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Arepa and empanada spots

Made for those who demand an authentic rotation of arepas and empanadas in their daily diet.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
Arepa's Colombianas image 1
Arepa's Colombianas image 2
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Restaurant inside a mall offers authentic Colombian arepas and vegetarian options with flavorful mushrooms. Atmosphere feels safe and quiet, creating a sense of home in the Southbay. Portions are just right with very reasonable prices.

Stuffed arepas come huge and loaded with ingredients, including options like Arepa Montaรฑera and vegetarian varieties. The Arepa Choclo offers a mild sweet flavor from special sweet corn, and the arepas overall are very filling and authentic Colombian style.

Meat empanadas stand out with rich flavor and a delicious, satisfying filling. Ordering requires planning since staff insists on an hour advance notice for empanadas.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and well-seasoned."

"These arepas are delicious and loaded with fresh ingredients."

"I found the empanadas to be one of the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of one hour or more during peak hours.

2

The phone line is currently not operational for reservations.

3

Vegetarian options are available, featuring flavorful mushrooms.

02
Nova Bakery image 1
Restaurant

Small, charming bakery with tasteful decoration and a calm, family-friendly atmosphere. Good music and a fireplace add warmth to the space, which can feel crowded during peak hours. Seating is simple but uncomfortable for long stays.

Shredded beef and Reina Pepiada stand out among the corn arepas and potato balls. Arepas come with great flavor and care, often paired with empanadas or cachapas for a full experience.

Cheese and pabellรณn empanadas stand out with rich fillings and scrambled eggs on the side. Tequeรฑos and empanadas come packed with full flavor and careful preparation.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I found the empanadas here to be amazing and delicious."

"I thought the Arepas were delicious and made with love."

Good to know

1

Parking at Nova Bakery can be difficult, especially in the evening.

2

The prices at Nova Bakery are affordable for Venezuelan food.

3

Expect a variety of authentic Venezuelan dishes on the menu.

03
Pepiteria+58 image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Spacious Venezuelan restaurant offers authentic pepitos and best cachapas in Los Angeles. Atmosphere feels family-oriented and comfortable, with small tables suited for groups. Pepito Guaro drink adds a distinctive touch to the experience.

Arepas come with a homemade flavor and a clear Colombian touch. They are well-stuffed and made with quality ingredients, matching the taste of traditional recipes.

Empanadas stand out for their delicious flavor and Venezuelan style, especially the pabellรณn variety. They draw frequent visits due to their consistent quality.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was the best I had ever tasted."

"The arepas here taste homemade and are so flavorful."

"I found the empanadas here to be so delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours.

3

Parking is available on the street, but can be limited.

04
Arepas El Chamo image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Outdoor seating in a garden setting creates a peaceful atmosphere with natural flowers and roosters in the yard adding charm. The space feels family-run and quiet, offering a comfortable spot to enjoy Venezuelan dishes. A food truck near cozy seats adds a unique touch to the dining experience.

Arepas come freshly made and packed with flavor. Options like the carne mechada, reina pepiada, and domino arepa offer a mix of meats, plantains, beans, and cheese that stand out for their taste and authenticity.

Chicken and shredded beef empanadas stand out with rich fillings and a delicious flavor. They pair well with arepas and tequeรฑos for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"I loved their arepas; they were so delicious."

"The food at this outdoor seating was delicious and freshly made."

"I thought the empanadas were delicious and very good."

Good to know

1

Free street parking is available and appears safe.

2

Prices are generally good, with many items under $10.

3

The restaurant is not open every day.

05
Wezzarepas image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small family-owned Colombian restaurant offers authentic arepas and Colombian hot dogs with a wide menu selection. The atmosphere is lively and clean with local music and outdoor seating. Lines form often but move quickly, reflecting steady demand for its affordable, flavorful food.

Arepas here have a cheesy jalapeรฑo kick and a perfect balance of moisture and saltiness. Varieties like the arepa chocolo and Jalaroni mix sweet corn, spice, and savory pepperoni for unique flavors.

