Unfussy Venezuelan cafe featuring hearty sandwiches with various fillings & traditional sides.
"This family-owned Venezuelan restaurant has gained a following among locals and even a few Major League Baseball players for its arepas, wonderfully deep-fried maize cakes filled with everything from cheese to shredded beef to avocado. El Rey’s dishes including cilantro aioli and salsa rosa-slathered french fries are served in a casual atmosphere. Carryout and dine-in options are available." - Serena Maria Daniels
"Visit this Venezuelan restaurant in Southwest for arepas — corn dough patties that are split in half and filled with meats, cheese, and other toppings. A basic arepa goes for $6.99 and can be stuffed with shredded beef, pork, steak, or sausage." - Danny Palumbo, Serena Maria Daniels
"Venezuelans also have their unique version of the tamal, known as the hallaca and for those ambitious folks hoping for a taste of them in Detroit, they can place a special order at El Rey de las Arepas during the holiday season. The hallacas here are available in beef, pork, or chicken that are combined with olives, raisins, capers, and onions, and wrapped in banana leaves that are tied neatly with string. A tray of hallacas, along with the spot’s signature arepas make for a holiday feast fit for any sized party. Fun fact: El Rey de las Arepas is also a favorite destination for the many Major League Baseball players who hail from Venezuela, including Miguel “Miggy” Cabrera, the Tigers’ legendary first baseman and designated hitter." - Serena Maria Daniels
"El Rey de las Arepas — former Tigers great Miguel “Miggy” Cabrera’s favorite spot in Detroit for Venezuelan food — returns this year with arepas filled with your choice of chicken or beef, along with garlic sauce." - Serena Maria Daniels
"This family-owned Venezuelan restaurant has a loyal following among locals and Major League Baseball players alike for its arepas — wonderfully deep-fried maize cakes filled with everything from cheese to shredded beef to avocado. El Rey’s affordable dishes including cilantro aioli and salsa rosa-slathered french fries are served in a casual atmosphere. Carryout and dine-in options are available." - Serena Maria Daniels