Papelón: Venezuela in a Cup and on a Plate

Named after a traditional Venezuelan drink made with raw sugarcane and lime, Papelón brings Latin flavour and energy to Melbourne’s café scene. It’s the kind of place that wakes you up with more than just caffeine. The walls are painted in bright tones, the music is lively, and the staff greet you like family. It’s not a café trying to be cool — it’s a celebration of where warmth and authenticity naturally meet.

The Menu: Latin Heat with a Comfort Twist

The arepas are the star — golden corn pockets stuffed with slow-cooked meats, black beans, fried plantains and fresh cheese. Every bite balances spice, sweetness and texture. Pair it with a cold papelón drink or a Venezuelan-style coffee, and it’s easy to forget you’re in Melbourne. Other highlights include empanadas fresh from the fryer and brunch dishes that fuse Latin staples with local produce. Everything tastes homemade because it is.

The Experience: Everyday Escape

Papelón doesn’t try to transport you to another world — it brings one to you. The open kitchen hums with energy, laughter fills the room, and the scent of grilled corn and caramelised sugar lingers in the air. Whether you’re after a quick lunch or a slow afternoon with friends, this spot feels alive. It’s community wrapped in colour and spice, proving that joy can be served, plated and shared one arepa at a time.