Norwalk, CT: Valencia Luncheria

Denise de Castro

14 years ago

The first time I heard of Valencia Luncheria was when I was reading a CT Bites review of the restaurant. The restaurant was also featured on Food Network’s television show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.

The Works, off their Lunch Specials menu, was my choice because it seemed like the best bang for the buck. For $12 you get 1 arepa, 1 empanada, ceviche, plus rice, beans, plantains, and avocado. Of the many arepa items, I picked the Carne Mechada (shredded beef). My empanada choice was the Chicken Tamarillo (chicken stew).

The arepa was delicious – crunchy, and served hot. The carne mechada was a bit on the salty side, but still tasty – tasted better when doused with the guasacaca sauce* (If you dine here, it’s the bottle with the green stuff).

*What’s guasacaca sauce?

“It’s a simple but staggeringly tasty combination of avocado, fresh parsley and coriander, green bell pepper, onion, garlic, salt, oil and vinegar.” – Venezuelan Food and Drinks blog

The chicken tamarillo empanada was also delicious. I dressed mine with the chipotle sauce (the bottle with the red stuff).

Served with The Works is a small serving of ceviche. Their version is made of scallops and shrimp. No complaints here – also delicious. I wouldn’t mind ordering a regular serving of it next time for $8.

The Works, $12
1 arepa, 1 empanada, ceviche, plus rice, beans, plantains, and avocado

Arepa: Carne Mechada (shredded beef)

Portions are huge here – with 2 diners, you can share a large plate and order an extra arepa or empanada, and be satisfied.

I thought Valencia Luncheria was a great spot. A bit torn on which place had the best arepa – this or Masas (which is located a couple miles away): I decided Masas had a better arepa, while Valencia Luncheria had better fillings, although they were on the salty side. I would definitely come back, and try their breakfast.