Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Tap Room Tunesday & Diggin' the chews, brews & fellowship

EU Jacksonville - November 2012
Good evening! … just a quick note about tonight's Mini-Prowl.

First of all, I had a great meeting with Will Henley, Publisher of EU Jacksonville – more about that and my future involvement later. Be sure to pick up their latest issue where you will see our very own Robert Bergeron on the cover, featuring FLA Productions (George Deacon and Robert Bergeron), Whole Wheat Bread and details for Jax Film Fest!

After that, companion squired me over to Intuition Ale Works (720 King Street – 904.683.7720)  and upon reaching the establishment, I was amazed at how crowded it was for a Tuesday evening! … then, I remembered – it was Tap Room Tunesday and Canary in the Coalmine would start performing at 7:30 pm.

I also remembered that Dig Foods would be present offering their delicious vegan and organic pizza for those interested in trying it. Count me in!

Canary in the Coalmine
Entering the tap room, I was excited to see Lindsay and Staci serving behind the bar. Later, Sam came out from the back and assisted the girls as needed.

Sitting at the bar, we quickly ordered (description per Intuition's website):

Rail Spur Double IPA – (aged in oak bourbon barrels)
Aromas and flavors of tropical fruit, citrus peel and pine needles dominate this brew. Two row malted barley, Belgian Caramunich, and Victory malt were used to create a malt backbone that can handle 40 pounds of seven different hops and two dry hop additions. JBB Notes: WOW! … not normally a fan of bourbon-influenced beer but THIS one was delicious! … just enough hint of the oak bourbon barrel to make it very interesting!

Truck Stop Breakfast Stout
Breakfast stout with pure maple syrup and locally-roasted Lucky Dog coffee.

Intuition Ale Works, Punk Monk Dubbel
Sam brought out a sample of their Punk Monk Dubbel, being tapped tomorrow and described on their website:

Our seasonal Belgian-style dubbel pumpkin beer. We added 80 pounds of pumpkin to the mash and another 20 pounds to the kettle and used specially a formulated pumpkin pie spice blend to add hints of nutmeg, cinnamon and allspice. Aged on vanilla beans for 10 days.
Sam was right when he said it was more “roasty” than last year's – and Lindsay nailed it by saying “Oh, that's stupid! … it's so good!” … I thought companion was going to blow Truck Stop out his nose ...

Right before I went outside and ordered our pizza from Dig Foods (half Pumpkin and Roasted Red Kale and half Sweet Potato Cashew Cream and Olives), companion ordered another beer, Intuition Ale Works Oktoberfest, described on their website:

Dig Foods goodness!
Our seasonal Oktoberfest brew is a golden, medium bodied lager with a balanced noble hop profile.
By this time, our friend Greg Steele came in and we enjoyed listening to him describe his incredible trip up north visiting an impressive list of breweries, including Ommegang and Southern Tier. I was green with envy after hearing all of his exploits!
The pizza was outstanding and Staci informed me Dig Foods would soon be opening a food truck via Kickstart; Both halves of this rather healthy pizza was very satisfying - as was the warm and genuine fellowship we shared with Lindsay, Staci, Sam and Greg. Right before we left, Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom (aka Jax Beer Guy) joined us at the bar to grab a beer and eat some food he had brought in prior to heading home (school night for him and companion).
As we were leaving, we noticed Greg had meandered over to a table and was talking with three women. We went over to bid him farewell and were introduced to Sarah Choi and Jennifer Earnest Corrente of 2 Gutsy Girls.  Check back soon for more information about these two beautiful food bloggers!
My heartfelt thanks to Lindsay, Staci and Sam for their great service and for making us feel welcome every time we visit Intuition Ale Works during Jax Brew Bitch Prowls!
Intuition Ale Works

Canary in the Coalmine

Dig Foods

2 Gutsy Girls

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Oktoberfest 2012 at Engine 15 Brewing Co.

Little Bella
It was tempting to stay in yesterday (Oct 6). A late night the evening before working on the computer after we got home from a quick Prowl and being snuggled into our comfortable bed with just the right mixture of air-conditioning and blanket – you know how it is – combined to dissuade me from opening my eyes as the morning dawned.

Companion was cautiously trying to awaken me and by the muted light coming from around the bedroom's curtains, I could tell he had been up for awhile. (How does he do it? - always getting up early – like a farmer ready to attack his chores – but we don't even have a cow – well anymore, at least – and the one we DID have was a Holstein steer – so companion had no milking responsibilities.)

