Pyramid Brewery- Sacramento, CA

The most recent trip to Sacramento directed to me a local brewery just blocks from the hotel, a short walk past dozens of local restaurants and shops, near the state capital, and into Pyramid Brewery. The brewery was not originally founded in Sacramento, but just outside of Seattle in Kalama, WA. Pyramid is now in 5 ale houses in the Pacific Northwest (Seattle, Portland, Walnut Creek, Berkley and Sacramento). First impression is this brewery has plenty of staple mirco-brews to offer, and keeps seasonal selections in a yearly rotation.

http://www.pyramidbrew.com/

The dinner began with a strong survey of the menu and beer selections. As an IPA fan I ordered the Thunderhead IPA (6.7% ABV)- clearly I made the correct choice as our server, Derek, confirmed it was his favorite. As I soon found- this beer did not disappoint- very hoppy with a nice bitterness that I expect in a great IPA.

After enjoying the first beer of the night it was time to eat. As with any menu at a brewery I look for a staple item that the restaurant is known for, out jumped the Pyramid Burger. A great touch the brewery provides is beer recommendations with each item on the menu. I truly believe that like fine wine is paired with a meal, a great beer can compliment any meal. The Pyramid Burger is a great piece of Kobi beef topped with cheese of your choice, bacon, and a spicy/kicking BBQ sauce. The Thunderhead IPA definitely made the food that much more enjoyable.

Once the dinner slowed and the glass was empty- I could not resist trying a seasonal selection. Next up was the Curve Ball Blonde Ale. In a hot summer I tend to trend towards a light refreshing beer. Though I love a heavy IPA, more than one or two just do not cool me off. So their Curve Ball (available April-July) was a nice crisp, clean lager before heading back out into the heat. The added bonus was any seasonal ordered came with a free Pyramid pint glass to add to any collection.

The impressions of Pyramid Brewery were excellent- a clean open restaurant. Large glass windows to view the brewing process, and a great beer-educated staff. In addition to plenty of opportunities to taste their beer selections. If you find yourself near one of their five locations- stop in- try the Thunderhead and if and when you have the chance sample their seasonal selections as their availability is limited.

NOT A REVIEW - By Dan

Below is a link to an article about the top 10 best cities for beer. Good list with great information. Being a Colorado resident, I can say it's great that Fort Collins made the list, but Denver belongs on there too.

http://travel.yahoo.com/ideas/10-best-vacation-cities-for-beer-lovers.html

My personal favorite brewery here in Colorado is the O'Dell Brewery up in Fort Collins.Coming from a state with A LOT of amazing beer, this means a lot [about my tastes]. Check it out if you're ever out my way!