Beer Around The NFL: Arizona Cardinals
Throughout the fall we have been taking a look at the beer scenes in cities representing all 32 NFL teams — from local brewers to beer-centric bars to the finest beer shops. One thing is for sure, football fans are drinking very well. And if you're not into sports but enjoy a quality imperial oatmeal stout, then read on anyway to see how cities across the country are taking their suds more seriously than ever. Up next, the Arizona Cardinals.
WHAT TO DRINK
Four Peaks Hop Knot IPA: Located in an old creamery, a building that dates back to 1892, the microbrewery produces this American malt– and hops-driven IPA. Aromas of citrus — especially grapefruit and orange zest — dominate, with hints of malt. fourpeaks.com
Papago El Robusto Porter: This imperial porter pours dark and brooding in the glass, with the typical porter notes of coffee, mocha, sweet caramel and roasted malts, rounded out by hints of dried fruit and spice. papagobrewing.com
SanTan Devil's Ale: Started by a Four Peaks alum in 2007, this craft brewery has made a name for itself with a great selection of canned beers. The West Coast–style American pale ale boasts flavors of toasted bread, with plenty of floral character. santanbrewing.com
WHERE TO DRINK IT
Boulders on Broadway: Is there a better pairing for beer than pizza? This pizza-joint-slash-craft-beer-bar-slash-cyclists-and-rock-climbers'-hangout is equipped with 30 draft taps and stocks another 70-plus bottles of domestic microbrews and select imports. 530 West Broadway Road, Tempe, 480-921-9431, bouldersonbroadway.com
Flanny's Bar & Grill: Just over a year old, it might look like your standard family restaurant from the outside, but inside it's a beer lover's paradise, with more than 20 rotating taps, including a cask ale, and a well-curated bottle list. 1805 East Elliot Road, Tempe, 480-659-0870, flannys.com
Praying Monk: Newly opened this year, it bills itself a "modern American beer café," located in Scottsdale's old town. In addition to gastropub fare, it serves up some 20 draft options and another 100-odd bottles. It also boasts a great wine list for the non-beer drinkers in your entourage. 7217 East 1st Street, Scottsdale, 480-398-3020, prayingmonkscottsdale.com
WHERE TO BUY IT
Tops Liquors: We could have listed this one in the bars section – the attached bar is often cited as having one of the best beer selections in the greater Phoenix area, with its 24 rotating taps. But it's the store's hundreds-strong bottle selection that's the real score. 403 West University Drive, Tempe, 480-967-5643, topsliquors.com
More Beer Around The NFL on Food Republic: