More than 75 locals and select media packed inside the Pompano Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza on Wednesday to nosh on a four-course meal paired with select beers from Boynton Beach-based Due South Brewing. Even South Florida radio personality Paul Castronovo from the Paul and Young Ron morning show was visiting.
The restaurant approached Boynton Beach's Due South a few weeks ago about pairing their beers together with a few select menu items. Dan Tinghitella, General Manager of the Pompano location, said that after touring the new brewery, which opening six months ago, they were interested in partnering with them for a pairing event.
"We've been serving their beer for about three months," Tinghitella said. "We partner with local breweries across the country for our pairings and wanted to use a local brewery here for one." The Pompano outpost of Anthony's already serves Due South's Caramel Cream Ale - the first beer feature of the night, which was paired with two of Anthony's salads.
Also on the menu were Anthony's Meatballs with Ricotta Cheese and Roasted Chicken Wings paired with a Cat 5 IPA. Mike Halker, the Brewmaster from Due South, said all the IP's are listed as different levels of hurricanes. The higher the category, the higher the alcohol content. Cat 5 has 8.1 percent - the highest ABV in any of the beers Due South brews.
The third course featured spicy pork ribs and vinegar peppers with Cafe Ole Espresso Porter - a dark, heavy coffee-infused beer. The porter actually includes vanilla and pressed coffee after the beer has been fermented.
Anthony's prized coal fired pizzas - including Broccoli Rabe and Sausage and Cauliflower - were saved for last, served with the Florida Blonde Ale - a light, smooth flavor, that went well with the crunchy pizza.
This is the first pairings event for the Pompano location, but future pairings are in the works for Anthony's Pembroke Pines and Boca locations.
