Thursday, March 31, 2011

Sausage and Cheese Omelette, Scrapple and Beer

Having a beer with my meal is a must. Depending on the type of food I'm eating my choice of beer will vary. If I'm eating out at a restaurant or bar, my decision will be based on what's on tap. If I'm eating at home, I'll pick whatever beer I have in the fridge. Last Saturday I went to the diner to get breakfast. I know what your thinking, and I can honestly say I didn't order a beer with my eggs. It did get me thinking though, and I realized as often as I eat at a diner I can't remember I time I ordered a beer with my chicken salad club (what I usually order). I've gone to the diner for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even after bar hours and never asked for a draft. Most diners I've been to do have a full bar on premise, but their beer menu isn't as developed as their food menu. The diner I went to offered the basics: Bud, Miller, and Coors products all served in bottles. No thanks, I'll stick with the unsweetened tea.

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Drinking Game: 7, 11, Doubles

My first experience with the drinking game 7, 11, Doubles was during my freshmen semester at York College. While most schools prefer Beer Pong, or card games like Asshole, it seemed no York party was complete without this game. After graduation I've played this game less and less, and can honesty say I can't remember the last time I played. Despite this, I still consider this my favorite beer game to play with friends. If your hanging with a group of friends and have plenty of beer, try this game out.

You'll need:

Two Dice
Large Cup
Beer and lots of it
Table

Gather a group of friends around a table; As you will be chugging brewskis I recommend standing. To start the game place the glass half full of beer in the middle of the table and make sure you got extra beer nearby. A pitcher or a keg in close by will come in handy. Going clockwise, have someone start off by rolling the dice.

If the person rolls a 7 the person to the left drinks.
If the person rolls a 11 the person to the right drinks.
If the person rolls a double the roller picks anyone at the table to drink
If the person rolls anything else, the dice goes to the next person to roll.

Once someone has to drink, the person picked has to drink the beer in the middle of the table before the person who originally rolled rolls a 7, 11, or doubles. The roller cannot roll the dice until the glass in the middle is touched. If you are thirsty or wish to "save" the person drinking any other member of the table can grab the beer and begin drinking.

If the person drinking finishes the beer prior to the roller rolling a 7, 11, or doubles the dice goes to the next person in line.
If the person drinking doesn't finish the beer prior to the roller rolling a 7, 11, or doubles they have to drink again.

Now the fun part; the person whose rolling the dice gets to decide how much or how little they want to pour into the glass. Although it sounds fun to give the person drinking a full glass of beer do remember that your only a few rolls away from switching positions. In the times I've played I have seen alliances formed, and enemies made.

During the game, if the roller rolling has the dice become sloppy and they roll off the table they forfeit their turns and must drink a full beer.

Warning: I recommend playing this game earlier in the night, as people will likely get drunk

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Call Me a Regular Joe

I was going through past blogs and realized I've frequented the Iron Hill Brewery enough times to consider myself a regular. The fact that I will be moving close enough to walk to this place makes believe I will be blogging about my favorite brewery even more. I apologize in advance. The last few times I've been to the Iron Hill in Maple Shade I've been told by a friend who serves there that I need to try the India Black Ale. If I remember correctly, I think I tried this beer in a flight I ordered a month back, but then again, it was a Saturday afternoon and I did have a few of their Rising Suns so I might have not tried this beer.

I've been to this place enough times that I can tell you the beers they always have on draft. Because I can always get their red lager, inbound ale, or porter I can't remember the last time I actually ordered one of those drafts. Instead I always find myself looking at the rotating list they offer. Wanting to try and blog about a beer I never tried, I went with the India Black Ale. Although the beer was dark in color, it wasn't a thick or heavy beer that I expected it to be. It had a roasted hop taste that went down smooth. Smooth enough that when it came time to order another I ordered the same draft.

I was glad I ordered this beer. When I saw my friend Steve I was sure to tell him I took his suggestion and agreed with him that this beer was delicious. I also learned that every first Tuesday of the month they have a home brewing meeting where local brewers come to the brewery to discuss their beer and let others try it. I'm not sure if I will be able to make it to next weeks meeting, but I will definately have to see about attending one in the near future. Steve also shared that he was brewing his own beer, and I suggested to him that if he would allow me to try his beer I would blog about it. 


