[As we lead up to the New Year, Nancy will be diving further into 2011 Food Trend Predictions, and linking you to food around the world]
Your local watering hole might be stepping it up a notch this season with tastier fare and a wider breadth of microbrew. Whether it’s a new establishment or one seeking new revival, gastropubs will continue to go strong from their popularity in 2010 in North America. With the cold blustering in for those of us in the North East, comfort foods will be well stocked on the menus, with whiskeys , scotches, and hot toddies to keep us glowing with warmth inside and out.
Gastropubs are sure to be taking a page from the ‘farm to table’ crowd and giving us hearty country grub from the hearth (aka homemade comfort food) during the winter months. Spring and Summer is likely to usher in artisanal cheese and microbrew beer pairings to give us a fresh new look for the latter half of 2011.
A Summer of hedonism reminiscent of Gatsby’s summer afternoon, will make way for the growing popularity of prohibition era nostalgia that seems to be still lurking about in the chilly air these days (in fashion and drink). We could be seeing more local hidden tavern/bar haunts in the next few months. The historic speakeasy has already found its return in true or inspired forms in elite cities such as in Williamsburg NYC, and Gastown Vancouver – that is if you can find it. But unlike their 1920′s counterparts, top notch drinks will most certainly be paired with top notch fare. If you’re looking to indulge in Gatsby-esque style, keep your eyes peeled, or find a local who can show you the entrance, because these establishments are made to keep the tourists out.
Despite being seen as fancy pubs and taverns for hard working urbanites to take a load off from their daily grind, gastropubs are still keeping it (smart) casual, and affordable. Cheers to that!
[Pictures courtesy of Club Zone, NYT, and Flickr: he cooks she eats]
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