Authentic Venezuelan Food in Killeen, Texas: Arepitas!

In the area of Killeen, Texas, there's a section named 'Harker Heights.' My mother's family grew up there. Every now and then, I go back to see my family. And I truly love to eat something different when I'm in town. And this spot is really different and delicious - Arepitas! It's located right off the corner-bend of Cheetah Trail, across the major highway from Target.

This is a wonderful spot that embraces authentic Venezuelan cuisine!

Now, to start this story and review, I've been there four times to give it an honest assessment. To add to the advantage, my kids are veggie lovers so, they had various vegetarian options that could easily be made vegan, so it was perfect for my group.

All of the staff welcomed us as soon as we walked in & continued to be very attentive throughout our meal. The only thing about the menu was that there were zero prices on anything, so when it came to paying the bill, we had no clue what to expect.

We first ordered drinks: a tall beer & a zero calorie gin drink that came with strawberries & cucumbers. It was so refreshing!

For our appetizer, we got the Tostones - green plantain chips that were breaded, with a mixed cabbage salad, white fresh cheese, avocado, cilantro, & "house sauces". The sauces listed on the menu were mayo-ketchup, honey mustard, special sauce, spicy sauce, & garlic sauce. Every bite was packed with flavor, & the chips were much bigger than we expected.

Among many things that we ordered, we ordered the Vegetarian Arepa which was HUGE! It came with white cheese, sweet plantains, avocado, & cabbage, & then we added portobello mushrooms & black-beans. I tried the dough & it was crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, & very yummy! Wonderful experience!

Then, I decided to order the Palmito Salad to cut back on the carbs. It consists of mixed lettuce, sliced tomatoes, sliced onions, avocado, hearts of palm, olive oil, & balsamic dressing. I also requested a side of the spicy sauce for extra flavor. It was full of flavor, surprisingly tasty & light! It was the perfect salad for me.

When my first experience was over, we all admitted that we truly enjoyed ourselves and looked forward to returning. We were considering returning to sample the bowls & plates (vegan style) on the menu.

When we returned to this spot a second time, it was busy (again). There was only one server when we arrived, and yet she was very kind and made an effort to quickly take our orders. First, to start the meal, I ordered a cocktail named "Guarapita", it was delicious! After my drink, I ordered a Parrillita bowl (the plate serves two people, bowl serves one), and the Llanera Arepa. Just from that experience itself, I decided that I will definitely return. It was that good. At the end of the experience, we were so full...and yet, we had to get some of our food to-go. We didn't even get to finish eating it all. The entire second experience was outstanding - the food was very well seasoned food, sizable portions, fantastic service and amazing presentation. My second experience told me - 'this is no accident.' My original experience was confirmed by my second experience.

About two months later, I paid this spot a third visit. But sadly, I didn't have a lot of time. It was a busy day. So, I had placed my order to go. I ordered the Tostones as my a meal, and I smelled them the whole way home in my car. The moment I walked into the door at home, I had to start eating them. They were so good and filling. I had also ordered the Sweet Plantains for a dessert, incredible. I wish I would have ordered two of them. Let me say this - If you haven't tried Venezuelan food yet, it is a must that you give it a try. After three different experiences, I had not experienced anything that was even mediocre. Absolutely everything I have ever ordered at Arepitas has never disappointed me. Not only the food, but great service and wonderful, friendly employees! The atmosphere is casual and there is a bar too. And speaking of the atmosphere, the restaurant itself is nicely decorated, while allowing tons of natural light.

And yet, before writing this blog, I visited Arepita's a fourth time. This time, I started with the Tostones with shredded beef. Positively delicious. Although I am used to having some citrus flavored on top of the tostones, it was my first time having them topped with a sweet sauce instead. I said to myself - 'Not bad at all!" Then, I ordered the Steak Pepito (a large sandwich generously filled with steak, onions and shoe string potatoes). Two things about this sandwich - (1) you can't eat it all; I was only able to eat half and (2) the flavor was remarkable. After that, I also tried the Arepa Pabellón (filled with shredded beef, beans, cheese and maduro). Beyond good. I took about 50% of the entire meal home.

I've been there four times...and blown away four times. The decor is great, the service is wonderful, the food is phenomenal and the prices are more than fair.

Give Arepitas a try! This place is fantastic!

Five things to know about Arepitas:

1. At the time I posted this blog, their website was being re-tooled, so I used their Facebook page to review their information.

2. If you decide to order the Vegetarian Arepa, keep in mind that it's gigantic. Two people can split it. It is that large.

3. Some menu items do not have prices printed, but the waitstaff is used to people asking about the cost(s). Just ask. They are cool with it.

4. They offer the small 'Mexican Cokes' in glass bottles which is awesome. Just keep in mind, they are about $4 each.

5. If you're seeking delicious meals to eat at home (and order food to go), remember that the portions of many menu items are sizable. For example, one order of the Pabellon Bowl is easily two meals.

440 E Central Texas Expy Ste 101 Harker Heights, TX 76548

(254) 220-4534

www.arepitasusa.com