Hola Arepa Review: From Food Truck to Our Favorite Minneapolis Restaurant

We first found Hola Arepa the way everyone did: chasing a food truck around downtown Minneapolis on a weekday lunch. Now it's a full restaurant on Nicollet Avenue, and it's our go-to whenever we need a night off from the house.

From Hola Arepa food truck to restaurant

The Hola Arepa food truck built a cult following for its arepas: griddled corn cakes split open and stuffed with fillings. The restaurant kept the truck's spirit, bright, loud and friendly, and added a full bar and a bigger menu. If you loved the truck, you'll love the restaurant.

What to order

• Arepas, obviously. Crispy outside, soft inside, packed with braised meats, beans, cheese and slaw. Get two. Trust us.
• Something fried to share. Plantains or yuca are perfect with a group.
• A cocktail. The bar leans tropical and fresh, which helps in a Minnesota winter.

Tips for visiting

• It gets busy on weekends. Go early or be ready to wait with a drink.
• The patio is the move in summer.
• Bring friends so you can try more of the menu.

The verdict: one of the best meals in Minneapolis, and proof that sometimes the best thing you can do for your house is leave it for a few hours.