Raffe's Beer Garden

My neice, Kristie, invited us to a "Beer Tasting" event at Raffe's Beer Garden (photo taken from link). I know what you're thinking, Mr. J in a Beer Garden? Sounds like his own private paradise... haha. Yes, we went and it was very nice, although the "set-up" between the beer table and the line for the food was not arranged as well as you might like, I guess with the space allotted they set up the best they could. The food was fantastic! You know how I feel about mediterranean-style foods, and of course my favorite tends to be the Dolmas (Stuffed Grape Leaves). Raffe's is Syrian-mediterranean.

"Raffe's Beer Garden sells more than
200 varieties of beer from all around the world."

The event boasted a "Beer Tasting, Good Food and Belly Dancing"... The belly dancer, a real arabic dancer I was told, was very talented. She balanced a sword on her head and supposedly dances with a snake, but the establishment I think told her not to use it in the act... as some people get freaked out by snakes. I was sorry to have to miss that part--I would like to see the entire act, snake and all... Enjoyable, nonetheless.

The beer tasting went over like gangbusters, as Mr. J took it upon himself to go and horde as much beer for our table as possible. He was so worried about everyone, and so kind to go and horde bottles of beer--my neice delighted in this fact, stating that she was proud of him for being brave enough to just boldly grab all the bottles he could hang on to!! Our table looked like a bar in itself! :)

Unfortunately, he came home with a hell of a hangover, and nearly fell into the T.V. once we got him back to the house... Of course, being the nurturer I am, Aunt Jackie took good care of him and made sure that he was well taken care of and put him to bed with a kiss on the forehead.

So it was a very nice evening, thanks to Kristie and Rodney for inviting us out. I'll have to treat them sometime to my own personal "Dolmas" recipe which I'm getting quite good at... Rodney can cook up some authentic greek dishes and i'll bring my dolmas, hummus and pita bread to top it off... Richie (Mr. J) can, of course bring the beer... his specialty! :)