An IPA Celebration

I mentioned the other day how it's been some time since I enjoyed a good beer. Beer was on my mind all day, so by the time I left work, I really have the urge to drink one. I even posted on Facebook if anyone could recomend a beer I should try. From the feedback I received there are several that were added to my beer list. I'm guessing the biggest problem I'll have is actually finding it at a local beer store. I know with most stores, if you talk to the manager they have no issue ordering it. I was thinking, now that I purchased a house, I will plan a theme party and ask everyone attending to bring a case of their favorite exotic beer. This would make a good blog.

I worked another Saturday and ended up going to Isabella in Conshohocken. I was a bit nervous all week because when I attempted to set up dinner reservations I was informed they don't take them. The problem with not taking reservations is that it's a free for all. If the place is crowded you might as well go to another place to eat, because who knows when and if you will be seated. I'm not sure if it were the weather but when I walked inside, it was a lighter crowd. I told my coworkers where I was going, and the first thing people said was that I am going to love it because of their beer menu. They further explained Isabella had a great selection of Craft Beer.

I got the bar and noticed they had Dogfish Head 60 minute IPA. I was about to order this beer until I noticed they had ANOTHER IPA on tap! It's been some time since I had to make a decision between IPAs, as most places will only offer one (if I'm lucky). I went with the Lagunitas IPA which is brewed in California, and it reminded of the show Laguna Beach. I've never had this beer but the description stated it was smooth and had a citrus aftertaste. Normally, I ask for samples, but I didn't bother this time. I was quite confident I would enjoy this beer. I got my beer from the bartender and saw it was served in a Dogfish head beer glass, which added to my list on why you need to check this place out. Although I wasn't drinking Dogfish head beer, I'm certain the head brewers at Dogfish wouldn't be disappointed to serve this IPA in their glass as it had an awesome taste. It was so enjoyable I drank three and asked Lauren to drive home.

Lately, I've really enjoyed what Conshohocken has to offer, and can see how its often said this is an up and coming area. The restaurant are bars in this area are greatly underrated, and I have yet to be disappointed with any of their beer menus. Last week when I went to Coyote Crossing I blogged about the beer I tried, Heavy Seas. Surprise! Isabella also also had this beer on tap and I learned it is brewed in Maryland. I thought about trying a different craft beer from their selection, but I was in the mood for an IPA, especially after remembering how I proclaimed my love them.







Saturday, March 26, 2011

Giving Blood + Long Day At work = No Beer

I mentioned on Facebook that I was craving a beer today. Wait, let me clarify - I was craving a beer I would actually enjoy. I'm not sure what kind or type or brand I would order, but I haven't had a good beer since Sunday. Unfortunately it will be another day before my next. Work had set up a blood drive that I attended and gave blood. From what I read and was told, drinking after giving blood is not a wise decision. Today was such a long day and I believe tomorrow will be even longer, therefore I'm going to bed. I do plan to go to dinner tomorrow night, and am trying to pick a place that has a decent beer menu. I did notice on Facebook that many of you are drinking tonight; if your out have a beer for me and let me know if you drink anything worth trying.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Not All Pale Ales are Created Equal

I cut out of work today at 5:30 and hit no traffic. It was a nice surprise to see the sun out despite it being cold and windy. For the first time this week I was able to enjoy dinner at home and got to drink a beer with my meal. I know some people don't like drinking beer while eating, but I'm not one of them. Having a beer with breakfast, lunch or dinner is a must for me. Its been a few weeks since I've went to the beer store, so I resorted to drinking a past Beer of the Month Club, and grabbed the Dominion Hop Mountain Pale Ale. I read on the beer label that this beer was for Hop Lovers and a balanced Pale Ale. I couldn't disagree more after my first sip. It's not often that I find a pale ale that I don't like, however I couldn't have been happier that this was a beer was from my clube and wasn't something I purchased in a 6 pack for $8.99. The beer had an odd aftertaste that tasted stale; I'm not sure if there was an issue with the batch of beer sent to me, but I will not trying this beer again. Nor would I recommend it.



Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Goat Races? Count Me In!

