The Brewery Fare in Northern Virginia

Egg rolls and fish sliders

Unlike wineries which typically have a food menu limited to breads and cheese, the menus at breweries tend to offer more variety. This diversity was on display when I visited two breweries in Northern Virginia.

Gordonbiersch, located in Tyson's Corner, despite being located in mall (which always sets off my culinary alarm bells), has pretty good food. We have been here several times and have never been disappointed. For appetizers, we have tried their garlic fries, southwest egg rolls, beer-battered fish sliders and they have all been very flavorful and delicious. A variety of entrees are also available, among which we have tried their fish tacos, and cheese burgers. Slightly pricey for their organic produce, but completely worth it. You will not be disappointed.

Pate with spent grain crackers

Caboose Brewing Company is located along a biking trail in Vienna, Virginia. Without claiming to be an expert on the beers they served, as far as the food was concerned, we liked it. We went there in the afternoon, the time when they don't serve their entrees, but we got a chance to try a few of their appetizers. The menu was rather short and most of the items that were there seemed slightly over-priced, though not to the degree that it should deter those who are interested in the somewhat elevated combination of crackers and pates on offer.  The hand-cut potato frites, Pennsylvania duck liver pate, and salmon pate were both served with spent grain crackers, were very good. And of course there is plenty of beer to wash all of the food down.