Overall, it seemed very slow when we arrived. A handful of people were sitting at tables and only 1-2 people ahead of us in line. The workers seemed slightly slower than the other location I have been to. No biggie. Finally, when it was my turn to order, the guy motioned to me and said something (I couldn't understand him, but it was obvious he wanted me to place my order) so I started my order and then he mid-sentence of me saying the order, he looked down at the monitor and said "one minute" as an online order came in and he started to proceed to make THAT order as I stood there waiting to finish my order. I am not thinking the world should revolve around me at all, but I have also learned that in customer service the person in front of you should be the priority. So finally, I placed my order and moved on through to the cashier. She had ZERO smile and ZERO eye contact. I pride myself on being a cheerful, polite person who also tries to give a genuine smile. She seemed to be tired and definitely didn't want to be there. I had to WAIT to pay bc she was turned waiting for something. No explanation like, "I'll be able to get your payment in just a second" or anything of the sort. The food was delicious, nonetheless. The lighting at night inside is a little too much on the cool side. We decided to take our order to go. Will we be back? yes, but to the Spring Forest Road location instead. the staff is friendlier and way faster! read more

Gluten Free Arepa now! Had vegetarian arepa $6.29 Not bad Filling and pretty healthy Kind of slow waiting for the gluten free arepa Good read more

Guasaca - Gluten free vegetarian arepa - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

It was only my second time dining at Guasaca. Both times the food landed perfectly on the tastebuds. The Arepas are delicious. I dined this time on the steak arepa and it was loaded with all the fixins. They were delicious. The service was great for those preparing the food. I would say that the gentleman that accepted our money may have been having a tough day. He did not seem as friendly as the others, but I never let that get to me as we are all entitled to having a tough day. The ambiance is typical restaurant fare, but that is to be expected sometimes. Overall, I would dine there every day if I could. Next time I will get the white corn instead of the yellow, just to try something different. I would give it 5 stars, but the service needs a revisit to see if the demeanor is improved. Overall, excellent. read more

I'm really excited to see a different kind of fast food for lunch. These are Venezuela Reyes. I was disappointed to not see the traditional Reina pepiada (although I think that their avocado chicken comes as close to it as possible, because that's what its all about). I ordered a Carne Asada arepa. It was very tasty, but I was disappointed in the Arepa itself - a bit too thin, but nice and crispy and cooked on the inside. They are smart to serve it in a paper/diaper kind of thing because they can get messy. I also ordered the half salad with chicken. Chicken was dry, but flavorful. The place is decorated nicely, but it could use some cleaning , nothing that would scare you. The staff is really friendly and they'll walk you through the menu. The food is tasty, great for lunch, healthy ingredients and really nice people! read more

Guasaca - Combo 1/2 salad and an arepa - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

We've not been in a while, so I did pickup for my son and I. Since they opened he got the same thing he's always gotten 1 shredded chicken and cheese and one beef chicken and cheese. I got a salad with reg chicken basic - here's the thing. I don't know what was the matter with my salad... perhaps it was the rice but multiple times it was like biting down on pepper corns, or rock. I had to toss my salad for fear I'd chip a tooth. I figure it's a fluke but I was very disappointed. Ambiance, in the spring in summer the outdoor area has some but otherwise I'd describe it as cold and uninviting, it could use an appearance boost but the staff is always friendly. read more

Truly disappointed. I was so excited about getting arepas. I think the people who work there should get a new job if they aren't happy to do what they do. When people come to spend money, they are spending money on the food AND service. From the minute we got there no one acknowledged us and waited over 20 minutes just for someone to half ass our food. First of all we paid $2 for a sauce that barely was filled in the soufflé cup!!! Look at the cilantro sauce compared to the sour cream?! Couldn't even enjoy my food. What a waste of time and money. If the service ain't served with love, why would the food ?! read more

Guasaca - Cilantro sauce vs sour cream - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

