Pride Pub: Orlando City at NYCFC

Here at the Pride Pub we provide the grub and grog recommendations that allow you to fully enjoy Orlando City matches. Just a reminder on how this works: we choose a craft beer from the city/state/region of our opponent and include a recipe to pair with that beer. We also choose a Florida craft beer to represent our Lions and the beautiful Sunshine State.

This week, Orlando City heads to the Big Apple to take on New York City FC in Yankee Stadium. While we're not on quite as quick a deadline as the last Pride Pub, the match is still only three days away. Let's get ready for a Sunday afternoon showdown!

From New York - 2XIPA, Southern Tier Brewing Company

Southern Tier started small back in 2002, and weren't even distributing locally until 2003. Fourteen years later, the brewery is producing 100,000 barrels annually, and is available in 30 states. Fortunately for us, Florida is one of those states.

According to the Brewery:

"An India Pale Ale kicked up a notch to form a true double IPA: feverishly hoppy with a malty backbone and higher-than-standard alcohol content. Citrusy hops tease the senses with aromatics and lingering bitterness, while just the right balance of malts disguises 2XIPA's extra gravity. Double your expectations, this is an ale that demands reverence."

Pair with: Beef Brisket. Recommended by the brewery, the double hoppiness of the 2XIPA won't overwhelm the strong flavors of the brisket's BBQ, soy, and beef.

Dave's recommendations: Garlic Fries. Also recommended by the brewery, the garlic is another strong flavor to hold up to the brisket and the 2XIPA.

From Florida - Up River American Pale Ale, Central 28 Beer Co.

Kathy, Geoff, and Dan over at Central 28 Beer Co. have only been around since 2014, but they are putting out some impressive brews. If you can't find Up River on your street, grab your Growler and take a quick drive over to DeBary.

According to the Brewery:

"Up River is a classic, aggressively hopped American pale ale, if that's the direction you're headed. This copper gem has a huge hop bouquet with floral, citrus and pine notes merging together in a steady stream of aromatic beauty. With just enough malt for balance, the hop flavors and aromas careen from resinous pine to grapefruit zest, finishing with clean, pleasant bitterness."

Pair with: BBQ Chicken Sandwiches with Pickle Juice Slaw. American Pale Ales are a bit stronger than English Pale Ales, so the combination of the BBQ and the pickle juice will go nicely together.

Dave's recommendations: Crispy Twice-Roasted Potatoes with Paprika Mayo! If you haven't had twice-baked potatoes in some form, you're missing out. Try these for a great BBQ chicken side.

Last time we went to Yankee Stadium, we came away with three points, but it was an Up River battle. Let's make it 2X's with a win this Sunday. No, I'm not above bad jokes. Regardless, thanks for stopping by, let us know what you think in the comments. Vamos Orlando!