Arepa Cafe490 Queen Street West
(between Bathurst & Spadina)
416 362 4111
When we arrived at the restaurant we had to wait for a table to become available so that the six of us could be seated together. It was a bit awkward and we helped move chairs to make it easier. They were expecting a party of 14 to arrive and were a bit flustered by us showing up as well.
The decor is a blend of past and present where bare brick walls and tin ceiling are complimented by urban modern fixtures.
For starters we order berros (watercress salad with tomato, avocado and pickled onion), $3.75, lentil soup $4.00 and codfish soup $4.00. The latter was very well seasoned and not overly salty.
Arepas, of the restaurant's name, are made from cornmeal formed into patties then grilled and cut open so they become like buns for sandwich fillings. We try three of the many arepa varieties- avocado & fresh cheese, $7.00 [picture below]; cazon bacalao (salted codfish, sweet peppers, onion and garlic), $7.00 and grilled chicken with herb mayonnaise, $7.50.
Our server explained the tempting desserts in the display case and we chose the guava tart $4.50 and Tres Leches $5.75. We drink decaf Americanos and sugar cane lemonade as there is no liquor license here. Total for four three-course lunches $80.23 plus tip.
Rating: Ambiance (3)Service (2)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (3)