On June23, amid a 97°F heat warning, we visited with my 6-year-old daughter and two tiny 5-week‑old puppies. Guasaca was empty. We placed the puppies in a box on a table and I went to order takeout, but the manager harshly told us, "you cannot have them inside", and insisted we sit outside, even though the extreme heat placed us all at risk. She offered no genuine apology, alternative, or empathy just a rigid policy despite no posted signage. She failed to recognize the serious health dangers: babies, kids, and pets are vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heatstroke at these temperatures . Feeling unsafe and unwelcome, we left immediately. A few minutes away, another restaurant (Jazmine & Olive) welcomed us warmly, allowed us inside, and treated us with kindness. We paid $32 for lunch plus an $8 tip--because their empathy and consideration meant so much. The difference couldn't be clearer: your restaurant's lack of empathy and disregard for our well-being during inclement weather was unacceptable. I urge you to review your policies and train staff to respond more compassionately. read more

Guasaca - Guasaca-No signal about pet policies - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Je suis allée au Guacsaca il y a cinq jours. C'est super! J'adore les arepas! Les serveurs est charmant et rapidement. J'ai amenée mes amis et elles le aime! read more

The staff are patient and kind, the food was very good, but idk if I came after a rush or something cause the ingredient options were low/out and I had to wait for more to be prepared. The store was clean and not crowded which otherwise would have been a quick trip! read more

I recently found out about arepas and Guasaca from my son and DIL while visiting the Raleigh area. On lunch break from seeing the sights around town, my wife and I found this store near the NC Museum of Art and decided to try the arepas. I ordered the signature steak and my wife ordered the vegetarian. Short story: we both thoroughly enjoyed the flavors of each arepa. Watching the employee slice the already thin corn wrap and then proceed to drop the ingredients was a treat. Everything stayed intact (until my first bite). My grilled steak was seasoned/marinated and surprising tender. The maize dough added not only flavor but also texture. The S American spices were a wonderful change for my taste buds and the cilantro sauce (separate) complimented all the ingredients. Also included on the menu are chips and salsa, a mini arepa filled with cheese, small dishes for children (or small stomachs). This location has both indoor and outdoor seating, a soda fountain, and bathrooms. The cleanliness was good on our visit My only wish is that a Guasaca store would show up where I live. read more

Guasaca - Ordering, assembling, and payment area - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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This was our first time here and as you walk in there are tables outside and inside. We ordered the shredded chicken arepa, grilled steak arepa and the kids meal with crispy chicken, mini arepa and white rice. The shredded chicken arepa was good and hearty but wanted more flavor! The grilled steak arepa was ok as per my husband. He didn't like that the arepa fell apart immediately! We have had stuffed arepas before in other places so that was disappointing. Our daughter had the kids chicken and she didn't like the chicken- over cooked! Service was fast and friendly! The place was clean. Annoying part is finding parking! read more

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Very good food and service. I enjoy the bowls here. There are a variety of toppings to pick from. I usually get the grilled chicken bowl. read more

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We got the signature beef and chicken arepa and it was delicious. There is a lot of flavor and I would definitely go back for more! read more

Guasaca - Guasaca Shredded Chicken Arepa and Shredded Beef Signature Arepa - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

The food here is amazing. It is bad but every time I got into Raleigh to see my doctor. The sandwiches are small and filling. The staff are super nice and I really enjoy hanging out in the store. read more

Guasaca was a pretty good! I ordered on Uber eats and had it delivered. I picked two arepas the shredded chicken and shredded beef. Both were delicious and came with a green sauce that was tasty. They were a bit small but the flavor made up for the size. If I lived in this area i would have this often for lunch! read more

Okay. This place has always stressed me out ordering here and this evening was a total mess. After giving our very simple order, the woman writes it down on the wraps but then proceeds to do other things and take other people's orders behind us and it's just flying by while I'm trying to get their attention. I even explain - in Spanish - when it's clear the next person doesn't speak good English what's going on. No one stops and fixes the situation. The cashier even tells me it's my fault. We walked out. read more