He was quietly inquiring what I wanted for breakfast. My subconscious being was yearning to be back in my interrupted dream where I was helping Xena, Warrior Princess conquer foes after convincing her she would be much more intimidating and effective if she wore stiletto-heeled warrior boots. (Go ahead, picture it ...guys, you ... are ... welcome ...)

I weighed my options – either being a wardrobe-focused Gabrielle in fantasy land – OR - scrambled eggs with fajita-spiced onions and peppers with buttered jelly toast lovingly served in bed. Breakfast won out – Xena would have to fend and accessorize for herself.

One Step Ahead of the Law ... they're right behind me
Early morning hunger was not the sole motivating force behind my awakening, however. This day was Oktoberfest at Engine 15 Brewing Company (1500 Beach Boulevard – Jax Beach – 904.249.2337) … besides being able to enjoy some German-style beer, Engine 15 was also offering Oktoberfest-themed food! … also, the King of Oktoberfest would be crowned that afternoon and I wanted to be there. I had been urging folks to “Vote for Herb” and I was hoping he would be victorious.

Driving over on Beach Boulevard, it was obvious there had been more rain over by the beach than we received at our house. I was considering placing a call to make sure festivities were not being postponed – since we knew some activities would be staged outdoors – but I decided we still wanted to visit Engine 15 regardless.

Mark and Kathy Corbin
Pulling into the parking lot, I noticed there was some spaces available and we were able to settle The Beast into a slot not too far away. As we entered, it was apparent we would be able to find a seat without any problem but I knew the crowd would be increasing as the afternoon wore on.

I was delighted to see Mark and Kathy Corbin seated right beside the front door and they were kind enough to share their table with us. The Corbins explained we could purchase a large Maßkrug (Maß as abbreviated) – the Bavarian word for a “mug of beer” - holding exactly 1 liter of brew … one … LITER? … hello, Oktoberfest!

Ed and Jonathan Stansel, prosting!
Companion suggested I make the selection of German beer of which to fill our Maß – so I chose Hofbrau as my first German beer of choice.

All at our table were happy to see Ed Stansel and son Jonathan enter the premises and join us for awhile. As you are probably aware, Ed is an Editorial Systems Editor for the Florida Times Union and he and Roger Bull collaborate to produce Amber Waves for Florida Times Union www.jacksonville.com. He and Jonathan brought their own Maßkrüge which they had purchased last year at Engine 15's Oktoberfest. Quite the Boy Scouts! … always prepared!

Polkin' out!
After sitting there watching the band One Step Ahead of the Law perform for the crowd, I ventured to the bar to confirm I would go about acquiring some of the German food available. The band was about to start a polka and one of the band members stepped forward, offering to show me how to polka. I did my best not to step on his toes and I came away from the lesson noting to myself to stick with my day job.

The food was delicious! … all I had to do is prepay for what I wanted and I wasted no time selecting:

·         Sauerkraut
·         Bratwurst
·         hendl (chicken)
·         spaetzle (mac & cheese)


Feeling enlivened by the crowd, food …. and beer … I decided to try my hand – or rather, arm – in the Feasts of Strength, This competition pitted seasoned beer-drinkers against one another holding a  Maß full of water at arm's length and shoulder height. After a minute or so, I realized I would rather be drinking, so I gracefully bowed out. Okay, okay - I quit 'cause my arm hurt.

Co-owner Luch Scremin announced the crowning of the Oktoberfest King would occur soon, so I secured a spot where I could see everything – on top of the bench on which I had been sitting.

and the winner is ....
All of the nominees were soon presented before the crowd and I had my fingers crossed for Herb. Luch is quite adept at raising the suspense around the election results and I was very anxious to find out who won.

As Luch shouted the winner's name – HERB! - I was overjoyed for him and his lovely wife, Nona! … they are so popular at Engine 15, such loyal patrons of the establishment and a couple we are honored to know. Companion says they are “good people” which carries a significance much deeper than those two words – and I agree.

"Herb" King of Oktoberfest!
... of course!
The liter of Hofbrau I had been drinking apparently evaporated since when I looked after congratulating Herb and Nona, there was nothing left in my  Maß … what? … of course beer evaporates in an air-conditioned environment … yes, it does, too … you don't think I consumed the entire liter, do you? … companion had his own pint of Engine 15's 904 Weiss Guy, so he wasn't drinking mine – so, that proves it evaporated. Just ask the Corbins, Ed or Jonathan - well, maybe not them – they were too busy listening to the band.

Our afternoon at Engine 15  was dwindling down like the volume of Spaten in my second filling of my Maß. Oktoberfest at Engine 15 had been a tremendous success and I had a great time of fellowship with the Corbin's, Ed Stansel and his son, Jonathan.

