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Arepas and empanadas in Illinois

Made for those who refuse to choose between the masa-based comfort of an arepa and the crispy satisfaction of an empanada.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Carato’s Venezuelan Restaurant image 1
Carato’s Venezuelan Restaurant image 2
Carato’s Venezuelan Restaurant image 3
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Cozy space with warm, welcoming atmosphere feels like home rather than a typical restaurant. Slow-cooked meats and fresh arepas fill the air, creating an authentic Venezuelan vibe. A robot waiter delivers drinks while pleasant, varied music plays, adding a unique touch.

Stuffed with beef, plantains, beans, and cheese, the arepas offer a unique flavor experience. They come with phenomenal sauces and are cooked fresh, holding fillings well without crumbling.

Crispy, thin dough wraps huge empanadas stuffed with flavorful chicken. A touch of sweetness in the crust contrasts well with the savory filling.

People are saying

"These empanadas are crispy, flavorful, and have a perfect crust."

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

"I found the arepa to be crispy, soft, and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant's hours are inconsistent; check before visiting.

2

Parking is limited in the shared plaza.

3

Prices are affordable, and portions are generous.

02
Ke Chido Restaurant image 1

Vibrant wall artwork brightens a cozy, casual dining space with a refreshing ambiance. Music stays low, supporting a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere. The place draws a diverse crowd enjoying flavorful Venezuelan dishes in generous portions.

Soft and warm inside with a slightly crisp exterior, the arepas come packed generously and full of flavor. Options include Pastelitos de jamon and pabellón arepa, alongside empanadas.

Empanadas come with crispy exteriors and well-seasoned fillings like ground beef, chicken, and cheese. They pair well with homemade sauces and offer a fresh, flavorful taste.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"These empanadas are perfectly crispy with flavorful, homemade fillings."

"The arepas are packed generously and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The menu features a variety of Mexican and Venezuelan dishes.

2

Pepitos, a popular Venezuelan street food, are available on the menu.

3

The restaurant offers large portions ideal for sharing.

03
Q'bo Latin Cafe Inc. image 1

Cozy cafe filled with vibrant decor and Latin music playing softly in the background. Friendly atmosphere feels like being in a home kitchen, with comfortable seating and plenty of space. The environment welcomes people looking for a relaxed spot with authentic Latin flavor.

Stuffed arepas come with great flavor and a good portion of meat. Options include vegetarian substitutions and pair well with drinks like iced horchata latte or caramel mocha.

Empanadas stand out with options like the pollo and pabellon varieties, both packed with flavor. They pair well with coffee and baked goods, making them a tasty choice for a quick bite.

People are saying

"I've never had empanadas this amazing before."

"I loved the horchata latte; it was delicious."

"The arepas here are delicious and filling."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a variety of coffee, arepas, and empanadas.

2

Expect slower service during busy hours due to limited staff.

3

The cafe is located near the Ashland and Irving Park bus stops.

04
Top Arepa Venezuelan Food image 1

Bright, spacious restaurant with simple decor offers a family-friendly atmosphere and music that recreates the feeling of being in Venezuela. The vibe is warm and welcoming, perfect for sharing meals like delicious arepas and empanadas. The energy stays relaxed and inviting throughout visits.

Arepas come in varied styles like Llanera, Pabellon, and Cabimera, each with distinct fillings. The cachapa especial and Big Arepa stand out for their rich flavors and satisfying portions.

Empanadas come with fillings like shredded beef, cheese and bacon, and seafood with jalapeño cheese. A green sauce and other complementary sauces add extra flavor to the dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"These arepas are packed with amazing flavor and perfectly crispy."

"These empanadas are simply delicious and perfectly crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during peak hours.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

05
Cafezinho at Main Street Cafe image 1

Small cafe with an open kitchen and a pretty outdoor patio creates a cozy, warm atmosphere. Space feels inviting and comfortable, suited for peaceful gatherings. Brazilian and Latin flavors add a unique touch to the experience.

