Pizza and beer go hand in hand on any night at a pizza place or at your home through delivery or carryout. Did you know that different toppings are best enjoyed with different types of beer? Below is a guide to beer pairings to try on your next night out.

A Guide to Pairing Beer & Pizza

1. Cheese

Since plain cheese is such a neutral flavor, you might assume it goes with everything. However, some beers really stand out when compared to this flavor. Try a light or wheat beer with cheese pizza to allow the flavors to come through. You might also opt for an American pale ale, as it has enough bitterness to cut through the cheese.

2. Pepperoni

Since pepperoni is spicy, it’s important to find a beer that stands up to this strong flavor. A good choice is an American brown ale. Try to choose one with a caramel note. Another quality option is an IPA, which balances out the pepperoni’s saltiness.

3. Hawaiian

Hawaiian pizza from your favorite pizza place includes tropical flavors, such as pineapple. For this reason, it can be perfectly paired with a fruit ale of your choice. Consider a strawberry, cherry, or grapefruit beer. This complements the sweetness of the pineapple, as well as the acidity of the tomato sauce.

4. Margherita

A Margherita pizza has mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and tomatoes. When you go on your next trip to the pizza place, try pairing it with a pale ale. Since the beer has a more subtle flavor, it won’t overwhelm the mozzarella and will balance the acidity of the tomatoes. 

5. Meat Lovers

Smoky beers are best to balance out the strong meaty flavors in this dish. When you go to your favorite bar or pizza place, ask for a dark smoked beer like a rauchbier. It increases the smoked flavors of the meat.

Are you looking for a new bar and pizza place? Check out Papa Rocco’s in Gulf Shores, AL. They offer pizza, oysters, and drinks at competitive prices. They also offer live music to keep you entertained throughout the night while the cold beer keeps flowing. Visit their website to learn more about their history, or call (251) 948-7262 to place a carryout order.