Venezuelan

Barrio Memories, Pressed Into Every Arepa.

Juan vividly remembers the barrio of his childhood in Venezuela. Sensory memories– the aroma of sweet arepas and melted cheese, the echoing laughter from family dinners, and the colorful music spilling onto the streets in the late hours of the night– carry with him thousands of miles away, in Vermont’s Caracas food truck.

Five years ago, Juan left his homeland behind in search of opportunity and stability. But the culture of communal food was something he could never put in the past. His mother and abuelita nurtured in him a passion for cooking, fueled by a tireless work ethic. “Food was always a uniting force, an opportunity to share an unforgettable moment with someone else,” he explains. This is the belief at the heart of Caracas, serving a new barrio of Vermonters that have helped Juan along his journey.

The arepas, traditional corn cakes made of masa, are laboriously rolled and stretched by Juan himself. They come in a delightful variety of styles, from the classic La Reina Pepiada, complete with tender chicken, avocado-aioli crema, onions, and tomatoes, to the Waldo, a Venezuelan nod to the barbecue pulled pork sandwich.

Despite their flavorful distinctions, each arepa pays homage to those of his community. “All of my dishes are named after friends and neighbors here in Vermont. These people helped me with everything; it’s my way of giving back.” Juan makes sure to keep his menu prices affordable so that everyone can taste a bite of his culture. He dreams of one day parking the truck and opening a Caracas coffee shop, where curious eaters can find a full menu of Venezuelan staples, partake in arepa workshops, and a find a place where they are cared for, deliciously.