What to Ask Your Server When Choosing a Beer

How many times have you sat down at the bar or a restaurant table, the server asked you what you’d like to drink, and your mind was completely blank? Visiting a pub house like The Growler Guys is a great way to experience a range of new beers, but how do you know where to start? Instead of just pointing to something random on the taplist, there are some questions to ask your server when choosing a beer. Here are a few questions our customers ask us when they need help picking a new beer.

What to Ask Your Server When Choosing a Beer:

1. What would you suggest to go best with my lunch/dinner entree? If you’ll be enjoying a meal with your beverage, ask your server for suggestions about what will complement your food the best. Different types of beers will go better with a hamburger than a salad, for example. By telling your server what kind of meal you’re planning on, they can recommend a great beer to accompany it.
2. What are the most popular beers people choose? Just because a beer is popular doesn’t mean you’ll love it, but it’s an excellent place to start if you’re looking for something new to try. Your server may be able to introduce you to something new that’s taken off with customers that you wouldn’t have considered otherwise.
3. I usually prefer beers like _____. What are some beers that are similar to that? If you’re looking for something that will taste like other beers you already know you like, make sure you describe what you already prefer to the staff.
4. What is your favorite beer? And then make sure you ask why. The servers at pubs and restaurants usually have the opportunity to try all the beverages on the menu so they can make suitable recommendations. When asked, they will almost always happily share what their favorite is and give you a full explanation of why they like it best.
5. What’s new on tap this week? Again, just because it’s new doesn’t mean you’ll love it, but trying beers that were just added to the tap list is always fun.

Other Tips for Trying New Beers:

If you’re really interested in trying a variety of beers, there are a couple of other hints to help you have a more rewarding visit:

1. Sit at the bar. It can be tempting to pull up a chair at a quiet table, but sitting at the bar gives you more time to talk with your server about the beers you are trying. Through conversation, they’ll learn more about what you like and don’t like to refine their recommendations for you. You’re likely to learn a lot about the breweries, too.
2. Ask for tastings. You don’t need to order a full pint of a new beer to figure out if you like it. Your server should be able to provide you with a small tasting of new beers to see if you like it enough to go for a full glass. Sometimes you can also get “half-pours,” which are usually 8 ounces, allowing you to explore more selections.
3. Observe the ABV. A higher alcohol content (higher ABV) equals a more intoxicating beverage. If you’re tasting beverages with a higher ABV, ask for smaller quantities because they will add up quickly!

We’re happy to help you find a new beer to love!

Explore the growing variety of beers in one taproom, https://thegrowlerguys.com/. Each location carries the best local varieties, from the palest ales to the darkest stouts, along with ciders and kombucha. Our friendly staff is happy to walk you through the characteristics of every style to help you discover your personal favorites. Take home the beers you love best in a growler to share with family and friends. View our online tap list to learn about the selections currently available at a location near you!