The *Beer* Necessities: According to Our Expert

As much as we love a good Mai Tai, there's nothing quite like sipping a cold beer on a hot day. That's why in addition to a stunning list of signature cocktails, we offer a variety of brews that pair well with our island-inspired cuisine at our Restaurants and Marlin Bars.

To get some insider tips on craft brews, we spoke with Rob Goldberg, Tommy Bahama's Executive Vice President of Restaurants, Bars & Food Concepts, to find out how we select our favorite suds—and what you should order with your next pint.

WHO CHOOSES THE BEERS THAT ARE SERVED AT OUR RESTAURANTS AND BARS? WHAT GOES INTO SELECTION?

Rob: The proliferation of local micro and craft breweries has given us an abundance in terms of the variety of beer we now have to choose from. As in everything we do, whether it's food or cocktails or interior design, we want our restaurants to have a sense of place.

The local teams are tasked with creating an assortment of beers that reflect the taste of that particular place and our guests. There is generally one manager on the team who is more passionate and well-versed about beer—and they pick up the mantle as our standard bearer for beer. They work with our beverage and culinary directors to put the right assortment together.

Our beer assortments are constantly evolving. It's a reflection of our curiosity and constant search for the new and different.

WHAT SHOULD WE ORDER FROM THE MENU IF WE'RE HAVING A BEER?

Rob: The classic pairing is barbecue—our baby back ribs basted, marinated, and roasted with blackberry brandy barbeque sauce with an ice-cold IPA is pure magic. The Duo of Dips served with our house-made guacamole and spicy pub cheese is a no-brainer, too.

WHY ARE BEERS SUCH A HUGE PART OF THE ISLAND LIFE?

Rob: A carefully selected craft beer is symbolic to us. It's the gateway many cross through to access the island life.

A cold, crisp beer's first taste on the palate unlocks the release valve—a signal, so to speak—to remind ourselves that there are moments, especially with good friends and family, that deserve to be savored. It's a governor that suggests that life at a slower speed is a simple pleasure that should not be ignored.

WHAT'S THE BEST TIME AND PLACE TO ENJOY A BEER?

Rob: The patio of our restaurant on the Big Island of Hawaii at the Mauna Lani at sunset is a special spot. But your favorite cold brew, good friends, and an ocean breeze are pretty good baseline ingredients that can be transported and enjoyed nearly everywhere. and an ocean breeze are pretty good baseline ingredients that can be transported and enjoyed nearly everywhere.

So... What are you waiting for? Swing by our Marlin Bars or make a reservation at our Restaurants and indulge in a cool, refreshing glass of beer!