Beach House, 200 Gulf Drive N, -941-779-2222; Darwin Brewing Company, 803 17th Ave W, 941-747-1970.

The inaugural Evolution Beer Dinner held at Beach House Waterfront Restaurant on Monday night featured a menu focused on sustainable, local produce paired with craft beers from Darwin Brewing Company. Beach House proprietor Ed Chiles and his talented culinary team, led by Erik Walker, produced delectable dishes to pair with beers selected by Darwin Brewmaster Jorge Rosabal and Darwin General Manager Matt Cornelius.  The amuse-bouche was a Sunray Venus Clam Shooter in Circa 1926 Tangerine Wheat Beer. The subtle citrus notes in the tangy beer perfectly complemented the briny flavor of the locally produced Sunray Clams. The four courses that followed showcased components featuring local purveyors such as Cortez Bottarga, Darwin beer-braised Bradley Store Pig Cheek, and Richeys Chocolate Ganache, as well as Pickled Zucchini and Heirloom Tomato Jam made from produce grown at Beach House’s own Gamble Creek Farm. Darwin Brewing Company grew from the idea of brewing beers especially for the purpose of enjoying them with food, which is why the beers pair so well with food and why they source local, sustainable ingredients. I’m already looking forward to the next culinary and craft beer collaboration from these two local superstars. 

Beach House, 200 Gulf Drive N, -941-779-2222; Darwin Brewing Company, 803 17th Ave W, 941-747-1970.