Eat Beat

by Kirsten Henri

French bistro-ish restaurants are popping up everywhere—first Coquette, soon Stephen Starr’s Parc and now Cochon (which officially opens Friday). Co-owner Amy Giuffi gave Eat Beat the scoop from her cell while she waited in line at L&I (and given how smoothly L&I runs, she might still be there). What will we find to eat at Cochon? Rustic French food in the $18 to $20 range, cooked by her husband chef Gene Giuffi, who was most recently in the kitchen at Pasión. And what did the Giuffis find when they started renovations on the spot, which used to be Cafe Sud (and way before that, a butcher shop)? Vintage mosaic tile floors, subway tiles and pressed tin walls, all of which they restored. They also shrunk the kitchen area and expanded the tiny dining space so it can comfortably seat 44. Right now Cochon is—as is customary in our fair city—BYOB. >> Cochon, 810 E. Passyunk Ave. 215.923.7675. www.cochonbyob.com

Drink It!

Eat Beat is a sucker for anything labeled “limited edition.” Especially if it’s beer. Victory Brewing is releasing its limited-edition Harvest Pils (billed as the world’s only harvest-style pilsner) in early October. This beer, made with wet hops (that haven’t been dried, imparting a more potent aroma and flavor), is even more limited than before. There were fewer hops available this year, so Victory’s brewmaster Bill Covaleski made the executive decision to release the beer in draft form only. That means a) no bottles, and b) you have to leave the house to drink it—at bars like Ten Stone and Standard Tap. >> www.victorybeer.com

Go Ahead, Keep Drinking It!

Do you heart West Coast wines? Can’t get enough of that California Cab or Oregon Pinot Noir? You might enjoy the Terrific Pacific event, despite its dorky name (considering it’s presented by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board along with Philadelphia magazine, it could be a lot worse). The event features nibbles and tastings of wines from all over the Pacific with some intriguing producers representing, like Brancott and Chateau Ste. >> Thurs., Oct. 4, 6-9pm. $50. Sheraton City Center, 17th and Race sts. 800.595.4TIX

Eat It for Less!

If you’re a current employee of Starr Restaurant Organization, Salt & Pepper owner Robert Reilly (a former Starr serf himself) is inviting you to dinner for half off (excluding tax and tip) during October. Visit Tuesday through Thursday and bring along a pay stub to receive the discount. >> Salt & Pepper, 746 S. Sixth St. 215.238.1920. www.saltandpepperbyob.com