Cool Summer Sunsets and Savory Bites: Perfect Pairings for Outdoor Dining
Sitting outside with the warm summer breeze evokes a sense of freedom and escapism within us all. Adding perfectly crafted cocktails and savory bites into your summer outdoor dining gives us opportunities to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This helps us truly connect with those we choose to enjoy these moments with.
Suffolk County is the prime location to have such a soothing outdoor sensory experience. Dining at The Refuge will allow you to tap into the simple joys that being present brings. Whether it’s in your own Long Island backyard, your favorite restaurant, or perched up in soft golden sand — we’ve got the perfect drink and food pairings to elevate your summer outdoor dining experience.
White Wine With Seafood, Salads, and Veggies
First on our list of perfect pairings for summer outdoor dining is a white wine with seafood, salads, and veggies. Long Island is on the coast with the sea and fields of naturally grown produce right at our fingertips. White wines such as Pinot Grigio go perfectly with seafood such as hearty fish, shrimp, and scallops. A white wine’s acidity will enhance flavors by cutting through fishy oils. On the other hand, its light body will ensure it doesn’t overwhelm the dish. Additionally, more citrusy white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc enhance the crispness of greens and vinaigrettes. For a nonalcoholic option, try sparkling water or ginger ale.
Beer and Burgers
Different kinds of beer pair wonderfully with burgers due to their complementary flavors and textures. A hoppy IPA balances the richness of a cheeseburger with its bitterness which enhances the savory notes. A malty amber ale or lager pairs wonderfully with barbecue flavorings, giving it an extra touch of sweetness. We love this particular combination because the effervescence of beer refreshes the palate, making each bite taste delicious. For a nonalcoholic option, try pairing with an ice-cold cola or a sage gimlet using fresh sage leaves, simple syrup, sparkling water, and lime juice.
Tequila and Tacos
Another perfect pairing for your summer outdoor dining is tequila and tacos. The bold flavors of tacos have always been a hit when paired with tequila — an exciting tradition that we all love. Whether it’s a shot of tequila or a margarita, the citrusy notes of the drink enhance the savory and spicy elements of tacos. Tequila’s slight sweetness can also temper the heat of salsas, which helps those of us who can’t handle the spice. This pairing livens up the food and the drink, making each meal feel festive and satisfying. Cucumber water or a refreshing aqua fresca is a delightful nonalcoholic option.
Champagne, Chocolate, and Cheese
For a light snack filled with a unique and enjoyable sensory experience, bust out a bottle of champagne with your favorite cheeses and chocolates. Creamy cheeses like brie, goat cheese, and camembert balance out champagne’s acidity while making your taste buds dance. Opt for pink champagne or ones that read “demi-sec” and pair with ever-so-sweet chocolate-covered strawberries. Sparkling grape juice is a crisp alcohol alternative that pairs wonderfully with cheese and chocolate.
Dine With the Refuge Today
Looking for a charming patio for your summer outdoor dining in the heart of Melville, New York? The Refuge invites you for a moment of pure indulgence where sipping on your favorite drink slows down time while awakening your senses. Whether it’s a refreshing white wine with crisp citrus notes or a smokey tequila, don’t forget to pair your beverage with a savory bite for your palate.
As you decide on your lunch or dinner plans, don’t forget to stop and smell the roses (or briny mineral ocean water radiating in the air). Suffolk County is a harmonious coastal haven that is calling for everyone to enjoy food, drinks, and each other outdoors!