Arepas in Astoria

What's an Arepa, you ask?

An arepa is a sweet corn fried/grilled/baked bread that is stuffed with a variety of South American Toppings, such as beans, avocado, plantains and different cheeses and meats.

Although traditionally a South American dish that originated in Venezuela, you are finding more arepa specific cafes and restaurants showing up in the city. Arepas are not only extremely delicious but they also are a great cheap treat.

Many of you probably have tried a Mozzarepa at street fairs but the traditional arepa is less sweet and less greasy. I had my first traditional arepa at a friends house few years ago but didn't have the chance to have one again until last year when a friend told me of an arepa specific restaurant in the city. The first arepas cafe I tried was Caracas in the East Village. Always a pleasant experience but you often have to wait 30 minutes to an hour for a table. Then I tried El Cocotero in Chelsea and found them to be a little less impressive. Nice atmosphere but the dishes felt like they were lacking their authenticity. Lastly, I tried Arepas Cafe in Astoria and found them to be just as good as Caracas. Similar to Caracas, they have a variety of toppings, a friendly staff, and serve alcohol. However, the plus side is you don't have to wait 30-60 minutes, the arepas are cheaper but still good, and you don't have to leave Astoria!

The next time you're in the mood for South American food or want to try an arepa, visit Arepas Cafe on 36th Ave and 33rd Street. You may also want to make a stop there before or after you visit Studio Square. My favorite arepa is the Guayanesa Tropical but that's because I'm a vegetarian. I would recommend ordering one arepa and an appetizer or 2 arepas. Of course feel free to have more if you have a bigger appetite.

Enjoy.

Tags: Astoria, Restaurant

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Comment by Danaher Dempsey on February 19, 2010 at 4:52pm: Just went here! I was very happy with the arepas! Will definitely be going back!

Comment by Alex Cano on October 23, 2009 at 11:40am: The above mentioned places all have awesome arepas. Colombian arepas are also delicious, but....they're served a little differently. They're not usually stuffed. Traditionally Colombians have their arepas flat with butter and cheese. Toppings can be added but it's not the norm as is in Venezuela. Arepas de Chocolo are similar in taste to Venezuelan Cachapas but again are presented differently. Anybody ever try 'Arepa Costeña"? It's traditional in the Atlantic Coast of Colombia to eat a deep fried Arepa.....it puffs up in the frier....it's removed and an egg is cracked into it, then refried for a few seconds. It's good, but definitely GREASY!!!!!! LOL
We're all going to be Arepa experts pretty soon!!!!

Comment by Dan B. on August 15, 2009 at 12:17pm: Someone told me that theres some Colombian place on Ditmars that makes the best arepas in Astoria... Maybe even all of NYC. who knows. =)