Enjoying the gamut of craft beer on a budget. It can be difficult simply because of the wealth of choices. LA is behind the craft curve and I could still easily drop many Franklins (or should I say Dead Presidents) trying to choose between new beers from Cambridge Brewing or barrel aged offerings from Cismontane. And that is not counting just trying to have beer on hand in the ‘fridge.
But you can get by even with less. First off, find places that sell singles or mixed six packs. Trader Joes being one and Sunset Beer Co another here in Los Angeles. That way you can taste a rainbow of styles instead of just one. And if you want to compound the interest, get a friend to get six other beers. Now you have 12 new beers.
When you head to your local beer bar order the sampler trays. At first glance it is more expensive than one pint but you will get a wide variety (usually four to five beers) and it is usually the same per ounce price if you want to do all that math stuff.
The third piece of advice is to not over drink. It is better to have one beer and really enjoy it than to have three or four in one night. More than likely the last one will be a blur and you will have not gotten the most of your money.
Ask for samples. Ask for half-pints. Don’t be afraid of the bar staff. Most places encourage experimentation and will not turn down a customer. But be responsible and buy something plus tip well. Otherwise you many not get the same treatment the next time that you land on the barstool.
Don’t let high prices scare you off. A Firestone-Walker Anniversary beer or Parabola is well worth it. If you can’t find a bottle, follow your favorite brewery on the interwebs to find special events where the possibility of getting a taster for less money may happen.
Lastly happy hour is your friend. Use it.