Meet Big Papa's Empanadas, a new shop inspired by one of hip-hop’s biggest names that's joining the city's growing food scene. The new eatery near Johnson C. Smith University will open on Thursday, Sept. 3, and serve large empanadas and sides. More on the size below.

The restaurant started as a spinoff of Chef Jonathan Leonard's catering company, Freshly Cracked. To minimize food waste, Leonard started freezing ingredients inside empanada shells. Unlike traditional two- or four-oz. pastries, Big Papa's will serve hefty eight-oz. portions.

"When you order, know that you're getting a half pound of empanada. It's a whole meal in your hand," Chef Leonard told CLTtoday.

A black, white, gray, and yellow mural of Biggie Smalls at Big papa's Empanadas. — When you order at Big Papa's Empanadas, be sure to check out this Biggie mural by local artist and former UNC Charlotte football player Alex Duncan. | Photo via Big Papa's Empanadas

The menu is inspired by hip-hop, particularly Biggie Smalls, with musical references woven throughout the menu. Highlights include the "Big Papa," which is filled with brisket bacon gouda cheeseburger, and "Return of the Mac," a Creole-inspired mac and cheese. Sides include vegan sweet potato fries, tallow fries, and seasonal side salads.

The restaurant will be open Thursday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 3:30 a.m, with plans to expand operating hours in the future. Want to visit? Enter through the parking lot. Bonus: An awning will be installed soon for a covered patio experience.