@Papi's Café

4.5 (10 reviews)

Empanadas, Coffee & Tea, Colombian

Open • 7:00 am - 3:00 pm

Updated 1 month ago

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@Papi's Café - Empanadas Near Me - Dubuque, Iowa

@Papi's Café - Wall of customers - Empanadas Near Me - Dubuque, Iowa

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Mini donuts--from top: cajeta, guava, glazed, cinnamon sugar, powdered

Kim M.

They were out of most everything, having been closed the previous week and through the holiday weekend... But a charming family and business, great staff and service, and what we could get was excellent... The empanadas were hot and crunchy, and the sauce was a tangy, cilantro yogurt-esque dipping sauce, and the mini donuts were very tasty... Others in the group had a variety of matcha drinks and other coffees and everyone enjoyed what they got

Cheese Arpetias (top), Empanadas (middle), and Pastel Gloria (bottom).

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Greta G.

94

2

0

4 months ago

I picked Papi's cafe for the gluten free options. And was surprised by how DELICIOUS the food was. We got a little bit of everything: empanadas, arepas, desserts, fresh-pressed orange juice and hot coffee. I loved it. My husband loved it. My 7-year-old daughter loved it. (She called the empanadas "mini hamburgers that are so delicious you don't even need ketchup"). The servers were kind and the decor is adorable--clean, colorful, fun. Wanted to make sure I wrote a review, because the ones I read before coming don't do this place justice. It's fabulous. read more

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Alejandra J.

Thank you so much for this amazing review, Greta! It truly means a…

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Matt C.

Elite 26

33

128

275

5 months ago

A very small shop but big flavors live here. Seating is very limited indoor seating for 7 in warmer weather they have outdoor seating. It was a very busy Saturday and the service was a little slow and frazzled but they pulled it together. When the food came it was beautiful unfortunately my mini doughnuts were cold but my wife's empanade was piping hot and delicious. All in all a good experience. read more

@Papi's Café - Menu board - Empanadas Near Me - Dubuque, Iowa

@Papi's Café - Empanade - Empanadas Near Me - Dubuque, Iowa

@Papi's Café - Mini doughnuts - Empanadas Near Me - Dubuque, Iowa

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Alejandra J.

Thank you for visiting and for taking the time to share your…

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Jill B.

0

18

3

1 month ago

The food was spectacular! Cute little cafe with amazing food and drinks! I come here all the time because I love this place so much! 10/10!!! read more

@Papi's Café - Mini Powdered donuts, Empanadas, and Fried Plantains - Empanadas Near Me - Dubuque, Iowa

@Papi's Café - Yummy Empanadas - Empanadas Near Me - Dubuque, Iowa

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Alejandra J.

Jill, we appreciate your love and support!

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Heather S.

Elite 26

9

85

33

6 months ago

The donuts are melt in your mouth. I do wish they were a tad bigger and there was another location on the west end for convenience.

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Alejandra J.

Thank you so much, Heather! We’re so happy you enjoyed the donuts and…

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Kim M.

3

106

305

10 months ago

They were out of most everything, having been closed the previous week and through the holiday weekend... But a charming family and business, great staff and service, and what we could get was excellent... The empanadas were hot and crunchy, and the sauce was a tangy, cilantro yogurt-esque dipping sauce, and the mini donuts were very tasty... Others in the group had a variety of matcha drinks and other coffees and everyone enjoyed what they got read more

@Papi's Café - Mini donuts--from top: cajeta, guava, glazed, cinnamon sugar, powdered - Empanadas Near Me - Dubuque, Iowa

@Papi's Café - Beef and potato empanada - Empanadas Near Me - Dubuque, Iowa

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Alejandra J.

Thank you so much for your kind review, Kim. We appreciate your…

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Joey R.

0

7

0

4 months ago

Great Cinnamon mini donuts & coffee. Staff was very friendly and quick service. I would definitely recommend this place

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Alejandra J.

Thank you so much, Joey! We’re so glad you enjoyed the cinnamon mini…

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Marissa M.

5

25

17

10 months ago

Honestly perfect little spot for a quick little breakfast and coffee. Went there in the morning before heading out for the day and it really set the mood right read more

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Alejandra J.

Thank you so much, Marissa. We are so happy we could be part of the…

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Chloe M.

0

4

3

1 year ago

THIS PLACE IS AMAZING!!!! Everything we ordered was absolutely delicious, the drinks and the food! Not only was everything tasty, but the presentation was beautiful. You can really see the care and time put into each menu item. Everything was perfectly crispy and soft in all the right places- the flavors were comforting and lively at the same time! Not to mention the total price was so reasonable I was shocked! This cafe is so comfy and cute & nestled right next to the library, theres great seating indoors and outdoors. The service was great- everyone had a smile on their face and was so helpful. I overheard our barista call for her mom to answer one of our questions, i'm so glad to see family buisness's coming back to our town! I'm also so happy to see more diversity in cuisine options in Dubuque. The columbian options were so unique, and nothing disappointed. They also have lots of familiar classic cafe options- so if your not looking for something new you'll still find a delicous time here. If your thinking about coming here, do it!!! Me and my family got a cafe latte, golden latte, matcha latte, empanadas, (regular & spicy), arepitas, and the pastel gloria. I would recommend any of those options! read more

@Papi's Café - Cheese Arpetias (top), Empanadas (middle), and Pastel Gloria (bottom). - Empanadas Near Me - Dubuque, Iowa

@Papi's Café - Golden latte (left), Matcha (right) - Empanadas Near Me - Dubuque, Iowa

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Alejandra J.

