First Sip: Vengo

I try to avoid hipster restaurants and cafes as much as I could as I've been to so many that just focused on aesthetics and not on what we're really paying for... food and drinks. But I'd get dragged to one from time to time. There would be instances when I would find some gems but more often than not, I wouldn't dare go back for more. One recent hipster place I've visited is Vengo, the coffee shop counterpart of the famous Taco Vengo. 

Hello, Vengo. 

A client suggested that we meet here one Tuesday morning and I had no clue where it is. It turns out to be in the same building as the one I frequent along Dela Rosa, only it is on the other side. 

I got there around 9:30 a.m. and it seemed that the staff was surprised to see someone come in so early. Or maybe it was because I came in the wrong door. Apparently, there's a door specifically for the cafe and another for the dining area that they open up for lunch and dinner. 

As I wait for my client, I decided to give one of its drinks a try and went with Faded to White (PHP160 + service charge), an espresso based drink with milk and grass jelly. 

While waiting for my order, I couldn't help take photos of the nice interiors of the place. 

I got my drink after a short wait and it was served on a tall glass which made me feel that I got my money's worth. I was surprised though that my drink didn't fade to white. 

Taste-wise, it was not as strong as expected. It had a bit of sweet and milky taste which is perfect for those who are not too crazy with strong caffeine. But I would not recommend this if you are after something that will keep you alert the whole morning. 

To be honest, Taco Vengo did not wow me with its tacos in Kapitolyo. But I couldn't help myself from being curious with its rice bowls. Maybe I'll drop by again to try it. 

Vengo is located at Ground Floor, Jose Cojuangco & Sons Building, 119 Dela Rosa Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City.