Tasty local Arepa chain. My Brazilian coworker took me here to change up the our lunch rotation and try something different. It's a fast casual concept similar to a national pepper named chain and you can either select their listed combos or create your own. I decided try out the shredded beef. It comes with black beans, copious amounts of cheese, and red salsa. I do wish they had a broiler or something because the meat does melt some cheese but not all of it. The flavor is quite nice, not overly spicy. It's also extremely wet. Like you're gonna need like 3 napkins per arepa to wipe up. read more

Guasaca - 1 Shredded Beef Arepa - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Honestly, solid but nothing to get excited about, was good but not great. I got a southwest fried chicken bowl. The chicken had no flavor at all and there were barely any black beans. But it earned that fourth star because the portion side was big so it made up for the lack of flavor. I would never go back but I would recommend trying it and maybe you will find something better! read more

Guasaca - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

I found this place while staying with a patient at Rex hospital. Less than a mile, so convenient. I had never had arepas before so had to really study the menu and figure out what to order. I placed my order at the counter, paid then went to get my drink. They have brewed tea and a soda machine. People were ok, all self serve, so can't say anything about the servers. The place was clean but not much decor. Wooden chairs and tables were very basic. I had grilled chicken arepa and a steak arepa. The steak one didn't have much meat but had lots of beans and onions. The chicken one had more meat and had good salsa . Both had some white cheese on top. I had a garlic sauce and a cilantro sauce and liked both of them. Not sure if I will go back but I am glad I tried it! read more

Guasaca - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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This is the first time I remember having an arepa, & I loved it! I'll definitely be looking for more places to try them. I got the signature shredded beef arepa and added plantains, it was absolutely delicious!!!!!! No complaints, the flavors mingled perfectly! It was only $7.00, & filled me up for lunch. Super casual place, my one suggestion though is don't order it to go, because I saw a lot of customers returning because their orders were messed up. read more

Guasaca - Shredded Beef Signature Arepa - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

We recently visited Guasaca on a whim, driven by curiosity and hunger. We learned that the name "Guasaca" refers to guacamole, and it turned out to be one of the most unique culinary experiences I've had. While I wouldn't say I was wild about it, that might be due to my personal taste preferences rather than the quality of the food itself. The guacamole was distinctly different from what I'm used to, offering a fresh and interesting twist. Despite it not being exactly to my taste, I could appreciate the flavors and the care that went into its preparation. The overall experience was pleasant, and who knows, I may be up for trying it again in the future. If you're looking for a unique take on guacamole, Guasaca is worth a visit. Service was fast and efficient. They operate in an assembly line in the ambience was typical. read more

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When I first walked in and noticed this looked like a fast food chain, I was nervous about the food being authentic. Don't judge a book by its cover! These arepas were the best! I had the vegan arepas! The filling was balanced and the plantain really set it off! The arepa bread was perfectly made; warm and toasty. I tried the arepas alone and they were delicious by itself, but the cilantro and red sauce took it to the next level. I would have never thought one of the best arepa spots would br in Raleigh! read more

Guasaca - 1 Vegan-Friendly Arepa 1 Vegan-Friendly Signature Arepa - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Delicious and inexpensive. Two of my favorite traits! I will definitely be back. The employees were also very nice, and the restaurant itself has plenty of seating. read more

If you are interested in global cuisine then look no further. Great portions, trendy location with great and friendly staff. The arepa is made fresh and filled to the brim with a variety of delicious ingredients. 10 out of 10, highly recommend. read more

Everyday I encounter the same dilemma: what should I get for lunch? Well, today, I thought it was time to try out Guasaca because this particular location had good reviews, and it is close to my campus, which is extremely convenient for me. I love a good arepa, and that is exactly what I ordered. The first arepa I tried was the crispy chicken topped with creamy coleslaw. The breaded chicken was pretty good, however, the coleslaw was the perfect touch to bring a delicious tangy taste! Also, I ordered the shredded chicken bowl, which was personally my favorite. I added their homemade guacamole, which is what they're known for, some of that amazing coleslaw, and of course extra cheese. To say it was delicious is an understatement! The atmosphere is nice. If you want to come with family and friends it is a great place to grab an arepa or bowl to go or dine-in. There are plenty of places to grab a seat and start munching. The price was also very fair for what I got. The portion size was almost as big as the Statue of Liberty-but that's what I like! Now, I have leftovers for dinner, that'll taste, hopefully, just as good! Service was relatively fast, and overall the experience was good to say the least. Go ahead and head over to guasaca if you want a fairly priced tasty bowl! read more

