Do you know the difference between your lagers and ales? Learning about differences among types of beers and their subcategories will increase your enjoyment when you next visit your local sports bar. Here’s what you should know above five kinds of beer and the foods that pair well with them. 

A Guide to Beer Types

1. Ale

Ales and lagers are two types of beer that are often compared to one another. The difference lies in the fermenting process. The yeast in ale ferments at a warm temperature and settles at the top of the beer. This type of beer typically has a sweet, dense, and fruity taste and ranges in color from amber to gold. Subcategories of ale include pale ales, IPAs, porters, and Belgian styles. If you’re enjoying an ale at a favorite sports bar, pair it with any American classic, including burgers, spicy wings, or pizza. 

2. IPA 

IPA stands for India pale ale. If you order a glass, you’ll taste hoppy, herbal flavors with hints of fruit and citrus. Popular styles of IPAs include West Coast, British, and New England-style IPAs. An IPA will be a hit at your next barbecue. It also goes well with steak and other grilled meats.   

3. Belgian

The unique flavor of Belgian beer is due to a combination of unmalted wheat and malted barley. Belgian white beers, which have a high alcohol content, balance the sweetness of wheat with the spiciness of other flavorings. 

4. Lager

The yeast in a lager, as opposed to ale, ferments at cooler temperatures and settles at the bottom. American lagers and lager subcategories include pilsners. Coors and Budweiser are lagers. Their light and slightly malty taste appeal to both experienced and new tasters. The light, smooth taste of lager contrasts well with spicy tacos and burgers. For a guilt-free night out at a sports bar, try a lager with a green-leaf salad.   

5. Pilsner

This lager comes to you from the Czech Republic. Pilsners have a dark gold color and a crisp, bitter flavor. Pair this versatile beer with a range of foods, such as pizza, Asian specialties, or shellfish.

To try any of these beers, stop into Staxx Sports Bar & Grill in Waianae, HI. With a menu full of delicious beverages and food that’s made fresh and on-site, they’ll keep your family and friends entertained and sated. Pair a favorite beer with their towering burgers, crab sliders, and buffalo wings. For a look at their menu, go online, or call (808) 888-7829 to make a reservation.