Arempas
Restaurant seen on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives

About
AREMPAS

Bringing Venezuelan Flavor to Salt Lake City

When it comes to food, sometimes you stumble upon a place that transports you thousands of miles away without ever leaving your city. That’s exactly the case with Arempas, one of Salt Lake City’s most vibrant eateries and a true taste of Venezuela right in the Wasatch Front. From the colorful walls to the aromas of freshly fried plantains wafting through the air, this restaurant is less of a stop for a quick bite and more of a cultural and culinary journey.

Founded in 2019 by Chef Sandy Arrieta, Arempas has quickly carved out a reputation as one of the best Venezuelan restaurants in the region. Sandy’s vision was simple: share the comfort, tradition, and bold flavors of her homeland with her new community. With nearly two decades of experience in catering and the culinary arts, she knew exactly how to blend authenticity with approachability. Today, locals, travelers, and foodies on their own Triple D–style road trips make Arempas a must-visit destination.

The Heart of Venezuelan Street Food

At the center of the menu is, of course, the arepa. If you’ve never tried one, think of it as Venezuela’s answer to the taco—but sturdier, heartier, and every bit as customizable. Made from cornmeal dough that’s grilled or fried to a golden crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, an arepa is split open and stuffed with fillings ranging from slow-cooked meats to savory cheeses to vibrant vegetables.

Guy Fieri himself has often said that street food tells the real story of a culture, and here that story is told in every bite. One of the most popular choices is the Pabellón Arepa, inspired by Venezuela’s national dish. Packed with shredded beef, sweet plantains, black beans, and queso fresco, it delivers that perfect balance of savory and sweet that keeps people coming back for more.

If you’re after something a little different, the Cachapa Arepa is another standout. This one takes a sweet corn pancake, loads it with creamy cheese, and grills it to perfection—a nod to the comfort food traditions of the Venezuelan countryside. And for those who like a little crunch with their meal, the Yuca Frita (crispy fried cassava) is a side dish you’ll be craving long after you leave.

Flavor for Every Palate

What makes Arempas truly shine is its commitment to inclusivity in flavor. While meat lovers can indulge in dishes like Fried Pork Arepas or slow-braised shredded beef, vegetarians and vegans won’t feel left out. The menu offers plant-based fillings that are every bit as bold and satisfying. Pair them with fried plantains or a refreshing tropical juice, and you’ve got a meal that’s both hearty and refreshing.

Speaking of drinks, don’t miss the chance to sip on a glass of Guanábana juice. This tropical fruit—also known as soursop—has a sweet-tart flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of Venezuelan cuisine. It’s one of those small touches that makes you realize how deeply Arempas cares about authenticity.

A Dining Experience That Feels Like Home

Step inside Arempas and you’ll be welcomed by a kaleidoscope of color. Bright murals and décor set the stage for a lively dining experience, while the staff greets you with the warmth of family. It’s the kind of place where you feel instantly at ease—whether you’re grabbing lunch solo, bringing friends for dinner, or stopping in with kids after a day exploring downtown Salt Lake City.

That sense of community is no accident. Chef Sandy has said that opening Arempas wasn’t just about serving food—it was about sharing a piece of her heart and culture. And it shows. The restaurant has become a hub for locals and Venezuelan transplants alike, a place where food and conversation blend seamlessly.

Why Arempas Belongs on Your Road Trip Map

For fans of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Arempas is the kind of spot you dream of finding on the road. It’s casual, affordable, and absolutely bursting with flavor. Every dish is made fresh—never frozen—and served with the kind of pride that reminds you why small, chef-owned restaurants are worth seeking out.

If you’re charting your own Triple D map across the U.S., this stop in Salt Lake City deserves a pin. Not only will you taste some of the best Venezuelan food outside of Caracas, but you’ll also support a local business that’s enriching its community through food.

Must-Try Dishes at Arempas

Pabellón Arepa – Shredded beef, black beans, plantains, and cheese in a single handheld masterpiece.

Cachapa Arepa – Sweet corn pancake stuffed with gooey cheese.

Fried Pork Arepa – Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Yuca Frita – Perfectly fried cassava sticks, golden and addictive.

Fried Plantains – Sweet, caramelized, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Guanábana Juice – A tropical refresher you won’t find on every menu.

Salt Lake City may be better known for its mountain views and ski slopes, but with Arempas on the map, it’s also become a destination for global flavors. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Venezuelan cuisine or trying your first arepa, you’ll find something here that speaks to you.

Chef Sandy Arrieta’s vision has turned a simple eatery into a culinary landmark—one where tradition, passion, and community come together in every plate. So next time you’re in town, skip the ordinary and take your taste buds on a Venezuelan adventure. Trust us: once you’ve had an arepa from Arempas, tacos will never look quite the same again.
Aired on October 22, 2021
Updated August 22, 2025

Address / Location

350 S State St
Salt Lake City, UT 84111

385-301-8905 website