Get ready to indulge in the ultimate burrito experience! In the heart of Park Slope, Vato is a hidden gem serving up Northern Mexican-style burritos that are worth every minute of the wait.
A Michelin-Starred Chef's Casual Venture: Vato, the brainchild of Fidel Caballero, a chef with Michelin-starred experience at Corima, is a casual daytime bakery with a twist. Imagine the most perfect flour tortilla as the foundation for their burritos, and you're already halfway to culinary heaven. Caballero's expertise shines through in every bite, taking this humble dish to new heights.
The Burrito Experience:
- Pollo en Mole Burrito ($12): This burrito is a flavor explosion! Tender chicken chunks, slow-cooked in a rich mole negro sauce, will tantalize your taste buds.
- Refried Beans and Asadero Cheese ($9): Simplicity at its finest. This classic combo is a satisfying choice, especially with the addition of their vibrant green and red salsas.
- Concha ($7): Not your average sweet treat. This concha is a masterpiece, crafted with totomoxtle (corn husks) and filled with a zesty yuzu curd. It's like a ray of sunshine in pastry form.
- Churro Whorl ($7): Moist and delicious, but here's where it gets controversial - should a churro ever be served without caramel?
The Ordering Process: Vato operates as a counter-service joint, which means you might find yourself in a line, especially during breakfast and lunchtime. But the wait is part of the experience! You'll be greeted by a mouth-watering display of pastries, and after placing your order, you'll wait near the register for your coffee and pastries, then move to the back to collect your burritos. It's a unique system, but it adds to the charm.
Dining and Takeaway: The dining room is cozy and fills up quickly, so be prepared to grab a table early. For those sunny days, there's a back patio to enjoy. And the best part? You can take the tortilla magic home with packs of 10 available for purchase.
Would you brave a line for a burrito? What's your favorite Mexican pastry? Share your thoughts and keep the culinary conversation going!
