Caracas Arepa Bar may not be big – in fact, its space overflows with people at peak hours, with conversations in Spanish and English taking place at high volume – but its flavors definitely are. The arepas here are fried, not baked, but they still achieve that special texture, not crumbly, not cakey, but soft and almost sweet inside and with a perfectly crisp exterior. Even better are the ingredients they stuff them with, from crumbly Latin cheeses to black beans, avocado, chorizo, and even perico, Venezuelan-style scrambled eggs (at brunch).

The tequeños, a kind of fried cheese stick, make a good starter, but the guasacaca (Venezuelan guacamole) and homemade yucca chips will leave you better able to enjoy an arepa or two. Sadly, the empanadas are nothing special, and should be avoided in favor of the more unique items available.

The chicha, a kind of thick horchata, and the banana shake are both great for washing everything down.

I was a little wary, as I’ve heard this place has gone downhill, but my first visit was satisfying. A bit pricey, but the flavors are there and the service is friendly. A comfortable neighborhood place.