Every bite of the empanada de carne gets more delicious as you eat. They come fresh and pair well with corn arepas. The empanadas stand out for their rich flavor and freshness.

People are saying

"The arepas here are fresh and delicious."

"I found the empanadas to be delicious and flavorful."

"I thought the hot dogs were excellent, savory, crunchy, and a little sweet."

Good to know

1

The prices at Wezzarepas are very affordable.

2

The menu offers a wide selection of appealing choices.

3

The serving size of the dishes exceeds expectations for the price.

06
Cantoo Latin Asian Rotisserie image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Basement setting with grotto-like atmosphere and remnants of previous restaurants creates a unique, slightly shabby but welcoming vibe. Latin American music plays softly, adding to the peaceful and cozy environment. Spacious and clean interior feels like a blend of casual dining and cultural character.

Arepas come in mini sizes and serve as a consistent side alongside dishes like chicken rotisserie and yucca fries. They have a tasty, satisfying texture that pairs well with rice and noodle options.

Shredded beef empanadas stand out with rich flavor and generous filling. Chicken empanadas also offer a plentiful, tasty option alongside other dishes like dumplings and Venezuelan-style rice.

People are saying

"The empanadas are huge, with delicious fillings like shredded beef."

"These chili oil dumplings are delicious and make your tongue sing."

"I found the Arepa here to be really great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant celebrates its one-year anniversary in December with special events.

2

Expect a diverse menu featuring unique Asian-Venezuelan dishes.

3

Portions are generous and reasonably priced for the area.

07
Coffee Bodega Farm-to-Table image 1

Tiny coffee shop with cozy seating and plant-filled decor creates a living room vibe. Atmosphere stays quiet and companionable, with soft classical music and a home-like feel. Dog park outside adds a unique touch for visitors with pets.

Cheesy and gluten-free arepas stand out here. They pair well with fresh empanadas and coffee.

Empanadas feature a delicate, thin, crispy crust with fillings like Carne Asada, bolognese, ham and cheese, and BBQ pork. They bake fresh on site, offering savory flavor and perfect flakiness.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be the best I had in the city."

"I found the empanadas here to be delicious and amazing."

"I loved the Arepa; the staff was super attentive."

Good to know

1

No dogs are allowed inside; animals must wait outside for sanitation.

2

The coffee shop does not offer Wi-Fi, making it a quiet work environment.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for local vendors nearby.

08
Tereโ€™s fast food image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Pavilion-style setup offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with authentic Venezuelan music enhancing the vibe. The place feels like a home away from home for Venezuelan cuisine lovers, drawing those seeking delicious, traditional dishes like arepas and cachapas.

Arepas come out perfectly cooked and filled with lots of meat or creamy avocado spread. Options like the Reina Pepiada and Arepa pabellon stand out for their juicy shredded chicken and rich flavors.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with tender filling and a balanced mix of peppers and cheese. Pabellรณn empanadas and other varieties are perfectly cooked and bring authentic Venezuelan flavors.

People are saying

"These empanadas are packed with flavor and seasoned to perfection."

"The arepas here are perfectly golden and generously stuffed."

"I loved the authentic Venezuelan flavors and warm hospitality at this Fast Food."

Good to know

1

The prices are excellent for the amount of food.

2

Tereโ€™s fast food is very clean.

3

There is plenty of parking available.

09
Mi Venezuela image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy, and beautifully decorated space offers an authentic Venezuelan dining experience with excellent arepas and flavorful dishes. Atmosphere feels pleasant and clean but can be unfriendly toward non-Venezuelan diners. Prices remain affordable with no long waits.

Arepas feature authentic Venezuelan flavor with options like grilled beef and reina pepiada fillings. Multiple sauces come with the arepas, enhancing their delicious taste.

Empanadas use yellow PAN flour and come with a salsa de verde. They taste excellent and pair well with other dishes like beef soup and tequeรฑos.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious, just like back home."

"I had the best arepa I've ever had in California."

"I found the empanadas here to be out of this world."

