Ambiance is "neighborhood joint." Sat on the patio, where the TV was running a World Cup game. The best hanger steak I've ever had. Chimichurri flavor forward, wood fired, served with blistered cherry tomatoes and plantain "spiders," which are like shoestring fries. All cooked perfectly. Partner loved her pulled pork arepa. Bahn Mi cocktail was spicy and refreshing. Only quibble was small pours for glasses of wine. Save room for dessert and espresso. Will return. Recommended! read more

great food and the rebrand was worth it. incredible food on the new grill! Highly recommend the grilled chicken and potatoes.

The restaurant has rebranded to Valencia Cocina. The menu has been streamlined. The food was excellent as usual. Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Cocktails were well made! They took what worked well before and made it even better!.. read more

I was passing by on Cinco de Mayo around lunch time and decided to pop in. I had been waiting for the renovations to finish so I was pretty excited. Sadly, just like the rest of the recent reviews I was quite disappointed by what I encountered. Everyone working was super friendly and attentive which was nice but I didn't recognize anyone working there. I didn't pay much attention to that but when the menu came it was greatly reduced and trying to be more "upscale". it felt odd as the main draw of Valencia for lunch was that it was fast, casual, affordable and delicious. I usually get the lunch combo that came with an aerpa, empanada, rice beans and ceviche but that wasn't on the menu that I saw. I ordered the street corn to start and got the bowl with a pernil arepa. The bowl was a large portion and everything was fresh. Taste wise things were pretty good but didn't blow me away. The pernil was only ok and that should have been the star of the show. I had to ask for aji and I was only given a small dish with some hot sauce as well. In the past your server would just hand over a bottle of aji and let you go to town. The food was decent, but not close to what I remember. The biggest let down was when the check came. I know things are expensive all over but lunch was $41 for some street corn, a jeujed up chipotle bowl and a coke. That seems wild. There was also a charge added for the kitchen which I get but it still feels odd to see additional service charges on an already expensive meal. As far as the renovations go it honestly didn't really seem like anything changed inside, maybe some fresh paint and tile? Unfortunately I will probably not return any time soon or even at all. read more

I recently visited Valencia cocina formerly known as Valencia Luncheria, a Venezuelan restaurant, and had an amazing experience. I tried their arepas with anish chicken salad and ribs--something completely new for me--and the flavors were absolutely fantastic. The food was rich, unique, and truly memorable. The ambiance of the restaurant was warm and inviting, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. I would definitely love to visit again and explore more of their menu. Highly recommended if you're looking to try authentic Venezuelan cuisine! read more

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I regret to concur with some of the other reviewers about the rebrand. Valencia arepas were the best, yucca fries, etc. admittedly I didn't try any of the $30+ entrees (perhaps eventually I will) and went with a selection of apps and arepas/empanadas. Something in the oil frying made me so very ill, the hangar steak / Marisco empanada was an intriguing concept but then I realized, why would you grind up and blend quality meats and deep fry them in a shell? It had an odd, heavy, almost asian subcontinent seasoning profile and was just so greasy and the oil did seem slightly off. The rest of the food tasted mostly pretty good -- guac and yucca chips were lovely -- but I actually did have a very heavy, unhappy stomach after guac, one arepa, and one order of empanada. The redecorating looks beautiful and the staff was wonderful. My disappointment is purely with the food and I already miss Valencia Luncheria. read more

Great remodel!! Great menu!! Service is amazing, still love the outdoor patio even though i miss the sand, that is the only thing i would bring back. There items are enhanced and better quality, and presented much better. Cant wait to go back. read more

We have been going for years. How could they do this to the restaurant? Why the total rebrand? Didn't they realize they were taking away what was inherently great about it? Big mistake! Lost forever. read more

I love the vibe and energy of this restaurant. People always seem happy there. The food is a good departure from the average food found in this area. And the servers are very down to earth. read more

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Change it back! We were huge fans of Valencia Luncheria - we would easily rate it 4.5/5 stars. Valencia Luncheria was: fast, fun, affordable and FLAVORFUL! The environment was casual and comfortable and service was friendly and attentive. Today we visited after a few months away and the restaurant has been overhauled. The interior is much more classy (that's fine) and the menu is more upscale and expensive. Thankfully, the service is still very good. Now we don't mind paying for good food (we are the type who will occasionally splurge on tasting menus if we think it is worth it). However, EVERYTHING we had today tasted as if all seasonings were omitted. * Mango batida and pineapple batida both tasted like skim milk blended with ice. Hardly any sweetness or fruit flavor. * Guac and chips. The chips were good but my wife was adding salt to the guac, which she NEVER does. * I had the short rib arepa bowl, which looked good, but again was devoid of flavor. My wife hardly touched her own food. Portions shrunk and prices went up by at least 50-75% over the previous menu. (We paid over $100 for 2 adults and a 2 year old (guac and chips (charged extra for more chips), 2 batidas, and 3 brunch entrees).) But again, the biggest negative was that everything tasted so bland - like someone had rinsed all the food with water before serving it. What the heck happened?! The food used to be so incredibly BOLD and FLAVORFUL. I get the reason for the changes to make the restaurant more upscale and profitable, however don't forget that if the food doesn't taste good customers won't come back. The previous Valencia Luncheria was a 4.5/5. Valencia Cocina I struggle to give more than 1 star until the food actually tastes like something. read more

