Date # 75: Va Bene Pasta Deli

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Douglas and I decided to celebrate our anniversary at Va Bene Pasta Deli, a very popular place that’s tucked inside a Petron Gas Station. They serve fresh and authentic Italian pastas, made in the restaurant every day. Va Bene is owned by Chef Massimo Veronesi and his Filipina wife.

I recommend that you try to reserve before going here because the place is quite tiny.

We started with a complimentary serving of Toasted Crostini with Homemade Salsa. The best part about this is the texture of the bread: it’s crunchy on the outside, but soft and warm on the inside.

Douglas went here with his family last Sunday, and he told me that Va Bene’s Pan Roasted Foie Gras w/ Portobello Raviolo & Onion Marmalade (P780) is to die for. Well, guess what? He was absolutely right! This was really perfection on a plate. One of the best things I’ve had in a while.

We got an order of Organic Eggs Tagliolini w/ Portobello Mushrooms, White Wine Cream sauce, & Truffle Oil (P380) because I’m a sucker for Portobello mushrooms and truffle oil. The first thing you’ll notice about Va Bene’s pasta is the texture: it has a lot of bounce and character, it’s more than the normal al dente that we’re used to. This particular pasta dish has a really earthy taste, probably from Portobello mushrooms and truffle oil, as opposed to other pastas that would use more cream. Overall, it’s absolutely fantastic, something worth traveling to this restaurant for.

Second, we got a Chicken Cappellaci w/ Gorgonzola Cheese Sauce and Wild Nuts (P420). I didn’t like this very much because it was too salty for my taste and I couldn’t find the signature pungent flavor of gorgonzola cheese either.

Lastly, we got a Vegetable Ricotta Tortellini w/ Light Arrabiata Sauce and Basil Pesto (P390). This was really notable in terms of taste, because the different elements truly worked together to make this a winning dish. The mildly spicy arrabiata sauce complemented the vegetable and ricotta mixture inside the tortellini, while the basil pesto deepened the flavor with its herby character.

We were able to finish all of the food above, so I guess that tells you something about their serving sizes. :P

The Verdict: Va Bene Pasta Deli makes it to our list of favorite restaurants. If ever you get the chance, travel to this restaurant—it’s sure to have something that will please your palate. Discovering and sharing places like this makes me feel good about what I do. :)

Va Bene Pasta Deli

Va Bene Pasta Deli is located at the 2nd level, Petron Gas Station, EDSA corner Pasay Road (in front of Dusit Thani Hotel), Makati City. Call them at 556-9442.

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With and For Love,

Rina Caparras and Douglas Chong

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CamDoug Trivia: Douglas got me a really cute gorilla stuffed toy the same day :)) We also went to watch the Azkals game. Philippines 4-0 Nepal oh yeah.