Would like to give a special thanks to my college bud, Brian Jacoby, on inviting me to this event. I've never heard of this, but it sounds like an awesome time, and will make an awesome blog.


GODS Gift to Us

Like many of my fellow readers when I first started drinking beer I wasn't concerned with taste. While in college most of my beer choices revolved around cost, and a keg of Keystone Light or Ice was the cheapest option. Obviously my taste (and wallet) has grown since those days as I now will try any beer at least once, and maybe twice. As I've written before, the IPA beer type is by far my favorite. As I tell many trying an IPA for the first time if you are not familar with the taste you most likely won't enjoy it. I consider IPA beers similar to wine in that it's an acquired distinct taste that for many can be too bitter, hoppy and have an aftertaste/bite. As my love of IPAs grew, I've tried all different kinds including: Magic Hat Roxy Rollies, Flying Fish Hopfish, and Victory HopDevil. But there's one IPA beer that I consider the king of all IPAs; The Dogfish Head 60 minute IPA. Since the first time I've tried this Delaware brewed beer I instantly fell in love. I still remember my experience, and can provide vivid details of where I was at, the time, and even what I was wearing. When you fall in love with a beer, the memory lasts forever. The other night I reconnected with an old beer as I ordered a draft for dinner at PJs in Maple Shade. One of the best feelings with beer is the memories it creates and for that second while drinking a delicious beer nothing else matters.

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Blue Moon At Noon

When I went to bed Saturday night I was ecstatic that I didn't have to set an alarm. All week I have to wake up each morning at 7:30 and because I'm at work until 11, I don't get to bed until close to 1 (always my choice). So getting to sleep as late as I wanted to Sunday was amazing. Because I worked Saturday, I didn't get to drink any beer that afternoon as I usual would, and I was determined to grab a beer. I ended up meeting the parents at Red Stone in Marlton, NJ. I've only been there here once, but had gotten take out multiple times, and would highly recommend the ribs. The last time I went to dinner at this restaurant was after an Eagles game and to make it more memorable Brandon Graham, the Eagles 2010 1st round draft pick, stopped in for dinner. When I got to the restaurant, I found my parents seated in the bar area so it wasn't difficult to see what they had on tap. There wasn't any beer on tap that really stood out or made me say "I have to have that beer." I narrowed the beer choices between Blue Moon and Sam Adam's Noble Pils, and because it was Sunday afternoon I went with the moon. I know I said it before but Blue Moon is a perfect afternoon drinking beer, as you never want to drink anything too light nor too dark/heavy. The only thing that would have made it better was if I were able to enjoy the beer outside in the warm weather. Only a few more weeks and I'll be able to drink some beer outside.


Monday, March 21, 2011

Last of the Noble Pils

My last blog took me longer than I thought to write. I've never timed any of my blogs, but from start to finish I would say most blogs that are more than pictures and a paragraph usually takes around 30-60 minutes. I find myself a perfectionist and most times I'll reread a blog several times to make sure my thoughts on beer are posted; once in my mind then once out loud.  Anyway, last night's blog took me much longer than I anticipated and I didn't even get to mention the second part of my night. After getting back in New Jersey I wasn't willing to call it a night, and wanted to grab another beer. I quickly found out that some friends were up at Connie Macs on Route 130 in Pennsauken, so we drove straight there. It's been a minute since I've been to this bar, which I can assume is named after the former owner/manager of the Philadelphia Phillies. From past experiences, I prefer this bar during the summer months instead of the winter as there's nothing more enjoyable during summer nights than sitting on their outside deck drinking a few brews. After meeting with my friends, I only drank one Sam Adam's Noble Pilsner. If I remember correctly, the Sam Adam's newsletter that I subscribe to stated this beer will not be around much longer. If your wondering, this blog only took me about 15 minutes to write, which is kind of good since I've been writing while watching Showtimes new series Shameless.

http://www.conniemacs.com/visitus/visitus.html


Sunday, March 20, 2011

There's a Pen in my BEER

Looking through past blogs, I realize most of my Saturdays are spent drinking and blogging. Since I've started this blog I feel I've written some good blogs including drinking at breweries and seeing a Beer Van on I-95. Unfortunately this Saturday was not one of those times. For my die hard readers, I'm sure you realized I'm a workaholic during the week. So when the opportunity presented itself to work this Saturday, how could I pass this up. I had no problem sacrificing my Saturday afternoon, evening, and night to drive to Conshohocken and work. After another long day at the office (seems to be a theme) I knew I needed a few brewskis to officially call it ends to the work week.

