Photos by Super Chan Chan
Brother and I ended up getting take out for dinner last night and had the Pabellon Criollo (Venezuelan National Dish—a platter with white rice, black beans, shredded beef and fried sweet plantains sprinkled with white salty cheese) delivered to the apartment. It turns out that Venezuelan food, this dish in particular, is dangerously similar to my favorite Cuban treat – Vaca Frita. The major difference between the two dishes I’d say is the use of cotija cheese on the beans and a yellow sauce that accompanied the beef. While I’m not sure of the exact name of the sauce, I’d describe it as slightly sweet, slightly spicy and perhaps mustard based. The beef was also a lot less “frita” AKA more moist. Cuban rice and beans are a lot more flavorful, probably due to the generous employment of lard. The Pabellon Criollo was very satisfying, but my heart still lies with the Cubanos.
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Caracas Areapa Bar
91 E 7th Street
New York, NY 10009
Phone: 212-228-5062
When I lived in NYC I used to come that little hot spot all the time and it was so yummy! However, I will venture to say I’ve found a better joint, in Columbus, OH (WHAT THE…) El Arepazo (the Arepa Slam) is said by my Venezuelan friends as “the real venezuelan food”. The owners are from Tachira, a state bordering Columbia, so the food has a terrific blend of Columbian and Venezuelan dishes. Some selections you can find are Patacòn, Lomo Saltado, and Bandeja Paisa. So, for god knows what reason find yourself in the midwest, don’t forget about this joint. http://www.elarepazolatingrill.com/
Do you know of an LA equivalent!? I’ve been searching, but haven’t found one. The place in Beverly Hills was a giant disappointment.
In need of some good arepas!
letopho – Sadly, I haven’t the foggiest idea. A quick Google search for “Los Angeles Arepa” yielded some promising threads. Maybe followup?