When nearby Deep Ellum appeared on a Beer Advocate list of the best bars in the US, we figured we had to find out what the fuss was about. That said, we're a little wary of the Beer Advocate lists, which sometimes throw up such unpredictable places we wonder if some loyal drinkers have acquired carpal tunnel syndrome in trying to ensure their favourite place comes out top. The top choice in 2006, the Moan and Dove, doesn't even appear on the 2008 list!
However, wariness proved to be unnecessary, for Deep Ellum is a genuinely enjoyable spot, with a short but very solid food menu, and a really excellent selection of drafts. It's always fun to get to a new place and discover a couple of rounds' worth of unfamiliar beers, even more so when the staff are so friendly and helpful. We were impressed by the staff's beer knowledge and enthusiasm, and their quick responses to questions about the seasonal botles that were in stock. They usually have around 20 beers on tap, with a nice range available (we still remember the otherwise excellent beer bar that had at least a dozen hop monsters on tap one evening, and virtually nothing else!). The bottle menu is pretty solid, too, especially when it comes to Belgian selections: you certainly don't see Brugse Zot, Bink, or De Dolle Brouwers everywhere, even in specialist bars.
The food is generally very good, too. The cheese plates are a great way to start, and generally have unusual accompaniments.
Rating System
1 - don't waste valuable beer calories on me 2 - tasty, walter approves 3 - so good you should have it for breakfast
Saturday, February 16, 2008
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