Arepa & Co Bethnal Green

When London’s Venezuelans want a taste of home they go to Arepa & Co, a quirky, contemporary space doing some of the finest South American food in the capital.

The latest opening from husband and wife team Gus and Kathe Salguero, it’s as fun for cocktails and nibbles as it is for an unusual weekend brunch.

Share a feast of small plates including cheese-stuffed pastries with guava sauce or get stuck into Venezuelan comfort classics like arebas, gluten-free cornbread stuffed with everything from soft-shelled crab to crispy fried chicken.

Vegetarians and vegans will love the gourmet salads and meat-free versions of traditional dishes like pabellon, while a rum-focused cocktail list keeps the atmosphere buzzing.