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La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine Reviews List

La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine

At La Caraqueña, the taste of Latin America is alive in every dish. Chef and owner, Raul Claros, shares his heritage by combining over 20 years of family recipes with the authencity that comes from his travels through Latin America. This is comfort food served in a relaxed atmosphere where our guests can experience the best in Latin American cuisine and culture.
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130 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
(130 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 130 reviews
5 stars
(54)
4 stars
(59)
3 stars
(14)
2 stars
(3)
1 star
(0)
Food 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3.5 / 5
(Very Good) 3.5 / 5
Noise Level
2.3 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • neighborhood gem(89)
  • fit for foodies(67)
  • great for lunch(31)
  • great for outdoor dining(27)
  • special occasion(16)
  • hot spot(13)
La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine Reviews List
Review 1 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Worth putting up in the traffic jam

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My husband found this restaurant when searching Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives to add to our vacation plans. The GPS stated a 15 minute drive, but due to the traffic it took over double the time. We got to the restaurant wondering if this was worth the hassle. We shortly found out it was worth the wait! In fact, we ordered several dishes to share as a family, but we ended up buying another bowl of soup and sandwich. We loved the uniqueness of the food. The only flaw was the sound of the traffic as this restaurant is on a busy street. Overall, this restaurant is a MUST TRY. Hope you enjoy it as much as we did."
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, great for lunch
0points
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Review 2 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

great food not so great service

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food is really delicious, flavorful, and fresh tasting. The waiters (unless the lady is waiting on you) will take your order and its hard pressed to see them again. There was one bus boy who tried to be helpful but seemed new. The food does arrive quickly and add I said before its tasty. If they improved the waiters attentiveness then this could be a higher rates review."
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2012
Special Features: romantic, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 3 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

excellent!!!!!!!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Fantastic Latin American cuisine! The menu is limited but what they have on it is delicious! Especially loved the Arrepas stuffed with avocado and chicken!!! The pulled beef with white cheese was out of this world tender and succulent to no end :-)"
Dined on 6/13/2013
 2013
0points
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Review 4 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"As usual, the food was delicious and service was wonderful. Only downside was that they were out of saltenas."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
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Review 5 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Fresh & delicious

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/27/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Ingredients are fresh, food is very good, music is enjoyable. Nice place to spend an afternoon with friends on the outside tables or inside for a more cozy & romantic evening."
Dined on 5/27/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly
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Review 6 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delish

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Food was excellent, service friendly and knowledgable."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, great for outdoor dining
0points
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Review 7 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

As seen on DDD

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food is spiced to perfection. The black bean soup is delish and the drinks are out of this world. Not recommended for large groups. Perfect spot for a fun date night dinner."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 8 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Taste of Venezuela in Falls Church

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/16/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Wanted to try this for quite a while and finally got a group of friends together on a Thursday evening. Definitely made a reservation based on Yelp reviews and knowing the size of the place - probably seats 12 inside and maybe 20 outside. It was a great spring evening so we grabbed a table outside. While the beer selection is limited, it is good and beers not usually found in a typical bar or brewery setting. They also have good Latin drinks like mojitos, etc. We all just stuck with dinner, but read through all the arrepes choices and will definitely be back for those. Some salads looked good too, but we all went for the Venezuelan national dish with varying changes (with fried egg, with beans, etc). Will be back to try more on the menu."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 9 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

La Caraquena

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food is outstanding--fresh, high-quality ingredients, well prepared dishes. A delight every time. The place is tiny (reservations recommended!), and the unassuming decor, friendly service and Latin music combine to leave you feeling a world away."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 10 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Spotted on Food Network

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"After living in the area and driving past this restaurant for 4 years, I saw it pop up on Food Network, and knew it was time to go see. The mangorita was serious business, the mechada (pulled beef) arepa was awesome, as was the peanut soup. also, the cuatro leches cake? AMAZING. SERIOUSLY. If you get anything, at least try it. Yucca was quite tasty too! Great place, reasonable prices. Get a reservation, it's a tiny joint and fills up quick."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 11 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

School Group Visit

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/13/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I took a small group of Spanish I students there for lunch. Excellent experience for them. Great food! They loved it. Difficult to get pricing ahead of time. Can be pricey depending upon what is ordered. We would all go back again. Watch out for 9% tax."
Dined on 5/13/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 12 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great Latin food

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Don't be put off by the exterior. This is a darling little eatery. I enjoyed the attentive service and wonderful food. The corn salad and steak was so wonderfully fresh and good!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
0points
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Review 13 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This place is tiny! Only 9 tables inside. The food is amazing though. Definitely worth a visit."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 14 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Neighborhood Destination

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great food, comfortable environment, friendly service, great prices. Overall a very good experience, perfect for dining before attending a show at the state theater perhaps."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, kid-friendly
-1point
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Review 15 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Food Was Great !