Last night before bed I made dinner reservations at Coyote Crossing in Conshohocken. For the past few years I've worked less than a mile away from this restaurant so I've heard many reviews and even had driven past this place countless times. Never had I stepped inside. This past week I've been craving Mexican food and no offense to Chef Mark I wanted to try a place other than the Tortilla Press. I walked into the restaurant and quickly realized this must be the place to eat and/or drink prior to heading out for the night. If I ever go out in Conshohocken I'll make sure to pregame here as it was 9:15 and and crowded with young professionals. Our reservations weren't for 9:30 so after checking in, we went to the bar area to grab a before dinner drink. I did my typical glance at the beer taps and noticed Sly Fox beer on draft. I'm always thrilled to see restaurants supporting local breweries, which this beer was brewed less than 30 minutes away. I always say, "Be sure to Support your local Brewery."

I did notice a tap I never saw before; It was a pirate that had the wording: Craft Beer. As mentioned in a previous blog, whenever you've never had a beer your interested trying, ALWAYS ask for a sample. The bar area was loud and I can honestly say I don't know what kind of beer I drank or who brews it. Even after being seated and talking to to server I still didn't know the name of the beer as it was just that loud. It wasn't until I got the check that I saw Heavy Seas Beer. While at the bar, I asked the bartender for a sample, and he provided me with a generous amount that I quickly finished. Before my last sip, I ordered a draft. After ten minutes of standing by the bar the hostess took us to our table. When the server came to our table, I was half way done my beer; Ironically, as he was about to write something on his tab, he dropped his pen into my beer. OPPS! It was actually very funny, and something that I've never experienced before. Because my beer now had a pen in it I was happy to see the server was more than willing to provide me another draft at no additional cost. I wanted to take a picture of it, but the server grabbed the beer so fast that I didn't even have the time to pull out my phone. I know this isn't a food blog, but I do want to point out the food was outstanding. It was authentic Mexican that paired well with my beer. As much as I love beer, I don't think I would order beer if I go back. Being that this is a Mexican restaurant, this place obviously specializes in my other guilty pleasure: tequila. There were all different tequila drinks that caught my attention but because I was driving I knew it wouldn't be a wise decision. I ended up getting three beers, with two being served in a Guinness glass. I'm not one to complain about presentation, but I didn't know if it was a violation to serve anything other than Guinness in these glasses. Regardless, the beer was great, the food was great, and the company was even better. I will be drinking here again, and would love to attend one of their Happy Hours.




Thursday, March 17, 2011

Is not Drinking on Saint Patrick's Day a Sin?

This past week has been a long and stressful one. I got home and considered heading to a local drinking hole to grab multiple beers. I had the urge this evening to drink as I drove past PJ Whelihan's in Cherry Hill and saw the massive crowds celebrating the holiday. With it being Saint Patrick's Day I thought I could be fun and meet up with all the drunks. Things quickly changed by the time I got home; I instantly realized how exhausted I was and decided to skip the bars. Besides, if I go to bed at a reasonable time tonight, I could use the extra rest for the next few days that will include a beer or two. I also won't have to deal with the cops. Although I didn't go out, tonight wasn't a total loss; I did have all the left over beer from past 6 packs and beer of the month clubs. To get into the spirit of the holiday I attempted to drink the Irish Stout beer. I'm sadden to say I had to pour this beer out as it tasted like coffee, and I HATE coffee. Having this beer quickly changed my mood. I'm not sure if I am sick, but I was no longer wanted to drink beer and poured a glass of ice tea. I know this is SHOCKING! Hell, it's shocking to me! I'm sure this feeling won't continue into the weekend. At least I hope not.



