Philadelphia, PA - Get ready for a taste of the tropics, University City! Puyero Venezuelan Flavor, the popular Queens Village eatery, is bringing its authentic Venezuelan street food to 3428 Sansom Street in mid-November.
Brothers Gilberto and Simón Arends, along with Manuela Villasmil, are the driving force behind Puyero. Their mission? To share the vibrant flavors and culture of their homeland with Philadelphia.
"We really wanted to bring the essentials of Venezuelan street food, so it wouldn’t be too unfamiliar to anyone," says Gilberto Arends. "Venezuelan food may look unfamiliar, but there are a lot of things that people can connect with."
The menu will feature classic Venezuelan street food staples like arepas (corn cakes filled with various savory ingredients) and patacones (sandwiches made with fried plantains). Arends emphasizes that the menu is designed to be accessible, even to those who are new to Venezuelan cuisine.
While primarily a takeout spot, Puyero will offer limited seating in a vibrant space that captures the energy of urban Venezuela. Think bright colors, lively music, and a "tropical, hip vibe" that transports you straight to the streets of Caracas.
"We wanted to bring colors, liveliness, the music, which is pretty upbeat," says Arends. "It’s like the way we grew up in Venezuela."
More than just a restaurant, Puyero aims to be a cultural hub where the community can experience the heart and soul of Venezuela.
"To get to share our story as immigrants and to get the city to experience a first-hand experience of who we are, our culture, our story, and become a home away from home," Arends explains.
So, if you're looking for a taste of something new and exciting, be sure to check out Puyero when it opens its doors in mid-November. It's sure to be a delicious adventure!
