Jason Barwikowski Crowned PDX's Prince of Porc

At last night's gut-busting porkfest Cochon 555, Jason Barwikowski and the crew at charcuterie house Olympic Provisions took home the coveted "Prince of Porc" trophy, beating out an all-star lineup of James Beard Award nominees (Le Pigeon's Gabriel Rucker, Beast's Naomi Pomeroy, Pok Pok's Andy Ricker, and Nostrana's Cathy Whims) with its insane nine — nine! — preparations of pork. In addition to chowing down on some awesome vittles by the cheftestants, the Country Cat's Adam Sappington made a rock-star entrance with an entire spit-fired pig; dessert by Ruby Jewel included ice cream sandwiches rolled in chicharonnes... and candied bacon, obvs.

Ryan Farr of San Fran's 4505 Meats butchers a whole hog on-stage.

Naomi Pomeroy and Beast create a literal shrine to pork at their table; Pok Pok's Andy Ricker serves up some grub.

Jason Barwikowski celebrates victory with a little help from his friends; not pictured: the rest of the chefs downing bourbon in the background.

And as promised, Naomi (rockin' some awesome pinstripe gear) and Nostrana's Cathy Whims make a little love to that poor pig's head. Miss out on the meat? There's still time to catch the traveling road show when it hits Seattle next Sunday (May 23). We just may be recuperated around then; anyone up for a road trip?

· Olympic Provisions [Official site]
· Cochon 555 [Official site]