Situated on the corner of Locust and Cypress in downtown Walnut Creek, VESU restaurant is a treat for taste and sight. The name VESU is derived from both owners’ last names; Christopher VElez and Melisa SUitos. This very tight knit family run business is co-managed by Jon Sloane and Jeff Suitos. VESU’s management strives to take the best care possible of their clientele. They achieve this by having an owner or manager on site and circulating through the space. They have also successfully hired a very competent and capable bar and wait staff.
From the street VESU stands out among more traditional facades in downtown Walnut Creek. The sleek wood paneling on VESU’s exterior is a welcome touch of modernity and draws passer-bys into the modern bar at VESU. With a flat screen TV and over-sized sliding glass windows, guests enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle outside but still reap the benefits of the warm summer breeze. We recommend taking in the sights and sipping on one of VESU’s signature cocktails. The “Blue Velvet” made with vodka, fresh blueberries, lemon, sugar and velvet falernum is refreshing and delicious. Another favorite of ours is the “Hot Lips” made with tequila, ginger, lime, sugar, cilantro, and Fresno chile. We think its best described as similar to a spicy margarita.
Modern and elegant, VESU’s dining room is spacious and appointed with well selected artwork and dining furniture. Abstract paintings hang gallery style and are actually for sale. The stunning walnut barrel rolled ceiling is just one of the many contemporary touches throughout the restaurant’s décor. We also liked the ambient lighting provided by rustic filament pendant lamps which hang above tables. The back dining room features a reclaimed wood table with a live edge- lending a casual but sophisticated look to the private dining space—perfect for that cool elegant party you have been meaning to throw.
This globally diverse, small plate menu is the brainchild of Executive Chef Robert Sapirman and is one of a kind. Here he shows off his enthusiasm for local, farm-fresh, seasonal ingredients keeping VESU’s global footprint as small as possible.
Kicking off our dining experience was the country line farms wild arugula salad; this unexpected treat incorporated almonds, a poached egg atop the fresh arugula finished off with a light but incredibly flavorful vidalia onion dressing.
If you go into VESU and don’t try the Colombian “arepas” griddle cakes you are doing yourself a serious disservice. This braised pork dish has amazing flavors of citrus on the pork and a poblano pudding; while it is not a spicy topping it does pack a powerful flavor punch. The 38 north chicken drums were also delicious, getting their name from a farm 38 miles North of Golden Gate Bridge demonstrating VESU’s commitment to incorporating local and organic ingredients into their delicious offering. Other stand-out small plates include the caramel-glazed pork ribs with kim chee (which is a lovely mix of white vinegar, ginger, garlic, chili paste and cabbage), the Ahi Tartare with sancho berries, chili oil and nori and lastly, the Carne Asada with crispy sopes and cheese.
Moving onto the Entrees: We highly recommend the free-range chicken breast. This particular dish comes with purple potato gnocchi and rose lane farms rainbow chard. VESU’s Char-Crusted grass fed flat iron steak served with delta asparagus, butterball potatoes, and sauce béarnaise is delectable in both taste and presentation and should not be missed!
In our experience ordering several of the small plates and a few entrees was more than enough food for two. If you are dining in for the first time we think it’s helpful to ask your server for guidance. The staff at VESU is well versed on the menu and can provide insight on their diverse offering. We are very excited about this new addition to downtown and cannot wait to visit again soon. With their delicious, inventive and exciting menu, modern bar, and tasteful dining room, VESU is committed to delivering an experience that is unique and memorable. Whether you come in for dinner, or for a cocktail you are sure to enjoy.