The arepa, a delicious and versatile corn patty, has been rapidly gaining popularity in the American food scene, with some even calling it "the next taco." This staple of Venezuelan and Colombian cuisine is a simple yet satisfying creation: a grilled or fried ground maize patty that's crispy on the outside, soft and warm on the inside, and packed with a variety of juicy and flavorful stuffings. In Philadelphia, several fantastic restaurants are introducing the city to the comforting and delicious world of the arepa.
What is an Arepa?
At its core, an arepa is a patty made from a special, pre-cooked corn flour called masarepa. The dough is formed into a disk and can be grilled, baked, or fried. It's then split open and stuffed with a wide array of ingredients, making it a perfect handheld meal for any time of day.
A Cultural Staple
As Simon, a co-founder of Philadelphia's Puyero Venezuelan Flavor, explains, the arepa is central to Venezuelan life. "The arepa in Venezuela is the everyday meal. You have it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is our comfort food. The food our parents make us. When you are growing up, you learn how to pat an arepa." This deep cultural connection is what makes the arepa more than just a sandwich; it's a taste of home.
Where to Find Great Arepas in Philadelphia:
- Puyero Venezuelan Flavor (Queen Village/South Street):
- The Vibe: A bright, colorful, and fun fast-casual spot, Puyero is a go-to destination for authentic Venezuelan street food. The name itself is a Venezuelan slang term for a fun, party-like atmosphere.
- The Arepas: They offer a fantastic selection of classic arepas, with popular fillings like the Pabellón (shredded beef, black beans, sweet plantains, and cheese) and the Reina Pepiada (a creamy chicken and avocado salad).
- Location: 524 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
- Shango's an Arepa Stand (Olde Richmond):
- The Vibe: A newer, popular spot that has quickly gained a loyal following for its delicious and well-crafted arepas.
- The Arepas: Shango's offers a creative and diverse menu of arepa fillings, from classic braised meats to excellent vegetarian and vegan options.
- The Toston (West Philadelphia):
- The Vibe: While they specialize in the tostón (a sandwich using fried plantains as bread), The Toston also serves up fantastic Venezuelan fare, including arepas.
- The Arepas: It's a great place to explore a full range of Venezuelan street food in a casual and friendly setting.
The arepa is a delicious, satisfying, and gluten-free sandwich that offers a true taste of Venezuelan and Colombian culture. With fantastic local spots like Puyero leading the way, Philadelphia has a growing and vibrant arepa scene that is ready to be explored. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, a visit to one of these restaurants for a juicy, flavor-packed arepa is a must.