Venezuelan Food Guide

Venezuelan cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes. Each region has its own specialties reflecting the mix of indigenous, African, and European cultures that define the country.

Must-Try Dishes

La Arepa

The quintessential national dish. This corn dough pocket is eaten for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The most popular fillings are Reina Pepiada (chicken with avocado), Dominó (black beans with white cheese), and Pelúa (shredded beef with yellow cheese).

Pabellón Criollo

The national plate: white rice, black beans, shredded beef, and fried sweet plantain slices. A feast of flavors and textures that represents the essence of Venezuela.

Hallaca

The jewel of Venezuelan Christmas. A stew of meat, olives, capers, and raisins wrapped in corn dough and plantain leaves. Every family has their secret recipe.

Cachapa

A sweet fresh-corn pancake, usually served with queso de mano (a fresh, soft cheese). It's the perfect breakfast in any Venezuelan town.

Tequeños

Cheese sticks wrapped in dough and fried until crispy. They're the favorite appetizer at parties and gatherings, and you'll find them on every corner of the country.

Traditional Drinks

• Chicha criolla — Creamy rice drink with cinnamon and condensed milk
• Papelón con limón — Lemonade sweetened with panela (cane sugar)
• Malta — Non-alcoholic malt beverage, sweet and refreshing
• Venezuelan rum — Venezuela produces some of the world's finest rums

Desserts

• Quesillo — Venezuelan flan, creamy and bathed in caramel
• Bienmesabe — Sponge cake soaked in coconut cream
• Dulce de lechosa — Green papaya in spiced syrup

Where to Eat with VenePass

Several of our regional passes include gastronomic experiences: cacao tours in Choroní, coffee tastings in Mérida, and food tours in Margarita.

Discover Gastronomic Experiences → [blocked]