Ed and Jonathan soon bid us farewell and not too much later, we said goodbye to Herb and Nona, the Corbin's, Luch Scremin and the rest of the gang at Engine 15 brewing Company.

Feasts of Strength ... next year I've got this!
Congratulations to Engine 15 for another fantastic Oktoberfest and a heartfelt thank you for being so consistent in delivering first rate experiences for your customers. That is why Engine 15 brewing Company will continue to be a regular stop on future Jax Brew Bitch Prowls.







To view more photos from Engine 15's Oktoberfest, please visit the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.362179560534326.87199.181100418642242&type=3

Engine 15 Brewing Company


Bold City Brewery Duke's Cold
Nose Brown Ale
Heading back home, I suggested we stop in at Bold City Brewery (2670 Rosselle St  - 904.379-6551) to say hello and have a beer, of course.

The parking lot was rather full, so companion dropped me off in front and drove off to secure a parking spot. Inside was busy but not excessively crowded.

When companion made his way to the bar where I was seated, we ordered (descriptions per Bold City's website):

Bold City Brewery Duke's Cold Nose Brown Ale
This is a mild brown ale which is easily drinkable. A slight nuttiness and sweetness are present. Note: 7% ABV

Bold City Brewery 1901 Red Ale
This is not your standard Red Ale. This is a very ‘malty’, ‘roasty’ and complex Red Ale. The roasted flavor comes from the high presence of roasted barley. With a very minimal but high alpha hop addition, this Red Ale has become a favorite among patrons.

I was starving, so companion jumped outside to get us a pulled-pork sandwich with beans and slaw, prepared ever so deliciously by Vernon of Jolly Mon Catering (904.349.2473).

What a wonderful way to end the day – in the midst of great beer, great folks and great food. My sincere appreciation to the Millers and the rest of the staff there at Bold City Brewery for their dedication to our community and for maintaining an atmosphere always perfect to end Jax Brew Bitch Prowls.





Bold City Brewery

Jolly Mon Catering

Companion settled me into The Beast and stopped to say goodbye to some fellow Bold City patrons. I positioned myself into a comfortable position in which to sleep during our drive home and just as I was about to doze off, Tinker Beer, the Brew Fairy appeared on my shoulder and started tugging my ear to wake me up. She was dressed for mythological battle – a nice little two-piece ensemble – complete with a Sai in her hand.

“Quick, Brewbeerella Warrior Princess! … there is an establishment not honoring the late-night Happy Hour Specials they advertised and we must set them straight!”, Tink said,

Companion got in The Beast, looked over and thought I had already fallen asleep.

He just didn't realize I had vanished into the night, grabbing my Chakram, pointing it skyward and yelling, Into the fray, Tinkrielle – into - the - fray!” 

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Folio Weekly's Margarita Festival - Arriba! Oh, yeah and sushi, beer and a T-Rex

Margarita Festival? … me? … the Jax Brew Bitch? … years ago, upon hearing about such a thing, I would have been instantly donning my sombrero and doing my interpretation of the Jarabe Tapatio all the way to the Morocco Shrine Center ( 3800 St. John's Bluff Rd. - 904.642.5200 ) where this year's Folio Weekly Margarita Festival was being held.

However, since my focus has been on craft beer, I wondered if I was too far removed from the “Tequila Appreciation Studies” portion of my life to be able to enjoy anything being presented Friday (June 22) at the event.

Where's my sippy cup?
Being ever the adventurous sort, I accepted the gracious invitation extended to companion and me by Scott Russell of North Florida Sales. By the reflection in my laptop screen, I had the impression I saw Tinker Beer, the Brew Fairy faint and fall backward off my shoulder.

Scott would have several products on display that evening and I decided if nothing else, I would enjoy the food being provided by the various vendors (please forgive me for any I missed):

O' Brothers Irish Bar
Poe's Tavern
Fionn's MacCool's Irish Restaurant & Pub
Whisky River
Tijuana Flats
El Ranchito Restaurant
Applebee's Restaurant
Le Petite Cheri Cupcakery
Bahama Breeze
Nipper's Beach Bar & Grill
Libretto's Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

Barbie's Margarita Stemware 
I decided this would be a great venue to have our friends and associates, ReelFLA Productions attend and gather some video and photo footage for themselves and Jax Brew Bitch. George Deacon and Bobby Bergeron head up this avant-garde production company with headquarters at CoRK. Please check out their YouTube Channel, the link to which is included below. Their talent is very impressive and their dedication to the Great Jacksonville area is significant and real.


