What La Segunda Central Bakery is and where to find it

La Segunda Central Bakery is a Cuban bakery chain based in Tampa, Florida, known for hand-rolled empanadas and other traditional Cuban pastries. The original location opened in Ybor City in 1929 and has since expanded to multiple locations across Florida. If you're looking for fresh empanadas, this is one of the oldest and most established sources in the state.

The bakery operates physical storefronts where you can walk in and buy items fresh from the oven. Most locations are open early in the morning — typically starting around 6 or 7 a.m. — because Cuban bakeries traditionally serve breakfast customers. You can find their locations by searching "La Segunda Central Bakery" online or calling ahead to confirm hours, as they vary by location.

The bakery does not operate a website where you can order online for delivery. You need to visit in person or call a specific location to place a phone order for pickup. This is typical for traditional bakeries that focus on fresh-baked goods made throughout the day.

Key Takeaways

  • La Segunda Central Bakery is a historic Cuban bakery chain in Florida that makes empanadas and other pastries by hand, with the original location in Ybor City dating back to 1929.
  • You can only purchase items by visiting a physical location or calling ahead to place a phone order for pickup — there is no online ordering system.
  • Most locations open early in the morning, typically between 6 and 7 a.m., because the bakery serves breakfast customers and sells items fresh from the oven.
  • Empanadas come in several varieties including meat, cheese, and fruit fillings, and prices are typically low because the bakery has been operating for nearly a century.

Types of empanadas and other items you can buy

La Segunda makes empanadas with a variety of fillings. The most common are carne (seasoned ground beef), queso (cheese), and guayaba y queso (guava and cheese). Some locations also carry meat pies with chicken or picadillo filling. The pastry itself is made fresh daily and has a crispy, golden exterior.

Beyond empanadas, the bakery sells other Cuban pastries and breads. You can find pan de queso (cheese bread), croquetas (fried croquettes, usually ham or cheese), and traditional Cuban bread. Many locations also sell coffee and beverages to go with your pastry. The exact inventory varies by location and time of day — items made early in the morning may sell out by mid-afternoon.

How to order and what to expect when you arrive

If you visit in person, walk up to the counter and tell the staff what you want. Most locations have a display case where you can see the empanadas and other items. You point to what you want, they bag it, and you pay. The whole transaction usually takes a few minutes. Many locations have a small seating area if you want to eat there, though most customers take their order to go.

If you call ahead, have the location's phone number ready and ask what empanadas and pastries are currently available. Tell them how many of each type you want and when you plan to pick up. They will hold your order for a short window — typically an hour or two. Arrive during that window to pay and collect your bag.

Prices are low by modern standards because the bakery has been operating since 1929 and focuses on volume and tradition rather than premium pricing. A single empanada typically costs between $1 and $3 depending on the filling and location. Croquetas and other items are similarly affordable.

Payment methods and what to bring

Most La Segunda locations accept both cash and card payments. However, some older or smaller locations may be cash-only, so it is worth asking when you call or checking when you arrive. If you are ordering by phone, confirm payment method when you place the order.

You do not need to bring anything except money or a card. The bakery bags your order for you. If you are eating there, you may want to bring napkins or wet wipes because empanadas and croquetas can be greasy — though most locations provide napkins at the counter.

Differences between La Segunda and other Cuban bakeries

La Segunda is one of the oldest Cuban bakeries in Florida and has name recognition because of its history and multiple locations. Other Cuban bakeries in your area may be smaller, family-run operations with only one location. The quality of empanadas varies by bakery and by individual baker — some people prefer smaller, newer bakeries where they know the owner, while others prefer La Segunda because it is consistent and widely available.

The main practical difference is availability and hours. La Segunda has multiple locations across Florida, so you are more likely to find one near you. Smaller bakeries may have more limited hours or be closed on certain days. If you want to try empanadas from different bakeries, you can compare the pastry thickness, filling ratio, and seasoning to see which style you prefer.

What to do if your nearest location is closed or out of stock

If you arrive and find the location closed, check the posted hours or call to confirm when they open. Many bakeries close in the afternoon after the morning rush, so timing matters. If you call ahead and they tell you a specific empanada type is sold out, ask what is available instead or ask when they will make a fresh batch.

If no La Segunda location is convenient, search for other Cuban bakeries in your area. Most cities with a Cuban population have at least one traditional bakery. You can also ask for recommendations at Cuban restaurants — staff there often know which bakeries are nearby and which ones are worth visiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order La Segunda empanadas online and have them shipped?

No. La Segunda does not offer online ordering or shipping. You must visit a physical location or call a specific bakery to place a phone order for pickup. The bakery focuses on fresh-baked goods sold the same day they are made.

What time should I go to get the freshest empanadas?

Go in the early morning, typically between 6 and 9 a.m., when the bakery has just finished baking. Items made early in the day are more likely to still be warm and in stock. If you go in the afternoon, popular varieties may be sold out.

Are La Segunda empanadas made with lard or vegetable oil?

Traditional Cuban empanadas are often made with lard, which gives them their characteristic flavor and texture. However, recipes and ingredients vary by location and may have changed over time. Call the bakery directly if you have dietary restrictions or need to know the exact ingredients.

Do they make empanadas with vegetarian fillings?

Most La Segunda locations make cheese empanadas and guava-and-cheese empanadas, both of which are vegetarian. Some locations may also make spinach or other vegetable varieties, but this varies. Call ahead to ask what vegetarian options are available at your nearest location.

How long do empanadas stay fresh if I buy them to take home?

Empanadas are best eaten the same day you buy them, while the pastry is still crispy. If you need to store them, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. You can reheat them in a 350-degree oven for a few minutes to restore crispness, though they will not taste exactly the same as fresh.