Arepas come fresh and made to order with a variety of combinations like chicken and avocado and cheese. They taste flavorful and healthy, with options like the Arepa Pepiada standing out.

Chicken empanadas stand out with their rich flavor. Beef empanadas offer a solid filling, while olive empanadas deliver a terrific taste. Sweet options like guava empanadas also appear on the menu.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was excellent and rich."

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

"I found the arepas here to be fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during peak hours.

2

Feijoada is available on Thursdays, but may not be served on weekends.

3

Prices for sandwiches start around $10, which some may find expensive.

06
AREPA PA LOS PANA inc. image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Small space with only three tables offers a cozy, homey atmosphere that suits indoor and outdoor seating. The vibe stays chill and welcoming, making it easy to relax while enjoying meals. Regulars appreciate the generous portions and reasonably priced menu that stands out in the neighborhood.

Arepas feature rich fillings like brisket, black beans, avocado, and white cheese. The cremita adds a creamy touch that complements the flavors well. Vegetarian options also stand out as fantastic.

Empanadas come in a good size and taste delicious. They pair well with stuffed arepas and flan for a solid start.

People are saying

"I found the arepas here to be the best I ever had."

"The flan was rich, creamy, and delightfully sweet."

"I found the empanadas here to be delicious and a good size."

Good to know

1

The breakfast special is priced at $14, offering good value.

2

The restaurant serves generous portions with two arepas per order.

3

They offer takeout options if needed.

07
POLOMBIA image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant blends Polish and Colombian cuisines with a small but creative menu featuring many vegetarian options. Atmosphere feels serene and lovely, offering a unique cultural fusion experience. Food combines savory and sweet flavors with standout dishes like the Pączki Burger and Arepa-Ski.

Arepas come with short rib or chicken fillings that deliver rich, satisfying flavors. The Arepa-Ski stands out as a delicious option, often paired with other dishes like empanogies and lentil soup.

Savory vegetarian empanadas blend pierogi and empanada qualities, creating a unique hybrid. They pair well with other dishes and come highly recommended.

People are saying

"The Polish-Colombian fusion food here is a must-try for date spots."

"The Arepa-Ski with slaw and kielbasa is a perfect savory and sweet combination."

"These empanadas are so fresh and tasty!"

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a small menu with vegetarian options available.

2

Prices can be confusing; verify the total before paying.

3

Ask for Phil if you have dietary restrictions for added safety.

08
The Lanzaga image 1
South American restaurant

South American restaurant blends chic and cozy design with warm lighting and board games for a relaxed vibe. Atmosphere suits both intimate dinners and lively gatherings with a laid-back, inviting energy. Space includes couches and a play area, supporting local art and music for a community feel.

Arepas come with beef brisket or pulled chicken fillings and have great flavor with well-seasoned sauces. They pair well with sides like yuca fries or French fries.

Empanadas come with a perfectly crispy outside and tender meat inside. Brisket empanadas stand out with incredible flavors that pair well with coffee.

People are saying

"The food here is simple but fantastic."

"The brisket arepa here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"These empanadas are to die for, especially the brisket."

Good to know

1

The Lanzaga allows customers to bring their own alcohol.

2

They just started serving dinner five months ago.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere with a focus on South American cuisine.

09
La Parrilla latin Food image 1

Spacious restaurant with authentic Latin decor and a cozy coffee corner offers a charming atmosphere with music at a comfortable volume. The vibe is relaxed and inviting, suitable for conversation while enjoying Colombian cuisine and drinks.

Arepas come with corn and cheese and a vegan fiesta option. They stand out alongside empanadas and tequeños as exquisite choices.

Empanadas feature a yellow masa and come filled with steak or meat options. They pair well with plantains and stand out as a highlight alongside other Latin dishes.

People are saying

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

"I loved the beef empanadas and homemade chimichurri."

