Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher Hirtz.
Hi Christopher, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
World Empanadas is a proud family-owned business serving handcrafted Argentinian and Mexican-style empanadas since 2012. What began humbly in the back of a local liquor store has grown into a vibrant brick-and-mortar shop nestled in the heart of Burbank’s charming Magnolia Park.
We offer over 20 unique empanada varieties—each with a global twist—alongside savory breakfast burritos from the Toasty Burrito Project and fresh pasta creations from World’s Pasta Cup. Every bite reflects our passion for quality, culture, and community.
Come visit us, taste the difference, and discover the story behind every flavor.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The past few years tested us deeply—from the disruptions of COVID to the IATSE protests and picketing that shook the entertainment industry and nearly wiped out our Burbank customer base. Yet through every setback, we leaned into the strength of our community. Their steadfast support and engagement carried us forward, and together, we emerged more resilient than ever.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
World Empanadas is rooted in a legacy of entrepreneurship—our family has been building and sustaining businesses since the late 1970s. After decades of innovation and hard work, we’ve found our home in this beloved restaurant, now thriving for over 13 years.
We’re proud to stand on the shoulders of a resilient family foundation that not only supports us unconditionally but also brings the wisdom and experience to nurture lasting relationships—relationships that drive shared success.
Our mission is to offer unique, healthier food options that reflect the vibrant, wellness-focused spirit of LA. Above all, we care deeply for our community and strive to serve it with heart, flavor, and purpose.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Being part of a tight-knit family unit has been our greatest strength—and at the heart of it all is our mother. She’s been the driving force behind our risk management, guiding us through every phase of building the business and skillfully navigating us out of any challenges that come our way. Her foresight and resilience have laid the foundation for everything we’ve accomplished.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.worldempanadas.com
- Instagram: Worldempanadas
- Facebook: World empanadas
- Twitter: World.empanadas
- Youtube: World Empanadas
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/ua92WkZUya
