Pica Pica Arepa Kitchen

"Pica Pica in the Mission is where you go for arepas that hit the spot every time. While the interior might remind you of a fast-casual chain you'd find in an airport, the food here is better than anything you’ll find at SFO. There’s 10 different filling options to stuff your flatbreads with like savory shredded beef pabellón and crispy chicken and tofu. Get the sampler of mini arepas to try a few different options, or go for one full-size—just make sure to add the hot sauce and aioli. The entire kitchen is gluten-free, so order some crispy yuca fries and caramelized plantains while you’re at it." - julia chen 1, ricky rodriguez, patrick wong

"The Mission spot is raising money to deliver meals to support healthcare workers, low-income families, and seniors. You can donate via Venmo here" - team infatuation

"This is more of a quick stop than an afternoon hangout, but that doesn’t make Pica Pica any less worth coming to. One of these giant corn pockets filled with meat and plantains is more than enough to hold you over. The shredded beef arepa is your best bet, but if you want to try a few, they make smaller ones you can order in sets of three." - taylor abrams, jess basser sanders, will kamensky

"Pica Pica is in no way whatsoever related to Pokemon. That ship has sailed, thank god. Pica Pica is an arepa (and generally Venezuelan) restaurant that needs to be in your rotation. Pica Pica’s arepas (corn cakes stuffed with meat and cheese) are stellar, even though they will cause a mess and may fall apart as you eat them. The bigger plates, especially the pulled pork and shredded beef, are excellent. Also if you’ve never had yucca fries, now’s your chance. The place is tiny, but a good option if you’re in a hurry and craving some magic corn cakes." - Taylor Abrams

"Any kid can tell you food tastes better when you eat with your hands, and at Pica Pica they agree. Gluten-free, handmade Venezuelan arepas — grilled, corn pocket sandwiches — are the signature dish at this father-daughter-owned and operated restaurant. Yuca fries and cachapas (folded, sweet corn crepes) provide a twist on classics that little eaters find flavorful and fun. An online menu that’s filterable by allergen makes navigating the options easy for those with certain sensitivities." - Laura Smith Borrman, Christine Gallary