A ribbon-cutting ceremony with flamenco dancers was held Tuesday at a new restaurant in downtown Albany.

Viva Empanadas opened at the corner of North Pearl Street and Sheridan Avenue.

The business originally started as a food truck by Owner Veronica Agama, who moved to the Capital Region from New York City in 2022. It then expanded to its first restaurant at The Galleria 7 in Latham.

The menu features empanadas, arepas, tamales, choripán, rice bowls, and more. The new Albany location also features tapas and a full bar with Latin drink specialties.