Venezuela-born chef Isbelis Diaz and her son, Ivo Diaz, share their vibrant cuisine with the Big Apple. The passionate and charming staff busy themselves guiding hungry guests through a cluster of explosively flavorful dishes served on beautiful pieces crafted by local Venezuelan artisan, Victor Serrano. Empanadas are a favorite, especially when stuffed with Guyanés queso. Asado negro, a 48-hour braised short rib in burnt papelón, is positively velvety. Other winning dishes include arepitas, bollitos pelones and mandocas, hand-rolled, tear-shaped fritters made from ripe plantain and yellow corn and hit with a gentle hint of anise for a sweet and savory blend.