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I've had several not great experiences at this Guasaca, but they managed to get my order correct this time so I'm only reviewing on that. My friend and I just beat a large crowd right before 5 on a Saturday evening. I ordered the crispy chicken arepa which comes with slaw and some sort of creamy sauce. I always enjoy it, but it does take a little longer to get since they cook it fresh. My second arepa had grilled chicken, pico, brown rice, black beans, white cheese, cilantro sauce and plantains. The plantains are my favorite part and add great flavor. You can eat inside (they've got about 20 tables) or outside on the large back patio which is shared among several restaurants. They sometimes have live music. Get yourself a beer next door at Bottle Rev and enjoy your meal! read more

Guasaca - 1 Crispy Chicken Arepa and 1 Grilled Chicken Arepa - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

I've eaten here many times over the last five years and had great food. However, the last two times the food has been so salty I had trouble eating it and I am a salt lover! This has happened at both this location and the North Raleigh location as well. No idea what is going on, but sadly it will be a long time before I stop in again. read more

Great fast casual spot for lunch or dinner. The shredded chicken was the best arepa that I tried, though the shredded beef was also great. Would skip the grilled steak next time. read more

Guasaca - Arepas - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Delicious!! Huge portions and great sauces. I got chicken avocado and tilapia arepas with cilantro sauce and red sauce. The cilantro one was milder than the red one. Both are terrific, addictive. I ordered pick up and it was ready before I got there. They had limited seating and there were people there. I overate!! read more

Guasaca - Fish arepa, came with onion, cheese, and sweet plantain inside. - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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The service was nice, they were helpful with ordering. The menu was straight forward. This is a very casual restaurant but still cute. The food was very good. read more

Not fancy, no frills, yet some of the best food I had while visiting Raleigh! I don't eat many arepas, usually leaning toward empanadas or Salvadoran pupusas when craving something "stuffed." However, I was intrigued by the 1k+ reviews Guasaca garnered on Yelp, despite being such a fast casual spot. We were on our way to find out. The menu clearly outlines how to order: you either choose a pre-made signature arepa or can build your own from all the different protein options (beef, chicken, salmon, pork). Went with the pre-made shredded beef and grilled steak options because they sounded delicious and like absolute spot on combos. Clearly I was a newb because I had no idea that arepas are stuffed AFTER the fact - they brought out freshly made arepas and then stuffed them assembly-line style with all the goodness. We asked for samples of each sauce and then headed home to enjoy the foil-wrapped goodies. Holy S#$#@$#! First bite into the grilled steak arepa and I was hooked. All the flavors, the juiciness of the steak, the heat from the red sauce... wow wow wow. I regretted only getting two. Guasaca, PLEASE move up the coast and open some locations here in Maryland. The people need you! read more

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I have not been disappointed yet when dining inside of this restaurant.. I HAVE been disappointed when getting it delivered because of how soggy the Arepa can get after a few minutes. Get the pork arepa with black beans and a corn tortilla. You won't be disappointed read more

It took me a long time to get around to trying this place, which is a fast casual take on arepas. Clearly, many people beat me to the punch as it was well attended shortly after opening on a Sunday and the brand has spread to several other local spots. The obvious comparison is Chipotle, and this place is similarly customizable, with fewer options but more interesting flavors. Lacking any particular ambition, I sampled the standard vegan and found it to be a rounded meal, with beans and mushrooms and the corn cake itself freshly toasted. It wouldn't have been hard to customize something just as good. Bowls and salads were available as well. The outdoor seating was quite pleasant on a mild day. I could see why the place is doing well. It's quick and convenient, offers something for most any dietary need, and it's more interesting than standard fast food. Plantains for the win! read more

