This was the event that I was waiting for, the famed Sean Z Paxton, the Home Brew chef paired with Firestone-Walker’s 15th Anniversary Ale. Welcome to Deconstructed….
Mark off this bucket list item. Dinner created by Sean Paxton. And this was in grand style. All 8 beers that make up the XV anniversary beer from Firestone-Walker. Plus Pale 31 and/or Unfiltered DBA to start with some malted cashews or Moroccan themed popcorn.
The event was held at the Avalon theater across from the Capitol Records building in Hollywood. Great space with old timey movie theater architecture. The downstairs portion got real hot so beer buddy Richard and I hightailed to the more AC friendly upper space to enjoy the evening.
The food (as these photos will show) was plated with care and artistry and the food was just great. Even the items like scallops or peppers that I don’t usually like were done so well that you had to tip your hat even if it wasn’t your thing. 
The winner for me was the lamb tenderloin that was presented on a spoon and was just delicious. Second place goes to the chocolate covered bacon that was so rich and savory.Neither of which are pictured because I still want them all to myself.
So you had great food and then Matt Brynildson walked around and talked to everybody about the beers, David Walker (yes, the Walker) was pouring beer and Sean Paxton made the rounds. 
But let’s briefly get down to the beer:
Sticky Monkey – Big and brassy. Almost whiskey in it’s own right.
Double Double Barrel Ale – mellower but strong in different ways
HellDorado – dark golden gem that was my favorite other than XV
Double Jack – really excellent IPA. Paired well with the sausage
Bravo – another dark, big and bold beer
Bourbon Barrel Aged Velvet Merkin – I still prefer the regular of this
Good Foot – similar to Sticky Monkey but lighter and brighter to me.
Parabola – my least favorite of the night. too medicinal
Then the XV was unveiled. And if you are a fan of the Anniversary ales, this one will surprise you. The Double Jack cuts through the barleywine and barrel aged flavors to make for a demanding brew that is hoppy and hot and rich. I really enjoyed it but it is a huge beer and is best sipped in small portions.
LA Beer Week. The bar has been officially raised.
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