George and Bobby met us at the Morocco Shrine Center around 6:00 pm, the scheduled start of the event. Upon entering, we were cordially greeted and provided a small glass to use for tastings and a raffle ticket to use to vote for our favorite food vendor of the evening.

"Scotch Eggs" from O'Brother's Irish Pub
We headed straight for the food! ... the early crowd had surrounded the tables set up by Poe's Tavern and O'Brothers. Poe's Tavern was offering delicious fish tacos with a slice of lime and O'Brothers was presenting  scrumptious Scotch Eggs in quartered sections served atop a ladled portion of a tasty dipping sauce.

Starting in a clockwise rotation from there, I stopped at a table presented by 91.5 WAPE where I won, by spinning a wheel, my choice of movie tickets to see “Ted” or a water bottle. Opting for the water bottle, I noticed companion had deviated from our rotation to check out a chocolate flavored vodka at a table one level down. Joining him, I tried it and it was good – reminding somewhat of the chocolate wine I sometimes enjoy.

The rest of our time there was spent zig-zagging across the large auditorium visiting each food vendor, and approaching drinks vendors - sampling some, passing on others and deliberately avoiding at least one table with Jose Quervo because of the warnings of the “Ghost of Pass-Outs Past” - youthful memories – or lack thereof – of an earlier focus in my life.

Now, don't get me wrong – this was a FANTASTIC event for those whose tastes run along the lines of tequilas, margaritas and blends -  trust me, I even liked a blend presented of Patron Silver and a white apple liqueur. However, my palate – and motivation – has changed through the years, so I knew I would not stay until the scheduled end of the Festival (10:00 pm).

Margarita and Pina Colada Cup Cakes
All the food was marvelous – a sincere well-done to each vendor for creating such unique offerings for attendees. I noted that many of those providing the drink samples had some knowledge about what they were providing which certainly made trying something more interesting. A distant, nostalgic wave to the tequila and other liquor distributors, reps and vendors for their informative and friendly participation at the Festival – obviously on top of their game.

I was hoping to find someone offering bottled water (or selling beer!) but I didn't notice any. The crowd was getting significantly larger as the evening progressed and the talented DJ was getting the crowd moving and dancing on the dance floor.

Crowds of folks whose preferences are centered on tequila and margaritas have a different motivating force behind their drinking than I do. As I have stated before, I drink craft beer “for fellowship”, not “for effect”. I am in no way dissing the crowd at the event – all were very friendly and having a great time – but their excitement is for the feeling they get from imbibing the liquor and any resulting “activity” just “different” than mine, that's all.

I was excited to get some photos with Scott, his supervisor Gentry and his On-Premise supervisor Keith. Their tables encircled the dance floor and I believe I did try something from each of those tables.

It was halfway through the festival I decided it was high-time for a beer! … we thanked Scott for his generosity and Bobby and George for their fellowship and professional participation and left those two there at event so they could enjoy themselves without “Ma and Pa” !
The Three Muses Beauties

The Morocco Shrine Center is an amazing place and my feelings for it and the Shriners are still the same as I mentioned in my post about the Folio Weekly Beer and Music Festival.

My thanks to Scott for providing access for us and to the Morocco Shrine Center for providing the facility allowing a very different and memory-adjusting Jax Brew Bitch experience.

To view more photos from Folio Weekly's Margarita Festival, please visit the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.368132193272396.88769.181100418642242&type=3

Folio Weekly Margarita Fest 2012

O' Brothers Irish Pub

Poe's Tavern

Fionn's MacCool's Irish Restaurant & Pub

Whisky River

Tijuana Flats

El Ranchito Restaurant

Applebee's Restaurant

Le Petite Cheri Cupcakery

Bahama Breeze

Nipper's Beach Bar & Grill

Libretto's Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

Morocco Shrine Center


Engine 15 Brewing Co. Ramming Speed
Okay, 8:15 pm and time for the Jax Brew Bitch to get “beer-centric” once again! … companion, please whisk me away to Engine 15 Brewing Company! (1500 Beach Boulevard – Jax Beach – 904.249.2337)

Entering Engine 15, it took a couple of minutes to realize it was indeed Kevin behind the bar! … he had shaved his significant mustache for charity a few weeks ago, raining over $600! … Kevin is always so personable, gracious and professional - he always helps make our visits to Engine 15 spectacular.

I couldn't precisely remember the name of what I wanted to try, so I made a feeble attempt to mention it, using a butchered combination of words. Kevin has known me long enough to be able to translate – or decipher – my cryptic guesses on obscure brew names that he was able to clarify that what I was ordering was actually the Engine 15 Brewing Company's Ramming Speed Black IPA. Oh yeah! … that's what I meant! … full-bodied dark and flavorful Black IPA – delicious!

