Thick-crusted empanadas are savory pies filled with all sorts of meats, fish or poultry. In Mexico, empanadas are usually small hand pies worth just a few bites. But in Galicia, the region in the top northwest corner of Spain, thick-crusted empanadas are baked in huge dimensions to be cut into big wedges. This Spanish snack food usually is sold by the slice at deli takeaway counters and bakeries. They make great party food, can be served hot or cold and are sturdy enough to take on a picnic.

Spanish empanadas, or pies, are now sold here in Pittsburgh at Asylum Coffee Bar, located in the Uptown neighborhood. The shop opened this month, offering the usual suspects: coffees, teas and bakery items. But, and good for the owners, all the food items are made fresh by local suppliers. The Spanish pies also can be found at Espresso A Mano in Lawrenceville.

The empanadas, $6.50 to $8.50 per pie, can be cut into seven or more wedges. They are available in six fillings. Tuna pie is the most traditional version, with capers for zest. Beef pie, made with local, grass-fed beef, is nicknamed "pot roast pie" by fans. Chorizo Sausage pie tempers fiery Spanish chorizo with potatoes. Local Vegetable pie appeals to vegans. Chicken with Spinach pie is mild enough for the kids. And Apple Cheddar pie, made with tart apples, sharp cheddar and a touch of honey, is terrific any time for anybody, and it makes for a sturdy breakfast.

Chef Daniel Aguera, Pittsburgh-based but born in Asturias, is the man behind the pies. He also operates a catering business. His Web site is tryspanishpie.com. So how does a nice Spanish muchacho land in Pittsburgh? The usual way. He fell in love with a Pittsburgh gal.

Asylum Coffee Bar, 1919 Forbes Ave., in Uptown.

Espresso A Mano, 3623 Butler St., in Lawrenceville.

For catering: 412-407-PIES.

Have a fresh food find? E-mail food@post-gazette.com.

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