This week’s pick is Cochon Volant. I was invited to do a tasting at the restaurant and I’m glad I didn’t miss the opportunity to dine at this beautiful French brasserie led by renowned Chefs Roland Liccioni and Matt Ayala.
Located in the heart of the Loop, the restaurant offers all day breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. When I arrived, I was seated in a nice part of the restaurant’s main dining room, and started with the Escargot Magnifique. Let’s just say, I may never again consume snails unless they are submerged in snail butter topped with blue cheese crumbles and mini croutons. The crunchy croutons worked amazingly with the “melt in your mouth” texture of the escargot, and the blue cheese provided a nice piquancy to the entire dish. I devoured these in a matter of minutes… and with no guilt.
Fascinated by what I had just eaten, I got even more excited to try the next course, which was the ‘Saumon’ A beautiful, soft, light pink Salmon fillet was brought out, drizzled with some herb aioli and served with the crispiest hand-cut frites. The fries were also served with a delicious garlic aioli for dipping, but could’ve done without. The dish was simple yet exuded mysterious aromas and flavors that kept you guessing. The presentation was colorful and the quality of all the ingredients topnotch. My taste buds thanked me with every bite of this delicious entrée.
I also want to mention the complimentary cocktail I was served called Death in the Clouds. The restaurant’s bar menu offers a good list of cocktails, beers and wine but my recommendation would be for this one. Something about the firelit coffee liqueur with green chartreuse and coconut cloud really helped enhance the flavors of the food I ate. So be sure to try it!
I finished my meal with their rich & creamy chocolate mousse. Served in a Cappuccino glass cup with generous dollops of whipped cream, the mousse was thick & gooey with deep cocoa flavors. I don’t know about you, but I have always been a bit of a fan so I certainly appreciate when a classic dessert like this is made right.
The food at Cochon Volant was superior and the entire experience extremely pleasing. While I’m biased about French cuisine, the food here truly speaks for itself! Cochon Volant is well worth trying! Bon Appetite!
Cochon Volant
Neighborhood: Chicago Loop
Address: 100 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603
Phone: (312) 754-6560
Website: http://www.cochonvolantchicago.com
Hours: Mon - Fri: 6:30am–11:00pm, Sat – Sun: 7:30am – 11:00pm
Price: $13 - $38