Burger Bar's 'Beer and BBQ Bash' Returns

Burger Bar's "Beer and BBQ Bash" includes a number of unique craft beers paired with regional barbecue. (Photo: Burger Bar)

I don't typically write about beer- or wine-focused dinners because frankly they're a bit boring.

But I'll give exception to the one coming up soon at Burger Bar because it's more of an interactive experience that allows guests to walk around to several stations with tastings along the way. It's also a chance to mingle, make new friends and actually have some fun.

Chef/owner John McLean tells us: "With our Brew Club at nearly 500 members, turnout for our beer dinners kept on growing exponentially every month. It occurred to us that we could serve more guests if we loosened up the program, set up food stations and beer stations, and encouraged guests to roam, taste, drink."

The last one attracted more than 150 beer enthusiasts, and with the summer edition expanding to the outdoor patio, they're expecting even more.

The event happens at 7pm July 24, with McLean pairing Ommegang Brewery with 'cue from Chicago, New Orleans, the Carolinas, Memphis, Texas and Kansas City. See the menu below for the BBQ and beer pairings:

Chicago-Style Baby Back Ribs with Burger Bar Smokehouse Sauce and Apple Slaw paired with: Ommegang Abbey Dubbel

Nawlins' BBQ Shrimp Gulf Shrimp Simmered in Black Pepper Sauce paired with: Ommegang Hennipen

Carolina 12-Hour Hickory-Smoked Pulled Pork Shoulder with Carolina Q Sauce and Southern Slaw paired with: Ommegang BPA

Memphis-Style Dry-Rubbed Slab Ribs with Fried Pickle Chips and Urban Sauce paired with: Ommegang Rare VOS

Texas-style Mesquite Smoked Brisket with Lone Star BBQ Sauce and Cowboy Pinto Beans paired with: Ommegang Seduction

Kansas City-Style Brined & Applewood Smoked Free Range Turkey with Burnt End Mac & Cheese paired with: Ommegang Witte

Here's where you can purchase the $69 tickets.