Don’t Worry, Be Hoppy (or Malty)

Have you ever stood in front of the craft beer section at the grocery or liquor store, dying to try something new but completely at a loss as to how to choose one over another?  Flying Saucer Draught Emporium is the solution to your problem…and it’s only as far as you are from downtown Houston.  With more than a hundred available craft beers you can discover your next brew in no time.

A few things set the Flying Saucer apart from other bars.  The first is obviously their extensive beer selection: stouts, porters, blondes, ales, ambers, barleywines, and more will suit even the most sophisticated beer palate.  No matter who you are or what you drink, you are bound to find something new to try.  If you aren’t the adventurous type, no problem – the Flying Saucer keeps most of your better-known, easy-drinking favorites on hand: Peroni, Guinness, and Sam Adams are available as well.  Another unique feature is the knowledgable staff.  The bartenders are well-versed on the product and they were able to advise us regarding brewing techniques, “hoppy” vs. “malty” beer, and the newest releases on tap or in the bottle.  They don’t stop at serving your beer: Flying Saucer can host your private party in a second-floor space that overlooks the action on the main floor, they book live music on weekends, and every Tuesday they host “trivia night,” complete with prizes.

The menu is solid pub fare but with a few welcome twists.  Sure, you can get nachos and wings (which are great, and I’m from Upstate NY, the home of the chicken wing) but the Flying Saucer brings a lot more than that to the table.  They capitalize on their incredible beer selection with beer-complimenting foods like bratworst; and not just any bratworst - Usinger.  If you’re from Milwaukee you’re nodding appreciatively right now.  Flying Saucer also has a cheese-and-beer pairing menu that answers all of your questions about what kind of beer goes with gouda, cheddar, cotswold, gruyere, goats cheese, and brie!  It’s a fun take on the usual “wine-and-food” pairing concept.

The bar is centrally located in downtown Houston, within walking distance of the Theater District, Minute Maid Park (map), and Macy’s.  It’s less than a five minute walk from the Main Street Square light-rail station but if you are driving there are several parking garages in the surrounding blocks.  If you are in Houston it’s a must-see but if you aren’t, check to see if there is a Flying Saucer in your city.

Location: 705 Main Street (map)

Hours of Operation: Monday-Wednesday 11 AM-1 AM; Thursday & Friday 11 AM-2 AM; Sunday 12 PM- 12 AM

Prices: A wide variety of beer brings a wide variety of prices but they often have a $3 “Fire Sale” pint if you’re feeling thrifty.  High-end bottled beer listed as high as $25.  Food prices range from $2.99 side salads to a $15.99 snack plate (for five.)

Photo credit: Christina Uticone