Maryland is known for its one-of-a-kind cuisine, picturesque coastlines, and charming towns. The state’s thriving pub food scene is no exception. From Maryland crab cakes, artisanal charcuterie plates, BBQ, and hand-cut fries, there’s no shortage of comfort food to indulge in at the many pubs and gastropubs across the state. Here are some of the best pub food and gastropub menus in Maryland, complete with their perfect beer pairings.
Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are a quintessential Maryland dish, and no pub or gastropub worth its salt would be without serving them. These cakes are usually made with lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and mayonnaise, and pan-fried until golden brown. They’re often served with a side of tartar sauce or remoulade sauce.
The dish goes well with a variety of beer. Crisp pilsners, dry ciders, amber ales, and light lagers pair perfectly with the rich flavors of the crab meat and the tangy sauces.
Artisanal Charcuterie Plates
Artisanal charcuterie plates are a trend that has taken over Maryland’s pub food scene. These plates include a mix of cured meats, pâtés, terrines, and other meat-based items. The plates are often accompanied by pickles, mustard, and other condiments.
For those who love to drink beer, the ideal pairing is something light and refreshing. A lager, light ale, or wheat beer does the trick, as it won’t overpower the flavors of the meats and pickles.
BBQ
Maryland is famous for its BBQ. It’s a hearty meal that pairs well with cold beer, especially when it’s slow-cooked to perfection. BBQ options in Maryland might include pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, brisket, and burnt ends.
One of the best beer pairings for BBQ is a hoppy IPA or a rich porter. The bitterness of the hops or the sweetness of the porter complements the smoky flavors of the BBQ.
Hand-Cut Fries
The perfect side dish for any pub meal is some crispy and delicious hand-cut fries. Fried until golden and crispy, these fries are often served with different dipping sauces, including spicy aioli and truffle mayo.
A classic cut of ales and lagers pair well with hand-cut fries, especially those that have a light-to-medium body. Mild amber ales, blond ales, and session ales make for the perfect pairing to enjoy with hand-cut fries.
Conclusion
Maryland’s pub food scene offers something for everyone. From the classic Maryland crab cakes to the trendy artisanal charcuterie plates, to delicious BBQ and hand-cut fries, there’s no shortage of comfort food options to enjoy. The best way to enjoy these meals is with a cold beer that’ll help enhance the flavors of the food while quenching your thirst. So, head out to one of Maryland’s pubs and savor all the delicious fare that the state has to offer!