Eau de Vie is one of our favourite cocktail bars. So, when we heard Max Greco, former head bar tender at Eau de Vie had flown the coup to set up his own joint, we knew it was one we had to check out.
While Eau de Vie pays homage to that classy era of the 1920s, Vasco could not be more different. You see, Vasco is an Italian rock'n'roll bar and what it lacks in subdued class, it makes up for in loud rock'n'roll style.
For those of you whose Italian rock'n'roll knowledge is not up to scratch, Vasco Rossi was an 80s Italian singer/songwriter and it's fair to assume an old favourite of Max's.
When you walk through the door, Max will hit the cymbal. Loud. Consider yourself welcomed. I bet you already have a smile on your dial. There are no suspenders and bow ties in this establishment, expect black logo t-shirts, tattoos and ripped jeans. Expect loud rock music, a 1950s diner vibe and patrons (and the odd bar staff) whooping and cheering and dancing at their tables. But most of all, expect a good old fashioned rock'n'roll good time.
The cocktail menus are camouflaged as old school vinyl covers and Max Greco's star creation from Eau de Vie makes an appearance as 'Dear Rosemary', apparently the only cocktail he took with him.
With mixologists of this calibre you can be sure there's plenty to tempt you and the cocktail names pay tribute to some of the greatest musical tunes of our time, oh, and there is also an Italian cocktail slant.
Mr A and I decide to start with the 'Ciccolina - absolut contreau luxardo vanilla lemon citric orange bitters, orange fizz' . It's served, no fuss in a plastic cup. A straw is provided, but is not recommended to be used. The choice is yours. I decide to drink sans straw!
Should you require a nibble, turn your eyes to the blackboard, where you can chose from Italian snacks such as a hotdog, a salami and cheese plate or even polenta chips with gorgonzola sauce. Yum! We hear the homemade pasta is a winner, served only on select nights.
We decided to try another cocktail, and this time opt for the 'Dear Rosemary'. It is good and though a little more rustic in presentation than we experienced at Eau de Vie, no less tasty.
About this time, a live band arrives and it gets even louder! By now, the crowd is well and truly having a blast. This is a fun place! Don't bother dressing up, come as you are and join the party!
It's only rock'n'roll - but I like it! read more