Denrael

I’m in Richmond, VA for a few days this week visiting existing customers. I’m staying out at the Doubletree by RIC airport, which is a fine hotel if you don’t mind very average breakfasts, and not being able to get into your room on an ongoing basis. Other than that, seems like a lovely place. I haven’t had time to check out the fitness center yet, but I walked by and it looked very nice.

The other night, I ended up at the recomendation of some people on twitter at the Capital Ale House. Suffice it to say it’s a suggestion I am very happy to have taken. Walking in the place was quite busy and remained so the entire time I was there. It has a true pub feel to it. One of the first things you notice is the immense number of taps and coolers behind the bar. When you sit down, an extremely friendly and knowledgeable staff presents you with the Ale & Lager Menu which is several pages long and puts some wine lists to shame with their very complete and well done descriptions of the beverages.

I tried several beers that night, including the Samual Adams Double Bock and the Allagash White Ale. I thought I had a winner for the night with the Allagash, being very similar to a Hoegaarden one of my favorite beers.That was right up until I tried the  Jefferson Reserve  Bourbon Barrel Stout. This was without a doubt one of the best and most unusual stouts I have ever had. There is no question that I will be heading back again tonight to give it another taste.

One other element of the Capital Ale House which I appreciated is the ice ring they have embedded into the bar. This serves to keep your beer very cold as you drink it. I’ve only seen this at one other bar in Dallas, TX. Twitter me if you know of other locations, or know the place in Dallas I’m talking about.

The food was good pub food. Nothing that will expand the culinary boundaries, but then you didn’t go to an ale house for the food now, did you?

Next week: Boston.