A Venezuelan Chipotle is opening in Short Pump
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The outside of Arepa Station. Photo: Sabrina Moreno/Axios
Arepa Station is taking over the Bocata space in Short Pump that closed in August.
Why it matters: It's rare for a Venezuelan spot in Richmond to be replaced by another Venezuelan restaurant, especially this quickly.
Driving the news: Arepa Station — which is like Chipotle but for Venezuelan food — had its soft opening this week at 10170 West Broad Street.
- Unlike Bocata, which was the longest-running Venezuelan restaurant in the Richmond area before closing, Arepa Station focuses more heavily on arepas — the golden, griddled cornmeal pockets stuffed with various fillings.
How it works: Choose whether you want a bowl or an arepa.
- Then pick from the hot fillings, which range from steak and shredded beef to pork rinds and plantains.
- Then decide what else to top it with, like different types of cheese, deviled ham, avocado and more.
Zoom in: If you're indecisive, the menu offers over 15 arepa combos, including: chorizo and cheese, shredded beef with beans and plantains, and steak, cheese and avocado.
- Prices range from $8-$12.
Also on the menu: Tequeños ($8), empanadas ($4-$5), bowls ($16-$18), and desserts like tres leches or Venezuelan flan (both $8).
If you go: Arepa Station officially opens Friday.
- Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10am-8pm and Saturday, 9am-8pm.
What's next: A coffee cart and dessert bar is in the works.