On 8th September, Arepa & Co, the home of Venezuelan cooking in London, is throwing open the doors and staying up late, hosting a party in celebration of World Arepa Day. ‘El Día Mundial de la Arepa’, as it’s known in its homeland, is dedicated to the humble cornflour street food and to celebrate, Kathe Cunin and Gus Salguero will be serving up theirs for just £1 with every main course ordered at their Bethnal Green restaurant, and pouring out cocktails with a Latin American twist all night long.
Kicking off at midday, and staying open into the early hours, visitors to Arepa & Co’s airy industrial surroundings and plant-filled terrace can take their pick of arepas, including the signature Pabellon; pulled brisket, braised black beans, plantain and cheese, Pollo Frito; crunchy fried chicken with corn puree, guava, chipotle and tamarind. Alongside arepas, diners can get stuck into authentic Venezuelan mains including Cachapa Pernil, savoury corn pancakes topped with braised pork leg and smaller plates such as Buñuelos (yuca fritters), Tequeños (crispy cheese pastries with guava).
Of course, it wouldn’t be a South American fiesta without some punchy cocktails: party-goers can sip on pours made with a generous measure of rum, Venezuela’s national spirit. For those looking for something tropical, there’s the Skinny Pina Colada with Coco Rum, topped up with pineapple juice and coconut water; and the Flamingo Iced Tea is a bold mix of white rum, gin, and vodka, spiked with passionfruit and lemon. Traditional Venezulan music will be given a contemporary twist by live band Makanao, with a DJ on hand until closing time so guests can dance the night away in true Latin style, and perhaps even test their footwork in the joropo – Venezuela’s national dance.
“As proud Venezuelans in London, we are delighted to be celebrating the arepa, a staple of the country’s cooking found on dinner tables and street corners throughout the country and we can’t wait to celebrate one of the true tastes of Venezuela here in London, whilst enjoying a cocktail or two!” said Gus.