Please go back to the way it was! I don't normally leave reviews but I just hope this reaches the owners. You had a one of a kind restaurant, one worth traveling to. We have been frequent patrons for over 10 years. The recent changes to the menu and unexplainable increase in cost turned what was special into a forgettable experience. We came on a Sunday around noon expecting a wait, instead, a completely empty dining room and 3-4 tables outside. Clearly it's not working, please bring back the old menu, specials scribbled on paper on the walls. The giant sauce bottles with green and red sauce. Will try again in a few months but the way it's going I fear it won't be around without a change. read more

I first came to this restaurant when it was still a hole in the wall and DDD had just recently stopped by. Those first few times were 11 outta 10 - I'd never had an arepa before, batidos tasted like they came from heaven, and that green sauce... from the first time I tried it, I've never stopped dreaming about it. I don't say this lightly - that green sauce is life changing. Unfortunately, in more recent years this place has gone downhill for me. What once was exciting has become commonplace- the arepa menu could use an overhaul, I'd be curious if there are some combos that sell none to very little, would definitely be interested in new regular combinations options. Service is okay at best, wait staff don't really know the menu items, and there are often mistakes with what shows up to the table. The food and drinks in general are okay at best... and frankly that's at best. The only thing that remains the standout is that green sauce... though I swear it's gotten thinner over the years too! At this point I wouldn't go back for a full meal; I will probably still stop by and order rice beans and plantains, drown them in that green sauce, and have a cocktail on the side. read more

I've been coming here since they've started. They used to have great Arepas. Not Anymore. The oil used to fry them tastes old & gross. It was way undercooked too. Horrible to the point where I lost my appetite. The ceviche smelled really fishy. When you can smell the fishy smell that much it's not good. The scallops were room temperature as well. Ceviche should be refrigerated/cold when served. Sad to say I will never eat here anymore. read more

Still like it as a place to come often for good food at good prices but the Maricaibo Quesadilla this time was far too oily and did not settle well. We will not be ordering it anymore. The bahn mi is still good, mainly because of those mango slices freshening up. read more

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We stopped in for Happy Hour that no longer exist. Apparently new management, and bartender with an attitude. Asked for minimal ice in my margarita, he questioned me and could see him annoyed at me when I'm paying for a $13 drink. What I received was a glass 1/4 full with ice cube. Sorry hard time adjusting menus. To add insult he gave us someone else's check to sign using our credit card. When I caught it he simply ignored it without apologizing for the error. Frankly, last time here. read more

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Although we'll miss the casual informality of Valencia Luncheria, Valencia Cocina (the newly reopened Valencia Luncheria) is a wonderful place for a delicious dinner. We tried it out during their first week after they changed to a more upscale type of dining experience. Our tastebuds were not disappointed! To start I had a mocktail (I can't remember the name) which was made with juniper and honey. Delicious complex flavor...not just fruit juice with grenadine! There were four mocktails to choose from and each sounded interesting. My husband's cocktail was enjoyed as well. We shared two appetizers: Street corn (Wood Fire Corn, Elote Crema, Cotija Cheese, Tajin, Lime) and Butternut Squash (Roasted, Verde Crema, Pepitas, Pomegranate Molasses) Both were flavorful and interesting. Definitely will enjoy again! For entrees: I had the Cauliflower Steak with Romesco Sauce, Toasted Almonds, Raisin Agrodolce. This was really not a steak but, rather, an entire head of cauliflower presented quite dramatically! Luscious, rich flavor! Quite a memorable vegetarian entree! My husband enjoyed the Short Rib (Asado Negro) served with a Cacao & Panela Glaze, Creamy Yuca Potato Mash, Crispy Shallots. He said it was prepared perfectly, melt-in-your-mouth, succulent meat that was a real treat! Service was attentive and timed well. We didn't feel rushed at all, nor did we feel overlooked. Decor is changed to be a bit fancier and music was low enough for easy conversation. All in all a really wonderful meal! And, as a vegetarian, I was really pleased that quite a number of the appetizers as well as the cauliflower entree were all suitable for vegetarians. We'll return to try more! Warning to avoid disappointment: Don't expect Valencia Luncheria prices. Valencia Cocina is a nice evening out type of meal rather than your local arepa joint and the prices reflect that. But the prices are fair for the type of meal they are serving and the excellent service. I'm looking forward to their resuming brunch and I'm really hoping they will include El Lado Sur, my favorite from the Luncheria brunch menu, or other creative vegetarian brunch items. read more

