Whether you’re headed on a date with your significant other or planning a girls’ night out with friends, the drink you choose at dinner can enhance your experience. Considering the qualities of your beverage options and characteristics of your the food on your plate will help you create a delicious, flavorful pairing. Here are five considerations to make the next time you order a drink at a restaurant.

How to Pair a Drink With Your Dinner

1. Alcohol Content

Knowing how much alcohol is in your beverage is an important part of drinking responsibly, but alcohol levels can also affect the flavor of your food. Strong drinks tend to amplify spice, so it may be best to choose a dish with a mild flavor profile if you’re in the mood for a cocktail or shochu. Conversely, if you enjoy a little heat, try white wine, beer, or other lower-alcohol quaff to relieve and rejuvenate your taste buds. 

2. Texture

The texture of your dinner and drink should complement one another. The airiness of bubbly beverages like sparkling wine will match the crispness of fried foods, and smoother drinks work well with tender dishes like roast duck or slow-cooked pork loin.

3. Sweetness

The sweeter the beverage, the better it will taste with spicy and salty entrees. If you order raw oysters or a plate with sriracha sauce, try pairing it with a sweet wine or champagne.

4. Tannins

Red wines and fruity flavors like cranberry and pomegranate contain tannins, naturally occurring compounds that taste bitter. Choose a tangy wine or cranberry cocktail to offset the comparatively heavy flavors of fatty meats like steak and duck.

5. Acidity

Acidic drinks refresh your palate, which makes them an excellent companion for strongly flavored foods like crab and salmon. A citrusy cocktail or white wine is the perfect pair for your seafood dinner.

If you’re looking for a spot to grab dinner and drinks, visit Waioli Grill & Cafe, the most versatile and elegant Japanese restaurant in Honolulu, HI. Their skilled chef has been preparing fresh and authentic cuisine for over 20 years. He’ll customize any meal to your liking. The restaurant’s serene atmosphere makes it a perfect place to unwind after a busy day. Call (808) 734-5298 to make a reservation, or visit them online to browse their menu.