The Arepa Place

ABOUT

First off, what is an arepa?

As owner-operator Isis Arrieta-Dennis will tell you, an arepa is made from corn and can be loosely compared to a pita. The word “arepa” actually comes from the languages of indigenous populations in Colombia and Venezuela and has been adopted into the Spanish language to refer to cornbread. In Colombia, Isis’ home country, arepas are often stuffed with many ingredients such as chicken, beef, cheese and plantains. An arepa mixed with cheese and grilled is what she affectionately refers to as “the Colombian version of a grilled cheese.”

Isis was first inspired by her mother to create food. Growing up in Colombia, Isis’ mother owned her own restaurant and cooking became a staple in Isis’ life.

Today, her mother still inspires Isis with her recipes, knowledge and lots of love and support.

After meeting her husband Chris while he was studying abroad in Colombia, Isis moved to the United States. Here, she would often make arepas for parties and gatherings, and her friends and family seemed to love them! Isis has always enjoyed sharing her culture and expressing her creativity through food so she began to mull over the idea of opening her own restaurant. Once she and Chris were turned on to Findlay Market’s newest project, Findlay Kitchen, they knew they had found a way to make Isis’ dreams a reality.

What started out as small stand has grown into a full-fledged storefront business. You can find Isis and her amazing arepas on the south side of the market.

Next time you’re at the market make sure to stop by the south side to say hi to Isis and Chris and try an arepa while you’re there!