One of our favorite things to do here in Maine is…eat. Yes, that’s right. We’re admitting loudly and proudly that we count eating food as an actual hobby here in Vacationland. And while it might affect our bank account, it certainly isn’t a difficult hobby to master. In fact, we’d say that Maine might be the best place to perfect it! Especially if you love menu items that can’t be found everywhere, like these empanadas!

Quiero Cafe in Saco has been a local favorite for years. And in 2019 they opened a second location in Portland. Both are great and both offer a seriously special menu.
Quiero Cafe / Google
We love that the new Portland location is large and airy. There's plenty of room to sit and linger over a drink or a good book.
Drew Breau / Google
But that doesn't mean Quiero Cafe is always quiet. This place is hoppin' at mealtimes and you'll often find a line up to the counter to order.
Quiero Café Maine / Facebook
But after tasting the food, you'll see why. The entire menu is great and includes things like this lunch that comes with rice beans, sweet plantains, lettuce, salsa, avocado and cheese with your choice of protein or veggies.
Michael Gonzalez / Google
And you can't forget the empanadas. These are typically baked (sometimes fried) and look a bit like a turnover. Their fillings are either sweet or savory and at Quiero Cafe, they're always delicious!
-- / Google
And this place has such a large menu of flavors you'll be able to visit multiple times without ever having to repeat one!
Sue Tejada / Google

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Their 13 different empanadas include chicken, beef, pork, spicy sausage, ground beef, pineapple (with ham and cheese!), beans, tomato, mushroom, veggie, caramel, sweet and veggie.
Johnna Sheppard / Google
And we love that the type of empanada is emblazoned right on the top!
Alex M / TripAdvisor
In addition to empanadas, they've got tons of other menu items. We particularly love the "Patacon" which is a savory plantain pancake topped with protein or veggies and served with rice, beans and your choice of sauce on the side.
Daniela Vargas / Google
And you can't possibly leave without having an order of churros!
Makayla Winchester / Google
Both Saco and Portland are wonderful locations to visit Quiero Cafe.
Quiero Café Maine / Facebook
digipicjohn / TripAdvisor

 

Quiero Cafe has two locations. The original is in Saco and the newest is in Portland. They’re open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Monday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. In Saco they’re open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can reach them in Portland on 207-536-7033 and in Saco on 207-494-7267. Learn more about the menu at both locations on their website and check them out on Facebook.

For more deliciously great ways to spend the day check out this amazing taco trail in Maine. Your tastebuds will go crazy!

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Featured Addresses
3 Deering Ave, Portland, ME 04101, USA
Quiero Cafe, 8 Pepperell Square, Saco, ME 04072, USA