Valencia Cocina - Mocktail & Cocktail - Latin American Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

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This a great local place with amazing food and drinks. I recently discovered it via a recommendation. My first visit was a brunch special (eggs Benny with real bacon and avocado) and two cocktails. I met some locals who gave me a few extra recos in the area. My second visit was a sunny fall day so we could eat outside. It was really a pleasure to introduce this place and arepas to my mom. Delicious food and cocktails. Service is always friendly and responsive, too. read more

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Why??? How??? What were you thinking??? Since they opened in the '00's I've been coming here. Any out of town visitors, Valencia was the first place I'd take them. The menu was extensive and everything was unique and delicious. Was it boredom that was the impetus for change, Michael? Unfortunately you've turned a Unicorn into a Sheep. The world didn't need another Wannabe. A sad ending for all of us. read more

Truly sad about this rebrand. My kids grew up eating here and we all loved it so much. Now it is too expensive with a smaller menu. I don't remember an entree over $20 before and now they have $30 salmon at lunch. No burritos, no sampler platter. Why take such a vibrant amazing concept honored by DDD and try to make it fancier? That neighborhood is not the place for that. I won't go back. A sad day for my family. read more

Such a disappointment! They changed the whole menu to seem upscale but all they really did was raise the prices. This is NOT the same restaurant that was featured on DDD. I used to get a brunch sandwich every weekend for $8, now it's $16 because they added beans and potatoes. I don't want beans & potatoes, so I won't be back. Others I've commiserated with feel the same. Hope it's with it guys read more

Started with Caesar salad for appetizers and both had Pabellon Criollo plate. It was enjoyable but doesn't make me want to come back for more. read more

Amazing and a newly relished experience at Valencia over my last trip to this place. (May be I developed a tolerance to the cuisine over time) We ordered a bunch of Arepes - Aphrodite, Jenny, JPC(personal favorite - ruby). Everything tasted so good. It's a tiny place and parking can get tricky on any weekend. I couldn't try their brunch menu but looked pretty promising. read more

Valencia Cocina - Bar Area - Latin American Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

Arepas and empanadas are gone with a new "upscale" menu. They've lost their identity. Very sad as it was one of the best around. read more

I've been coming to Valencia Luncheria for the past ten years, and this recent visit truly impressed me. The upgrade is obvious the moment you walk in. The space feels refreshed, intentional, and elevated while still maintaining the warmth and character that have always made this place special. The food has clearly been taken to another level. The new menu feels thoughtful and refined without losing the soul of what Valencia is known for. Every dish feels more composed and balanced. The ceviche is outstanding. It is bright, fresh, and perfectly seasoned with just the right acidity and texture. You can taste the quality of the ingredients and the care in execution. It is absolutely a must order. It also made me genuinely happy to see Louisito again. He has always provided great service, and seeing a familiar face after so many years added to the experience. That combination of elevated food and the same welcoming hospitality is what keeps me coming back. Overall, the transformation is impressive. I love the new menu and look forward to many more visits. read more

Food quality from previous Valencia was way better! The arepas were so soggy and lacked the protein amount. The food wasn't as authentic and tasty like it used to be. Definitely, the quality changed and service gotten worse. I was expecting it was similar to the previous Valencia but this was very disappointing! I miss the old Valencia! read more

I went here once on a road trip and dream about the fantastic arepas. Nothing compares. Fantastic crispy outside soft insides with full of flavor meat. read more

Amazing food and service, and a casual, fun ambiance. All our food was very fresh and so full of flavor. We initially waited a long time for service due to a miscommunication, but management and staff handled it so wonderfully, apologizing sincerely and bringing us free Guacamole. Don't miss this amazing spot! read more

Great empanada and arepa spot with a friend. Service was good (they started to get busy, so it was getting harder to get our servers attention who was pulling double duty as a bartender). The one thing I didn't understand - after a $85 lunch for a bunch of things, we never did get the chips and quac we ordered (weren't charged and never received). The thing that upset me the most was being charged a take out kitchen tax on the separate cannoli empanada I ordered. You have got to be kidding. The empanada was literally placed in a paper bag for me to take home, and I was charged a take out fee/kitchen tax on this? That says to me, next time, order whatever you want and just get a to-go box. Charging a tax on this is a poor business practice. read more

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Have only gotten take out from Valencia but love coming back here whenever I'm in town! A recent favorite is the chocolate banana bread pudding! Always get tons of green sauce whenever you order and a side of rice and beans. Once got a special of a shrimp and brussel sprouts dish that my sister still talks about to this day! read more