The Lone Sober Man on a Drunken Day

Tomorrow is Saint Patrick's Day; considered by many as one of the biggest drinking days of the year. Perhaps bigger than New Years Eve. While I'm certain many of my readers will be drinking like a true Irishman or woman I'll be at the office sitting behind a monitor. I'm not looking for pity, as I can honestly say the lure and fun of Saint Patty's Day ended once I graduated from college because I entered the real world. Thinking about it I can't remember the last time I actually drank on this holiday. Things use to be different; there was a time when I considered Saint Patrick's Day as one of my favorite days of the semester. Hell, I would have compared it to Christmas, as I would have a tough time sleeping the night before. For many Irish, I know it's tradition serve corn beef and cabage for dinner to celebrate, but my tradition was a bit different. Each year I had my alarm set for7AM to play the 1st beer pong game of the day. My day of drinking turned into a night of drinking, and eventually ended up at Murphs Study Hall. Those days are long gone, and as I have real responsibilities. As it is Saint Patrick's Day tomorrow, if I do end up at a bar for drink I will order a Guiness or Harp. You just have to be careful drinking too much because I'm certain there will be cops out on the roads.

Looking at the calendar, I just realized this holiday will be on a Saturday in 2013. Maybe I could talk my old college friends to celebrating with the H breeze. Heck, it would make one hell of a blog.

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Drafts During the Baseball Draft

For the past two weeks I've been looking forward to starting my fantasy baseball league. Unlike Football, there doesn't seem to be as much interest. After not participating in one last year due to not getting enough members, I was anxious to join one for this season and had my draft Monday night at Pizzeria UNOs. It's been quite some time since my last visit, which surprises me since I like their food and think their beer menu is outstanding and includes rare beers. Whenever you drive past this place you can't help but notice the huge sign they have posted out front that mentions their rotating beers and if there is immediate seating. I remember one July they displayed a message stating they had a keg of Troegs Mad Elf to celebrate Christmas in July. After looking at the draft list I went with an UNOs exclusive: Weyerbacher Big Ern's IPA. This must have been a popular choice as another person from my league ordered this beer and loved it. When I got my first draft I wasn't sure if I was served the correct beer as I noticed the color being much lighter than most IPAs I've ordered. Although the beer was a lighter IPA it was refreshing. With each sip I could taste the hop flavor, but not once was I overwhelmed with a strong bite that some IPAs provide. This beer was so smooth that by the time the draft was about to begin I was finishing up my second and ordering a third.

Because we were there during Happy Hour, we got to order from the Bar menu which included $2.99 snacks. I definately took advantage of the cheap prices and ordered Avocado Egg rolls, Boneless Buffalo Wings, Steak on a Stick, and Shrimp and Crab Fondue. All was delicious and it was even mentioned that H Loves Food (perhaps a new blog idea?)

I felt I had a successful draft, and I'm confident with my picks. With my first pick (4th overall) I went with Joe Mauer of the Twins. I've included pictures of my lineup below and would love to hear some feedback on how you think I'll do this upcoming season. As there is a cash prize for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place I'm wanting to win so I have extra money for brews!

By the way, If your wondering I named my team Danys Baez #1 Fan.








Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Beers of the World

Unlike most of you my Saturday didn't consist of waking up and heading into Philadelphia for the Erin Express. Instead I woke up and began packing for CT before meeting up with the Realtor to continue our house search. After a busy and successful morning we needed to get lunch prior to our drive and ended up at my favorite place: Iron Hill Brewery. In a previous blog, I mentioned my urge to get to the brewery but due to the timing I had to select another restaurant. As it was close to noon when we walked I didn't think we were at the right place because there was a light crowd, and we were easily able to grab a seat in one of the empty booths in the bar area. Because of our three hour drive to CT, I knew it would be a terrible idea to drink a strong and multiples. Needing an enjoyable lighter beer with taste I picked the Inbound Ale which is considered a staple in their beer menu as it's always on tap. I couldn't help but think how happy I was that Iron Hill decided to open up a brewery in Maple Shade.

