There's no place like home ... Kickback's Gastropub, Bold City Brewery and Saigon Time

“Oh, but anyway, Toto, we're home. Home! And this is my room, and you're all here. And I'm not gonna leave here ever, ever again, because I love you all, and - oh, Auntie Em - there's no place like home! “

Takes you back, doesn't it? … for companion, it reminds him of those rare Sunday evenings his parents would allow him to stay home and watch The Wizard of Oz instead of accompanying them to their church's evening service.

For me, it was dancing in step with Dorothy, Tin Man, Lion and Scarecrow – with my grandmother telling me to sit and watch before I broke something valuable in the house. (Companion took over where Grandmother left off ...)

Dorothy's famous line above certainly set the mood for me Friday night (July 20) as I awaited companion's return home from a relatively “non-beery” section of North Carolina where he had been the previous two weeks. Fortunately, he had secured some bottled and canned beer I have not seen here in Jacksonville, by shopping at the Harris Teeter grocery store near where he was staying.

With the Jeep still “at the clinic”, all that was left for me with which to transport myself about was The Beast and I was a little concerned about riding THAT tornado and landing it on top of some poor unsuspecting witch – wicked or not.

As a result, I stayed “home” during his absence – and it wasn't easy – Tinker Beer, the Brew Fairy and Krispy, the Freakin' Fried Fairy tormented me every night, attempting to lure me away toward King Street in Riverside by singing off-key:

“Follow the Swallow Brew Road! … Follow the Swallow Brew Road!
Follow, swallow, follow, swallow,
Follow the Swallow Brew Road.
Follow the Swallow Brew, Follow the Swallow Brew,
Follow the Swallow Brew Road …..”

However, I was a good girl and fought off all temptation, occasionally indulging in a bottled beer we had in the fridge.

Companion had been texting me that day during his long drive back to Jacksonville, indicating he could not wait to be back. I was definitely elated his business trip was completed and although I suggested we stay home that night for him to rest, he insisted we get “out and about” as soon as he got back.

I had been surviving on my own cooking for the previous two weeks, with a couple of small exceptions and I was ready for anybody else's cooking. Mind you, companion loves my cooking, especially when I do “down home Cajun” - and I love cooking for him – but when it is solely for myself, I am rather uninspired and eat quite blandly.

So, my mind was racing to decide among the many options we have here in Jacksonville and narrowed it down by limiting the choices to locations no further than the Riverside area from our home. Companion had to be up at 3:00 am the next morning and we wouldn't be starting this evening until around 8:00 pm. He had to take his coworker to the airport for an early flight the next morning, so I wanted to stay close and make it an early evening. Well, “one outta two ain't bad” …

I finally selected Saigon Time (622 Cassat Ave – 904.378.2348 ), a place we have been many times before, but I was in the mood for their delicious pork bowl. I get mine with the sectioned summer roll mixed in. Companion gets the full-on pork bowl, so it's easy to order there – Numbers B3 and B5, please!

Saigon Time is located within a small dated shopping center on the southwest corner of I-10 and Cassat Avenue. Inside, the establishment is clean and well-maintained. Every time we have been there, the crowd is small but consistent. As one group leaves, another enters and many are apparently “regulars” - a level our own status is now approaching.

The pork bowls were fabulous, although the preparation seemed a little different than normal. We always pre-hydrate here, opting for “water with lime” for our drinks or tea. Leaving with two full bellies for under $20, this is a great value.

If you've never visited, leave any pretentiousness at home and give Saigon Time a try – a good place to start any of your own Jacksonville-area prowls.

My appreciation to Saigon Time for consistency in delivering an enjoyable, value-priced meal.

