High above Oklahoma City on the 50th floor of the Devon Tower exists Vast Restaurant. Over 700 feet above ground level, diners are whisked to the top floor in mere seconds by means of quickly accelerating modernly detailed elevators that promptly deliver you to your destination with views over all of Oklahoma City. After passing a checkpoint on the ground floor at the main entry to the building, a second check is done at the hostess station upstairs before you are allowed entry into the establishment.
We were escorted to a table for two overlooking what appeared to be the entirety of Oklahoma City through a wall of glass. Lights could be seen for an eternity in the distance, while dark leather bound menus were presented and we were left in wait for our server to arrive. That’s when the fun really began for us. Ricky was our server. And after he accommodated our request and relocated us from a “center-stage” table for two to a more spacious private booth, we were ready to enjoy our evening.
The modern sophistication of the restaurant décor offered an upscale feel, while the general appearance of the eatery as a whole gave off a welcoming aura. Ricky returned a few minutes later with our dinner menus, and we began perusing the selections. Noticing immediately how bright the chandelier bulb was over our table, we asked if the lighting could be turned down a bit. After being informed that the restaurant could not dim the shockingly bright lighting over our table, my husband took matters into his own hands and simply unscrewed the bulb. When a manager approached asking if we were alright, he didn’t seem to mind. “As long as the lady can read her menu,” he said with a smile and a gentle laugh as he walked away.
Ricky reappeared with our cocktails and a basket of steamy bread offerings. One version was baked with decadent cream cheese inside, while the other was made with a sharp cheddar that left a permanent expression of contentment on our faces. Both were aromatic and filled with flavor bursting from each bite. Had we been delivered to some sort of culinary heaven where eating bread alone would be happily accepted as our entire dinner? Possibly. However, we forged onward.
Chef Patrick Williams’ amuse bouche of the evening was a nutty dried cranberry and blue cheese cracker offering, which contained flavors of pungent creamy cheese, the sweetness of fruit, and the satisfying crunch of the crisp wafer. Ricky returned promptly with our beverage orders. I chose the Aguardiente Cocktail. This flavorsome adult libation was crafted with a combination of Cachaca, Aperol, Lillet Blanc, and a tart grapefruit zest that rounded the taste out perfectly. My husband’s Vast Champagne Cocktail was prepared with the likes of Grey Goose vodka, grapefruit syrup, and bubbly Champagne and was delightfully smooth and sophisticated.
The Maine Lobster Ravioli offering became a favorite in an instant. Beer battered lobster claw meat with a hint of exquisite Tahitian vanilla bean, and an uni butter sauce that had us almost in tears it was so succulent. Sweet and tender, the lobster meat texture contrasted nicely with the al dente pasta and creamy sauce finishing this dish off with an intriguing flavor and enhanced visual appeal.
When ordering salads, I usually look for ingredients that I will remember. I hope for something spectacular in the presentation and combination of flavors as well. The Braised Hearts of Palm Salad I chose for my starter delivered successfully in my opinion. Both beautifully appointed and vibrant in color, the flavors of the hearts of palm, frisee, Lola Rosa lettuce and blood orange basil vinaigrette persuaded me that this had to be one of the top five best salads I’d had in a long time.
The Pan Seared Salmon Oscar was the evening’s special entrée. Expertly prepared pink salmon lightly seasoned, then topped with a mountain of lump crab meat and sinful Béarnaise sauce. Steamed stalks of bright green asparagus accompanied the mixture, while simple plump steak fries joined this beautiful dish. Sometimes a complicated side item can distract from the main attraction. This presentation was easily understood and quickly consumed due to its excellent components.
Leeks, fennel, edamame, Yukon Gold potatoes and a colorful pesto broth composed the Butter Poached Alaskan Halibut entrée I chose for my main course. The tender flesh of the poached halibut was center stage, while the stunning pesto broth encircled seasonal organic vegetables and fingerling potatoes.
Vast offers exceptional cuisine prepared with creativity and purpose. The professional and on-the-spot staff were exceptional with impeccable timing and service. The décor will awe anyone entering through its doors as well with its modern twist on a sky-high culinary adventure.
ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The very modern and angular setting of the restaurant itself reflects upscale glamour and sophistication. Just getting to the eatery from the first floor takes some checkpoints along the way, however once you’re in, you’ll be glad you’re there. An expansive view over Oklahoma City enlightens admirers as they dine and sip on refreshing libations. Our only complaint was that the interior lighting of the establishment was almost too bright to enjoy the stunning and magnificent views overlooking the city. We actually unscrewed the light over our booth because it was so distracting to us during dinner. However, other than that small complaint, all else was incredible and memorable for us.
FOOD / DRINK: Creative presentations offered an array of choices from the kitchen. From fish to beef to vegetarian items, there exists something for most everyone on the menu at any given time. Chilled hand-crafted liquid offerings from the open bar area started us off on the right foot before perusing the dinner menus. Gluten-free and vegetarian items are also available.
LOCATION: Vast is located at 333 West Sheridan Avenue in Oklahoma City, OK 73102 on the 50th floor of the Devon Tower.
HOURS: Vast serves lunch Monday through Friday 11 AM until 1:30 PM. Dinner is available Monday through Thursday from 5 PM to 10 PM, and again on Friday and Saturday from 5 PM until 10:30 PM. The lounge is open Monday through Thursday from 5PM until 11 PM, and again on Friday and Saturday from 5 PM until Midnight.
SERVICE / STAFF: Our server, Ricky, was incredible! He was accommodating, friendly, conversational, and genuine. We were fortunate to have been seated in his area of the restaurant.
PRICE / VALUE: Though priced a bit higher than your typical Oklahoma City establishments, we felt everything was fair considering the presentations, quality of the cuisine, and romantic ambiance of the restaurant.
CORKAGE FEE: No outside alcohol is allowed into the restaurant.
CONTACT INFO: Phone: (405) 702-7262, Website: www.vastokc.com
PARKING: Valet parking is available for $10 per vehicle, while self-parking is permitted for a $5 charge.
Please note, all information for this establishment may have changed or the eatery may have been permanently closed since the article’s publication.