La Ñapa

- 656 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216

Welcome to La Ñapa, a vibrant and globally inspired gem nestled in the heart of Crown Heights, Brooklyn. More than just a local eatery, La Ñapa stands out as a unique destination where the rich, bold flavors of Latin American—particularly Venezuelan—cuisine seamlessly fuse with the communal spirit of a modern tapas bar and wine haven. For New Yorkers seeking a culinary escape without leaving the city, this spot offers an unforgettable dining experience marked by innovative small plates, sensational arepas, and a carefully curated wine selection. It’s a place where every dish tells a story of cultural fusion, guided by the creative hand of Venezuelan Chef Francisco Antón.

La Ñapa is not confined to a single category; it’s a dynamic establishment that expertly combines the best elements of a Tapas restaurant, a Seafood restaurant, a dedicated Tapas bar, and a welcoming Wine bar. Whether you are looking for a quick bite, a full dinner, or simply a cozy spot to enjoy a glass of wine with friends, La Ñapa provides a distinctive, cozy, and trendy atmosphere. It has quickly become a beloved neighborhood haunt, celebrated for delivering consistently fresh, flavorful food and a warm, inviting environment that feels both authentic and cutting-edge.

Our commitment to quality extends beyond the kitchen. La Ñapa is a Latino-owned business dedicated to bringing a vibrant piece of Latin American culinary culture to Brooklyn. Guests rave about the exceptional quality of the food—from the crispy, flavorful tacos to the universally acclaimed arepas that many call the best they've ever had. If you're exploring the New York dining scene and crave something inventive yet comforting, make your next stop this celebrated Crown Heights locale.

The menu is structured around the concept of tapas—small, shareable plates perfect for tasting a wide range of Chef Antón’s creations. While the focus is on a global-meets-Latin fusion, the star attractions are undoubtedly the traditional Venezuelan staples, reimagined with a contemporary flair. Diners can expect a culinary journey that borrows flavors from Mexico, the Caribbean, Venezuela, and Peru. This eclectic approach ensures that there is always something new and exciting to discover with every visit.

When it comes to local specialties, the Arepas are the centerpiece of the La Ñapa experience. These delicious, naturally gluten-free corn cakes are served in both small, snackable sizes and full-sized versions, stuffed with a variety of incredible fillings. Options include the classic Carne Mechada Arepa (brisket with homemade mozzarella, guacamole, and garlic aioli), Chicken Arepa, or the famous Pabellon Arepa, which includes shredded beef, sweet plantains, black bean sauce, mozzarella cheese, and garlic aioli—a tribute to the national dish of Venezuela, Pabellón Criollo, which is also available as a main plate. The menu also features inventive arepitas like the Braised Brisket Arepitas and BBQ Smoked Sausage Arepitas, showing the versatility of this staple.

Beyond the celebrated arepas, the selection of tapas and small plates is extensive and impressive. Customer favorites include the Yuca Balls (croquettes of yuca and goat cheese on a bed of creamy brie & guava cheese), the rich Chicharron (crispy pork belly served with habanero aioli), and the classic Spanish dish Pan Con Tomate (grated tomato with garlic served on a toasted focaccia). Seafood lovers can indulge in the Mixed Seafood Ceviche or the Garlic Shrimp (gambas al ajillo). The Crab Croquettes and the innovative Lechon Wonton also stand as must-try bites that showcase the chef's flair for fusion.

For those with heartier appetites, La Ñapa also offers full-sized main plates, such as Steak Frites, the flavorful Pescado a lo Macho and Spaghetti, and comforting Italian classics like Lasagna and Spaghetti & Meatballs, demonstrating a menu that truly has something for everyone. They also offer a variety of flavor-packed tacos, including Pastor (braised pork), Chicken, and Seafood options.