Good to know

1

The prices are very affordable with generous portion sizes.

2

There is plenty of parking available, including electric vehicle chargers.

3

Phone-in orders are accepted for customers pressed for time.

10
PACIFICO Latin American Cuisine image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Colombian flavors with a warm, cozy atmosphere filled with natural light and Colombian music. The vibe stays relaxed and cultural, creating a welcoming, almost familial feel. Dishes blend Colombian and Peruvian influences, delivering unique and refined tastes.

Crab-filled arepa de huevo stands out with its rich flavor and unique presentation. Arepas come with various fillings like steak and meat, offering a solid taste of Colombian style.

Beef empanadas come out nice and crispy with a pristine finish. They pair well with other dishes like caldo de costilla and ceviche, which complement the flavors.

People are saying

"This ceviche is melting in your mouth, so fresh and delicious."

"I loved the crispy beef empanadas."

"You have to try the arepa de huevo with crab meat."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect to spend over $50 per person, excluding drinks.

3

Portion sizes may be smaller than expected, so plan accordingly.

11
Lily's Taste Colombian Food image 1
Colombian restaurant

Spacious setting suits family gatherings with Colombian-style music creating a cozy atmosphere. Warm aromas and authentic flavors bring a traditional Colombian vibe. Moderate music and pleasant energy make it good for socializing.

Arepas come fully loaded with shredded meat and cheese, offering a juicy and tasty filling. Options include arepa rellena de carne and arepa mixta, each packed with rich Colombian flavors.

Crunchy empanadas filled with beef deliver a juicy and tasty bite. They carry rich, comforting Colombian flavors that stand out.

People are saying

"The Colombian food here is delicious and authentic."

"I loved the arepa rellena, it was fully loaded and delicious."

"The empanadas here are super crunchy and very tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a wide variety of menu options, including breakfasts, lunches, fast food, and desserts.

2

The prices are quite reasonable for the portion sizes.

3

The bathrooms are very clean.

12
Antojitos Colombianos Restaurant image 1

Colombian restaurant with authentic decor and wall-to-wall football screens creates a cozy, homey atmosphere that feels like stepping into Colombia. The space is large and lively, often filled with people, offering a vibe that blends dining with a sports bar energy.

Arepas come with cheese and have a delicious flavor. They appear in combos with steak, sausage, and plantains.

Empanadas with ajรญ stand out for their authentic and delicious flavor. These empanadas pair well with the aji sauce, making them a notable choice for anyone seeking traditional Colombian snacks.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of authentic Colombian flavor."

"I loved the empanadas; they were authentic and delicious."

"I found the arepas here delicious and packed with cheese."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking can be a bit difficult to find near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant has a small market of Colombian products available for purchase.

13
Cariaco To Go (Para Llevar) ๐Ÿ‡ป๐Ÿ‡ช image 1

Venezuelan restaurant offers authentic arepas and empanadas with consistently amazing flavors. The space feels clean and pleasant but lacks seating and restrooms. Prices run high, reflecting a focus on quality ingredients and variety.

Arepas come out consistently amazing with a delicious pavellรณn arepa standing out as a favorite. Both arepas and empanadas taste divine and pair well with great service.

Wide variety of empanadas offers unique flavor options that bring back memories of home. The empanadas are consistently super delicious and come with great service.

People are saying

"The arepas here are divine and amazing."

"The food here is delicious and very tasty."

"These empanadas are super delicious and have a nice sweetness."

Good to know

1

Check expiration dates on products before purchasing to avoid disappointment.

2

Expect high prices for menu items, especially empanadas.

3

No bathrooms are available for customers.

14
La Maria Restaurant image 1
Colombian restaurant

Cozy space with Colombian decor and a homey, tropical atmosphere feels like a funky country shack. Quiet environment with old-fashioned music creates a friendly, welcoming vibe. Full table service operates in an unusual setup where orders are placed at the counter.

