The art of French cooking is one of refinement and held to a certain pedigree when it comes to taste and overall execution. When you can master this particular cuisine, and even furthermore one of their dishes to the point where it is on display for an entire month, you know you are doing something right then. That is what is happening at Midtown West’s French Bistro Benoit, where in the month of April they will be hosting weekly dinners that highlight the classic French dish called Cochon.
Cochon essentially is a French word that means domestic pig, and I’m not talking about a certain Presidential candidate. For the month of April, Chef Phillipe Bertineau will be serving up the classic French dish, Cochon, a 16lb. 2-hour slow-roasted suckling pig seasoned with a blend of garlic and herbs.
Starting Tuesday April 5th , guests will be able to enjoy variations of the Cochon from various regions in France, including Alsace, Brittany, Basque Country, and Provence. Each Tuesday, Chef Bertineau will pair fresh market sides with the Cochon inspired by that particular region’s style of food. For only $39/per person you get a little taste of France in your own neighborhood but be sure to make a reservation as there will be limited servings each night.
Here are the dates and highlights-
April 5 – ALSACE
Sauerkraut-style cabbage
Steamed potatoes
Cochon jus with mustard
April 12 – BRITTANY
Cranberry bean casserole Paimpol style, red apples, leeks
Artichoke hearts confit in butter
Cochon jus with Pommereau
April 19 – BASQUE COUNTRY
Boudin slice + espeletter pepper
Piperade
Broad beans and young onions
Cochon just with espelette pepper
April 26 – PROVENCE
Stuffed vegetables + herb pistou
Panisse
Cochon jus with olives
Bon Appetit! Benoit is located at 60 W. 55th Street. For more information, check out their official site.