While we love a good food and wine pairing (this is California, after all), there is something about Father’s Day that points to craft beer.
So to discover the perfect craft beer pairings, we asked Chef Vittorio Lucariello at Shutters on the Beach for his insight on coastal cuisine and unique brews sourced from Santa Monica and beyond.
Here are his recommendations for dining at Coast on Father’s Day. (Or really, any day.)
Lobster Roll and Santa Monica Brew Works 310 California Blonde Ale
Crisp, refreshing, and delicate, the 310 California Blonde Ale embodies the Santa Monica lifestyle as the perfect summer brew. It is light enough to drink on a hot day, while offering a subtle sweetness and gentle malt nose with undercurrents of pear and green apple. Paired with the lobster roll topped with lemon aioli, Chef Lucariello says, “The beer highlights the sweet, creamy texture [of the lobster roll] while remaining light on the palate.”
Wagyu Burger and Iron Fist Brewing Co. Uprising Golden Tripel IPA
The Belgian-style Uprising Golden Tripel IPA goes against tradition by combining two styles that result in a robust malt character. Discerning palates will be able to taste notes of apple, apricot, plum, and citrus in the slightly tart beer, which goes best with the Wagyu burger at Coast. Proving that opposites often attract in the realm of beer pairings, the fat from the burger meat and cheese stand up to the strong brew from Vista.
Steamed Mussels and Avery Brewing Co. White Rascal
A true-to-style Belgian white ale, the unfiltered White Rascal stays classic while still offering zesty flavor with coriander and curacao orange peel. The beer from Boulder, Colorado is the perfect accompaniment to fresh, steamed mussels. According to Chef Lucariello, “The beer brings out the salinity and natural sweetness of the steamed mussels while cleansing the palate.”
Shrimp Tagliatelle and Coachella Valley Brewing Co. I-10 Session IPA
A very drinkable beer with notes of citrus and pine, the I-10 Session IPA represents the meeting of an India pale ale and an English mild ale. The Coachella Valley brew is made with five different malts and various hops for a clean and balanced finish. It pairs best with bold flavors such as those found in curries, Cajun dishes, and Creole cuisine, along with spicy shrimp tagliatelle at Coast.
