Crave a Arepa?
I tried posting this earlier. In fact I think I actually posted it, but unfinished, so ever unfinished. As I was explaining in the floating blog post out there somewhere, as a child living in Venezuela I lived through vast attacks of mosquitos. I learned to live with the flying cockroaches that appeared out of nowhere and seemed to target your face. I was the child who suffered from head lice and witnessed bats crawling the corridors of our house. (I am not kidding) One of my first memories is from the time my family lived in Venezuela. I was walking on this road surrounded by tall grass on either side with my mom and grandma when we came across a white snake lying dead in the middle of our path. Its eyes were red and it had a red strip of blood that marked its mouth. Venezuela is a land of mystery, jungle, and political turmoil. Also it is the land of Arepas. Have you ever had them? Little corn blankets of goodness stuffed to the brim with black beans, white cheese and hot sauce. They also come in other variations.
When we left Venezuela in 1991 I took with me memories of insects and the desire for arepas. How delighted do you think I was to find a small place right here in NYC that sells them. And I have the directions and menu and price range. I am prepared!
The place: Caracas To Go
The address: 91 east 7th street, new york, new york
The phone number: 212.228.5062
Their website: www.caracasarepabar.com
This place can't promise you insect infestation, dead snakes or crooked cops, but the food is great (try the Arepa De Pabellon, or the Pabellon Criollo Venezuelas national dish. It comes with shredded beef, white rice, black beans, and fried sweet plantains with salty cheese.) Its the best. Also the best juice in the world, my absolute favorite EVER is Parchita Juice, aka Passion fruit juice. I added a picture this time, maybe you will be able to see what I am talking about, hope so. Enjoy!
