Caracas Arepa Bar   

91 E 7th St
New York, NY 10009
212-228-5062
www.caracasarepabar.com

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For those who can't smell the aromatic wafts in the East Village, an arepa is a Venezuelan specialty, a smallish, grilled corn-wrapped shell stuffed with any number of meats, vegetables, sauces and spices. Think falafels and tapas for the South American set. The husband-and-wife owners of this trend-setting eatery describe it as a cross between their native Areperas and Taguaritas; translation: tiny traditional places that sell tasty treats. The closet-sized, colorful, cramped quarters are constantly bustling with energy, everything you might expect from a popular Latin roadside attraction. There are nearly 20 different combinations and in general people order between two to five per meal. For an even wider variety, go for the plato mixto, which includes a dozen bite-sized arepas. Flavorful fillings include paisa and guayanes cheeses, shredded meat, chunky chicken, sweet plantains, guacamole and spicy veggies. Other hot-ticket items are the empanadas and daily special entrees. Quick and quenching, this is destined to become a must for the pre- and post downtown theater crowds. -- Yon Motskin