Enjoying Sammy’s Cookout at Preux & Proper

When I first started visiting downtown LA I would regular eat at a quaint French restaurant at the intersection of Main & Spring. It’s long since closed and the name now escapes me but every time I would pass by the building I’d get a little nostalgic. Then Preux & Proper opened in the very same spot and became one of my favorite downtown restaurants. Now whenever I pass the intersection all I feel is hungry for the their delicious Southern fare. Recently, they invited me to their new Thursday night dinner, Sammy’s Cookout, and I eagerly stopped by.

Sammy’s Cookout, only available Thursday nights, started out as a limited edition event but proved to be so popular that it’s now offered weekly. Executive chef Sammy Monsour created the menu as an homage to casual Southern fare – the kind you’d find at a cookout.

After enjoying a welcome Gold Rush cocktail (can’t go wrong with honey and bourbon!) it was time to dig in. We were treated to an array of starters including Black Tiger Shrimp,  Watermelon Cucumber Salad and, of course, their delicious Cast Iron Cornbread. Oh My Goodness the cornbread! Unlike any cornbread I’ve had before it’s a delectable, sweet treat that melts in your mouth. If I had been served this alone I’d have been happy.

But, of course, there was more. In fact it was time for the pièce de résistance the 18 Hour Bone-In Pork Shoulder. Intended to feed 8-12 this hunk of pig was cooked to perfection. So soft and tender the bone literally fell out and the meat was sliced with a fork.

Accompanied by 5 distinct bbq sauces it’s an indulgent entree that I won’t soon forget.

Of course we can’t forget about the sides and I enjoyed deliciously spicy Braised Collards and the best mac n cheese I’ve ever had.

Here’s the thing, I don’t usually like mac & cheese. But Preux & Proper’s Baked Mac & Cheese is so delectably delicious that I could not stop eating it. Made with orecchiette pasta, scallions, ale and extra sharp cheddar cheese it’s pure perfection.

With all this food you’d think I’d have no room for dessert but I managed to squeeze it in. I can never turn down banana pudding and Preux & Proper’s Banana Puddin’ is one of the best with the inclusion of candied walnuts and toasted coconut. It’s delicious!

Sammy’s Cookout is the perfect addition to the menu at Preux & Proper. Only available on Thursdays from 4pm-10pm it’s well worth battling commuter traffic for. I don’t know when I’ll be back but I know it’ll be on a Thursday night!