Press & Awards | Julio's Empanadas

Favorite Chef 2026 — Presented by Carla Hall

Julio Named a Favorite Chef 2026 Finalist — Currently Ranked #1

FavChef · Benefiting the James Beard Foundation · June 2026

Julio Pagan has been selected as a finalist in the prestigious Favorite Chef competition presented by culinary icon Carla Hall. He’s currently ranked #1 in his group. The winner earns a feature in Taste of Home magazine, a chance to cook alongside Carla Hall, and a $25,000 prize. Voting is free — cast one vote per day through the elimination rounds and help bring this honor home to Gulfport.

Vote for Julio First elimination: June 11, 2026

Tampa Bay Times

New restaurant opens in St. Petersburg's Tyrone area: Julio's Latin Twist

By Sharon Kennedy Wynne — July 12, 2023

The Tampa Bay Times covered the opening of Julio's Empanadas, highlighting Julio's passion for bringing authentic Latin flavors to the Gulfport and St. Petersburg area. The article introduced Tampa Bay to a restaurant built on handcrafted recipes, personal service, and a bold promise: One Bite — Change Your Life.

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St. Petersburg Foodies

Gulfport Just Got a Little Tastier with Julio's Empanadas

By Kevin Godbee — January 12, 2024

St. Petersburg Foodies spotlighted Julio's Empanadas as a standout addition to the Gulfport dining scene, recognizing the craft, flavor, and community spirit that define the restaurant.

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FOX 13 — Charley Belcher