Saigon Time

http://www.allmenus.com/fl/jacksonville/263062-saigon-time-cuisine/menu/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Saigon-Time-Vietnamese-Cuisine-Restaurant/111733395530905

Pre-hydrated and ready for quality brews from a tap, I suggested we visit Bold City Brewery (2670 Rosselle St  - 904.379-6551)

Bold City Brewery was my first exposure to any beer outside the usual mass-produced brands. When we first relocated to Jacksonville, companion introduced to me to the place after his supervisor had done so for him. On my initial visit, I had ordered a sampler – and I came away from the experience with the knowledge there was something else out there – beer-wise – much different than I had ever tasted. By the way, for those of you wishing to nudge your spouse, significant other, unenlightened friends into the world of craft beer, the sampler at Bold City is a great way to do so. The sampler is FREE – all you need to do is agree to purchase a pint of one of the selections available once you have tried them all. What a value! … and for those of you who have not ventured into Bold City (yes, we have run across several on my Prowls who have not had the opportunity), the ambiance is warm and welcoming, with games available for you to play, free of charge, while you enjoy your visit. Plus, food is available by ordering at the table just outside the tap room – in the open-air portion of the brewery. Burgers, wings, pulled pork and other tasty goodies are available – and you can add the food selections to your bar tab, payable with credit, debit or cash.

Dedicated to our community, ownership provides the following information about their business on their coasters:

Jacksonville: The Bold New City of the South. It's where we live and where we were born. It's home – and it's where we decided to pursue our dream of opening a craft brewery. “Bold Beer for a Bold City” is the motto we use at the family-owned and-operated Bold New Brewery of the South, which is headed by the Mother/Son team of Susan and Brian Miller. Our ales are made with love, passion and dedication. As you enjoy our beers, you're bringing the heart of our family to yours. BE BOLD!

After my initial visit to Bold City, it would still be several months before I “got the passion” for craft brews the evening at Kickbacks (thanks to John, my beer-sensei). Once I acquired the passion, I then became even more appreciative of the fine brews available at Bold City Brewery. The owners and staff there are phenomenal – always professional and friendly – they make you feel comfortable being there.

That evening, we decided to share the following three Bold City Brewery's offerings (descriptions per their website):

Bold City Brewery Chinook IPA

The Chinook IPA is brewed with a single hop variety. The Chinook hop gives this IPA a nice floral aroma and the addition of caramel malts adds a hint of sweetness.

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.

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.

We sat comfortably at the bar while we enjoyed the beer and I was such a happy girl – companion at home, full tummy and feeling right at home, again as usual, at Bold City Brewery. Co-owner Brian was our friendly bartender that evening with beautiful Kacey swinging by from time to time to check on us. (always A+++ customer service!)

The urge to continue my Prowl was intense, but I told companion we should go home for him to rest. Bless his heart, he still insisted we continue on and that he would “fight through the drowsy fog” , “take one for the team” and “see it through to the end” … all with a smile on his face.

We bid farewell to Brian and Kacey and I thank them and the rest of the team at Bold City Brewery for providing a relaxing atmosphere for this stop on that evening's Jax Brew Bitch Prowl!

Bold City Brewery

http://www.boldcitybrewery.com/index.php

(FACEBOOK)

I knew the next stop would be the last one of the evening, so what better place to end it than Kickbacks Gastropub (910 King Street – 904.388.9551)?

By clicking the heels of my comfy flats together, and saying “There's no place like Kickbacks, there's no place like Kickbacks”, The Beast transported us through a cloud of flying monkeys to a parking spot on College Street, not too far from King Street.

Entering, we made our way to the bar at just the right time as two spots were open at the end. Jimmy and Wil were manning the bartending stations and Wil served as our efficient, professional and friendly brews and chews provider that evening.

After sorting through the amazing selections available, we settled on the following (descriptions per breweries' websites):

Wychwood Brewery Hobgoblin Legendary Ruby Ale

Traditionally craft brewed with Chocolate & Crystal maltsand a blend of Styrian, Goldings & Fuggles hops to produce a full-bodied, Ruby beer that delivers a delicious chocolatetoffee malt flavour, balanced with a rounded moderate bitterness and an overall fruity, mischievous character.

Hobgoblin is the perfect beer to drink with meat stews & Steak & Ale pies, Sausages & Mash, Burgers & BBQs; roasts; & char-grilled vegetables. Ideal for Halloween!

Deliciously Dark, What's the matter Largerboys... Afraid you might taste something?

Note: 4.5% ABV in cask, 5.2% ABV in bottle

JBB Notes: A brew we have enjoyed in the bottle many a time – we wanted to finally try it on tap!

