An Epicurean Journey: Barbareño Teams Up with Ojai Valley Brewery
Imagine a delicate sonic harmony between savory Southern California dishes and eloquent craft beers inspired by the wilderness. Sound like a mouthwatering dream? Well, it’s not anymore. Two avant-garde entities in the culinary world, Barbareño and Ojai Valley Brewery (OVB), have joined forces to bring you an unmissable, unparalleled taste experience.
The Who’s-Who in The Collaboration
Barbareño, a quintessential off-State Street restaurant in Santa Barbara known for its innovative and tradition-inspired California cuisine, has always been a beloved spot for food enthusiasts. On the other hand, we have Ojai Valley Brewery, a craft beer stalwart that brews beers influenced by Ojai’s unique ecosystem. OVB’s concoctions feature locally foraged, farm-grown ingredients, offering a unique, terroir-driven beer experience that vividly reflects the local area.
A Pairing Dinner Like No Other
The exciting culinary journey began when these two Santa Barbara County icons decided to offer the ultimate California-centric pairing dinner. Upon sealing the partnership, Barbareño’s chef began curating palate-tantalizing dishes that would form a sublime symphony with OVB’s diverse beer portfolio.
Presented as a multi-course feast, the dinner turned into a celebration of Santa Barbara’s diversity and the broader bounty of California’s landscapes. What could be better than savoring locally-sourced flavors while getting a hint of the magic brewing in the Ojai Valley?
The Carefully Chosen Flavor Profiles
The dishes on the menu truly set the stage for an intoxicating tango of hops, grains, sous vide tenderness, and crackling crispiness. The appetizer introduced a richly-flavored Mushroom Toast matched with a light-bodied Ojai Wild Ale. The earthiness of the mushrooms harmonized gracefully with the wild yeast and tart taste in the ale.
Then came the savory, umami-rich Mashka Flatbread. This paired impeccably with the Navajoa, a slightly fruity American Pale Ale that provided just the right balance of sweetness and bitterness. The more robust flavor of the flatbread seemed to awaken new dimensions in the beer.
The Atmosphere and Conversation
The atmosphere was abuzz with corks popping, forks clinking, laughter, and avid discussions about the intriguing pairings. Each new course was introduced by the chef and brewmaster, allowing guests an insight into the thought process behind each pairing.
There was a conscious emphasis on connecting the diners to the origins of their food and drink. The stories spilled by the chef and brewmaster added rich layers to the taste experience, drawing a beautiful picture of Santa Barbara and Ojai’s landscapes and their contribution to the mouthfuls of delight being savored.
Easy on Taste, Conscious of Environment
What gave an edge to this gastronomical exploration was both entities’ commitment to sustainability. The craft beer was manufactured using raw, local, and ethically-sourced materials. Barbareño, on its part, emphasized zero-waste and locally sourced ingredients. This was culinary tourism at its best and most sustainable.
An Ongoing Discovery
While this first pairing dinner between Barbareño and Ojai Valley Brewery created a sensational splash, it only opened the door to more possibilities. The collaboration promises ongoing discoveries and an appreciation for the land that we live on, reminding us that meals are not just about satiating hunger, but about celebrating our connection with nature and the community.
Want to be part of this epicurean journey? Keep an eye on Barbareño and Ojai Valley Brewery’s updates for their next grand venture. This is, indeed, a match made gastronomically divine. Bon appétit!
Bly with OVB’s Malibu Mosaic IPA, which enhanced the flavors of the flatbread with its tropical hop notes. The main course featured a tender, perfectly cooked Ribeye Steak with a side of Brussels Sprouts and Bacon. This dish was expertly complemented by OVB’s Ojai Valley Red, a rich and robust beer that brought out the smoky and savory elements of the steak. Finally, for dessert, a decadent Chocolate Tart with Ojai Valley Vanilla Porter Ice Cream was served, creating a luscious combination of chocolate and vanilla flavors that danced harmoniously with the velvety smoothness of the porter.
This collaboration between Barbareño and Ojai Valley Brewery showcased the artistry and creativity of both establishments. The carefully chosen flavor profiles of the dishes and beers created an unforgettable dining experience that highlighted the best of Santa Barbara County and California as a whole. For food and beer enthusiasts alike, this pairing dinner was truly a feast for the senses.
Bly with the Ojai Valley IPA, with its hop-forward profile and citrusy undertones that perfectly complemented the flavors of the flatbread. The main course featured a succulent Santa Maria-style tri-tip steak, cooked to perfection and served with a side of roasted vegetables. This was paired with OVB’s Ojai Amber Ale, which provided a malty sweetness and a smooth finish that enhanced the richness of the steak. Finally, for dessert, a decadent chocolate lava cake was served alongside Ojai Valley’s Barrel-Aged Stout, creating a heavenly combination of rich chocolate and roasted malt flavors. The carefully chosen flavor profiles in each dish and beer pairing created a symphony of tastes that left diners satisfied and impressed. This collaboration between Barbareño and Ojai Valley Brewery truly showcased the best of Santa Barbara’s culinary and brewing scene, and was a true epicurean journey for all who had the pleasure of experiencing it.