Back in the day we would fill an ice chest full of beer and tailgate in the parking lot before every Angels game. However, times have changed and so has our taste for pre-game beer. Nowadays, you can find us filling up at one the many local breweries that surround the stadium. But now thanks to Saint Archer Brewing Company, theres no need to go any further than the ballpark to enjoy some refreshing craft brews.
They’ve taken over what used to be the Knothole Club located on club level, offering a menu brimming with delicious bites to pair perfectly with fresh brewed beer. The tap list comes equipped with core beers along with a rotating list of drafts and seasonal pours. Leading the kitchen, is Chef Dennis Radcliffe, who’ll be offering a seasonal menu that will change with the progression of the baseball season. I was lucky enough to sample a few outstanding menu items that you’ll want to keep on your radar. Radcliffe’s quesadilla, which looks more like an empanada, comes filled with squash blossoms, mushrooms, herbaceous epazote, jalapeno, stringy Oaxaca cheese and house made chorizo; and served with a side of fresh salsa verde. Another great treat is the Specialty Dog, which changes every series. For this series, Radcliffe made a delectable Portuguese sausage (also made in house), slathered in spicy ketchup and a pineapple jalapeno relish.
Not only was I fortunate enough to attend Saint Archer’s very first cask night, but I was also asked to tap the cask! Everything went smoothly and we all enjoyed a delicious cask of Grapefruit IPA (7% ABV). At baseball games, I like to drink something on the lighter side and at 4.4% ABV, the Mexican Lager is just right. It’s a beer you can enjoy for all nine innings without getting sauced and has a well rounded flavor profile with a nice clean finish. If you’re looking for something with a hoppy bite, try the Nelson IPL (6.8% ABV). Nelson Sauvin hops shine through with juicy grapes on the nose balancing a nice hop presence that doesn’t overpower the complexity of the IPL (Indian Pale Lager). Tusk and Grain Barrel Blend (12% ABV) is aged for twelve months in Woodford Reserve Bourbon barrels. Rich with notes of chocolate and coffee, this is a smooth blend of Barleywine, Imperial Porter and Imperial Stout. Sip this slowly as you watch Mike Trout round the bases. Reservations can be made at OpenTable for dinner, it’s a great spot for special events and beer loving Angels fans. Cheers!
Saint Archer Brewing Company, 2000 East Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, (714) 940-2000; www.saintarcherbrewery.com.