Terrapin Beer Company Monk's Revenge Belgian Style IPA

Step back in time for this holier-than-thou union of two great brewing traditions that are worlds apart. Kudos to Friar Spike and Little John for marrying a classic Belgian Style Tripel and a new age American Double IPA.

Revenge is a BEER best served cold!

The high content alcohol of this beer make it perfect for cellaring…hide it away and pull one out for a special event 2-3 years later! - Note: 9.8% ABV & 82 IBUs

JBB Notes: Eye-opening flavor – hop jolt softened somewhat - and sweetened - by the Belgian Tripel.

Wil noticed us scanning the menu and he offered the suggestion of their “beer-cheese soup” for the evening – a wonderful combination of smoked cheddar and  Unibroue Brewery's Don de Dieu, described on Unibroue's website:

Unibroue Brewery Don de Dieu

Origin: Chambly, Quebec

Fermentation: Top

Style: Triple wheat ale

Color: Orange-golden hue

Clarity: Lightly cloudy

Head:  White, creamy

Bubbles: Fine

Effervescence: Slow

Nose: Complex aromas of vanilla and fruitcake, flowers, and honey

Flavor: Smooth, complex flavor that is slightly fruity, malty, nutty, and yeasty, with a hint of unfiltered sake.

Note: 9.0% ABV & 10.5 IBUs

This beer-cheese soup was outstanding! … served with some crackers on the side and some chopped green onions on top, Wil was SO right in describing how good it was! … even on a warm summer's evening, this soup hit the spot!

It was nearing time to go home and we wanted something to “top off” the evening – so, perusing the available taps, my eyes settled on the following (description per brewery's website):

Stone Old Guardian BELGO Barley Wine

Quoting Stone Brewer Mitch Steele:

Appearance:

Deep gold/light amber with a light tan head. Beer has a light haze.

Aroma:

Floral and very fruity, with banana and other tropical fruit notes, wine, and hints of spice.

Taste:

Banana fruit esters, light caramel/toffee notes and hints of alcohol that should mellow over time.

Palate:

Medium body up front, finishes dry with a nice hop bitterness and some alcohol heat.

Overall Impression:

Absolutely my favorite of our Belgian versions, the Belgian yeast takes this beer into a totally new direction. The yeast esters dominate the flavor, while the malt character remains solidly in the background to provide ample fullness and balance. Hop flavors, while muted slightly up front, end strong on the beer's finish.

Note: 12% ABV & 85 IBUs

JBB Notes: WOWZA! … sweet nectar with a rockin' jolt – deceptive, too – so be cognizant of the 12% ABV!

Savoring this last selection (around 11:15 pm), I looked around inside our home away from home – and I realized there was indeed nothing like it. Each establishment develops its own personality – due to its management, staff and patrons – and each CAN provide a wonderful atmosphere in which to enjoy what each has available. Kickbacks Gastropub is simply “our place” - where the ownership, management and staff have made us feel very welcome. That, combined with the phenomenal selection of brews – and well-prepared chews – make Kickbacks our “Emerald City” – and the perfect place to end this – and many other – Jax Brew Bitch Prowls.

My sincere thanks to Wil, Jimmy and Cindy for their warm greeting and for being such gracious hosts. Also, I extend my appreciation to owner Steve Flores (The Wizard) for having the brain, the heart and the courage to establish and maintain the all-inclusive welcoming environment of Beer Central in the Greater Jacksonville community – Kickbacks Gastropub.

Kickbacks Gastropub

http://www.facebook.com/kickbacksgastropub

Wychwood Brewery

http://www.wychwood.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/hobgoblinbeer

Terrapin Beer Company

http://terrapinbeer.com/

https://www.facebook.com/terrapinbeerco

Unibroue Brewery

http://www.unibroue.com/

https://www.facebook.com/unibroue

Stone Brewing Company

http://www.stonebrew.com/

https://www.facebook.com/StoneBrewingCo

Intuition Ale Works 'Ladies Night Out' Beer Tasting and Seminar

The American Medical Association's “Epinephrine Monitoring Meter” hovering over northeast Florida located “Adrenaline Central” for the region, Tuesday (May 15), situated at precisely the same coordinates as my house. I had been asked a few days earlier by Robin Rutenberg of Intuition Ale Works to speak for 5 to 10 minutes at the Ladies Night Out Beer Tasting and Seminar event being held at the brewery later that Tuesday evening. (*gulp*)