So sad!! Not what it used to be :( Old menu was iconic, incredible, lots of variety. The new menu can't hold a candle to it. Very disappointing as this used to be a go to for so many. New menu is expensive and limited and nothing compared to the old menu in terms of creativity and quality. read more

Great restaurant with outdoor seating. It's always a go to on a warm day to sit outside in their faux beachfront seating. They have an array of arepas and empanadas and refreshing unique cocktails. Never had a complaint about the food or service. Something to Consider: Parking lot in back is small but plenty of street parking. read more

Valencia Cocina - Latin American Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

Valencia Luncheria made it difficult to ever have eggs benedict not on an arepa ever again. We both cleaned our plates at brunch today! Valencia serves their regular food menu along with a brunch menu and eye catching brunch specials on the weekends, allowing for the ability to fulfill any craving. The coffee, as always, was phenomenal. An easy five stars! read more

Valencia Cocina - Lu Benny (special) - Latin American Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

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Everything from the margaritas, to the guacamole, to the ceviche, to the calamari, to the chicken dish was delicious. This is a favorite restaurant of our family and I highly recommend. read more

Valencia continues to impress me in the most beautiful way. Watching it evolve into this new chapter has been inspiring. The space feels more intentional, more elevated, yet still incredibly warm and inviting. You can tell there is real vision behind the transformation, and it absolutely works. What I love most is that the magic never left. The food is still unforgettable. The cauliflower steak is one of my favorite dishes I have ever had anywhere. I genuinely cannot stop talking about it. The flavor, the texture, the balance, it is thoughtful and bold at the same time. It is the kind of dish that surprises you and then stays with you. And the dessert. The chocolate tres leches is truly to live for. Rich, indulgent, perfectly soaked without being heavy, and finished with just the right level of sweetness. It is the perfect ending to an already incredible meal. Valencia deserves recognition as one of the most inviting and exciting restaurants in Connecticut right now. The evolution is exciting, the leadership is inspiring, and the food remains magical. Great job to the entire team. I cannot wait to see where this next chapter goes. read more

The empanadas were amazing here! As was the arepa! This place is like being on an island in the big city. There is an outside patio with sand floor. The service was very fast. I also had the cannoli empanada for dessert! Warm on the outside but cool in the center and so so good! read more

Valencia Cocina - Latin American Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

Fantastic dinner tonight at the bar. With guidance from Abraham the B'tender, enjoyed thoroughly recommended traditional Venezuelan Pabellon Criollo, an awesome take on braised brisket with plantains, etc. I used the offered hot sauces to great effect. Very original place, worth a trip. read more

The service was really great however I feel bad for the guy who was taking our orders as he was running around doing so many things at one time. Making drinks and other food. But great service and a lovely waiter. Ambiance was lovely too feeling as if I was at someone's house eating food. Emphandias were really good, would have said the best if I was spoiled at having them made a professional chef in Argentina. I would said that they were great if I wasn't so spoiled on great ones in Argentina. Idk why I need to mention that but well definitely happened read more

OMG. The food. The service. The enthusiasm! One of our party has celiac and our server, Kitty, went ABOVE AND BEYOND to make sure they were informed and felt cared for. Then the food came...the arepas as to die for. They had a special coconut shrimp - my husband ate the tails even because they were THAT good. 10/10 will stop here again. read more

Valencia Cocina - Coconut shrimp starter - Latin American Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

Valencia is the most popular place in town for good reason. This place got the Food Network stamp of approval years ago and it's been rolling ever since. The food here is a non-traditional/non-authentic take on Venezuelan food with other Latin influences. Normally that description would make me nervous, but don't worry, the flavor is something that cannot be denied. The arepas and empanadas come in a variety of filling options... you really do want to try them all and so far I've had no misses. You must pair the savory ones with the magical green sauce. The green sauce here is simply divine and belongs on just about everything on the menu. Valencia has a regular menu, but there's always a special/seasonal menu that always excites me because they offer delicious choices such as birria nachos, crab gazpacho, and even cocktails. Occasionally I will order something that I probably wouldn't get again like the bahn mi because it was incredibly dry or the birria tacos (2 tacos for $15), but that just makes me want to come back and try something else. This is totally a spot where you can catch a buzz whether you post up at the bar to try a drink from their fascinating cocktail menu or if you're in the mood for a boozy brunch. This place is always packed on the weekends including their outdoor beachy vibe seating when the weather permits, so it's recommend to call ahead for a table. Great choice for groups even though the inside can be a bit compact. I've been bringing friends, family, and work associates here for years and they always ask me when the next time we can go back! read more

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Highlights: - near Stepping Stone Children's museum - kid friendly, loud atmosphere - fast pace food service - nice food - small restaurant, very busy in weekend lunch hour - ok parking availability read more

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