Arepa Lady

- 77-17 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

In the vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood of Jackson Heights, Queens, a true New York legend has found a permanent home. Arepa Lady, once a beloved street vendor, is now a full-fledged restaurant, offering a taste of authentic Colombian cuisine that has captured the hearts of New Yorkers for decades. This is more than just a place to eat; it’s a culinary institution with a heartwarming backstory, started by Maria Piedad Cano, a former lawyer and judge from Colombia who began selling her homemade arepas from a cart to support her family in the U.S. Today, her sons carry on the tradition, bringing her incredible recipes to a wider audience in a cozy and welcoming space.

Arepa Lady specializes in its namesake dish: the **arepa**. Arepas are a type of flatbread made from ground maize dough, which can be grilled, baked, or fried. At Arepa Lady, they are often filled with a variety of delicious ingredients, ranging from classic cheese to savory meats. The arepas here are celebrated for being crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. The menu also offers a wide array of other Colombian favorites, including **patacones**, fried green or sweet plantains, and hearty appetizers like **Chicharron** and **Chorizo**. The diversity of the menu ensures that whether you're a first-timer or a regular, there's always something new and delicious to try.

The atmosphere at Arepa Lady is a perfect blend of casual, cozy, and trendy. It’s a place where everyone feels welcome, from college students and groups to families and tourists. The restaurant is notably **LGBTQ+ friendly** and a **transgender safe space**, adding to its inclusive and community-oriented vibe. With options for everything from a quick bite to a full, sit-down meal, Arepa Lady caters to all types of diners. The restaurant accepts reservations, making it a great option for planning a get-together, and with its late-night food offerings, it's a popular destination long after other places have closed. The combination of exceptional food, a warm atmosphere, and a rich history makes Arepa Lady a true gem in the heart of Queens.

Arepa Lady is located at 77-17 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA. This prime location is a key part of its appeal. Jackson Heights is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in Queens, well-known for its fantastic food scene and cultural richness. The restaurant's spot on 37th Avenue places it at the center of the action, making it easily accessible for anyone in the area.

The neighborhood is well-connected by public transportation, with several subway and bus lines serving the area, making it convenient to visit from various parts of New York City. For those who choose to drive, paid street parking is available in the surrounding area. The restaurant is also designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a **wheelchair accessible entrance** and a **wheelchair accessible restroom**.

Furthermore, the restaurant offers **outdoor seating**, which is a great option for enjoying a meal on a beautiful day while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the neighborhood. The combination of a central location, a variety of dining options, and features that ensure a comfortable experience for everyone solidifies Arepa Lady's reputation as a welcoming and accommodating establishment.

Arepa Lady provides a wide range of services to accommodate every diner's needs and preferences.

• Dine-in: Enjoy a relaxed meal inside the cozy restaurant or on the outdoor patio.
• Takeout: For those on the go, the restaurant offers a quick and convenient takeout service.
• Delivery: Have your favorite Colombian dishes delivered to your doorstep with their delivery and no-contact delivery options.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which is great for planning a visit with a group.

Arepa Lady stands out for several key features that make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

• Serves Local Specialty: The restaurant is a must-visit for its authentic arepas and other Colombian dishes.
• Great Coffee & Cocktails: The beverage menu is extensive, featuring classic Colombian coffee and a variety of cocktails and wines.
• Dietary Accommodations: A key highlight, as noted in a customer review, is the fact that many items are **gluten-free**, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
• Late-Night Food: The restaurant is open late, making it a perfect spot for a post-event meal or a late-night craving.
• Family-Friendly: With a menu that appeals to all ages and amenities like **high chairs**, Arepa Lady is a great place for families.
• Gender-Neutral Restroom: The presence of a gender-neutral restroom is a notable amenity that contributes to the restaurant's inclusive environment.
• Fast Service: Despite its popularity, the restaurant is known for its fast and efficient service.

For more information or to place an order, you can contact Arepa Lady at:

Address: 77-17 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA

Phone: (917) 745-1111

Arepa Lady is worth choosing for an experience that is both authentic and deeply satisfying. The restaurant's claim to fame, the **arepas**, are absolutely worth the visit. The review that calls them "out of this world" is a testament to the quality and flavor that has been perfected over decades. The **Arepa De Queso** and **Arepa De Chocolo** are particularly praised for their crispy texture, soft interior, and cheesy goodness. Another customer noted that the sauces they bring to the table are a game-changer, so be sure to try them all. The fact that you can buy these sauces to take home is a huge bonus!

Beyond the arepas, the menu offers a wealth of incredible options. The **Patacones** (fried plantains) come highly recommended, with one reviewer specifically mentioning the **Patacon de plátano maduro con pollo desmechado** (sweet plantain with shredded chicken) as a fantastic choice. For a more substantial meal, the **Bandeja Lady** is a mixed platter that allows you to sample a variety of meats and flavors, while the **Colombian Burger** offers a unique twist on a classic. The **Mini Empanada Trio** is also a great appetizer.

What truly sets Arepa Lady apart is the combination of its delicious food and its commitment to a welcoming atmosphere. The friendly, attentive, and welcoming service, as noted by a five-star review, makes the dining experience even more enjoyable. The availability of gluten-free options on almost every arepa is a major benefit, showing their dedication to accommodating all diners. The fact that it's a late-night spot that offers reservations and is family-friendly makes it an incredibly versatile and valuable part of the Jackson Heights community. For a taste of history and some of the best Colombian food in New York, Arepa Lady is the ultimate choice.

Arepa Lady

77-17 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA