salamanca announced they’ll open a River North location at the Ohio House Motel. But before they open downtown, the Salamancas will unleash their fourth location in Logan Square. Victoria Salamanca said Cafe Tola No. 4 will open on Friday at 2489 N. Milwaukee Avenue.

Cafe Tola opened its first location six years ago on Southport. The Salamancas have since taken over the former Hot Doug’s space in Avondale and opened a restaurant near Addison and Ashland. Cafe Tola also serves breakfast tacos, coffees, tortas, and sweet and savory pastries.

The restaurant’s popularity continues to soar — there was even an empanadas cart present on Friday at Revolution Brewing’s taproom for a barrel-aged beer release. Thus the Salamancas have more plans for spots in Chicago and say they’re just getting started. But for now, customers in Logan Square can find them starting on Friday at the former SmallFry space.

Ashok Selvam/Eater Chicago