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Summer Pairing Guide: What Craft Beer to Drink with Your Favorite Tavern Bites

Summer is peak season for bold flavors, crisp pours, and unforgettable bites, and at Ed’s Tavern, we’re pouring sunshine into every glass. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just curious about what to order next, this guide will help you pair your favorite tavern dishes with the perfect brew.

From juicy brisket to spicy wings, our rotating taps and scratch-made menu make Ed’s a go-to for great food and great beer in both Lakewood Ranch and Bradenton.

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Staff Picks: Crowd-Pleasing Food + Beer Combos

We asked our team to share their favorite pairings of Ed’s Tavern dishes with summer’s best craft brews. Here’s what they’re recommending:

Brisket Mac Bowl + Citrus IPA

Creamy, cheesy, and smoky brisket meets a hoppy citrus IPA. The IPA’s zest cuts through the richness, leaving a refreshing finish.

Buffalo Wings + Pale Ale

A crisp pale ale tones down the heat while highlighting the tangy, buttery flavors of our classic buffalo sauce.

Bavarian Pretzel Bites + Wheat Beer

Wheat beers (like a Hefeweizen) pair beautifully with our soft pretzels and spicy house mustard. It’s salty meets smooth perfection.

French Dip + Amber Lager

The roasted beef and Swiss cheese in our French Dip get a malty boost from a smooth amber lager—perfect for a hearty summer bite.

Want to get adventurous? Just ask your server or bartender for pairing tips—they know what’s new on tap and what pairs best.

What’s Pouring Now: July’s Seasonal Craft Beer Arrivals

At Ed’s Tavern, we’re proud to offer one of the best rotating craft beer selections in Lakewood Ranch. Here are a few you might spot this month:

  • Dogfish Head Mandarin & Mango Crush – Fruity, tart, and summer in a glass.
  • Founders All Day Chill Day Cold IPA – Dry-hopped and refreshingly light.
  • Local Florida Blonde Ale – A crowd-favorite for its smooth, easy-drinking finish.
  • Seasonal Cider Rotator – Ask what’s crisp and cold today!

Keep an eye on our Happy Hour Menu for tap updates, or stop in and sample something new.

Beer Pairing Basics: A Beginner’s Guide

New to beer pairing? Here’s a simple breakdown of how to match your meal:

  • Light & Crisp Beers (Lagers, Pilsners): Pair with fried foods, salads, and mild flavors.
  • Hoppy Beers (IPAs): Match with bold, spicy, or fatty dishes to balance intensity.
  • Malty Beers (Amber Ales, Brown Ales): Great with roasted meats and rich, savory items.
  • Wheat Beers & Ciders: Excellent with salty snacks, spicy dishes, or light sandwiches.

Want to dive deeper? BeerAdvocate’s pairing guide is a great place to expand your palate.

Discover Your Perfect Pour at Ed’s Tavern

There’s no better time to explore craft beer in Lakewood Ranch than summer, and no better place than Ed’s Tavern. Whether you’re in Bradenton or LWR, our taps are cold, our bites are hot, and the pairings are next level.

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