La Caraquena
Restaurant seen on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives

About
LA CARAQUENA - LATIN AMERICAN CUISINE

A Venezuelan Gem That Will Be Forever Missed

Some diners stick with you long after your last visit, and La Caraqueña was absolutely one of those unforgettable spots. Tucked away inside a modest hotel in Falls Church, Virginia, this unassuming little place managed to deliver bold Latin American flavors that would rival any major city’s culinary scene. Though the doors are now closed and the kitchen has gone silent, we’re keeping the memory alive—because when food is made with this much heart, it deserves to be remembered.

Let’s just get this part out of the way first: La Caraqueña is sadly no longer open. The beloved restaurant officially shut down in 2017, and to this day, there hasn’t been a true replacement in the area that’s filled its shoes. It was a Venezuelan culinary goldmine, and in our humble opinion, one of the greatest “hidden gem” eateries that Falls Church ever had the privilege of hosting.

A True Hole-in-the-Wall Treasure

Located within the hotel La Quinta Inn, you might have easily overlooked it. But those in the know understood that behind that unassuming lobby door was one of the best Latin American restaurants in Northern Virginia. La Caraqueña was cozy—intimate in all the best ways—with warm lighting, colorful décor, and an atmosphere that felt more like stepping into someone’s family kitchen than a commercial establishment.

It didn’t have a massive neon sign or a storefront view on a busy street, but that’s what made it so special. It was the classic hole-in-the-wall experience, the kind that diners, drive-ins, and dives across the country dream of finding. Every meal felt like it was made just for you, because frankly—it was.

Stuffed Arepas, Quesillo Borracho & Pure Flavor

The menu was a celebration of authentic Latin American and Venezuelan cuisine, lovingly curated and cooked from scratch. Whether you were familiar with the flavors of South America or trying something new, this was the place that welcomed you in like family and made sure you left with a full belly and a happy heart.

If you needed just one reason to visit, let it be the Stuffed Arepas. These thick cornmeal patties, crisped on the outside and tender inside, came packed with savory meats, cheeses, or beans, depending on your choice. Each bite was a perfect balance of textures and tastes—a handheld meal bursting with soul and tradition.

But there was more. Oh, there was so much more.

The Pabellón Criollo—a Venezuelan national dish featuring shredded beef, black beans, white rice, and fried plantains—was always a top choice.

The Pollo Guisado, a homestyle stewed chicken dish, was rich and comforting.

And then there were the vegetarian options, something you wouldn’t always expect from a meat-forward cuisine, but La Caraqueña made it happen, and made it well.

And let us not forget the dessert that stole our hearts every single time: the Quesillo Borracho. This boozy Venezuelan flan was nothing short of legendary. Silky, sweet, with just the right kick of rum—it was the kind of dessert you planned your entire meal around. And now that it’s gone, we’d give just about anything to taste it one more time.

Outdoor Dining & Friendly Faces

Another thing we loved about La Caraqueña? The outdoor seating. On warm, sunny days, it was the place to be. Whether it was a casual lunch break, a romantic dinner, or a family outing, grabbing a seat on the patio meant you were in for a truly memorable experience.

And it wasn’t just the food that kept people coming back. The staff was always top-notch—friendly, attentive, and genuinely happy to walk you through the menu if it was your first time. They knew their dishes inside and out and had a way of making everyone feel welcome, no matter how busy the place was.

A Heartfelt Goodbye

It’s been years now since La Caraqueña shut its doors for good, and honestly, it still stings. In a time where authentic family-run restaurants are becoming harder to find, this place was a beacon of cultural pride and comfort food done right. It’s a loss not just to Falls Church, but to all who were lucky enough to dine there.

We visited many times over the years, and we’re grateful for each meal and every memory made. The flavors, the warmth, the authenticity—it was all there, every time. You always left feeling just a little bit better than when you walked in.

So here’s to La Caraqueña. Thank you for everything. You’re gone, but never forgotten.
Aired on November 8, 2010
Updated July 15, 2025

Address / Location

300 W. Broad Street
Falls Church, VA 22040

703-533-0076 Permanently Closed