We visit Vaz restaurant in Birmingham to find out what makes the restaurant, a local favourite
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00:00Nestled in the heart of Smethwick, Bass Restaurant is a carnival gem that offers an authentic blend of Portuguese cuisine.
00:07The restaurant, run by a dedicated team, has quickly become a local favourite, other than the fact of Portugal being in the U-Rolls.
00:14Birmingham World wanted to check out this restaurant because it offers the perfect blend into Birmingham's diverse community.
00:20Upon entering the restaurant, you are immediately greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere.
00:25The decor is a tasteful blend of traditional and modern with Portuguese and Cape Verdean elements shown throughout.
00:32The staff is led by a charismatic restaurant owner who is here to discuss more.
00:37My name is Igor Bass. I'm the owner and manager of the Bass Restaurant.
00:43Where to start? Well, we came to England about 12 years ago.
00:48And since then we've noticed there was something missing here to represent our community and our traditions.
00:56So it was always a goal to have something that people could enjoy and have here in Birmingham.
01:04From hearty main courses to light bites, each dish is carefully crafted using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, resulting in a menu that is both diverse and exciting.
01:15We have three or four different types of codfish dishes here.
01:20Seafood, octopus, tiger prawns, charcoal-grilled meat as well, steak, Portuguese-style chicken, which is nice and small, tasty, chicken ground free in Portugal.
01:35I would say about 85% of our ingredients are imported products.
01:41So you get to taste the really genuine taste of the Portuguese products.
01:48We are very keen and we pay very much attention to the small details.
01:55So even the ketchup that comes to your table, the mayonnaise that comes to your table is Portuguese brands as well, just to give you guys the best experience that we can do.
02:05And I think we are managing to do that.
02:08One of the standout dishes at Vaz dos Açaldadas, a popular dessert at the restaurant, this sawdust pudding is a layered dessert made with whipped cream and crushed biscuits, offering a sweet and creamy treat that is both comforting and indulgent.
02:22However, the culinary journey does not end there.
02:25During my visit, I was pleasantly surprised by the pastel de nata, arguably the most famous Portuguese dessert, said by Chef Vaz.
02:32These custard tarts with their flaky pastry and rich custard fillings were delightful each bite.
02:39The pastel de nata at Vaz is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to authenticity and quality.
02:46My experience at Vaz restaurant goes beyond just food.
02:50It's about the warmth of the service, the comfort of the surrounding and the sense of community that the restaurant fosters.
02:56It's a place where you can enjoy a taste of Portugal right in the heart of Birmingham.
03:00With its Portuguese programmes on the TV and the live music, I can confidently say that I will definitely be returning.