Carlos Varela and Ana Alvarez frequently find themselves at the pepitos stand, which has become a bustling social scene in recent months.
“It’s a very interesting little place,” said Mr. Varela, a store clerk who was born in Peru. “You hear all kinds of different music and the aroma of all kinds of different foods.”
José Díaz, a city bus driver from Ecuador, added, “It’s good to see people from different places all coming together.”
As the pepitos on Roosevelt Avenue continue to sizzle, one can’t help but wonder if a “Little Venezuela” might one day take shape in the heart of Queens. With the support of their businesses, nonprofits and community leaders, Venezuelans seem to be taking the first steps toward staking their claim to a neighborhood of their own.
The tantalizing smell of sizzling meats and the vibrant music of salsa baúl certainly suggest that a new immigrant community is coming to life. With their entrepreneurial spirit and thriving businesses, the Venezuelan migrants are not only building a community, but also contributing to the local economy and enriching the tapestry of New York City.
As for Mr. Hernandez, at the end of the day, it’s not just about the pepitos. “This is more than food,” he said. “It’s about memories, it’s about nostalgia, it’s about bringing a piece of Venezuela here to Queens.”