Get Ready for “After the Rain” Seasonal Plant-Based Tasting with Mæst

Spring is finally showing up! Things are growing. Shoots are sprouting. And Chef Tomoko Tahara (of Mæst food) is marking that sweet spot between early spring and full bloom for a one-night-only pop-up dinner, at Modus Coffee in Mount Pleasant on Sunday, April 27th.

The night’s theme, “After the Rain”, nods to Kokū, the sixth micro-season in Japan’s 24-part sekki calendar – a time when the rain starts to soak the fields and things begin to stretch, swell, and turn green. It’s not just about what’s in season, though; it’s also about what’s ready to “speak”.

As usual with a Mæst event, the six-course menu will be built from hyper-seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on Japanese-influenced European cuisine. Add to that, everything will be made plant-based, gluten-free optional, and strikingly good-looking. Here’s a look at the drafted menu (subject to the whims of the weather and the market):

Amuse
Nettle green mini arepa with rose hip and mushroom XO, flax crackers with red currant jelly, pumpkin seed cream

Appetizer
Black hazelnuts miso bagna cauda with Artichoke and sourdough (if the artichoke is not available in the season, endive, GF option is puffed rice crackers)

2nd Appetizer :
Konjac Crudo with pickled magnolia and wild shoots, flowering currant marinade sauce, currant leave oil

Main
New Potato umami pave, truffle sauce, morel mushrooms, lily spheres, smoked tsukemono

Dessert
Japanese style crispy waffle, cherry blossom semifreddo (the waffle is gluten free)

Drinks will be available at the table, featuring natural wines by the glass or bottle, plus a few seasonal, non-alcoholic pours.

The Set-Up:
Date: Sunday, April 27th, 2025
Time: 7pm (expect to stay about 2.5 hours)
Location: Modus Coffee, 112 West Broadway, Vancouver
Menu: Six courses (shared and individual) | Plant-based | Gluten-free option available upon request

Tickets are now available. Secure your seat here. But first, a few important notes: Although gluten-free is doable, fair warning that it’s not celiac-safe due to shared prep space. Also, unfortunately Chef Tomoko Tahara can’t accommodate severe allergies or extensive substitutions. Gratuity is not included, so bring a little extra love for the crew. And please don’t bring your own beverages!

WHY WE CARE
Tomoko cooks like she’s paying attention – to both the land and the moment – and she actually listens to what it’s telling her to do. It’s thoughtful food that doesn’t shout, but still demands your attention. If you’re looking to mark the start of the season in a way that feels right, then this is it.