This wine bar is especially popular among New York locals for a number of reasons, serving as an excellent spot for lunch, dinner, or even a solo meal. The fast and attentive service is frequently highlighted in reviews, ensuring a pleasant and efficient dining experience whether you are eating in or grabbing a quick order. The venue’s cozy, trendy, and colorful decor, combined with a chill, laid-back atmosphere, makes it perfect for a casual date night, a gathering with friends, or an intimate meal. The availability of a lovely outdoor seating area, sometimes referred to as a cozy patio, is an added bonus for enjoying the bustling Brooklyn neighborhood in comfort.

La Ñapa is also committed to inclusivity, welcoming a diverse crowd including families, groups, tourists, and is noted as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space. The venue's accessibility, with wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating, ensures that everyone can enjoy the fantastic food and welcoming environment.

Whether you're exploring the area or you're a long-time resident, La Ñapa provides a flavorful, authentic, and enjoyable dining experience in a lively Brooklyn setting. It’s an essential stop for anyone who appreciates creative Latin fusion cuisine paired with excellent wine.

Location and Accessibility

La Ñapa is conveniently located in the Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, making it easily accessible for many New York City residents.

Address: 656 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216, USA

The location on Nostrand Avenue is central to the area, often praised for its community feel and connection.

Accessibility Features:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Wheelchair accessible seating
• Central and well connected location
• Free street parking available nearby

Services Offered at La Ñapa

• Dine-in service with both bar and table seating options
• Outdoor seating, including a cozy patio for lingering
• Curbside pickup for convenient carry-out
• Delivery and no-contact delivery options
• Takeout for quick meals on the go
• Table service
• Late-night food service available
• Bar onsite with a wide range of beverages
• Accommodations for dietary needs (including gluten-free options and vegetarian/vegan selections)
• Accepts Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments
• Dog-friendly policy with dogs allowed both inside and outside

Features and Highlights

• Fast service that keeps the dining experience smooth and efficient
• Great cocktails, expertly mixed and creatively presented
• Great wine list, curated to complement the Latin-fusion tapas
• Serves local specialties, most notably the highly-praised Venezuelan Arepas
• Globally inspired and innovative tapas, fusing flavors from Venezuela, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Peru
• Offers a wide array of options including Comfort Food, Healthy Options, Organic Dishes, and Quick Bites
• Cozy, trendy, and casual atmosphere, perfect for a variety of occasions from solo dining to group outings
• Bar onsite and dedicated seating for all dining options: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert

Contact Information

Address: 656 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216, USA

Phone: (347) 435-0920 / +1 347-435-0920

What is Worth Choosing at La Ñapa

Choosing La Ñapa offers a truly distinctive New York dining experience, setting it apart from typical neighborhood spots. What makes this establishment a must-visit is its authentic yet innovative approach to Latin cuisine. The cornerstone of the menu is the Venezuelan Arepa, which customers consistently describe as mind-blowing—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and generously filled with high-quality ingredients like shredded beef (carne mechada), chicken, or pork. Whether you're a seasoned arepa enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these are a non-negotiable part of your meal.

Beyond the arepas, you are choosing a culinary adventure centered on tapas. This style of dining encourages sharing and sampling, allowing you to taste the full spectrum of the chef’s Latin fusion creativity. You can pair delicious bites like crispy Chicharron or savory Yuca Balls with an excellent selection from their wine list, which is a highlight for anyone seeking a true wine bar experience. The venue ensures that even the simplest options, like the fish and shrimp tacos, are super flavorful and fresh.

Furthermore, you are choosing an environment that is praised for its welcoming and accessible nature. The atmosphere is an ideal blend of cozy and trendy, with vibrant, colorful decor that contributes to a chill and friendly vibe. Whether you are coming in for a casual lunch, a romantic date night, or dinner with a group of friends, the service is known to be super friendly and attentive. The commitment to catering to different needs—from offering extensive vegan and vegetarian options to being mindful of dietary restrictions and providing full accessibility—solidifies La Ñapa as a thoughtful and valuable addition to the Brooklyn food scene. For a taste of global flavor, a great drink, and an inviting space, La Ñapa is the perfect Crown Heights destination.

La Ñapa

656 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216, USA