EAT: BLACK HISTORY MONTH MENU AT RED ROOSTER

Red Rooster had a preview of a new menu for Black History month with modern perspectives on Southern classics and there were some absolute standouts in the 5-course tasting experience with an additional amuse-bouche. Harlem's most famous restaurant has come up with a $62 Prix-Fixe menu for dinner featuring a duck liver macaron with aged balsamic to start, Broiled Oysters with black olive aioli, Charred Octopus with curry vinaigrette, Blackened Catfish,  Beer Braised Pork Belly and a desert of Coconut Rice Pudding.

Our table unanimously raved over the moist but crispy macaron filled with pâté that was decadently good.  All of the sweet notes balanced well with the savory duck liver and was all served up on more traditional looking plates. Cornbread also came along with this starter and the warm rich Texas Toast sized portion were also not to be missed.

All the other dishes such as the fresh broiled Wellfleet oysters, super tender charred octopus and a slightly asian inflected pork belly all had a refreshing take on classic but the catfish was the star of the evening.  Everyone absolutely enjoyed this offering which had a soft buttery texture and subtle flavor because of a secret southern marinade and the entire plate came together with a hit of fermented hot pepper paste that took everything to another level.

This is definitely the one catfish dish to try uptown in 2016 and another reason to check out what's new at the Rooster.  Pair it with the signature Yes, Chef cocktail which feature a hit of ginger pineapple juice and any winter evening will be complete.

The special menu will be offered throughout the month of February at Red Rooster Harlem at 310 Lenox Avenue in Harlem between 125th and 126th Street.  Reserve a table at:  www.redroosterharlem.com