Business and Economic Development Specialist Jenessa Norton is proud to support Anissah Sanchez, owner of Empanissah’s, a vibrant new Latin-American fusion restaurant opening in the heart of downtown Erie.
Through her contracted work with organizations such as Bridgeway Capital, the Erie Downtown Development Corporation, Radius CoWork, and Erie’s Black Wall Street, Jenessa helped bring together multiple community stakeholders to turn Anissah’s dream into reality.
Located in the former Catfish Kitchen space at 38 North Park Row, Empanissah’s will officially open its doors with a “Grand Opening Fiesta” on Sunday, November 2nd from 2–8 PM. The celebration will feature a ribbon cutting at 2:15pm, special promotions, free tastings, music, and more — welcoming the entire community to experience Erie’s newest taste of Latin culture.
Empanissah’s specializes in over 10 handcrafted empanada flavors — both sweet and savory — along with flavorful Latin-inspired plates. Born from a deep love of authentic flavor, community, and culture, the restaurant blends traditional Latin tastes with modern dining. Signature offerings include the “Create Your Plate” meal, allowing guests to customize their empanada, meat, and sides, as well as the “Lil’ Empanaditos” kids’ meal, introducing young eaters to Latin cuisine in a fun and flavorful way.
Owner Anissah Sanchez has been cooking and sharing her dishes with the Erie community for more than six years, operating out of a local kitchen incubator before achieving this long-awaited milestone — her very own restaurant.
“Empanissah’s is more than food — it’s a celebration of culture, family, and perseverance,” said Sanchez. “This space represents years of dedication and community support, and I can’t wait to welcome everyone to experience the flavors I love.”
Empanissah’s aims to serve not only as a restaurant but also as a hub for cultural pride and connection within Erie’s growing Hispanic and Latin communities. With catering services, family meals, and future partnerships planned, Empanissah’s is ready to nourish both the stomach and the
soul — one empanada at a time.