"I thought the vegan fiesta arepa was amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals are available, offering great discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant features an extensive menu with authentic Colombian specialties.

3

An accessible entrance is available, but its location is not clearly marked.

10
AREPA EXPRESS MANNHEIM image 1

Bright, clean space offers a family-friendly atmosphere with positive, friendly energy. Music plays softly, creating a pleasant backdrop. The place stands out for its generous portions and affordable prices.

Arepas come light and crispy with flavorful meat in the steak sandwich. Cheese in the arepas is sometimes not melted, and some find the portion size disappointing.

Large and delicious empanadas come in flavors like shrimp, chicken, ham and cheese, and shredded beef. The shrimp and chicken empanadas stand out as tasty and satisfying options.

People are saying

"These empanadas are so big and delicious."

"The Venezuelan-style fried rice tastes like homemade."

"I ate the lightest, crispiest arepa I have ever eaten."

Good to know

1

The portions are very generous, ensuring a filling meal.

2

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

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained, including the bathrooms.

11
Calle De Sabores image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere with great music and a welcoming vibe. The space blends elements of a bakery, bar, and restaurant, creating an interesting mix. It serves authentic dishes like empanadas and Bandeja Paisa, known for their fresh and savory flavors.

Arepas come fresh and stuffed with chorizo or other fillings. They taste delicious and pair well with empanadas and other dishes.

Meat empanadas stand out with their freshness and rich flavor. The Hawaiian and beef varieties pair well with a refreshing ají that complements their taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and filling."

"I found the arepas to be fresh and delicious."

"These empanadas are delicious and meaty."

Good to know

1

The prices are affordable for Colombian food.

2

The portions are large, providing good value.

3

A 20% service fee is automatically added to the bill.

12
SushiZu Venezuelan Bites Fusion Cuisine image 1

Small, clean space blends Asian fusion with Latin tropical flavors in sushi and Venezuelan dishes. Calm, warm atmosphere features authentic salsa music and inviting decor. Offers unique menu with fresh, high-quality options and a cozy vibe.

Stuffed arepas come with lots of meat, crispy edges, and a very soft inside. Green sauce pairs well with the beef arepa.

Gluten-free empanadas with shredded beef stand out for their flavor. The empanada de pabellón offers a rich, satisfying taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the sushi."

"The shredded beef arepa was juicy, well-seasoned, and delicious."

"I tried the empanada de pabellón and it was delicious."

Good to know

1

You must order at the counter before seating.

2

Prices for sushi rolls range from $15 to $16 each.

3

The menu features gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.

13
QUERICOZON image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Small space holds four tables with a loud, lively atmosphere where music and conversation fill the air. Authentic Venezuelan flavors shine through large, delicious empanadas and traditional dishes. Energy feels vibrant but not suited for quiet family meals.

Arepas come humongous and authentic, packed with meat and cheese or chicken. Varieties like tumbarrancho and cabimera stand out for their rich taste and satisfying size.

Large empanadas come packed full and seasoned excellently. Soups and pabellón empanadas stand out as well-priced and delicious.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and very tasty."

"I found the empanadas to be delicious and packed full."

"I found the arepa to be humongous and delicious."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 9pm.

2

Street parking is very difficult; consider using public transport.

3

The venue has limited seating, so arrive early for karaoke.

14
EL RINCON DE FABIO LLC image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Small space filled with beautiful Venezuelan decor and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Latin music plays softly, creating an awesome vibe that feels welcoming and pleasant. Outdoor patio offers a nice option for seating in good weather.

Arepas stand out for their juicy, tender meat and perfect cooking. They rank among the most delicious and well-crafted in the city.

Empanadas feature a perfect crust and seasoned stuffing that stands out. The shredded beef empanadas come with a fire sauce that adds a warm, satisfying kick.

People are saying

"I found the pabellón arepa to be delicious."