Companion had selected ice water to cleanse his palate from the Margarita Festival but he did enjoy a few sips of my Ramming Speed.

We wanted to run by another place while on that side of town, so we bid farewell to Kevin and I thank him for exemplary customer service and Engine 15 for always being a consistent enjoyable stop on Jax Brew Bitch Prowls.

Engine 15 Brewing Company


The other place we wanted to visit was Green Room Brewing (228 3rd Street North – Jax Beach - 904.201-9283 ).

Green Room Brewing - Saint Somewhere Brewing
Company's Carolin Saison
There was a sizable crowd when we entered and were greeted warmly by our friends Mark and Kathy who were seated at a table with some of their friends. They introduced us and invited us to join them. Companion and I walked over to the bar and noticed that Molly, Christina and Jason were effecting serving patrons that evening. Another Terrific Trio! … Molly took our order of the Green Room Brewing Anniversary Secret Spot and Saint Somewhere Brewing Company's Caroline Saison.

The Secret Spot was aged at Green Room within Maker's Mark barrels and the Caroline has an amazing flavor brought about by its brewing with coffee beans!

Green Room Brewing - Secret Spot
We enjoyed some good fellowship with Mark, Kathy and their friends as we sipped our tasty brews … so good ... and I was relieved to be back in my beer-centered Happy Place! …

Jason, Molly and Christina were once again spectacular. I thank them for their wonderful service, provided so effectively even when Green Room is slammed.

Thank you to Mark and Kathy for their friendship and to Eric and the rest of the crew at Green Room Brewing for providing a safe, clean and inviting environment for this relaxing stop on that evening's Jax Brew Bitch Prowl.

Green Room Brewing 

Taking on T-Rex ... 

Matsuya Sushi and Grill
Both Tinker Beer and the Freakin' Fried Fairy were waiting for me as I buckled in for our trip back home. The Freakin' Fried Fairy was consoling Tinker Beer and started chiding me about attending a non-beer related event earlier in the evening. I explained I had ventured “back to beer” later on and that we were now done for the night.

Or so I thought … on the way westward on Beach Boulevard, I remembered that Matsuya Sushi and Grill (11380 Beach Boulevard – 904.996.0008) was just up ahead at the Winn Dixie Shopping Center at the southwest corner of the intersection of St. Johns Bluff Road and Beach Boulevard

On a very early Jax Brew Bitch Prowl (Dec 2011), I had been excited to learn they offered late-night sushi on certain evenings and was impressed with their customer service and youthful, energetic and motivated management.

I asked companion to pull in so that I could find out if we could have a sushi roll or two. Immediately, the Freakin' Fried Fairy and Tinker Beer prepared to vanish, saying something like “We don't even KNOW you, right now” as they departed.

Just as we pulled into the parking lot, the “OPEN” sign was turned off and I was SO disappointed. However, I noticed a young man had exited the building and was speaking on his cell phone and sitting on a chair outside. I rolled down my window and inquired if they were still serving.

I was pleased and impressed the young man explained they were just closing but to please come in if we wanted sushi! … WooHoo! …

As we entered, we noticed they had completed some remodeling since our visit in December, 2011 and the alterations certainly improved the ambiance. I learned the young man seated outside inviting us in was the owner, Jacky Chen – and he made sure I knew his last name was spelled with an “e” and not an “a”! … Jacky is so friendly and has a great sense of humor!

I inquired if they still had the late-night sushi (like after midnight) as they did on certain Wednesdays back in December and he replied that they indeed did but not on a regularly scheduled basis. Beer-Pong events necessitate the late nights but he said if a large enough crowd approached him for such a late-hour dinner, he would certainly accommodate.

Jokingly inquiring if I would participate in karaoke, I told him, “I would have to be drinking” - that led to discussions of what I would be drinking - which led to me indicating I felt sake was an excellent drink for sushi dinners.

Sake and Quail Eggs Shooters
Jacky quickly disappeared into the back and returned carrying a tray with a sake carafe and three small sake cups. He said he sometimes likes to share sake with his customers and I noticed as he sat down at our table, there were three quail eggs on the tray, as well. Now, I have had quail eggs on top of seaweed-wrapped fish roe and this is like dessert for me – the quail egg is almost sweet in contrast to the salty brine of fish eggs.