Arepas with cheese and chicharrones stand out, alongside empanadas with chili and aborrajado. Some arepas arrive cold, and service can be rushed, but buรฑuelos and pandebono also get attention.

Empanadas come crispy and lighter than usual, with a salsa tapenade that lifts the flavor. Spinach and beef versions stand out as delicious and original.

People are saying

"I thought the empanadas were delicious and the best so far."

"I found the Colombian food here to be delicious and authentic."

"I love the arepa with cheese and the arepa with chicharrones."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly due to popularity.

2

Parking can be challenging as the lot is small and often full.

3

Expect a wait for a table during peak hours, especially on weekends.

15
Qero Restaurant image 1
South American restaurant

South American restaurant offers a cozy, artistic atmosphere with colorful decor and artwork that evokes Peru. The space feels authentic and warm, with outdoor seating amid lively street activity. Drinks like pisco sours and sangria complement flavorful dishes such as ceviche and empanadas.

Arepas come with sides like fried yuca frita and plantains. They appear alongside dishes such as pollo saltado and lomo saltado.

Beef empanadas stand out with rich flavor and fill well. Chicken empanadas come large and taste great with pickled onions and sauce. Veggie empanadas satisfy vegetarian preferences effectively.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, bursting with flavor and beautifully presented."

"I found the empanadas here to be amazing and flavorful."

"The arepas here are flavorful and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

A 5% service charge is automatically added to the bill.

3

There is a 3% surcharge for credit card payments.

16
Colombia Parce image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with Colombian ambient music setting a pleasant tone. The vibe ranges from quiet and cozy to lively depending on the music volume. It attracts those seeking authentic Colombian comfort food with a variety of flavorful dishes.

Stuffed arepas come with meat and chicken and house sauces. They taste fresh and delicious, packed with flavor and cooked just right.

Empanadas come with packed flavor and generous filling. They stay fresh and delicious whether eaten there or taken home.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully prepared."

"I found the empanadas here to be super good and full of flavor."

"I loved their arepas, they were packed with flavor and cooked just right."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and wait times can exceed three hours.

2

Menu prices are higher than average for the quality offered.

3

No toddler seats are available for families with young children.

17
Macondo Kitchen ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ด image 1

Colombian restaurant offers a cozy, quiet atmosphere with warm, friendly vibes and national music creating a soothing environment. The space feels comfortable and familiar, evoking a sense of home. A nearby store sells beautiful decorations and items, adding to the cultural experience.

Arepas come in a variety of options like the Pablo and hairy arepa, both noted for being delicious. They pair well with dishes like steak and salad, and the arepa de choclo stands out as a tasty choice.

Crispy empanadas come filled with cheese and meat, offering a lot of flavor. They pair well with ajรญ and a fresh salsa for added kick.

People are saying

"I found the Colombian food here to be delicious and authentic."

"These empanadas are crispy, full of flavor, and totally delicious."

"I found the arepas delicious and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Brunch is served from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the restaurant next to the Colombian store.

2

Parking is limited, so consider arriving early or using public transport.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for small purchases.

18
Sabores Colombianos image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small, cozy space with homemade, authentic Colombian food creates a warm, homey atmosphere. Traditional Colombian music plays, enhancing the feeling of being on the streets of Colombia. Bright art and colors add to the intimate, welcoming vibe.

Soft and cheesy textures define the arepa con queso here. Snacks like arepa con queso and ajรญ reflect authentic Colombian flavors.

Hearty, flavorful filling defines the Colombian-style empanadas here. They pair well with the ajรญ sauce, delivering a taste authentic to Colombia.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic, tasting like it's straight from a family kitchen."

"The arepas here are hearty and perfectly balanced."

"The empanadas here are delicious, especially with the ajรญ sauce."

Good to know

1

The dining area is small, so call ahead to reserve a table, especially for larger groups.

2

Parking can be tricky, but there is usually parking available nearby.

3

Expect large portions that are well-priced for the quality of food.

