The Libations Librarian

I enjoy starting an entry with a definition – understanding puts all readers (if I actually have any) on the same page.

Witbier – “A Belgian Style ale that’s very pale and cloudy in appearance due to it being unfiltered and the high level of wheat, and sometimes oats, that’s used in the mash. Always spiced, generally with coriander, orange peel and other oddball spices or herbs in the background.”  Witbier – The Beer Advocate

My partner and I dropped our one-and-only progeny at college for the first year orientation.  Needless to say, emotions ran high: child = “get outta my room”, my spouse = verklempt(ness), and I had a joyous burst of freedom, quickly followed by wonder – how had 18 years gone by so fast?!  The resulting outcome? The parental units wandered, in a slight fugue state, to Bayberry Beer Hall, located just off Federal Hill in Providence, Rhode Island.

Federal Hill has long been known for Italian cuisine.  However, times….they are a-changin’.  The area finds itself now more likely to house sushi than salami, curry than cacciatore, and BEER than Chianti.  Bayberry Beer Hall is casual American dining at its best, with offerings of everything from Southern comfort food (chicken and waffles) to sublime Eggs Benedict.  The atmosphere is congenial, with full service only appearing at the bar; diners must use a self-service procedure from community (yet handcrafted and modern) picnic tables.  However, I digress; food often does that to me….on to the BEER!

Drinkers will discover a vast array of potables.  I, personally, have not yet found a kombucha I enjoy, so that is OFF the Libations list until further notice.  However, witbier is a habitual fave!  I completely enjoyed Singlecut Brewery’s Alpine White – delicious.  

This witbier paired quite well with the Eggs Benedict I consumed.  The fresh taste completely cleansed the palate of the rich dish with each sip.  The cayenne-laced, lemony sauce could have weighed down my entire dish, but the Alpine White simply gave it wings!

(Great glassware, right?!)

Take a drive to Providence to check out this unassuming gem of a Beer Hall.  Diners and imbibers will NOT be disappointed!