Born in Miami in 2008, Half Moon Empanadas is a growing national food brand on a mission to bring people together through bold, handcrafted empanadas made for life on the move. With 29 locations nationwide, primarily in major U.S. airports, we serve travelers, students, and busy consumers seeking real food without compromising quality. Our fresh-baked empanadas combine authentic Latin flavors, quality ingredients, and grab-and-go convenience. But we are more than a food brand. We believe business can open doors, build careers, and create lasting impact for our people, partners, and communities. Our purpose is simple: to nourish the hustle and heart behind every journey.

Pilar Guzmán is the founder and CEO of Half Moon Empanadas, a Miami-based company with 29 locations nationwide, including 27 in major U.S. airports. Since founding the company in 2008, she has transformed it into a leader in airport dining, with a mission to make empanadas a staple of American cuisine.

Pilar received the 2026 Tory Burch Foundation Founder Award and was named to Inc.’s 2024 Female Founders 250. Half Moon has appeared on the Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing companies four consecutive years.

A passionate advocate for women and minority entrepreneurs, Pilar mentors business owners and champions access to capital and opportunities for small businesses.

Originally from Mexico, she holds a master’s degree from Georgetown University and attended Harvard Business School’s Owner/President Management Program. She is also a Tory Burch Fellow and a graduate of Stanford’s Latino Business Action Network Scaling Program.

Above all, Pilar considers her greatest achievement being a mother to Diego and Sofia.

www.halfmoonempanadas.com