On Saturday evening we attended the Hoppy Valentine’s Dinner at Brouwerij West. The dinner was presented by Primal Alchemy Catering and featured the work of Chef Paul Buchanan. Chef Paul specializes in preparing customized menus that are farm-to-table, using locally sourced, sustainable and organic ingredients. A good number of the attendees were obviously fans of Chef Paul as many indicated that they had been to prior events he has put on. If you are a foodie, you will appreciate the menu:

For appetizers we had Rose Petal Ravioli w’ Creamy Leek & Bacon Filling (outstanding), Octopus Tartare on a wonton chip with wasabi, and Bruleed Strawberries with Balsamic Syrup & Goat Cheese. The main course had a mix of various vegetables and pasta along with steelhead trout on Parmesan Polenta and Juniper Crusted Pan Seared Duck on a Bed of Faro with Dried Cherry Chutney. For dessert there was Mason Jar Dark Chocolate Cakes with Farmer’s Market Berry Compote & Chantilly Cream. It was an interesting meal and everyone seemed to really enjoy it.

Of course, I was there for the beer which was probably not the case for many of the attendees but the Brouwerij West classic Belgian style ales definitely made some converts. I spoke to more than one person that said they came for the food, but they would definitely be back for the beer.

To say that this was a “beer dinner” would not exactly be accurate; it was a catered dinner that had beer available. While the food was tasty there was no pairing suggestions given and there was a lot of wine on the dinner tables. But this was a Primal Alchemy event and Brouwerij West was chosen as the location to hold it. It gave Brouwerij West an opportunity to introduce their beers to about 100 people while getting in some practice as they will be having their Grand Opening on February 27.

Brouwerij West had seven of their beers available; Sour Orange Wit, Super Orange (Sour Orange with more oranges), Bitter Blonde (I predict this will be a crowd favorite), Spelt Saison, My First Rodeo, Dog Ate My Homework and Tripel. While I had tried My First Rodeo and Dog Ate My Homework a few years ago, I think today’s brews are significantly improved. You should head over there at the end of the month and decide for yourself. Cheers!

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