19
Colombia exotic image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant with beautiful decor and affordable prices offers flavorful arepas and delicious empanadas. The atmosphere feels welcoming with daily lunch specials available. Food quality varies, but some dishes like pork rinds and mixed sausage stand out.

Arepas here have a rich flavor and are generally delicious. Some fillings like chicken and avocado can have quality issues, including a hair or poor avocado.

Delicious empanadas offer a taste that recalls childhood memories. Some visits include natural juices alongside the empanadas, but sales can be inconsistent with refusals to sell on certain occasions.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be super delicious."

"I enjoyed the delicious homemade lunches."

"I found the empanadas really tasty."

Good to know

1

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

The daily lunch special is available at 12 o'clock.

20
Arepas Latin Cuisine - San Francisco image 1

Latin American restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with upbeat Latin music creating a lively and energetic vibe. Features include a private room upstairs for intimate gatherings and a bar area with a stage for live music. The space feels cozy and nostalgic, evoking a sense of home.

Arepas come with shredded beef stew and cochinita arepa stew that are juicy and flavorful. The arepa pelua stands out as a favorite, offering a rich taste true to Venezuelan cuisine.

Golden, crispy empanadas come packed with flavor. Pabellรณn empanadas stand out alongside other Venezuelan favorites like cachapa and arepas.

People are saying

"The arepas here are so flavorful and moist."

"I can't wait to return for their live music nights on the weekend."

"These empanadas taste like home in Venezuela."

Good to know

1

Live music starts at 7pm on weekends.

2

Comedy nights happen every Tuesday evening.

3

Parking in the area is difficult; consider walking or public transport.

21
Fonda Colombiana image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small space with authentic Colombian decor and loud club music creates a lively, energetic vibe. Atmosphere feels like being in Colombia, often noisy and not suited for families. Frequented by those seeking a vibrant Latin music experience alongside traditional food.

Arepas come with cheese and appear as appetizers or part of larger dishes like the bandeja. They arrive both alongside meals and separately, often paired with beans or served with empanadas.

Chicken empanadas stand out with their delicious flavor and are a highlight among appetizers. Lunch options include empanadas paired with dishes like ajiaco, and the arepa also complements the empanadas well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"I enjoyed the arepas and beans; they were the best parts."

"The empanadas here are delicious and perfectly crisp."

Good to know

1

Expect additional fees like a 20% gratuity and an 18% tip on your bill.

2

Parking can be challenging due to the restaurant's location next to a 7/11.

3

The restaurant has a waiting list when tables are full, especially during peak hours.

22
Donde Adela Colombian Restaurant image 1

Simple, plain setup with an adorable exterior creates a cozy, family-oriented vibe. Lively atmosphere reflects Colombian gatherings with Colombian saxophone music adding to the experience. The place stays relaxed without loud music, encouraging conversation and a home-like feel.

Arepas come with cheese and have a flavorful taste. They pair well with empanadas and egg broth.

Empanadas come fresh and packed with flavorful fillings. They pair well with agua panela and stand out alongside dishes like arepas and chorizo.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was simply amazing."

"The arepas here are delicious and flavorful."

"I loved the empanadas, they were delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are often needed due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Expect wait times of up to an hour during busy periods.

3

Takeaway empanadas may take around 40 minutes to prepare.

23
El Molinito Restaurant ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ด image 1

Small space offers a warm and cozy atmosphere with a relaxed vibe. Authentic Colombian food draws attention, especially flavorful empanadas and traditional dishes. The setting feels comfortable and inviting for enjoying Colombian cuisine.

Arepas come with cheese and have a rich, tasty flavor. They pair well with other dishes like Bandeja Paisa and Colombian soda.

Empanadas here are flaky, savory, and come with a fresh, crispy texture. Potato filling stands out, and they arrive with a flavorful sauce that complements them well.

People are saying

"The Colombian food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"These empanadas are the best I've ever had."

"I thought the cheese arepas were amazingly good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant's entrance is clean and has a health rating of 'B'.

2

Expect generous portions of Colombian food at reasonable prices.

3

The restaurant can be busy, especially during peak hours.

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