Thank you so much for this incredibly thoughtful review, Chloe. It…

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Jason B.

0

1

3

9 months ago

@Papi's Café is a delightful blend of authenticity, flavor, and hospitality. Whether you're a fan of Colombian cuisine or simply someone who appreciates coffee and pastries done right -- this café is a must-visit in Dubuque. You'll leave with your taste buds delighted and your spirit a little lighter. read more

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Alejandra J.

Thank you so much for the kind words, Jason. It truly means a lot to…

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Josh K.

0

3

0

1 year ago

I've not had Columbia street food before. It was so fun to go there, and everything on the menu was great. Can't get anything like it around. Staff is genuine and really add to the experience. read more

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Alejandra J.

Thank you so much for your support, Josh!

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More info about @Papi's Café

1052 Locust St
Dubuque, IA 52001
Directions
(563) 500-7173
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
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Visit Website
https://www.atpapis.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does @Papi's Café open?

@Papi's Café opens at 7:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does @Papi's Café close?

@Papi's Café closes at 3:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.@Papi's Café is closed on Thursday and Sunday.@Papi's Café closes at 1:00 PM on Saturday.

Mon-Wed, Fri 7:00 AM - 3:00 PMThu, Sun ClosedSat 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Food & Alcohol

Does @Papi's Café have catering options?

Yes, @Papi's Café does have catering options.

Does @Papi's Café serve alcohol?

No, @Papi's Café does not serve alcohol.

Outdoor Amenities

Does @Papi's Café have outdoor seating?

Yes, @Papi's Café has outdoor seating options.

Does @Papi's Café have parking?

Yes, @Papi's Café has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is @Papi's Café wheelchair accessible?

No, @Papi's Café is not wheelchair accessible.

Does @Papi's Café have free WiFi?

Yes, @Papi's Café has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

At @Papi’s Café, we specialize in authentic Colombian favorites you won’t find just anywhere: -Handmade empanadas (our customer favorite) -Fresh pandebono baked daily -Arepas and Colombian-style hot dogs -House-made sauces and bold, unique flavors -Specialty coffee drinks and refreshing fruit beverages Everything is made with care, using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.

History

Established in 2025.

@Papi’s Café is more than a business—it’s a heartfelt tribute to Papi, a man whose love for food, family, and life was larger than words. His warmth, generosity, and passion for sharing meals brought people together, and we carry that spirit forward every day.

Meet the Business Owner: Alejandra J.

@Papi’s Café is a Colombian-inspired café and bakery in Dubuque, Iowa, created to honor the legacy of "Papi," my father, whose love for food and family inspired a dream. With authentic Colombian street food, fresh donuts, and rich coffee, we bring the warmth of my heritage to the community.

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Health Score

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4.4

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Food was absolutely delicious!!! The restaurant was decorated very cutely with both booth and table…read moreseating. The food took quite a while to come out, but it was definitely worth the wait. The empanadas were perfectly flavorful and crunchy on the outside. The chorizo had a stronger taste than the beef empanada, but the beef was wonderfully juicy and tender. Would definitely recommend getting them as an appetizer! We were warned that the seafood paella would be spicy, but when we tried it, it wasn't spicy at all! It was pretty yummy anyways, so I'd say it was a very salty dish rather than spicy or hot. The rotisserie chicken was very yummy. It came with two sides and we chose sweet plantains and the fritas. The sweet plantains were soooo good, they reminded me of turons except sliced. Only complaint was that it felt like we had five different servers, which made it hard to get consistent attention or feel any personal connection to the service, especially with our table tucked away in the corner, leading to slow and scattered service. Overall, we had a delicious meal here and will definitely be returning for more. Thanks!

Had a day date with my husband and stopped here for some lunch. This place has vegan and…read moregluten-free empanadas. I feel like I died and went to heaven. They have Peruvian empanadas, and they have Colombian style empanadas made from cornflower. The vegan chorizo Colombian style empanadas were amazing! The Peruvian style ground beef and chicken empanadas were delicious as well. Their lunch offerings do have wine, beer, and even gluten-free beer options. The. Yucca fritas were delicious as well. When I was debating what sweet empanadas to take back home, I saw that they not only had sweet empanadas, but they had vegan and gluten-free black forest cake. I did not have the space to eat it, but I sure did bring it home. The black forest cake did not disappoint. It was delicious. The server was super kind and attentive. The gratuity is also included in your total which the server mentioned. He was also very proactive in asking if there were any allergies. I wish more servers and restaurants did that. How I have not been to this location until now is unbelievable to me. I could eat here every day. We will be back!