"The outdoor seating area is really nice and calm."

"These empanadas have a perfect crust and bold, seasoned fillings."

Good to know

1

Free drinks are offered after 5pm every day.

2

Enjoy free margaritas daily after 2:00 PM.

3

Free wine is available on Fridays.

15
El Fogón de Elena Restaurante image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small space with authentic Colombian decor creates a homely, family atmosphere. Loud Colombian music plays from a full-sized speaker, sometimes overpowering the room. Food offers genuine Colombian flavors, especially noted for seafood dishes and traditional snacks.

Chicharrón arepa stands out with its nice and thick texture and juicy, flavorful shredded beef. The arepa con carne is tender and juicy, making it a solid choice among the stuffed arepas offered.

Tiny empanadas come out perfectly crispy and filling. Varieties like queso and camarones taste authentic and appeal even to kids who usually avoid them.

People are saying

"The food here is bursting with flavor and homemade touch."

"Holger was an amazing server, so attentive to our requests."

"The cheese empanadas were really good."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens on Saturdays, attracting a lively crowd.

2

Catering services are available for events, but check for preparation.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during karaoke nights, which may affect dining experience.

16
Comixxpress image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small space filled with comic book art and superhero murals creates a lively, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere feels like stepping into a comic store with a friendly, energetic crowd. The setting is cozy but can be noisy and warm due to limited ventilation.

Arepas come with shredded meat or fresh chicharron and pair well with sauces like tartar, pineapple, and pink sauce. Portions are perfectly sized and often included in dishes like Bandeja Paisa.

Empanadas feature good stew and proper dough with standout options like chicken and cheese. Fried yuca pairs well, making them incredibly delicious and reminiscent of Colombian style.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and tasty."

"I thought the empanadas were incredibly delicious."

"The arepa with shredded meat was the only satisfactory item."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but seating is limited with only a counter available.

2

The physical menu doesn't list prices; scan the QR code for current pricing.

3

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible for visitors.

17
Restaurante Colombiano image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant offers a pleasant, family-friendly atmosphere with casual attire and short waiting times. Tables and chairs are small, encouraging larger groups to choose bigger seating. The vibe is calm, with an unnerving emptiness that might affect young children.

Cheese arepas come with a rich, melty texture. The chicharrón paired with arepa offers a crispy, savory contrast. Empanadas and arepas both deliver great flavor and satisfying bites.

Empanadas stand out as a favorite dish here. They come alongside other great arepas and pair well with main dishes like Churrasco and Bandeja Paisa.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and well-prepared."

"I found the chicharrón with arepa to be excellent."

"I found the empanadas to be the best."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available, as the restaurant does not have a parking lot.

2

Lunch specials are offered at great prices.

3

Expect a short wait time during peak hours.

18
Maracaibo Bite image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Venezuelan restaurant offers a cool, relaxing atmosphere with quiet background music and a clean, welcoming space. The menu features authentic dishes like arepas and empanadas made with natural corn, drawing a crowd that appreciates reasonable prices and traditional flavors.

Super crispy corn arepas come in a small size, smaller than the palm of a hand. Menu highlights include AREPA SANTA RITA and TUMBARRANCHO, but ingredients feel lightly portioned compared to before.

Made with natural corn, the empanadas come in meat and seafood varieties. They stand out for their authentic taste and are often recommended alongside tequeños and pastelito.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and really great."

"These empanadas are truly delicious and fresh."

"I enjoyed the great, crispy corn arepas."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 20 minutes for food during busy times.

2

Parking options are limited, and pedestrian access may be difficult in winter.

3

The restaurant menu is currently only available in Spanish.

19
Issa's Restaurant Bar image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Spacious interior with charming decorations creates a welcoming Venezuelan atmosphere filled with great music. The vibe is family-friendly and lively, though music volume can be high. The place stands out for its authentic Venezuelan food and clean environment.