The general topic suggested by Robin was “Women in Craft Beer” - and I felt she had selected the perfect subject for me! …  I told companion that Robin had indicated I should speak about ladies swimming around in a big tank of craft beer! … he then explained what she probably meant was the participation in and contributions to the craft beer industry. Yes, that DID make more sense ...

  

Cari & Robin preparing for the evening

As I realized the event would probably be well-attended, nervousness set in and the adrenaline started pumping. After sketching out an outline for a couple of days, I felt I was fairly close to being ready for the event. The day of the event, I received a confirmation e-mail about my reservation for the evening and it indicated it was “sold-out” - (*hurl*) … gad, my first real experience in public speaking (other than very small groups). I wanted to do well – not only for myself but also for the Ladies of Intuition because I just love them and I respect them for what they are bringing to the forefront there at the brewery.

On the drive over to Intuition around 5:00 pm the day of the event, I was quietly going over my little speech and companion allowed me the solitude during the journey. Approaching the brewery, I told him I would like to enjoy a beer (or two) after the event – to celebrate this very special day for me – and he wholeheartedly agreed. Companion dropped me off with a good-luck kiss and drove away to meet our friends over at Kickbacks Gastropub.

Intuition Ale Works Brewery

Entering Intuition, I noticed Lindsay, Robin and Cari busy with preparations for the event. They were so supportive and excited about the evening and this made me really want to come through for them.

As soon as the guests arrived, each was offered a pint of a brew of their choice and encouraged to mingle and meet others. Then, we were taken in two groups for a tour of the brewing process. Robin lead the tours and let us try the grains that went into the brews while she explained the basic process of how their brewery works.  The tour was culminated with a showcase of their new canning line.

Intuition's latest Brewer,
Jessie Erickson

We then were seated and I was pleased to be at the same table as Cari Sanchez-Potter, Diana Davis and Kathy Corbin. Robin began by introducing Jessie Erickson, the new lady brewer at Intuition Ale Works! … WOW! … an amazingly talented young individual with a bright brew-future!

Robin and Lindsay began pouring the delicious samples of Intuition brews for us to try (descriptions per Intuition's website) while Jessie provided descriptions and the brew process of each one:

Golden Spiral

“A Belgian golden ale brewed with Belgian malts, Czech hops and coriander. Fermented with our house Belgian strain. Spicy, fruity esters and very refreshing. Our gateway beer for those new to Belgian beers.”

Redman

“Counter to its mischevous Irish folklore namesake, The Redman is a smooth and enjoyable Irish red. Malty and lightly hopped, this brew is perfect for any drinking session.”

I-10 IPA

“The West Coast comes to Jax with this extremely hoppy, true India Pale Ale. Our two-row malted barley and caramel malt come to life with a ?@!#-ton of Northwest hops. We use 4 different hops during the brewing process and during dry hopping. It’s music to your nose.”

Dubbel Helix

“Belgian dubbel brewed with German hops for bittering, Czech Saaz hops for flavor and aroma, and a variety of Belgian malts. Everything comes together to make for a spicy beer with notes of dark fruit, burnt caramel and bananas.”

The Siren “Schwartzbier”
“Brewed by the ladies of Intuition, this sassy schwartzbier has hints of Ancho, Guajillo and Chipotle Peppers. During the month of May, for every pint sold of this enjoyable black lager we will donate $1 to Girls Rock Jacksonville, a local non-profit summer camp helping girls ages 9-16 realize their musical and person potential!”

King Street Stout

“Imperial stout brewed with two-row malted barley and a variety of roasted and caramel malts.”

Not only were we enjoying the tasty beverages, we grazed on gourmet cheeses from Grassroots Natural Market, whole grain crackers, fruit and almonds – all provided by Intuition Ale Works. We also had Siren Cupcakes which were made by Baking Under the Influence and owner Violet Skinner had made them and brought them in for the event. Decadent!