The drive to CT was uneventful, but long. After sitting in the car for over three hours we were hungry and decided to on Chinese Food. Normally we would order take out, but for some reason we were in the mood to go to the restaurant to enjoy our dinner. I didn't plan to order a beer until I saw the table across from me order a round of Tsingtao Beer. From memory, I think I've had this beer only once. I'm almost certain the one time I did have this beer was when we found it in someones trunk who probably had it in there for several months. I don't remember it tasting that great. As I poured the beer into the glass provided, I noticed the beer had a yellow shade comparable to Miller or Coors light. However after my first sip I realized it was much different, and it's crisp taste paired well with Chinese food, and I'll leave it that. I can't see myself ordering this beer being at any other place than a Chinese restaurant.

After dinner we entered the beer store that was in the same complex of the restaurant. I quickly realized we weren't in the Philadelphia area as many of the neon lights hung in their windows represented the Boston sports teams. The store was small but offered wine, liquor and of course beer. I walked to the beer cooler and saw the row of sampler packs they had on the ground that lined the coolers. Lauren pointed a pack out that also caught my eye: Brewers Dozen Boulder Beer. This brewery located in Colorado reminded me of Magic Hat as their beer packaging and names had a Hippie vibe. When I got home and opened the sampler pack I immediately feel in love as their were three types of IPAs. Of the the beer in the sampler pack: Mojo India Pale Ale, Flashback India Brown Ale, Sweaty Betty Blonde Ale, and Hazed and Confused, I found the Hazed and Confused to be my favorite while the Sweaty Betty was on the opposite end of the spectrum.
 
The main reason to go to CT was that there was a Portuguese baptism we needed to attend. Knowing there would be foods from the Portuguese culture, I was praying Portuguese beer would be offered. GOD must have heard my prayers as I was able to order a Sagres mini beer. I wasn't sure what this beer would taste like and thought for sure I wouldn't like it especially after being tired from the night before. To my surprise the beer was delicious and I was told countless times it was similar to Heineken Light.

My weekend consisted of trying different beers that I never had before. Since I started this blog I'm really trying to branch out of my norm and experience all that beer has to offer. If anyone has any suggestions on what beer I should try next I would love to hear from you.




Saturday, March 12, 2011

A Friday Night Surprise

Didn't expect to come home to find out the Beer of the Month Club arrived. I'm interested in trying these beers as I've heard of the breweries or the beers.


Friday, March 11, 2011

A Cherry Wheat Kick

I had a tough time deciding on a place to get food and a beer last night after my doctors appointment. With it being Thirsty Thursday I prefered to select a place that was a restaurant rather than a bar. My initial plan was to hit up the Iron Hill Brewery since its been a few weeks since my last visit. Unfortunately their kitchen closed at 10, which seemed to be the norm with all the places we called. After driving aimlessly we pulled into the Appleebees parking lot, and I got the idea call Houlihan's on Route 70 in Cherry Hill. It was like music to me ears when I learned that their kitchen was open til they closed as I wasn't feeling Applebees.

We walked in the restaurant and headed to the bar area which had a decent crowd. After grabbing an empty booth I glanced at the bar and tried to figure out what they had on tap but with it being so dark I had a hard time seeing all my options. I've been here several times and remembered that they seem to offer a little more than your typical chain restaurant. The last time I was there I believe I ordered a tall glass of Flying Fish Winter Ale.

I asked the server what beers were on draft, and after listing to her list the choices I decided to go with Sam Adam's Cherry Wheat. I must admit I've been on a cherry wheat kick; I even had suggested to a coworker that he try it when he asked what beer he should consider getting one night. I love the taste of this beer and it reminds me of Blue Moon except with a taste of cherry. I find it to be a lighter beer with real flavor that doesn't overwhelm me.

I ordered a tall draft, and limited myself to one as I did have work in the AM. The one benefit for sitting in the bar area was we had the option to participate in their night happy hour. Each weekday, they run two Happy Hours, one at 4-7 and the second one from 10-Close. As we were there after 11 we were able to order select appetizers for $5 each and got $1 off each beer draft. For the price and the beer selection I will be adding this place to my restaurant selection.


Thursday, March 10, 2011

A Happy Ending

There was a happy ending in my missing wallet saga afteral. After working another long day I got home and found out a Philadelphia cab had stopped by the house and dropped off my missing wallet. While he was cleaning out his cab from Saturday night he came across my wallet lodged in his seat. Instead of discarding my wallet he took it upon it himself and hand delivered it to the house tonight. Although I had to get my lisence, credit cards and work swipe card reissued it was nice to have my wallet back even though I just ordered a Phillies one from the Fossil online store today.


