Peasant — Review by Eater
New York, United States — Italian
The cast of Super Troopers 3 visits Peasant, a 26-year-old wood-burning Italian restaurant in Manhattan, for an entertaining lunch featuring wood-fired dishes and a whole pig. They enthusiastically enjoy multiple courses including sourdough pillows, oysters, roasted calamari, lamb cassoulet, and conclude with decadent desserts. The experience is lively and filled with food debates and personal anecdotes from the comedy group.
What was great: Wood-fired dishes kissed by fire, sourdough pillow starter, roasted calamari stuffed with Jimmy Nardell peppers, cassoulet with rotisserie lamb, wood-fired oysters, the whole pig preparation, wine selection
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The meal begins with the signature sourdough pillow, a warm and inviting starter that sets the tone for what is to come. The wood-fired oysters, called 'Wellies,' arrive with remarkable aroma and visual appeal, paired with a liter of cola and an unexpected white chocolate soap for comedic effect. The roasted calamari stands out as a creative departure from typical fried preparations, stuffed with Jimmy Nardell peppers that match the squid's shape perfectly. A cassoulet featuring rotisserie lamb showcases the restaurant's mastery of traditional Italian preparations, while the grand finale is the whole pig, which the cast approaches with great anticipation and humor. Desserts mentioned include maple syrup poured tableside with bourbon options, and various sweet preparations that leave the guests thoroughly satisfied.
The Experience
Peasant welcomes the group with intimate seating for five and provides engaging service throughout the meal. The server is knowledgeable and personable, explaining the restaurant's philosophy that everything is kissed by fire one way or another, referring to the wood-burning oven's influence. The atmosphere is lively and celebratory, with the cast engaging in spirited food debates, sharing stories about their favorite restaurants across the country, and discussing food crimes like calling deep dish pizza a casserole. The service team clearly enjoys the group's energy and humor, creating a memorable dining experience.
Value and Pricing
The transcript indicates this is a chef's tasting experience with curated dishes. While specific prices are not mentioned, the comprehensive multi-course meal with premium ingredients like oysters, lamb, and whole pig suggests a fine dining price point. The cast notes that lunch is covered by the restaurant, emphasizing this is a special experience at an upscale establishment.
Notable Moments
Everything we do here is kissed by fire one way or another
I don't think we've seen wine in the boot. That's a great one.
Best meal of the tour. It's good and a good syrup.
A humorous moment occurs when a white chocolate soap is presented alongside the oysters, and one cast member unknowingly bites into it, resulting in genuine surprise and laughter. The wine served in a traditional Italian boot becomes a focal point of discussion, with the group attempting to drink from it in celebratory fashion. Throughout the meal, the cast engages in passionate food debates, including lengthy discussions about deep dish versus New York pizza and whether hot dogs qualify as sandwiches.
The Verdict
Peasant proves to be an exceptional fine dining destination that honors traditional Italian wood-fired cooking while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for guests of all personality types. The restaurant's commitment to wood-burning techniques and quality ingredients shines through in every course. This establishment is best for special occasions, group celebrations, or anyone seeking authentic Italian cuisine prepared with care and fire. The experience transcends mere dining to become entertainment, making it ideal for guests who appreciate both culinary excellence and engaging hospitality.