In attendance that evening was Girl Meets Beer – a group of fascinating women from the New Smyrna Beach and Daytona Beach areas! … they had made the trip all the way up to Jacksonville for this event – I call that hardcore dedication to beer! … Visit their Facebook page for more information on this intriguing “brew platoon” of women! (https://www.facebook.com/girlmeetsbeer1 ). Heading up the group was Melissa R. and she also had her daughter Samantha with her. I look forward to getting together with this adventurous group in the near future!

The Siren Cupcakes made by
Baking Under the Influence

I was graciously introduced by Robin and I was flattered and encouraged by the warm welcome from the wonderful group of women gathered in the brewery.

Generally outlined as follows, my short presentation included:

-         I spoke of the amazing accomplishments of the Ladies of Intuition with the commercially successful Siren - a Bavarian Schwarzbier they developed themselves.

-         I described the impressive Cicerone certifications recently obtained by Hannah, Robin and Lindsay.

-         I pointed out that owner Ben Davis should be a model for other brewery owners in acknowledging and supporting the efforts of the women involved in craft beer.

-         I mentioned the first woman Master Cicerone -  Nicole Erny and I noted her impressive accomplishments. Since only four Master Cicerones exist, it is remarkable Nicole has achieved that status.

Finally, I noted that there IS a growing presence of women involved in craft beer – and that this presence will manifest itself in the future in more creative ideas, better business and a better all-around industry. Summing it up, I urged the women in attendance to strongly assert themselves in this progressive movement – either as an active business participant or engaged consumer – and to tell any chauvinistic male blocking their involvement:

“Lead, follow or the get the hell out of our way – that rumble you hear is us – and we're on a stampede”

Diana Davis, Cari Sanchez-Potter

Following my little speech, I sat back down and enjoyed more conversation with Cari Sanchez-Potter, Diana Davis and other ladies. Before I left, I saw Brewer Andrew and was able to speak with him briefly to catch up a little since we last spoke. All the ladies in attendance had been invited into the Tap Room at the conclusion of the event and several did just that.

The hovering AMA Epinephrine Meter lost its lock on me as I settled into a contented inner self, still excited and honored to have taken a part in the event, and in the glow of post-presentation relaxation.

Melissa of Girls Meets Beer

I take this opportunity to ask each of you women to “take the fight to the barricades” – become involved in a beer group for women to enhance your enjoyment and knowledge of craft beer – to become more vocal about your questions, comments and suggestions at each beer establishment you visit - and to take the time to thank Ben Davis for choosing to lead the way by focusing on the contributions and talents of the Ladies of Intuition.

Intuition's Lindsay working hard!

My heartfelt appreciation to Robin, Lindsay, Cari Sanchez-Potter and Ben Davis for allowing me this privilege – and to each of the women there that evening who were so kind and supportive. I enthusiastically applaud all of you for taking the time and spending your hard-earned money to be there - you are precious and valued members of this movement – and I personally thank you for impressively - and effectively -  leading the charge!

Intuition Ale Works 

http://www.intuitionaleworks.com/

Baking Under the Influence

https://www.facebook.com/BUI.Jax?ref=ts

Girl Meets Beer

https://www.facebook.com/girlmeetsbeer1


Grassroots Natural Market
http://www.thegrassrootsmarket.com/Grassroots_Natural_Market/Welcome.html

To visit more photos from Ladies Night Out Beer Tasting and Seminar, visit the link below:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.301776816574601.71869.181100418642242&type=1

I called companion and he informed me he was still with our friends Teresa and Marco at Kickbacks Gastropub (910 King Street – 904.388.9551), so he drove over quickly and picked me up while our friends held the table.

It was good seeing Teresa and Marco again – it had been a little while due to everyone's schedules. I was excited to see one of my Ale Angels, Jill serving our table … I knew it would be another spectacular experience at Kickbacks!

