I ask you, what in tarnation could be better than kickin’ back at the ever-hip Roosevelt Tavern? The answer, my friends, is a resounding nothing. Just a hop, skip and a jump from my front doorstep, this cavernous early 1900s home is easily my favorite bar in Downtown Phoenix. So, this blog is biased. Brace yourself.
I strolled, in what seemed like slow-mo, through the dimly lit corridor of the Roosevelt ready to take on the challenge of their neighborhood-brewed house beer. I must preface this with the fact that I am a beer snob. I like my brew to be awesome. That is my only requirement. So, beneath the familiar glow of a spaghetti western on the bar-area TV, I ordered and lightly sipped the house beer. I was immediately met with the sharp taste of what seemed to be grapefruit careening down my throat. One glance at the menu revealed it to be laced with cardamom, which produced its unique flavor and lingering aftertaste. Each sip opened a bright burst of flavor through my whole palate. I realized that, had I not been full from an earlier meal, this would have enlightened my taste buds when paired with the homemade tomato soup and grilled cheese. I will say that the good sir Matt Pool got this one right, too. I’m officially moving in now.
The Roosevelt Tavern is located at 816 N. 3rd St. and pours its house beer (and many other rotating selections) Tuesday-Sunday. (602) 254.2561
All photos by Si Robins