Guasaca - - Vegan Plain Arepa - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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This place was recommended by a friend and let me tell you, Guasaca is freakn deliciousssss ! It was the first time I had arepas and they were amazing and a little crunchy on the outside while still being fluffy on the inside. Also my boyfriend and I got bowls and we definitely think it's better than chipotle bowls (yes you heard it here first ;)). We can't wait to come back here again! read more

Guasaca - Grilled Chicken Bowl / Salad and 1 Vegetarian Arepa - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

This place exceeded all my expectations! I love that they have a build your own option. Had a great white arepa filled with plantains, black beans, black eyed peas, and guasaca. The arepas were a bit thinner and denser than other places, but they stuffed them well and held up well as a sandwich. Had a yellow arepa on the side which was sweet like grilled cornbread. I wouldn't get it as the main arepa but it was a good dessert. I had originally ordered for pickup the Vegan arepa but they were out and they called me to see what they could substitute, which was very nice. The only thing was the pickup system was a little crazy, as they were really busy and were fulfilling all orders there before getting to to-go orders, and people kept coming in, so it was a little slow to get the food. But it was excellent and I'd love to return! The place had a nice patio in the back with live music on a Friday night too. read more

Guasaca - Build your own arepa with black beans, black eyed peas, plantains, and guasaca - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Delicious and speedy! Lots of veggie and meat options. I like going there after visiting the museum.

I left a rave review for Guasaca on 10/3/17. I thought it was a place to get healthy, tasty, and cheap vegan food. I'm shocked to see that they've updated their menu to show *** in a footnote *** that their arepas aren't vegan. I'm changing my 5-star review to 2 stars because the menu strongly implies that the arepas are vegan when they are not. If you only look at the in-person menu, there is no mention that the arepas themselves aren't vegan. Food is not "vegan-friendly" if it contains animal products. Shortly after Guasaca opened, I talked with the owner about ordering vegan options. He assured me that the arepas themselves were vegan. He said that an arepa with black beans or black-eyed peas, grilled onions, plantains, and guasaca sauce would be free from animal products. Because of this, my husband and I ate there about once a week before the pandemic. I've recommended Guasaca to others looking for vegan options and have placed big catering orders. Why does this misleading menu matter? People who want or need vegan food but don't get it could experience life-threatening allergic reactions, unwittingly eat food that is bad for their health, or unknowingly violate religious or ethical principles. The Lake Boone Guasaca is right across the street from Rex Hospital, which has big cancer and cardiac practices. People who are trying to provide actual vegan food for others, at home or at events, should have a clear idea of their options. Some vegans are strict and others more casual. Some go for vegan fillings when eating out without asking about milk, eggs, or lard in the bread, tortillas, or arepas. For them, the "vegan-friendly" option will be enough. Personally, I wish Guasaca would make truly vegan arepas. Until then, I hope they clarify their menu. (While you are at it, Guasaca, please start making your slaw with a plant-based mayonnaise.) I'm making this a two-star review because Guasaca does offer vegan bowls with beans, rice, and plantains. Unfortunately, they come in single-use plastic bowls. Arepas come wrapped in foil, which I would wash and reuse. read more

Guasaca - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

I been to this place a few times and i like it, they are not authentic Venezuelan but they have their own flavor, not the best ones not the worst ones. read more

Guasaca - Avocado Chicken Arepa - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Oh this is graduating to a comfort food staple... The arepas were crisp on the outside and warm and chewy inside. The fillings are fresh and delicious and the variety is excellent! You won't be sorry! read more

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I loved this place. Chipotle style arepas and bowls are so tasty and exciting. You choose your meat, toppings and sauce. I had the steak arepa with black beans, cheese and pico de gallo with the spicy red sauce and it was so good. Hope they come to VA! read more

Guasaca - Steak arepa - Venezuelan Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina