In December, Bolívar Café and Gallery celebrated two achievements. First, its 10th anniversary as a small, bustling Santa Monica café. Second, the arrival of a custom-made arepa machine, and the reappearance — after a year hiatus — of this Venezuelan dish. “On the first day we made over 200,” says owner José Carvajal. “And we haven’t stopped since.” Yes, the arepas — cornmeal patties split lengthwise and filled like a sandwich with ingredients such as panela cheese, chicken and avocado — are that popular… Continue reading →