First taste: DC Brau and Port City beers

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — On Sunday, my father treated several of us to lunch at old favorite, Chadwick’s in Old Town. I arrived a little late because I needed to park at the public garage near city hall. I arrived just as the waiter was taking drink orders, so when I heard that DC Brau, the first brewery in Washington D.C. in a forever and a day, was available, I said I’d try it.

I was served DC Brau’s “The Public” a pale ale. I’m not that big on Pale Ale’s but I like to support the new, local guys, so I figured it was worth a try. I think for Pale Ale fans, it will be greeted warmly — The Public is a hoppy brew.

When I actually got situated, I saw that Alexandria’s own, Port City Brewing Co., had a beer on the menu and I wish I had ordered the “hometown” brew — an Optimal Wit. So, when it was time for another round I had order the Optimal Wit. After my first sip, I was glad I had the beers in that order, the Belgian style Optimal Wit was a good follow up to the hoppy DC Brau. Port City’s Optimal Wit has a crisp flavor with citrus notes that add to the taste without overwhelming it. I like Belgian beers now and again and today it really hit the spot. I am sure I will be inclined to order it again and maybe keep some in the refrigerator.

I am pleased that I was able to try 2 of the 6 new breweries that have opened or are opening soon in this area.

As for Chadwick’s, I had a rack of ribs which were pretty good. They also started making fries in a fresh-cut, boardwalk style. I am not certain they are actually freshly cut prior to cooking, but they are an upgrade over the previous version.