Navigating the Craft Beer Conundrum: A Dinner Out with Coworkers

If you’ve ever found yourself in a social setting where your choice of drink felt scrutinized, you’re not alone. Recently, I experienced a classic case of beer bias during a dinner with colleagues. As the server approached to take our drink orders, I decided to break away from the usual and opt for the house IPA. Little did I know, this simple choice would lead me straight into the realm of craft beer judgment.

As soon as I placed my order, I was met with surprised reactions, as if I had just requested a rare wine pairing to accompany my chicken sandwich. One of my coworkers chimed in with the predictable line about how “he doesn’t need all those fancy flavors.” Instead, he preferred a “normal beer that tastes like beer,” ultimately choosing a Stella as a supposed symbol of sophistication. It’s amusing how ordering a locally brewed IPA seemed to place me in the realm of pretentiousness—despite the irony that he was opting for an imported beer with a marketing appeal.

To be honest, I found myself in a peculiar position, attempting to clarify that hops are far from mysterious ingredients but rather a fundamental component of many beers. Yet, my coworker’s mind was clearly set on the idea that anything beyond the realm of macro lagers is an invitation to snobbery. It was hard not to notice that he paid a couple of dollars more for his “premium” lager, which, to me, bore a striking resemblance to a cheap American beer with a fancier label.

How does one engage in these conversations without being labeled a beer snob? The last thing I wanted was to come across as someone forcing their palate onto others. I simply wanted a beer with flavor—something that has been well-crafted. Alas, it appears that in some circles, even a simple order can lead to being viewed as “that person who enjoys the taste of pine and citrus.”

Have you ever found yourself defending your beer of choice to someone who believes that a Corona with lime is the peak of exotic? It’s a common scenario for craft beer enthusiasts. The next time you encounter a similar situation, remember that taste is subjective, and enjoying a well-made beer is fundamentally about personal preference. So raise your glass of IPA high—it’s part of what makes our beer-loving community so diverse and interesting!