But what was Jacky going to do with these quail eggs? ...he started cracking/peeling them and then broke them over each cup to allow the egg yoke to drop into the bottom of the cups … huh? … I was wondering what the combination of the quail egg and sake would produce. Jacky pointed out that the hot sake “cooks” the egg to some degree while we let the cups set for about 30 seconds. Then, we drank the sake – sake shooter style – and the quail egg yoke tasted like thick, almost sweet, cream at the end. Amazing and delicious – you MUST try this! …

We looked over the impressive sushi menu available at Matsuya and selected the following:

Dynamite Roll ($6.20) – fresh salmon, krab meat & asparagus deep fried - with mayo, hot sauce and eel sauce
Shrimp Tempura Roll ($4.75) – cucumber, fish eggs with eel sauce
Spicy Tuna Roll ($5.20) – self explanatory
Philadelphia Roll ($4.75) – cream cheese & krab meat
JB Roll ($4.75) – smoked salmon & cream cheese

The preparation and presentation by Sushi Chef Domingo was excellent! … I was able to speak with Domingo a little and learned he is from Guatemala and loves living in the United States. He is very talented – just look at the photos!

The sushi rolls were magnificent! … the items used as garnish are edible and delicious, too – so, at the end of the meal, the huge plate was empty.

Jacky introduced us his lovely wife Huan and the newest addition to their family, their daughter – they also have a son at home. Great family – great staff – Jacky is a lucky man, indeed!

Jacky also explained something they offer which blew my mind – Sushi Classes on certain Sundays from 5:00 to 9:00 pm. Cost is $29 per person and it is all-you-can-make & eat sushi for those four hours. They only do pre-paid reservations and community seating is the order of the day. For instance, the booth at which companion and I were seated would accommodate four people, so during Sushi Classes, you and your significant other will be sharing that booth with two other people. Jackie instructs each student to use the name tags he provides for the class so that you will be motivated to mingle. Sell-outs are common, so allow time to arrange your visit.

Think of it – all-you-can-eat sushi for $29 per person PLUS you learn to make it yourself! … for an extra $10 per person, you can have all-you-can-drink sake! … I feel a S&S (sushi & sake) night coming soon! … the next classes are Sunday, July 15 & July 29, 2012.

Call Jacky NOW (904.996.0008 ) and get your pre-paid reservations!

My heartfelt appreciation to Jacky and Huan for being such gracious hosts and for sharing the sake! .. and to Domingo for a spectacular sushi dinner. Most significantly, my congratulations to Jacky and Huan for their close family relationship and for maintaining the same top-notch service and food quality we experienced over six months ago at Matsuya Sushi & Grill … a most memorable and exciting experience during this unusual Jax Brew Bitch Prowl!

Matsuya Sushi and Grill


Okay, so NOW we were through for the night, right? … Nope … not yet …

Our route home took us tantalizingly close to “Beer Central” for Jacksonville -  Kickbacks Gastropub! (910 King Street – 904.388.9551)

Not having any room available for even the smallest bite of food, it was companion's fault for letting me know Kickbacks had Highland Brewing Company's Kashmir IPA on tap! … no respectable Brew Bitch could pass this close to that delicious nectar without stopping for a pint, right? … and guess what? … even on a Friday night (Saturday morning), we found a parking spot right in front across the street!

As expected, Kickbacks was packed but we soon found seating at the bar. We met a wonderful and beautiful young woman. Rolanda, sitting at the bar awaiting food-to-go for her hospital-bound fiancee. She was such a sweetheart and surprised us with the gift of our round of beer which consisted of the aforementioned Highland Brewing Company's Kashmir IPA and out most favorite and treasured Terrapin Beer Company's Wake N Bake Coffee Oatmeal Stout.

Highland Brewing Company Kashmir IPA
A full-bodied India Pale Ale. This beer is golden in color with a moderate malty character with full hop flavor true to the classic ale that has traveled on sailing ships from England to India. Bold and brazen.
This is Highland’s version of the classic British beer which was designed to survive the long journeys from England to India on sailing ships. The higher alcohol content and much higher hop level provided the longevity necessary for the casks to arrive in India in a most drinkable condition. It is very often serious beer drinkers’ favorite style. Being “Just a wee bit different” we chose Kashmir, a controversial section of the Indian subcontinent in the north and matched it with a Madras inspired plaid from the south. Note: 6% ABV & 60 IBUs

Terrapin Beer Company Wake N Bake Coffee Oatmeal Stout
Black as night, this coffee stout is thick, rich and full of real coffee flavor. Brewed with the Terrapin Wake-n-Bake coffee blend created by Terrapin & Jittery Joe’s Coffee.
The high content alcohol of these beers make them perfect for cellaring…hide them away and pull one out for a special event 2-3 years later.
The Jitery Joe’s Wake-n-Bake coffee blend is available for sale in our gift shop online and at the brewery!
Note: 8.6% ABV & 50 IBUs

Jimmie of Kickbacks Gastropub
Jimmie and Will were our experienced, friendly and effective bartenders that evening, making this experience at Kickbacks very special. I was also able to see Cindy and my original Ale Angel Kat as they both stopped by to say hello.