Photos

Fish ceviche

House salad that came with pescado frito

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Menu, front

Driftless Pizza

4.5

(42 reviews)

0.4 mi

Food is delicious and waitstaff is friendly. Two different homemade pizza styles to choose from:…read moreDetroit and New York thin Crust. Both amazing. The best gourmet pizza toppings in Dubuque. Most other pizza places are pretty standard run of the mill ingredients for pizzas. Driftless is really above all that. The burrata appetizer is awesome to try too. Homemade Milkshakes are a fun and welcome addition to the meal experience here. This past Christmas season they had the most amazing winter wonderland experience in their restaurant and dining areas. If they offer it again in the future- GO! Book a ticket! The impressive Harry Potter Lego display they had was worth the visit alone. Highly recommended coming here. My favorite pizza place in Dubuque. Side note: Favorite Dubuque Pizza Places: #1 - Driftless Pizza Co. #2 - Happy Joes on University

Made a reservation on Open Table for Father's Day. Ordered the GF Dubuquer, NY style Pepperoni,…read moreDetroit Dubuquer, Detroit Buffalo and the Detroit Figgy the White! We've had all but the Figgy one before and we're glad we had the chance to give that one a try as it was so delicious! We love the snugs as it makes the experience so much more intimate. Service was good! The only issue I have, every time, is that you have to ask the server for their handheld in order to review the bill. I do wish they'd bring a paper receipt to review.

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Dimensional Brewing

We came here for some food and to try some new beers, and it turned out to be trivia night as well…read more We were late for the trivia so didn't formally play, but we did have fun answering questions anyway. We got the big flight of beers to share, which has all of their beers and seltzers - like 19 different kinds. Yeah, that was a lot, but we didn't finish them all. But we did enjoy them! The place is beautiful with a very industrial brewery look to it. The staff could not have been nicer. Seriously, awesome folks. We did get one of their pizzas, which was very good. Even the leftovers the next day were great. I'm glad I don't live here as I would likely be at this brewery a lot!

Really cute game area setting. Craft beers are amazing. Highly recommend the apple pie! quick…read moreservice

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What a fantastic concept! We came in early on a Sunday for lunch and to enjoy the arcade and were…read morepleasantly surprised by the food/beverage offerings. The girls got a root beer float and the toffee butterscotch beer and both were yummy! We got some loaded fries, peach bourbon wings and fish tacos and everything was delicious. Friendly and fast service from the bar and they were very helpful in explaining where we needed to go to pick-up the food (at the back of the facility). The arcade has new and old games (pac man and donkey kong, but also a claw machine and shooting/driving games). I would definitely check this out no matter your age or interests because there is something for everyone.

Stopped in last night for a beer and a snack. It was my first time in town. I had the Bubba IPA…read morewhich I really enjoyed. I also got the fried pickles. I am sure it is for efficiency when they get busy but I found the food system slightly weird. You order with the bartender who gives you a buzzer and then you have to walk out of the restaurant (still indoors) and down the hall to pick up your food. Not far but the concept is odd considing you are tipping the bartender for the total bill but they don't even bring your food. Additionally, because I was dining solo I carried my beer and belongings with me to pick up food because I did not want to leave my drink unattended. I mean it works but I still think it's weird.

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Sprinkle wall

Decaf coffee!!

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4.3

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Loved the options and flavors!!! Ice Cream was excellent and…read moreenjoyed it a couple of times. Highly recommended if anywhere even close.

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Flavors

Looking while enjoying my selection.

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Hours

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

2 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Soledad C.

0

1

2

6 months ago

I got the hotdog and yuca fries, the oblea, and mini donuts everything is so fresh and so many traditional items to try from. The lady helping us was so nice and even spoke to us in Spanish so that was a nice. Small but so cozy, We can't wait to go back and try more things on their menu! read more

Gemma J.

0

1

0

19 days ago

I love going here! The employees are always so friendly and happy to welcome you in. The food tastes great, and I adore their matcha beverages. It's a little cramped in there but that's the constraints of the building- they even have an outdoor area! No complaints. read more

@Papi's Café - empanadas - Updated July 2026

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@Papi's Café

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@Papi's Café

Order @Papi's Café Takeout or Delivery

@Papi's Café Photos

Business Info

@Papi's Café menu photos

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Recommended Reviews - @Papi's Café

Reviews With Photos

More info about @Papi's Café

Food & Alcohol

Outdoor Amenities

Other Amenities

Ask the Community - @Papi's Café

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Driftless Pizza

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2 @Papi's Café reviews that are not currently recommended

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

2 reviews that are not currently recommended

@Papi's Café - empanadas - Updated July 2026

Best of Dubuque

People found @Papi's Café by searching for…

Trending Searches in Dubuque, IA

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