NYC Restaurants

Arepa Factory at Turnstyle, the food and shopping strip beneath Columbus Circle, is turning out terrific arepas. The most traditional is the Pabellon, loaded up with shredded beef, black beans, sweet plantains and Guayanes cheese. It's very good and almost too big to handle. Other versions include the Americana with baby back ribs and cheddar; the Espanola with chorizo and Manchego cheese; and Verde Fresca with avocado, arugula, tomato and red peppers. You can also design your own arepa. Most are under ten bucks with the exception of the Ceviche Arepa. Plates and bowls are also available. Service is friendly and helpful.

- Thomas Rafael