research
[ˈrēˌsərCH, rəˈsərCH]
NOUN
- the systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions
I am always looking for ideas. I have found that some of the best sources of inspiration come from my own area. Visiting other bars, restaurants, breweries, gives my mind a chance to rest and just enjoy what other people are creating. Which, in turn, gets my own creative juices flowing. My research outings are something I look forward to. They stretch from the brewery 3 minutes down the road to a little brewery in Dublin that you may have heard of, Guinness. A simple trip to the grocery store can be research. Or the food network. Or a cookbook. Or a farmer’s market. Or a bakery. You can find inspiration everywhere, if you are open to it.
So, this is #research post 1. I know there will be many, many more.
I recently visited Locoba by Platform Beer in Cincinnati, Oh. (Yes, I know that Platform was just acquired by InBev. But they are still transitioning into this acquisition. And InBev claims that they will leave these guys alone, that they just wanted a couple of recipes. Time will tell what happens to them, but for today I really enjoyed my visit.)
Locoba. Bright, airy, and very open feeling, even though they don’t have a ton of space. I’m a sucker for a living wall and they’ve got one! They also have several plants No more than 15 seats around the bar, a couple of tables, a private room, and a patio. It seems like they do a fair amount or takeout business- either to go coffees or folks grabbing a six pack on the way home.
I was intrigued by a few of the hard seltzer options they had on tap, but ultimately chose the Rosellini- Peach Rose Apple Cider. It was a delicious, crisp, not overly sweet cider. As it warmed up more of the peach flavors shone through and I very much enjoyed it.
My Partner in Crime went with the L.E.D. American Light Lager. He liked it so much he had two of them! The clean, hoppy presence perfectly complemented the rich malty notes of this beer. Very well balanced, and as far as lagers go, this one was interesting to drink. He liked it so much the bar (O’Neal’s Tavern) may be putting this on tap.
We did not have a chance to eat there, but the food offerings, while limited, looked very good (sandwiches, pretzels, chips). I’m hoping to return soon, possibly for brunch. Then I will be able to sample some of the coffee they brag about. Honestly, the place smelled amazing! Fresh ground coffee in all of its glory! I just wasn’t in the mood for coffee (which is rare for me). Next visit, coffee is a must.
Ok. I’m going to keep #research post 1 short. Post 1 is more about explaining my research approach. If You have any suggestions of where my research should take me, PLEASE share!