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Recommended by a friend and the food was great! Now you have to park next to a old motel, but once you get inside of the restaurant it is nice and very inmate. There is not a lot of seating inside or outside but hey… we got a seat and we were happy to chow down on the yummy food. We ended up sitting outside because it was a nice day and I would say the outside could use a little pick me up for décor and all. The food…. The food…yummmyyy…. the flavor of the food was great and everything melted in our mouths. I would definitely recommend this restaurant, focus on the food and you will walk away wanting to come back !"
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
-1point
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Review 16 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We saw this restaurant on Triple D. We would have definitely overlooked it otherwise. We had a sampling of the Arepas and they were delicious. We will definitely be back to try out other areas of the menu."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for lunch
-1point
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Review 17 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good but not great.

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Good but not quite as great as you might like. Avocado arepa seemed to have too much mayonnaise (or crema) and not enough avocado flavor. Service was VERY slow and dishes came out at different times for our party of four. Also, the waiter didn't use a notepad, and of course forgot some of the order. Please, just use a notepad!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2008
-1point
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Review 18 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I would highly recommend the

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I would highly recommend the Pabellon (any variety). The bean flavoring (as a side or in a soup) is remarkable. Arepas are top quality as always."
Dined on 04/28/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
-1point
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Review 19 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I love this place. The restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I love this place. The restaurant is very small, only about 12 tables or so. They make great Mojitos & Margaritas. The food is always delicious, no matter what you order. Black bean soup is so flavorful. JPs favorite arepa is the best. :) everything I've ever had here was delicious. Well worth a visit. Please don't judge this place by the location. It's shares a parking lot with a less than stellar motel. La Caraquena is by far one of my favorite places to eat."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
-1point
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Review 20 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Food is good but pricey. Arepas

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food is good but pricey. Arepas are expensive."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for lunch
+1point
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Review 21 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Over priced and disappointing.

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Having seen the Food Network show featuring the restaurant - we were very excited to finally go. We found the food terribly over priced. An arepa to share $9. Typically sopa de mani is only available on Sundays in my favorite Bolivian restaurants so I had to get it and was I disappointed. Too thick and served as a cream soup in a shallow bowl. No chunks of beef, potato, and carrots. This should be removed from the menu. Skip the entrees ... get better at Fannie's, Victor's and Luzmila. The arepa's were delicious as was the quatro leches dessert. Skip the yucca fritas as well. You can get the same fried yucca at any Peruvian restaurant for a lot less with the same great dipping sauces.
Bottom line - go for the arepas.
"
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2007
Special Features: neighborhood gem
+1point
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Review 22 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Amazing Margaritas

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I love this restaurant in Falls Church City. The margaritas are amazing!"
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2008
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 23 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This unassuming restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This unassuming restaurant is tucked away within a seedy-looking motel. But, WOW - great food, great drinks, and wonderful service. We will be back! It's a tiny place, so definitely make a reservation."
Dined on 04/04/2013
 2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
-1point
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Review 24 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The arepas at La Caraquena

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The arepas at La Caraquena are amazing, and the entrees and sandwiches do not disappoint. The menu is simple, but its hard to go wrong with any of their choices. No complaints about the service, and the atmosphere is mom-and-pop. They let the food speak for itself, which works well when the everything is so flavorful."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2013
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Review 25 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Delightful experience

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Very small restaurant. Staff very pleasant and anticipated our needs. Menu was new and exciting and food well-prepared. If I could add any areas of improvement, I might consider expanding the menu. Too much "pulled beef"."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 26 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Yummy! Fresh fruit juices

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Yummy! Fresh fruit juices areDelicious.All food is fresh and well-prepared."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2012
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Review 27 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The arepas are fabulous! Can't

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The arepas are fabulous! Can't go wrong with any of the drinks or appetizers. Our favorite dessert is Cuatro Leches.
Service is slow, especially for such a small place."
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 28 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Absolutely delicious

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I've never had a bad meal at this restaurant. It's truly one-of-a-kind! I usually get the grilled sifrini arepa, but decided to try the grilled peluda arepa this time, and it was outstanding. My lunchmate got the grilled sifrini arepa, which he'd never had, and loved it too. We then each had a cuatro leches for dessert - I thought I'd died and gone to heaven!"
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 29 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I like to be fair and to give

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I like to be fair and to give a real review need to go back and try the rest of the menu, I am interested since I had lived in Venezuela for 5 years and also in other parts of South America where this place offer food in the menu.
Then I will give a complete and honest review.
So far is fine lets see what happens next, Happy Easter to all, Raquel.
"
Dined on 03/27/2013
 2007
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 30 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Had a GREAT time. Took some

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Had a GREAT time. Took some Venezuelan friends and they loved the food. Very authentic dishes, tasty and well prepared. Could use a few large tables for groups."
Dined on 03/20/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 31 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

The food was great, but the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was great, but the prices were a bit high for the service and ambiance. We were surprised to see that the restaurant was a makeover of a hotel coffee shop--mostly booths. There were stained ceiling tiles above the next table that concerned me, too. The service was friendly but spotty. One guest got the wrong soup. The dessert recommended was fantastic, but it seemed a bit expensive at $6.99 for the decor of the restaurant. Don't let the web site deceive you. This is not a fancy place, but you may love it. The staff will certainly do what they can to please you and the food is inventive."
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2011
+1point
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Review 32 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delicious!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was delicious! The next day I was craving the papaya, avocado, shrimp salad. We told my parents how amazing the food was. We will definitely be a repeat customer!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 33 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Overall we enjoyed dinning

