The Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce celebrates a longtime Chamber Ambassador, local entrepreneur, and the flavors bringing people together across Los Angeles.

The Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce team recently enjoyed a special lunch hosted by Graciella Boltiansky, co-founder of Nonna’s Empanadas, at its West 3rd Street location, just outside Beverly Hills. The afternoon offered an opportunity to celebrate friendship, entrepreneurship, and the warm hospitality that has made Nonna’s a favorite among Angelenos.

For well over a decade, Graciella has been an important part of the Beverly Hills Chamber community. As a dedicated Chamber Ambassador, active member of our Women’s Business Network, and experienced travel and tourism professional, she brings an exceptional spirit of generosity, connection, and enthusiasm to everything she does.

Her ongoing commitment to supporting local businesses, welcoming new members, and strengthening community relationships exemplifies the values that make the Chamber special.

The Meaning Behind Nonna’s: A Name That Feels Like Home

In Italian, nonna means “grandmother,” a familiar term of endearment that immediately evokes the comforts of home, family traditions, and meals prepared with love. The name is simple, memorable, and wonderfully approachable. Its appeal transcends cultures and generations because nearly everyone can relate to the warmth and affection associated with a grandmother’s kitchen.

The inspiration behind Nonna’s reflects this sentiment. Rooted in the Ekmekgian family’s Argentine heritage and memories of home cooking, the restaurant brings together family tradition and culinary creativity. Co-founded by Graciella Boltiansky and fellow Argentine entrepreneur Mario Ekmekgian, Nonna’s has grown from its beginnings on West 3rd Street into a recognizable Los Angeles culinary brand. The concept is as welcoming as its name: freshly baked empanadas, familiar flavors, inventive recipes, and food meant to be enjoyed together.

A World of Flavors, Wrapped in Tradition

The empanada is a beloved part of Argentine cuisine, and Nonna’s celebrates that tradition with a distinctly international approach. With more than 36 savory and sweet flavors, there is something to satisfy just about every craving. Each empanada is handcrafted, baked rather than fried, and stamped with its flavor for easy identification.

During our visit, the Chamber team sampled an assortment of old favorites and creative selections, including the hearty Philly Cheese Steak, Korean BBQ, along with delightful sweet varieties such as guava, pumpkin, strawberries and cream cheese.

The menu extends well beyond traditional beef and chicken fillings. Guests can discover everything from Cuban-inspired and Korean BBQ empanadas to vegetarian selections, breakfast favorites, and decadent dessert creations.

Graciella and her team also thoughtfully prepared a generous assortment of savory empanadas for us to bring back to the Chamber office, where they were enthusiastically enjoyed by our colleagues. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch, an afternoon snack, or part of a larger gathering, Nonna’s demonstrates how one simple, traditional food can become a celebration of diverse culinary influences.

Conversations, Connections, and New Ideas

Beyond the delicious lunch, our visit offered another opportunity to explore the creative possibilities that arise when hospitality and business leadership come together.

We had the pleasure of meeting Howard Gordon, an accomplished hospitality entrepreneur whose career includes the opening of more than 150 restaurants. Our conversation sparked several entertaining ideas for future community gatherings, including a potential empanada-eating contest and an event centered around traditional Argentine mate tea.

Stay tuned for what may be cooking next!

Three Locations to Discover Across Los Angeles

From the neighborhoods surrounding Beverly Hills to two of Los Angeles’ most celebrated public markets, Nonna’s Empanadas has established a presence in three distinctive culinary destinations.

West 3rd Street | Beverly Hills Adjacent
8556 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048

Located along the vibrant West 3rd Street dining corridor, Nonna’s offers a welcoming neighborhood destination just minutes from Beverly Hills. This convenient location serves nearby residents, professionals, and visitors looking for a delicious lunch, a quick takeaway meal, or something special to share with colleagues.

The Original Farmers Market | Fairfax District
6333 W 3rd St, Stall 330, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Situated within the historic Original Farmers Market, adjacent to The Grove, Nonna’s is part of one of the city’s most beloved culinary destinations. Established in 1934, the Farmers Market has welcomed generations of Angelenos and visitors from around the world. Its eclectic collection of food merchants, specialty shops, and open-air dining spaces creates an atmosphere that celebrates both tradition and discovery.

Grand Central Market | Downtown Los Angeles
317 S Broadway, Stall C-12, Los Angeles, CA 90013

In the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, Nonna’s joins the diverse collection of food merchants at the iconic Grand Central Market. A Los Angeles institution since 1917, Grand Central Market represents the city’s rich culinary heritage and its continually evolving food culture. Surrounded by historic architecture, cultural attractions, and the energy of Downtown, the market provides a dynamic setting for Nonna’s Argentine-inspired specialties.

Thank you for bringing people together, one empanada at a time!

Visit Nonna’s Empanadas! Discover the full selection of savory and sweet empanadas, explore catering options, and find a location near you.

Website: www.nonnasempanadas.com

Instagram: @nonnasempanadas

Follow Graciella: @gratravels