Mar 5, 2026 - Food and Drink

Budget Bites: Dukes Venezuelan Food

Bob Gee

An arepa filled with plantains, queso fresco, black beans and shredded beef. — This arepa is packed with flavor. Photo: Bob Gee/Axios

These are anxious times for Houston's Venezuelan community — the largest in the U.S. outside Florida.

Why it matters: For those seeking the comfort of familiar flavors from home, the simple arepa isn't far away. And you don't have to be Venezuelan to enjoy this hearty, savory street food.

Zoom in: There are plenty of Venezuelan dining options in Katy, where the Venezuelan community has increased fourfold from 2012 to 2022 to 15,000 people, per the Houston Chronicle, earning the town the nickname "Katyzuela."

Where to go: Dukes Venezuelan Food, a family run restaurant open since 2021, with a newer location in Houston.

What to order: Pabellón arepa ($13), with shredded beef, black beans, plantains and queso fresco.

Choose fried over grilled for a crispy exterior.

Six-word review: Salty and sweet in one bite

If you go: 1420 Mason Road in Katy

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Budget Bites: Dukes Venezuelan Food

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