Nothing goes together quite like great beer and great food! A well-crafted pairing maximizes the enjoyment of both. Brewpub customers will trust your expertise to know which foods go with their favorite beer style.

If you've never offered pairings before, or if you're more of a "beer snob" than a "foodie," the options can be overwhelming. Here are some basic guidelines to get you started creating your first beer and food pairing menu.

BOCK

Pair with: Powerfully flavored or spicy foods

Why? The malty, sweet taste of Bock beer compliments the savory and sweet flavors and spices.

Menu ideas: Cajun dishes, dark chocolate, BBQ pork, jerk chicken

Glass: Goblet/chalice or tulip

LAMBIC

Pair with: Foods with lots of herbs and sweet components

Why? The tart lambic flavor balances the richness in sweet and herby dishes, keeping both components in check.

Menu ideas: Roasted duck, fruit cobblers or pastries, shellfish

Glass: Tulip or stange

PALE ALE

Pair with: Rich comfort food

Why? The hoppy flavors of pale ales complement roast flavors. Plus, high fat content neutralizes the hops’ bitterness.

Menu ideas: Roasted meats, pizza, chicken curry

Glass: Pint or tulip

PILSNER

Pair with: Lighter fare

Why? Pilsners are clean and crisp, complementing lighter dishes.

Menu ideas: Fish tacos, sushi, wild rice, fresh salad

Glass: Pilsner, of course!

PORTER

Pair with: Fatty, rich dishes

Why? The dark and roast flavors cut through fat and strong flavors, mixing for a complex taste profile.

Menu ideas: Smoked meats, meatloaf, chili

Glass: Pint

STOUT

Pair with: Foods that are less sweet than the stout

Why? Stouts bring out umami and balance sweetness with richness.

Menu ideas: Charred meat, bittersweet chocolate, rich stews, roasted vegetables

Glass: Pint or specialty stout glass

WHEAT

Food Pairing: Light dishes and citrus flavors

Why? These foods add richness to the beer, while the beer balances salt and acidity, cleansing the palate.

Menu ideas: Salads with fruity dressing, vegetarian fare, ceviche, citrus-forward desserts

Glass: Weizen

Craveable pairings make both your beer and your food shine. Master the balancing act, and customers won't be able to stay away! For more information about glasses and glass customization, contact one of our beverage experts.