Host the Perfect Venezuelan
Dinner Party
From authentic arepas to signature empanadas. Everything you need to impress your guests with Venezuela's most beloved flavors.
Why Host a Venezuelan Dinner?
Venezuelan cuisine is more than food—it's storytelling. Every dish carries history, heritage, and the warmth of a culture that values gathering around the table. From the streets of Caracas to your Calgary home, this guide will teach you how to recreate authentic Venezuelan hospitality.
Whether you're honoring your heritage or introducing your friends to new flavors, a Venezuelan dinner party is an unforgettable experience.
The Foundation: Arepas
An arepa is to Venezuela what bread is to France. It's the foundation of every table. This simple corn-based flatbread is versatile, delicious, and surprisingly easy to master.
Traditional Arepa Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 6 arepas)
- • 2 cups white corn flour (arepa flour)
- • 1½ cups warm water
- • 1 tsp salt
- • Oil for frying
Steps
- Mix: Combine corn flour, water, and salt. Let rest 2 minutes.
- Knead: Work into smooth dough (like mashed potatoes).
- Shape: Form 6 balls, then press into thick discs (¾ inch).
- Fry: Heat oil to 350°F. Fry 3–4 min per side until golden.
- Serve: Fill warm with cheese, avocado, shredded beef, or our signature fillings.
Pro tip: Use authentic Venezuelan arepa flour (not regular corn meal). We source premium flour from local suppliers. Order our pre-made frozen arepas →
The Star: Hand-Rolled Empanadas
If arepas are the foundation, empanadas are the showstopper. Crispy on the outside, filled with seasoned beef or cheese, these little pockets of flavor are what guests will ask about for months.
Why Make Your Own When We Have It Perfected?
Making empanadas from scratch takes 2+ hours. Our signature Empanada Box is hand-rolled fresh daily, ready to enjoy in minutes.
Perfect for entertaining: Order 48 hours ahead, reheat just before serving, and enjoy the compliments.
Building Your Venezuelan Menu
Course 1: Appetizers
- Empanadas de Queso: Cheese-filled, perfectly crispy
- Tostones: Twice-fried plantains with garlic aioli
- Arepa Reina: Arepa stuffed with shredded chicken & avocado
Course 2: Main
- Pastel de Pollo: Savory chicken and vegetable pastry
- Carne Asada: Marinated grilled beef with chimichurri
- Fresh Arepas: At the table, warm and ready to fill
Course 3: Dessert
- Flan Tradicional: Silky custard with caramel
- Quesillo: Creamy cheese dessert (trust us)
- Pavlova: Our signature meringue creation
Need help? Our Events Advisor can create a custom catering menu tailored to your party size and preferences.
Beverages That Pair Perfectly
Chicha: A traditional drink made from rice, milk, and cinnamon. Sweet, creamy, and festive.
Venezuelan Rum: If serving alcohol, rum is traditional. Try Diplomatico or Santa Teresa for sipping.
Fresh Horchata: Another dairy-based option that's lighter and cooling.
Coffee: Always end with strong, dark Venezuelan coffee—it's tradition.
Pro Hosting Tips from Chef Jennifer
Make Arepas Fresh
Arepas are best served warm. Make the dough ahead, but fry them 30 minutes before serving.
Order Empanadas 48H Ahead
Our hand-rolled empanadas require advance ordering. This takes the stress off your shoulders. Order now →
Set the Table Early
Venezuelans believe the table is the heart of the home. Set it beautifully with fresh flowers and warm lighting.
Timing Is Everything
Start with appetizers, move through mains slowly, and save dessert for conversation. Meals last 2–3 hours—embrace it.
Keep Fillings Simple
The best Venezuelan dishes let the ingredient quality shine. Use fresh butter, local cheese, and premium beef.
Where to Source Premium Ingredients in Calgary
The difference between good and authentic is sourcing. Here's what Chef Jennifer recommends:
Arepa Flour: Look for "Harina de Maíz Precocida" at Latin grocers. We also offer pre-measured flour packets.
Fresh Cheese (Queso Fresco): Find at Latin markets. If unavailable, fresh mozzarella works in a pinch.
Plantains: Buy from Chinatown or Latin markets when yellow (for frying).
Beef Quality: Use premium cuts for carne asada. Ask your butcher for sirloin tip or skirt steak.
Ready to Host Like a Pro?
Don't stress the details. Let us handle the artisan-quality empanadas, arepas, and desserts while you focus on what matters: your guests.
Chef Jennifer Abeu-Saleh
With over 20 years of experience in Venezuelan and Latin cuisine, Chef Jennifer brings authentic heritage to every dish. Based in Calgary, she sources the finest local ingredients to honor traditional recipes while creating modern culinary experiences.