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Overall we enjoyed dinning with you.we are definately looking forward to coming back..."
Dined on 03/01/2013
 2013
Special Features: romantic
0points
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Review 34 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The friendly, attentive, if

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The friendly, attentive, if not speedy service, was a plus. The food is spicy so the fried plantains provide a nice balance. This was our first time and we are definitely going back."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 35 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A keeper.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Enjoyable dinner. Atmosphere is ppleasant, and like the Latin music. The food, tho simple, was very good and nice presentation. Good margaritas. One of the best restaurants in Falls Church at reasonable prices."
Dined on 03/20/2013
 2003
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 36 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

there was some mix up about

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"there was some mix up about Fall Church restaurant week --- but the chef apologized and gave us a gift card to come back again --- we will be back....
my wife loved the mojito"
Dined on 03/21/2013
 2008
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Review 37 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

It's a small restaurant, so

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"It's a small restaurant, so it was almost impossible to hear my dinner date. Please consider turning the music down a smidge."
Dined on 03/21/2013
 2004
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 38 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Perfect

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
"We went for a late lunch ...loved the food. It was very fresh and perfectly prepared - service was great. There was a warm friendly atmosphere with Latin music playing in the background. The jalapeño salsa was hot but the perfect kind of hot with lots of flavor. We loved the peanut soup. The condiments served with the yuca and plantains were fantastic. I had the chicken & avocado arepas and loved it. I had mine fried which was great but I would love to try the grilled version also. It was a perfect lunch. I will definitely go back and try dinner. Really fell in love with the charm and quality of La Caraquena. I'm still thinking - dreaming about that food - a great experience"
Dined on 03/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 39 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"You definitely want to reserve a table at this tiny gem. Their South American home cooking reminds me of the dishes my abuela used to make. Great food, and impeccably friendly staff."
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Review 40 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Reservations basically meaningless

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Reservations basically meaningless (at least on Saturday night). Literally no area to wait for an hour until table opened up."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2013
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Review 41 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

service was great. meal

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"service was great. meal was expensive and tasteless."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2009
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Review 42 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great food (very authentic)

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great food (very authentic) and great atmosphere, we met some friends for dinner and had a fantastic time."
Dined on 03/15/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 43 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Tasty Treasure

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"La Caraquena is a great place in a small package. We had friendly & responsive wait service. We have a five & six year old and felt they were very welcome. There is a small kid's menu - our daughter loved how the french fries were served and they were delicious. We shared an order of peanut soup - it was under flavored & no discernable peanut taste. We had a mojito and passion fruit margarita - delicious but pricey. Apart from our more picky daughter, we all had Arepas, the grilled variety. Delicious - packed with flavor. We had the Carne Mechada, the Peluda & the Sifrina. It would be nice if they came with a side dish. The Cuatro Leches cake was heavenly! We thought $7 for a 2 x 2 square was too expensive but it was so tasty!"
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2011
Special Features: kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
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Review 44 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Very good food, nice ambiance,

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very good food, nice ambiance, and very nice people. It is very practical to do an online reservation. I think the restaurant can improve a little at communicating people that it's full and table reservations are needed, especially on Saturdays."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 45 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing! Food is always outstanding

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Amazing! Food is always outstanding. We have never had a bad item off the menu. Definitely have to make reservations."
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 46 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food was OK but a little

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The food was OK but a little expensive for the portion size."
Dined on 03/07/2013
 2007
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 47 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Mmmm mmmmmm good!!!!!!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"If you're a fan of Venezuelan specialties like arepas or pabellon criollo, then La Caraquena is the place for you. If you're not familiar with these dishes, then La Caraquena is the best place in the area to try them. Ask questions of the manager or the wait staff and they will offer helpful suggestions. There's something for every taste on the menu.
The margaritas are out of this world -- no skimping on the alcohol -- and the big selection of fresh tropical fruit juices is refreshing! Oh, and the homemade ice cream is fantastic!
Moderately priced menu.
The restaurant is tiny (which adds to the ambience!) so make sure you have reservations!!!!
"
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2008
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Review 48 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

DATE NIGHT!!!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Saw this place on Triple D and it did not disappoint! Make a reservation for sure. Everything about the place was awesome!!! My girl n I cant wait to go back!"
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 49 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food is delicious, but

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food is delicious, but don't go there super hungry. The portions are kind of small. The latin-inspired music makes for an energetic but quiet ambiance. The place is small, but you don't feel like your sitting with the next party."
Dined on 02/27/2013
 2005
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 50 for La Caraquena Latin American Cuisine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food is well-prepared and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food is well-prepared and well-presented, atmosphere is cozy buy not crowded. Reasonable prices. Great for a romantic dinner or (small) family supper."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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