AlwaysPartying: Joe & Mario’s 4th Annual Wine & Swine

Jeff Zalaznick — May 12, 2009

from left to right, Cesare Casella, Billy Gallagher, Mario Batali & Dave Gallagher slicing up the Whole Roasted Pig

Yesterday, Joe Bastianich and Mario Batali hosted their 4th Annual Springtime Wine & Swine event, at the Bastianich home in Greenwich. In addition to Mario, Michael Schlow (Radius), Cesare Casella (Salumeria Rosi), William Gallagher (Becco), Dave Pasternack (Esca), Fortunato Nicotra (Felidia), and Andy Nusser (Casa Mono & Tarry Lodge) were all making it happen in the kitchen.

The surprise guest was Schlow, who was in from Boston making his award-winning Radius Burger. Topped with cheddar, horseradish mayo and fried onions, this is unquestionably one of the finest burgers in the world. Pasternack’s Balsamic Octopus is also a gift to humanity, as it truly defines what tender octopus should taste like. The Ribeye was immaculately tender and served perfectly rare. The Pig, cooked overnight and served whole, was a revelation as well. The party was phenomenal—the weather was beautiful, the band was rocking, and excellent Wine and Swine was served all-around. Perfect Monday.

The Swine

The many stages of a Whole Roasted Pig

 

The AHNY Plate

clockwise from top left: Rib Bone, Sliced Ribeye, Beets Agro Dulce, Balsamic Octopus with Beans, Smoked Trout Panzanella, Farro & Asparagus Salad

 

The Radius Burger

Burger topped with Cheddar Cheese, Horseradish Mayonnaise, & Fried Onions on a Brioche Bun

 

The Steak

Ribeye Steak, sliced & grilled perfectly rare

 

The Antipasti

clockwise from top left: Farro & Asparagus Salad, Blistered Sweet Cherry Peppers, Smoked Trout Panzanella, Golden Beets Agro Dulce