Vask Modern Tapas

I first read about Vask on one of the many Manila food blogs that I stalked when I was desperate for a study break during finals week. I was intrigued to find that its chef worked for some of the top restaurants in the world (specifically the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 8th best restaurants)--all of which are based in Spain. He wanted to venture off on his own and give Manila a taste of authentic Basque Spanish cuisine--hence the name Vask--by offering traditional tapas and modern dishes using molecular gastronomy techniques (you know this is true when you find degree symbols making an appearance on the menu).

So when the Filipinos from Penn wanted dinner and drinks, I knew exactly where to take them.

Vask consists of three sections: the tapas bar and dining room area, the degustation art gallery (solely for special tasting menus), and the al fresco lounge (good for drinks and small bites). We sat in the dining room, which featured an eclectic mix of bathroom mirrors angled haphazardly (we had fun creeping on each other through these mirrors) and other quirky trinkets. Of course, as per tradition, a Pennoy gathering always involves good drinks.

La Reina: Early grey and vanilla infused vodka, apple liqueur,
 passion fruit, fresh apple. 

I forget what drink this was, but it had a gummy worm surprise in it!

Vask: basi and pepper infused rum, triple sec, apple liqueur, cider. 

I ordered the Vask and was pleasantly surprised every time I took a sip because of the kick I got from the pepper. It was quite fierce, for lack of a better word. The Las Islas (not pictured) tasted like a mix of peach and mango juice and was a crowd favorite.

To start of the dining experience, a few friends ordered the popular pintxos, which is essentially toasted bread with gourmet toppings.

We were all given this complimentary chorizo and lentil soup, but it turns out the waiters made a mistake and assumed the entire table ordered the tasting menu, when really it was only one of the guys. Hah.

I shared the foie gras on mango toast starter from the Modern Tapas menu (Est. 21st century) with my friend I:

Mango, foie gras mousse, caramelized

There was no 'toast' but the slice of mango underneath the foie gras looked exactly like it. It was delicious and oh so delicate. The creamy mousse was very flavorful and went well with the mango. We devoured every crumb. And licked the plate.

62° sous vide leeks, tomato, hazelnut, garlic

I had the 'lapu lapu con romesco y puerros' (what) for my main course, also from the modern menu. I loved the tomato paste and kind of obsessed over the leeks. I was surprised by how small the serving size was, though.

Hi Matt

One of the guys who ordered the 7-course menu didn't finish his plate of wagyu steak with what seemed to be a side of mushrooms mixed with mashed potatoes. I could be wrong, but the steak (look how rare it is!) was divine. M raved about the side, "Try the mushrooms!! Try the mushrooms!!" So I did. It was off the charts.

Considering I sat next to G and I, it was impossible to end a meal without dessert...so dessert we had. Two different ones, to be exact #effyoubody #whatdiet. I think these hashtags will appear every time dessert is mentioned aka every post. All the desserts came from the traditional menu (est. 13th century):

Torrija: Brioche, Milk, Anise ice cream

This was amazeballs. It was so moist and tasted like creme brûlée in a warm, crumbly form. The Anise ice cream that accompanied it was very good so we used it for the chocolate cake, too. 

Hot Chocolate Cake: chocolate, orange, vanilla ice cream

This was your average lava cake. Nothing special.

Almost everyone!

We were not able to take a complete group photo because the bills took ages to arrive and some people were rushing. I suppose that's what happens when we all ask for individual bills but share many dishes. Oops.

I'm glad we got to try Vask, although the small servings were disappointing. Truthfully, I probably came in with too high expectations because I think I still prefer Las Flores (especially the cocktails!) over Vask. You get more bang for the buck, which I'm sure others appreciate as much as I do.

Regardless, we walked out feeling just right and ready to hit Rocket Room for more drinks on drinks on drinks.

Vask Modern Tapas & Gastronomic Cuisine
5th Floor, Clipp Center, 11th Ave. corner 39th St. BGC