White Maize

- 277 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231

White Maize in Brooklyn is a must-visit destination for New Yorkers craving a taste of authentic Venezuelan cuisine, especially those seeking delicious and safe gluten-free or plant-based meals. This women-owned restaurant stands out on the bustling Smith Street, offering a warm, inviting, and casual space where the staple of Venezuelan cooking—the cornmeal-based arepa—takes center stage.

More than just a restaurant, White Maize has established itself as a true culinary sanctuary for the health-conscious and those with dietary restrictions. Given that the traditional arepa is naturally gluten-free, the menu is largely celiac-friendly by design. It brilliantly blends the rich, comforting flavors of Latin American food with modern needs, making it a favorite for lunch, dinner, and solo dining in the Carroll Gardens area of New York City.

The atmosphere is often described as cozy and trendy, enhanced by traditional music that creates a home-like feeling. It’s an ideal spot for groups, families, and is known for being an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, ensuring a welcoming environment for all New Yorkers looking for a flavorful and authentic dining experience.

The core of the menu revolves around Arepas, Bowls, and Burritos, all customizable with an array of fillings. From the signature shredded chicken and beef to fantastic vegetable-forward options, White Maize successfully caters to a wide palate. Their commitment to offering delicious vegan and vegetarian choices means there’s no compromise on flavor, making it a powerful contender in New York's competitive culinary scene for Venezuelan food.

For local users, White Maize provides a necessary and exciting option, showcasing that traditional, rich, and flavorful cuisine can easily accommodate diverse dietary needs without sacrificing authenticity or quality. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or settling in for a satisfying meal, this Brooklyn gem is a vibrant slice of Venezuela right here in NYC.

The restaurant's dedication to accessibility and creating a welcoming space further cements its reputation as a valuable community establishment. While some customers have reported issues with delivery and service, the general consensus highly praises the food quality and the overall dining ambiance, particularly highlighting the freshly prepared arepas and the variety of authentic sauces.

This Brooklyn spot is not just about meeting dietary needs; it's about celebrating the heart of Venezuelan food culture. The emphasis on corn-based dishes like arepas and cachapas provides a unique and memorable alternative to many of the city's other Latin American offerings, making it a unique culinary anchor on Smith Street.

The casual dining style, combined with high-quality, authentic flavors, positions White Maize as an accessible everyday dining option, perfect for New Yorkers seeking something beyond the typical fast-casual fare. It’s a place where tradition, taste, and dietary sensitivity come together beautifully.

The menu showcases an appreciation for traditional preparation, such as their popular Tequeños (fresh cheese wrapped in dough, deep-fried) and the rich, sweet Corn Pancakes known as Cachapas. Even the simple sides, like Sweet Plantains and Tostones, are prepared with care, reflecting the deep culinary heritage of Venezuela.

In a city where dining options are endless, White Maize manages to carve out a distinct and vital niche. It provides an essential service for the celiac and plant-based communities while simultaneously introducing everyone to the satisfying comfort of Venezuelan comfort food.

The fact that the business is women-owned adds another layer of community appeal, promoting local entrepreneurship and diversity within the New York food industry.

White Maize’s popularity is a testament to its successful fusion of a welcoming environment, authentic cuisine, and a strong commitment to accommodating special dietary requirements. It remains a celebrated spot among locals who appreciate fresh ingredients and vibrant, well-seasoned food.

The inclusion of a full bar selection, including cocktails, beer, wine, and happy hour specials, further expands its appeal as a versatile neighborhood eatery, suitable for both family meals and casual evening meetups.

The attention to detail, such as offering an 'Eco-Friendly Packaging' option to use DeliverZero containers, highlights a modern commitment to sustainability, resonating with environmentally conscious New Yorkers.

Overall, White Maize provides a flavorful, cultural, and inclusive dining experience that is highly valued by its local Brooklyn patrons and visitors alike.

Location and Accessibility

White Maize is conveniently located in the vibrant Brooklyn neighborhood on Smith Street, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors exploring the area.

The restaurant’s physical address is:

277 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA

Accessibility features include:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Wheelchair accessible seating
• Free street parking available

Services Offered

• Dine-in Seating: A casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere suitable for lunch and dinner.
• Takeout and Delivery: Convenient options for enjoying the menu at home.
• Catering: Services available for groups and events.
• Full Bar Offerings: Including alcohol, beer, wine, and crafted cocktails.
• Happy Hour: Specials available on both drinks and food.
• Family-Friendly: Provides high chairs and a kids’ menu.
• Dietary Accommodations: Extensive vegan options, vegetarian options, and is a well-known gluten-free friendly establishment.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Venezuelan Cuisine: Specializing in Arepas, Cachapas, and traditional appetizers.
• Naturally Gluten-Free Focus: The arepa is a naturally gluten-free staple, making the restaurant highly accommodating for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
• Extensive Vegan and Vegetarian Options: Many dishes, like the Veggie Bowl ($15.17) and Pabellón Vegetariano Arepa ($12.64), can be enjoyed without meat or dairy, or are designed to be plant-based.
• Women-Owned Business: Identifies as a women-owned establishment, supporting local diversity.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: Described as a cozy and friendly environment, suitable for groups, solo dining, and is LGBTQ+ friendly.
• Menu Variety: Offers a range of Arepas, Bowls, Burritos, and Appetizers (such as Guac Tostones and Fried Yuca Balls).
• Unique Drinks: Serves traditional Venezuelan beverages like Papelon and Maltin Polar.

Contact Information

Address: 277 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA

Phone: (347) 946-2493

What is worth choosing

For any New Yorker seeking authentic Venezuelan food, White Maize is an essential stop. The centerpiece of the menu is undoubtedly the arepa, a versatile and satisfying naturally gluten-free cornmeal pocket. The Pabellón Arepa or the Pabellón Vegetariano Arepa ($12.64), featuring black beans, sweet plantains, and fresh white cheese (or avocado and cheese for the vegetarian version), represents the national dish of Venezuela and is a highly recommended comfort food choice. For a hearty, balanced meal, the Bowls, such as the Veggie Bowl ($15.17) or the Grilled Portabella Mushroom Bowl ($15.17), are an excellent way to enjoy the classic Venezuelan flavors over rice and black beans. The Veggie Burrito ($10.60) is another budget-friendly and delicious plant-based option. Additionally, appetizers like the Guac Tostones ($9.11) or the Fried Yuca Balls ($6.07) are fantastic for sharing and tasting various aspects of the cuisine. The commitment to a naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly menu ensures that this restaurant is a valuable and dependable choice for virtually all diners in the Brooklyn area.

White Maize

277 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA