VV Tapas Lounge is springing into the summer season by adding new extended Happy Hour and Wine features. This hidden gem Strathcona wine and tapas bar will also start offering dinner service Mondays through Thursdays from 3 to 10 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 3 to 11 p.m. Additionally, there will be a daily Happy Hour service from 3 to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close! Two exciting new menu items to the Happy Hour menu is Fondue for Two feature and a Guess the Grape blind wine tasting option on half-price bottles of wine from the VV cellar. This fun game that guests who correctly guess the grape or the region on bottles selected by sommelier Chase MacLeod a $10 VV gift card.
VV Tapas Lounge – Dinner Menu
I came by a little after Happy Hour, so I tried some of their delicious main dishes. I couldn’t leave without indulging in their excellent charcuterie board. VV Tapas Lounge crafts one of the best charcuterie boards in Vancouver, and they have a $10 version during Happy Hour!
For our appetizers we went with:
- Cauliflower Dip ($14.00) – sumac cashews, olive tapenade, shaved radish, bread
- Burrata ($17.00) – dukkah, rhubarb syrup, mint and moscato granita, bread
The Cauliflower Dip is a tried and true favourite at VV Tapas Lounge. It is a warm vegan dip that’s smooth and velvety that pairs perfectly with the bread. A great warming appetizer to start the meal.
The Burrata is so beautiful and a light and refreshing counterpoint to the dip. The moscato granita was such a treat and added a really lovely contrast to the rich cheese.
For our mains we went with:
- Wild Mushroom Risotto ($22.00) – porcini stock, marinated oyster mushrooms, black garlic miso paste, yolk sauce
- Flat Iron Steak ($28.00) – harissa and roasted eggplant puree, preserved lemon salsa, shishito, white bean ragu
The Wild Mushroom Risotto is incredibly decadent and packed with umami mushroom flavour. The yolk sauce really ups the richness. This was a table favourite.
The Flat Iron Steak is really tender and reminds me a bit of roast beef. It’s flavourful and pairs well with the spicy harissa puree. The preserved lemon salsa really adds a brightness to the dish.
VV Tapas Lounge – Build Your Own Charcuterie Board
One of the highlights of VV Tapas Lounge is their build your own charcuterie boards. You can choose from 4 ($29), 6 ($38) or 8 ($47) cheese and meat options. All boards are served with house-made pickles, nuts, olives, condiments and bread. And let me tell you, as a charcuterie connoisseur they have some of the best accompaniments I have ever had.
For our board we went with:
- Le Marechel – semi firm cow cheese
- Delft blue – sharp and soft cow cheese
- Coppa – pork shoulder
- Bison Salami – bison and pork with rosemary and chili
I love that all the meats and cheeses have brief descriptions on the menu to help guide your choices. But if you’re uncertain the staff is very helpful and friendly with suggestions! I love the plethora of house made pickles at VV Tapas Lounge including strawberry, fennel, red onion, green beans and broccoli! Their housemade mustard is also just incredible.
Worth a Try?
Yes! This hidden gem is a neighbourhood favourite for good reason. The plates are generous in size with fair pricing. In particular their charcuterie is a must order. VV Tapas Lounge also has a great range of vegan and gluten free options, so it’s an ideal gathering dinner or pre drink spot. Definitely give this spot a try the next time you’re in the Strathcona neighbourhood!
VV Tapas Lounge
Address: 957 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6A 0H1
Website: https://www.vvtapaslounge.com/
