Operations

Virtual Dining Concepts acquires Empanadas United

Photo: VDC

April 29, 2025

Virtual Dining Concepts has added Empanadas United, a family founded business serving empanadas, to its portfolio of brands, including Man vs Fries, Pardon My Cheesesteak, MrBeast Burger, Buddy V's Cake Slice and MLB Ballpark Bites.

Drawing on the flavors and traditions of founder Victor Tejada's Dominican heritage, Empanadas United specializes in handcrafted empanadas. Guests choose from an assortment of fillings, including cheese, chicken, beef, pizza, cheesesteak, buffalo, spinach and guava and cheese, said Tejada, who began crafting and delivering empanadas from his home kitchen during the pandemic. As his recipes gained popularity, he leveraged empanadas — a staple in the Latino community — to help Latino restaurants enter the digital dining space, By partnering with independent restaurants and transforming their kitchens into empanada hubs, Tejada diversified revenue streams and expanded Empanadas United to 160 locations across the Northeast, appealing to both Hispanic and non-Hispanic consumers. The brand also operates two brick-and-mortar locations in Philadelphia.

"I am so proud of how far we've come with Empanadas United, and with the support of VDC, we are excited to expand even more, bringing our cultural heritage to new audiences across the nation," he said in a company press release. "It's incredibly rewarding to see a Latino-owned business succeed, and I hope it's just the beginning for Hispanic entrepreneurs."

The acquisition of Empanadas United allows the brand to reach mass markets through VDC's enterprise partners while also providing additional revenue streams for restaurants. With the aid of VDC's nationwide network, Empanadas United sales are on track to exceed $24 million in sales in 2025. While VDC continues to expand its roster of market partners, Tejada will continue to oversee the brands' day-to-day operations, business development and company culture.

"We are thrilled to join forces with Victor Tejada and Empanadas United, whose mission and innovative spirit align perfectly with our vision at Virtual Dining Concepts," Robbie Earl, president and co-founder of VDC, said in the release. "Victor's work with revolutionizing delivery for independent restaurants exemplifies the visionary leadership we champion. We are excited to help Empanadas United take this next step into the delivery landscape and see the brand take off."

Guests may order Empanadas United through the brand's official website or via third-party delivery platforms such as Uber Eats, DoorDash and Grubhub. Simply visit the website or app, select your location, and choose from the delicious menu options available. For more information on how to become a Empanadas United partner, please visit www.joinvdc.com.

"Being able to bring the success that Empanadas United has achieved to a broader audience, across the nation, is a huge win for our restaurant partners in the industry," Adam Robin, COO of VDC, said in the release. "VDC has spent the last several years evolving the virtual brand space by developing new brands and targeting the most successful concepts to join our thriving network. Our latest acquisition of Empanadas United is just the first step in our flurry of moves in 2025."