Arepas come fresh and made to order with shredded beef, chicken, and pork with cheese and avocado options. Mini cachapas and arepas feature rich cheese and cream, delivering strong, flavorful bites.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with their rich filling and perfect toasting. Beef plantain and cheese options come close, while chicken and cheese empanadas pair well with garlic sauce. Freshness shows in every bite, especially in the appetizer platter mix.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, super fresh and delicious."

"I found the shredded beef arepa so flavorful and delicious."

"These empanadas are warm, crunchy, and taste amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to confirm availability of specific dishes like carne en Vara.

2

The restaurant is one of the few places serving food past 10 pm on weekends.

3

There is no parking available at the restaurant.

20
La Parrilla Latin Food Irving Park image 1
Nuevo Latino restaurant

Nuevo Latino restaurant with authentic Colombian decor and colorful murals creates a warm, quiet atmosphere that invites leisurely dining. Great Latin music enhances the vibe, while a family-run feel adds to the welcoming environment.

Freshly made arepas come with steak platters and pair well with mojitos and tequenos.

Empanadas come filled with beef, cheese, and chicken. The pandebono and empanadas de carne offer tasty, satisfying flavors.

People are saying

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

"You've got to try the fantastic arepas here; they were delicious."

"I found the empanadas bursting with savory fillings."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 7pm with discounted drinks.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of margaritas, including passion fruit.

3

The menu features authentic Colombian dishes.

21
Sabe a Zulia image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Venezuelan restaurant offers authentic Zuliana dishes with home-cooked flavors and comfortable seating. Atmosphere ranges from warm and welcoming to occasionally noisy and crowded, with Latin music playing. Empanadas stand out as a favorite among typical Venezuelan foods served.

Arepas come in large portions like the Super Arepa, which has a strong flavor rating of 8.6 out of 10. Options include the Santa Barbara arepa with grilled meat and vegetarian or dairy-free versions, showing good accommodation for dietary needs.

Beef empanadas stand out with generous, well-seasoned filling and a creamy green sauce. The dough has great texture, and the shredded beef version hits a perfect balance of taste and texture.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reminds you of home."

"These empanadas are top-tier, well-seasoned, and flavorful."

"The arepas and empanadas here are authentic and tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

The average meal costs around $76 for two people.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits.

22
El Asadero Colombiano image 1

Small restaurant with family-friendly atmosphere and relaxing Spanish music creates a welcoming vibe. Clean space includes extra tables beyond the main area. Colombian dishes like empanadas and arepas stand out for their flavor and authenticity.

Cheese arepas stand out with their rich, melty texture. The arepa de queso offers a satisfying, authentic flavor that pairs well with other Colombian dishes like empanadas.

Empanadas stand out with beef and chicken fillings that are consistently delicious. Both varieties offer a tasty, satisfying flavor that pairs well with other dishes like arepas.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and well-seasoned."

"The empanadas here are delicious, especially the beef ones."

"The chicken arepa here is so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

They don't have a diaper-changing station for babies.

2

Check your receipt carefully to avoid unexpected charges.

3

Expect higher prices than advertised due to added taxes.

23
Colombian's Taste image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small space offers a calm, clean atmosphere with dim white lighting that feels cool and quiet. Music typical of Colombia plays softly, creating a pleasant and inviting vibe. The place stands out for its authentic Colombian empanadas that receive high praise.

Corn-based arepas stand out with their perfect texture and cheese filling. The arepas con queso and empanadas deliver a yummy, satisfying flavor.

Colombian Empanadas stand out with a generous amount of filling and perfect cooking. Varieties like chicken and veggie empanadas receive consistent praise for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

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

"These empanadas are perfectly cooked with a generous filling."

"I loved the arepas; they were so good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only offers takeout service, no dine-in available.

2

Expect large portion sizes; meals are very generous.

3

A mandatory tip is included in the bill, regardless of service quality.

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