I was able to relax a little more with the knowledge my adrenaline-fueled day was drawing to a close. We ordered Kickbacks popular Fish & Chips to split while companion and I shared and enjoyed (descriptions per breweries' websites):

Unibroue Blonde de Chambly

Unibroue Brewery Blonde de Chambly

Here is Unibroue’s own interpretation of traditional Belgian saison ale. Traditionally brewed to help field workers cool off on long summer days, saison ales were highly refreshing—even served warm in the days before refrigeration. Blonde de Chambly pays tribute to the Filles du Roy, the women who came to Nouvelle-France to marry soldiers of the Carignan-Salières Regiment, among others. They settled on the fertile lands defended by Captain Jacques de Chambly and gave birth to many of our ancestors.

JBB Notes: This had been recommended by Intuition Ale Works Brewer Andrew during my discussion with him at the conclusion of the event at Intuition earlier that evening. Very appropriate for tonight – a beer named in honor of women! … my palate experienced a spicy fruit taste in this lighter body Saison. Thank you Andrew for a great suggestion!

Boulder Beer Company's Mojo Risin' Double IPA

“Mojo Risin' Double IPA is a souped up extreme version of Mojo IPA. Brewed with more than a half-ton extra malt and twice the amount of hops – then double-dry-hopped with Amarillo hops for added intensity,

Note: 10% ABV, Amarillo and Centennial hops”

JBB Notes: WOW! … good hop jolt I love – full bodied – a follow-through for me since I had earlier noted it was  a definite future buy for JBB

Kickback's 'go to' Fish & Chips

The Fish & Chips were awesome! … and huge! … of course, it is said “A crust eaten in peace is better than a banquet eaten in anxiety” - and I was certainly at peace inside Kickbacks. The previous anxiety of the day had melted away with the fellowship with our friends and the fine brews I was drinking.

Marco took a small bite of the leftover Fish & Chips and announced he was going to order it the next time they are in. If you have not tried this signature dish of Kickbacks Gastropub, you are missing out on a great value!

Thanks to Jill for wonderful service as always, to Teresa and Marco for their continuing friendship and to Steve Flores and the rest of his crew at Kickbacks Gastropub for consistently being that comfortable “home away from home” I count on during many Jax Brew Bitch Prowls!

http://www.unibroue.com/

http://www.boulderbeer.com/

Kickback's Gastropub

http://www.facebook.com/kickbacksgastropub

"The Siren" from Intuition
Ale Works

As gifts to the attendees of the earlier event at Intuition, the brewery had provided a card entitling the holder to a free pint of one of their tasty brews! … I had received one, so I suggested to companion we boot-scoot back over to Intuition Ale Works (720 King Street – 904.683.7720).

Entering the Tap Room, we were excited to see Hannah behind the bar! … also one of my Ale Angels (along with Robin and Lindsay) her radiant smile and gracious style always makes our visit there an enjoyable one. Hannah had been tasked with Tap Room duties during the event but she had heard all about it from Robin and Lindsay.

Of course, I had to go with the Ladies of Intuition's Siren and companion selected the new Fog Lights … Both described on Intuition's website:

The Siren
“Brewed by the ladies of Intuition, this sassy schwartzbier has hints of Ancho, Guajillo and Chipotle Peppers. During the month of May, for every pint sold of this enjoyable black lager we will donate $1 to Girls Rock Jacksonville, a local non-profit summer camp helping girls ages 9-16 realize their musical and personal potential!”

JBB Notes: Fully flavorful with just the right amount of kick!

Fog Lights
“A lightly smoked American ale. We smoked our malts locally at Mojo #4 to create this delightful, light summer ale.”

JBB Notes: I noticed a heavy smoke influence – which I love – smooth, good “end-of-the-evening” brew.

An amazing day for me had finally come to an end and one which was fully satisfying for me. Thanks to Hannah for always delivering professional and friendly service and for being so suppotive that evening. My heartfelt appreciation to Intuition Ale Works for the honor of being involved in their event and for providing the best possible place to end this very memorable - and treasured - Jax Brew Bitch evening.

Girls Rock Jacksonville

http://girlsrockjacksonville.tumblr.com/

Intuition Ale Works

http://www.intuitionaleworks.com/

To view more photos from the evening, visit the link below:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.301776816574601.71869.181100418642242&type=1