Wednesday, March 9, 2011

The Summer Ahead

Today was a stressful day. Because I lost my wallet and all it's contents Saturday night I was forced to go to the NJ DMV this morning to get my licence reissued. After today I realized the DMV is a joke, and if these workers worked in any other company or field they would be terminated. Thankfuly I got notice from the Phillies that my season tickets shipped yesterday and were expected to arrive today. When I finally got home and ripped opened the delivered package I couldn't help but think about baseball, summer and beer. I know the FoodNetwork rated Citizens Bank Park as being the best in the country for food but they neglected to mention they also provide a great selection of beer from local breweries. There's nothing better than being at the park during a hot summer day and drinking a beer or two. I'm looking forward to the days where I can do some tailgating, watch some baseball, and end up at Mcfaddens afterwards.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Adventures in Philadelphia

I wanted to do this blog yesterday but I needed to take some time to recover and collect my thoughts on Saturday night. My night started by catching the 8'o clock train to Philly carrying a bookbag full of leftover Sam Adam's. After navigating the city we got to Lauren's friend Erin's place where I guzzled down one of the Latitude IPAs before we headed out. During our walk to the bar, I did run into a street performer killing it on his pots and pans. If you haven't viewed the video do yourself a favor and check it out. I've posted it in a previous blog.

As we were celebrating a friend's birthday, we bought into an open bar package at Ladder 15 that was all you can drink from 8 til 11 for only 40 bucks. This was only my second time going here and I find this bar unique as it was originally a firehouse. Before getting to the bar we were informed shots were not included with this package, which was fine as most packages won't include shots. I was weary of buying into this package as I thought this bar might limit the type of beer you could order to domestic beers such as miller, bud and coors products. Thankfuly Ladder 15 did not disappoint me, and I was able to pick any beer from their extensive craft selection. Before the package ended I enjoyed several Troeg's Necktar Nugget, Flying Fish Pale Ale, and Yards Pale Ale. At one point I complained to Lauren about not eating dinner and she was able to order me a bacon cheeseburger off their menu which was delicious.

After the package ended me and Lauren decided to get some fresh air. While we were hanging outside we ran into two guys who were at the beer festival at the Navy yard earlier in the day. I heard about this event, but was happy I didn't attend after hearing how crowded it was. They both told me about the beers they tried and the one gave me a coaster of his favorite beer - Innis & Gunn, which is brewed in Scottland. Not sure how I could get a sample, but I'll have to look into it.

While hanging outside, I couldn't help but notice the Nodding Head Brewery sign that hung over the sidewalk. If there's one thing about me is that I am a sucker for breweries and I quickly grabbed Lauren to check it out. This was my first time at this place so I didn't know what to expect. I had seen this place before driving by but never had the opporunity to enter, until now.

We quickly walked up the stairs and made B line dash straight to the bar. The bartenders were extremly nice and helpful with providing information on the beer and even provided me with an on tap list to take home. I can honestly say I don't remember what kind of beer I had, but I do remember finding it delicious and fresh. Looking at the beer list now, I most likely ordered the Rufus. Lauren is now reminding me that I said the beer was "really good." Other than the fresh beer, I do want to point out that this place had an awesome setup and decor. While going to the bathroom, I noticed an enclosed room that was filled with bobbleheads. As a collector of bobbleheads I was in awe. I've included a picture showing the room, but as I use my Iphone as a camera I don't always get the best pictures.

If it wasn't that we had to meet up with Lauren's friends I would have stayed at the Nodding head til closing time. Unfortunately that wasn't an option and we headed out. Somehow I ended up sitting down with a Psychic who was set up on the sidewalk. After paying a small fee she began my reading and told me things I already knew. She told me that I was going to live a long life; I tell people I'm living to 100. She told me that I'll be making a big purchase in the near future; I'm currently looking to buy a house. But most importantly she told me that I'm going to make A LOT of money and be very successful; I tell people this all the time.

My night got a bit blury at this point, and I ended up losing my wallet which was upsetting. If anyone reading this happens to have my wallet please mail it to me as it would be greatly appreciated.