Arepa 2Go launched in 2013, with brothers Alejandro and Dani De Carlo at the helm after moving to Southsea with their family the year prior due to political and social unrest in their home country.
The business, which dishes up authentic Venezuelan and Latin American food, originally started as a small stall at the Love Southsea market but quickly discovered a loyal following.
In March 2023 the family took the plunge and opened their dream venue in Victoria Road South giving them a permanent spot in the city.
And now the team are getting ready to raise a glass to celebrate the restaurant’s third anniversary.
Meriana Crespo, head of marketing at Arepa 2Go, said: “We are really grateful for how England has welcomed us and that we are able to be part of the Southsea community. For us, being part of the restaurant scene is so nice.
“We started from zero - We didn’t have the money to start a business but we managed to get here thanks to the community and we are really grateful, so we want to continue doing what we love.”
The eatery, which has a five star rating on Google and Tripadvisor, is known for its tasty arepas and empanadas as well as its sides including latino fries, yuca fries and tequenos.
Meriana added: “The response has been really good. We have been trading for quite a long time so a lot of people already knew us from previous markets and festival in Southsea, so it’s nice that people keep coming back.
“It has been three years and we want more people to know about us. We want people to be more eager to come down and try new things and grow in the south because we are one of the only authentic Venezuelan restaurants.”
5. Arepa 2GO, Southsea
Arepa 2GO in Victoria Road South, Southsea, is celebrating its third birthday in March 2026. Picture: Sarah Standing ( 240226-9995) | Sarah Standing