The 5 Seasons Brewing Company- For Food or Beer, That Is The Question

Even though I had been to the 5 Seasons Brewing Company before, it had always been for drinks. When dining there last week, I was somewhat taken aback at the menu. You see, when going to a restaurant with the name “Brewing Company” in the title, I was somewhat expecting more of an everyman’s menu. But the 5 Seasons menu might be something you would expect to see at a more high-end establishment. And I’m a little on the fence as to whether this is a good thing or not.

On the plus side, many microbrew restaurants focus on the beer and the food is completely forgettable. Sort of like going to England. But on the other hand, a good burger or fish and chips goes mighty well with an India Pale Ale or a Lager. There are no burgers at the 5 Seasons, and the Fish and Chips they do offer is trout. Other items you would least expect to find on a microbrewery menu include a salmon curry, duck with a grape demi-glaze (not sure what this means, but as a rule of thumb, if I have to ask, go with something else), and a fried French chicken (huh?- why can they just go with the Kentucky variety?).

After looking the menu up and down several times, I settled for the filet au poivre. And to its credit, it was quite good. While the entrees seemed to have a European flair to them, the appetizers seemed to have more of an Asian tilt. There were many tempting dishes here for me, and the Crab and Cheese Fried Dumplings (Kari Kari) were a winning choice.

The atmosphere at the 5 Seasons is relaxed and comfortable and there are outdoor dining options available. Of course, there are a number of different beers on tap, and while I this is not a blog on beers, I can say I gulped my IPA down with great gusto. So, now the verdict. I think it depends on what your motivation is. If dinner is the excuse for enjoying the microbrews, you may wind up overplaying the dinner hand here. If your motivation is for Beer only, Beer and some appetizers, or if you don't mind spending $20+ for your meal along with your barley and hops, then the 5 Seasons is a fine choice.

Steakhead Recommends: Sometimes
Price: $$-$$$