Laura V.
Yelp
Oh La Uchirena, you have been so good to this gringa, where do I even begin? You've become my FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN MIAMI. That is no small feat.
I wandered to this little hole in the wall joint on a Saturday morning about 3 years ago when I was hungover and looking for some damn good food to quench my hunger. I am SO ecstatic that I found this place. Now, I've been here more times than I can count. I've used them to bring empanadas and other goodies to family, friends, and coworkers-all who have thoroughly enjoyed the food.
Don't let the looks of the place fool you, La Uchirena is the best Venezuelan food in Doral, in Miami, in Florida, and "the best empanadas I've ever had" according to a friend of mine that lives in my building who recently moved here from Venezuela.
I originally fell in love with the patacon, which is a shredded beef (or chicken) "sandwich" between two pieces of sweet or savory plantains (your choice). It comes with a few different sauces and coleslaw. it's incredible and I highly recommend it. It's huge too, and for a price of $9, you can't go wrong.
I then tried the empanadas and the chicha (basically, a rice pudding milkshake) in future visits. The dough for the empanadas is slightly sweet, and they stuff the empanadas to the brim. They're also huge, like footballs. The chicha is heavenly, just order it and you'll know what I'm talking about. My friend also agrees that the patacon and the chicha are the best she's ever had - even when she used to live in Venezuela. Don't skip out on the green sauce- I might have to beg them for the recipe before I leave because that s*** is good on EVERYTHING.
Although my Spanish is minimal, they've always been so nice to me and understanding. They know me by name now. Additionally, I've turned countless people onto this place. They're expanding their current restaurant and growing (just opened up in Pembroke Pines area, I believe) which I couldn't be prouder of them for. I'm moving soon to Ocala and will miss this place honestly the most out of any restaurant in miami. I never knew how delicious Venezuelan food could be. This place does it RIGHT, the prices are fair, and the people are genuine. You won't be sorry for giving them your business. When I come and visit Miami every so often, I will be back for more. don't forget about me!