How to Unwind (Chama River)

There are some days, when all you can think about is getting off of work and finding a nice, cold beverage du jour. Of late, my choice drink is the mojito. So, when a wonderful version of one finds me (it can be a rare thing to find), I make note and return often. Recently, Chama River Brewing Company seduced me with a pear blackberry mojito...and I think of them often.

Chama River is generally known for their various fresh-brewed beer, and I have to say, the beer is amazing. I highly recommend trying out their sampler, where you are presented with 8-10 small glasses sampling each of the brews. They range from super light to the deepest dark, and include everything in between. With the exception of my aversion to IPA (of any kind), I have been thoroughly pleased with every beer I've tasted there. If you're going to order the sampler, be sure to get an appetizer or two, or, if you're a teetotaler like me, you'll be on your ass in no time.

As I mentioned above, Chama River holds its own on all alcohol fronts. They probably make the best plain mojito in town, as well as devilish margaritas and a super sinful (and luscious) liquid bananas foster. The bartenders know what they're doing here. Plus, you have the option of purchasing your own growler of beer to take home...AND they're refillable! It's like the boxed wine concept, only better.

Once you have satisfied your drink cravings, you really should consider sticking around for dinner. I have made meals out of shared appetizers, and have also ordered from the dinner options- either way you go, you won't be leaving hungry. On cold nights, I highly recommend the guinness fondue, served w/ veggies, bread, and fruit to dip in. That alone is hearty enough to discourage your body from getting tipsy. Adding their calamari (ask for the aioli instead of tartar) and the fried shrimp, and you'll be happily set. If you're out with more than two people, I also suggest any of their salads, or the truffle fries (sprinkled with bacon, bleu cheese, and green onions).

If you are more interested in an actual dinner menu item, stick with the meat selections. Their ribs are awesome- though if you're with a date you'd like to impress, I wouldn't recommend them only due to the mess. You can also get an appetizer serving of the ribs if you don't want sides. The burgers here are cooked to order and have a whole slew of toppings to choose from...so you can create a masterpiece. The prime rib is also a good choice for meat lovers and my mother seemed to like hers a lot when she ordered it. All meals come with your choice from the roving bread basket- I suggest you try all the breads because they are pretty tasty, and take away any tummy rumblings waiting for food.

To be honest, I can't remember if Chama River offers good dessert options...mostly because I'm usually too full and tipsy to think about asking. I would imagine that they have sweet things, and based on the other food, they are probably tasty too. If you're afraid to try one without my recommendation, just order another drink and call it dessert. :)

If Chama River doesn't fill your need for a good drink and some scrumptious food, I don't know what will...