If you love Venezuelan food or Colombian food, chances are you’ve come across arepas—the delicious, corn-based patties that are a staple in both countries. But where exactly do arepas come from? Are they Venezuelan or Colombian? The answer is both! This beloved dish has deep roots in Latin American culture and has evolved uniquely in each country.

At Kiosco, we honor this tradition by making ready-to-toast arepas with simple ingredients, so you can enjoy an authentic taste of home in just minutes. Available in grocery stores across the U.S., our arepas make it easy to experience this Latin American favorite without the hassle of making them from scratch!

The Origin of Arepas

Arepas date back to pre-Columbian times when Indigenous communities in what is now Venezuela and Colombia used ground maize to make these round, griddled cakes. The name “arepa” is believed to come from the Indigenous Cumanagoto word for maize, the main ingredient.

Over time, arepas became a cornerstone of Venezuelan food and Colombian food, with each country developing its own unique variations.

Venezuelan Arepas vs. Colombian Arepas

While both versions share the same base ingredient—cornmeal—they differ in preparation and how they’re eaten:

• Venezuelan Arepas: Thicker and meant to be sliced open and stuffed with a variety of fillings like shredded beef, black beans, cheese, or avocado. Popular varieties include Reina Pepiada (chicken salad with avocado) and Pabellón (shredded beef, black beans, plantains, and cheese).
• Colombian Arepas: Usually thinner, often grilled with butter and cheese on top rather than being stuffed. A well-known variety is Arepa de Chócolo, made with sweet corn and fresh cheese.

Making Arepas at Home – The Easy Way!

Traditionally, making arepas from scratch requires mixing cornmeal with water and salt, shaping the dough into patties, and cooking them on a hot griddle. But with today’s busy lifestyle, not everyone has time for that!

That’s where Kiosco comes in. We make ready-to-toast arepas using just a few simple ingredients—no preservatives, no artificial flavors—so you can enjoy authentic Colombian and Venezuelan recipes without the prep work. Simply heat them up, add your favorite fillings, and enjoy a homemade taste in minutes.

Where to Find Kiosco Arepas

You can find Kiosco arepas in major grocery stores across the U.S., making it easier than ever to bring this Latin American staple to your table. Whether you love a classic Venezuelan stuffed arepa or a cheesy Colombian arepa, our products are perfect for quick and delicious meals.

A Taste of Home, Anytime

Arepas are more than just food—they’re a connection to culture, family, and tradition. Whether you grew up eating them or are just discovering their magic, Kiosco makes it simple to enjoy this Latin American favorite wherever you are.

Ready to experience authentic arepas? Pick up Kiosco arepas at your local grocery store and taste the tradition!