My sincere thanks to Will and Jimmie for their excellent customer service and friendly demeanor and to Rolanda for the generous gift of our beer – the best of luck to you and your fiancee – we'll be lifting y'all up.

My heartfelt appreciation to Steve Flores and the rest of the gang at Kickbacks Gastropub for always being the place we can confidently refer to as our “home away from home” - and always rely upon to be the perfect spot to end any Jax Brew Bitch Prowl!

To view more photos from Matsuya Sushi and Grill and Kickbacks Gastropub, please visit the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.368155233270092.88771.181100418642242&type=3

Highland Brewing Co. 

Terrapin Beer
http://terrapinbeer.com/

Kickbacks Gastropub


Completely full … and completely content, I settled into The Beast for the balance of the ride home. Companion started the engine, looked over and asked if I happened to be seeing Tinker Beer or the Freakin' Fried Fairy at that particular moment.

Leaning back and closing my eyes as he started to drive, I responded, “No, not now … but it's all right – they'll both be BACK – because although it may not have looked like it tonight, so am I.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Three reasons to be in Riverside Jax, Saturday Oct. 20 and a FREE Trolley ride to get ya around!


Trolleys take me back to my childhood – the years I spent living in San Francisco. My mother had gotten a wild hair and packed me in the back seat of her car with the stuff which wouldn't fit into the trunk and we, along with two of her friends, headed westward.

I was such a little girl – but grew up quickly, living where we did in the Tenderloin District. My mother had drilled me daily to remember which trolleys and buses I needed to ride in order to get to and from school since she was working and could not take me.

Looking back, I am amazed I never felt scared or threatened – and as I got older, Mom informed me she had made it very clear to those living and working along my paths to keep an eye out for her daughter. She had an uncanny knack for that.

I still remember how proud of myself I was when my grandmother (Laura D – see earlier blog post) came to visit and I was able to astound her with my knowledge of the city – well, at least my little part of it – as I pulled her onto one trolley after another.

The subject of a trolley came up tonight (Tuesday, October 9) at the Bold Bean Coffee House.

Engine 15's Nut Sack Brown
Ale and (904) Weissguy
We had begun this evening over to Engine 15 Brewing Company (1500 Beach Boulevard – Jax Beach – 904.249.2337) to pick up the glasses for (hopefully – weather permitting) the “maiden voyage” of the Jax Brew Cruises scheduled for tomorrow, along with some coasters and menus.

Yes, well of course, we HAD to have a beer or two while we were there. Companion and I shared the following two beers:

Engine 15 Nut Sack Brown Ale
A description could not do the name of the beer justice! … it's good … and nutty!

Engine 15 Brewing Company 904 Weissguy
A traditional Bavarian style Hefeweissen, notes of clove, orange and coriander along with a cloudy yeast character make this a summer favorite.

King Herb at
Engine 15 Brewing Co.
Oktoberfest 2012
I was in the mood for one of the delicious pretzels currently available at Engine 15 and this time, I ordered it with salt and Parmesan cheese – excellent. Companion opted for the always outstanding Engine 15 Chili.

While we were enjoying our brews and chews, I was glad to see Herb and Nona enter – the King of Engine 15 Oktoberfest and his bride!

My heartfelt thanks to Luch and his wife Kara, Sean, Andy and the rest of the team there at Engine 15 Brewing Company for their generosity and for always making each of our stops there wonderful experiences during Jax Brew Bitch Prowls.

Engine 15 Brewing Company (1500 Beach Boulevard – Jax Beach – 904.249.2337)

Bold Bean Coffee Roasters
The event for which we needed to return to the Riverside area was for Folio Weekly's Best of Jax party at Bold City Brewery (2670 Rosselle St  - 904.379-6551).

However, we were going to have an hour or so to kill before the scheduled time the event was to begin. I suggested we first visit Bold Bean Coffee (869 Stockton Street – 904.855.1181).

The magnificent, Erin Lee
I was having a little difficulty deciding whether I wanted a coffee or a beer as we entered the establishment and seated ourselves at the bar. It was delightful to learn that our barista was none other than Erin Lee, known for her radio program, Indie Endeavor on 89.9 WJCT, every Tuesday night at 11 pm. Also working behind the counter was Art, a friendly young man who also performs with his friend in a two-person band named Phenomenality.

