Prepare to Pig Out at Cochon 555

Forget James Beard. The real contest this spring is to crown Portland's Prince or Princess of Porc when Cochon 555 returns May 15. The second annual event brings cleavers and carving stations to 10 pork-mad cities (including New York, Napa and, wait for it, Stillwater, Oklahoma). At each stop, five hog happy chefs pair up with five fancy little piggies to show off their porcine prowess (the other "5" is for winemakers; you'll need something to drink with your cracklings). The stellar field for this year’s sausage crown (Vitaly Paley of Paley’s Place is Portland’s reigning champion) includes Naomi Pomeroy (Beast—the name may make Pomeroy the odds-on favorite), Gabriel Rucker (Le Pigeon), Jason Barwikowski (Olympic Provisions), Andy Ricker (Pok Pok, Ping) and Cathy Whims (Nostrana) (all but Barwikowski are finalists for 2010 James Beard Awards). Contestants will show off their varied talents with heritage beasts; no swimsuits will be required; and attendants are promised a full rasher of tastes. The winner (with favorite pig) will head to Aspen to compete for the ultimate prize: King or Queen of Porc. Tickets are $125 and are available here.
What: Cochon 555
When: 5 pm Sunday, May 16
Where: Governor Hotel, 614 SW 11th Ave.
Cost: $125
· Cochon 555