We decided we would share a coffee – and a beer. Soon making its way to us was their popular Ginger Latte – a suitable substitute for the discontinued Curry Latte I had fallen in love with during earlier Prowls.

We also ordered from the Bold Bean Coffee House available taps:

Bell's Brewery Kalamazoo Stout
Kalamazoo Stout represents stouts in the Bell's year-round roster, offering a blend of dark chocolate and coffee flavors with just a hint of brewer's licorice. One of our oldest recipes, it balances a significant hop presence against the roast malt body. Note: the licorice they use is gelatin-free, making it acceptable for vegetarians. 6.0% ABV

It may sound a little odd – the sharing of a ginger-flavored coffee and a licorice-influenced beer – but both were good and mixed rather well.

As we rose to leave, the young woman sitting next to us at the bar and asked if we were also going to the event at Bold City Brewery. She introduced herself as Krysten Bennett, newly selected Executive Director of the Riverside Arts Market or as most know in the community, RAM.

She was gracious enough to share her plans for some upcoming events for the Riverside Arts Market, including:



Saturday, October 20 – Oktoberfest at RAM
10:00 am to 10:30 pm

LIVE MUSIC!
10:30 – 11:15: Victoria Zarlenga (Solo Vocalist)
11:45 – 1:45: (Featured Artist) Louise Mosrie (Folk and Americana)
2:15 – 3:30: Eric Bowden (Fingerstyle Solo Guitarist)
4:00 – 5:15: Shawn Lightfoot and the Brigade (Alternative Rock)
6:00 – 8:30: (Featured Artist) One Step Ahead of the Law Brass Band (Oompah Music)
9:00 – 10:30: (Featured Artist) Tropic of Cancers (New World Lounge)

GOOD EATS!
From Your Favorite RAM Vendors

LOCAL BREWS!
·         Bold City Brewery
·         Green Room Brewing
·         Intuition Ale Works
·         Pinglehead Brewing Company

AND THAT’S NOT ALL….
This year, RAM is thrilled to partner with Bold City Brewing Company and European Street Cafe to provide
FREE TROLLEY SERVICE
Take advantage of the FREE Trolley
service on Friday, October 20
from 2:00pm-11:00pm between RAM’s Oktoberfest, Bold City Brewing Company’s 4th Anniversary Celebration and Oktoberfest at E Street!
Park along Riverside Avenue and enjoy THREE PARTIES IN ONE!
and,

A holiday-themed event for December 8, 2012 – details to come!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 20, 2012 – for European Street Cafe, Bold City Brewing Company and the Riverside Arts Market – an amazing opportunity for beer enthusiasts in our community to have a very special day to remember.

My thanks to Erin and Art for their friendly customer service and to Krysten Bennett for taking the time to introduce herself and for sharing some of her exciting plans for the Riverside Arts Market!


European Street Cafe - Riverside

The European Street Cafe Family presents Oktoberfest 2012. Join them on October 20th at 2752 Park Street in Riverside. The festival is free, starts at 11 am, and all ages are welcome.

The first one hundred folks (over 21 years old) will receive a commemorative, glass beer boot to drink their beer of choice from while everyone enjoys the sounds of the authentic German Oompapa band playing all of your favorite Oktoberfest beer drinking songs.


European Street Cafe
http://www.europeanstreet.com/
https://www.facebook.com/estreetpark

Bold City Brewery 4th Anniversary Party is set to happen on Saturday, October 20th, starting at 1 pm to 11 pm. They will be tapping some special brews for that day including the Barrel Aged
 Duke’s Brown Ale. Bold City Bandits will be performing at 5 pm and 9 pm.

$2 Pints ALL DAY including a special Duke's Bourbon Barrel Aged Ale.

Jolly Mon Menu (All day till 10 pm) Wings, Pulled Pork, Brats, Black Bean Burgers and Seafood Gumbo.
Raffles- $1 per ticket (Cash Only) Drawing at 8 pm
1 year of Free Growlers Fills (limit 2 fills per visit) 2 winners &
1 year of Free Pints (limit 2 pints per visit) 2 winner


Bold City Brewery
http://www.boldcitybrewery.com/index.php
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bold-City-Brewery/54391921191?fref=ts

Jolly Mon Catering, Inc
http://jollymoncatering.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jolly-Mon-Catering-Inc/125077294172277?fref=ts

Bold Bean Coffee

Bell's Brewery

Indie Endeavor on 89.9 WJCT
https://www.facebook.com/indieendeavor?fref=ts


Phenomenality

Check back tomorrow for info on Folio Weekly's Best of Jax party that was held at Bold City Brewery.