Radius 151 James Street South
Spring is here, and with the changing season comes an added burst of energy in the air. Especially after such a harsh winter, this spring I want to hit the ground running, check out new places and meet new people. The Samuel Adams Social at Radius was just the event for that.
Samuel Adams Beer started up a “Restaurant Takeover Series” to demonstrate their connection with the food community and link up with restaurants and foodies alike. They collaborated with Radius for an intimate, one-night-only Hamilton event. On a first come, first serve basis, patrons were treated to free Samuel Adams brew and delicious appetizers created by Radius for the occasion. There were also door prizes including a Samuel Adams gift basket of goodies and Radius gift cards.
My first glimpse at the newly revamped Radius was during the JUNOs July Talk pop-up show in February, but I had not dined at Radius since their change in layout. Split into two dining areas with large threshold in the middle, it looks fantastic. There was a DJ playing some classic Motown and retro hits that set a fun vibe for the night.
I was happy to walk in and see fellow bloggers – mainly of the food variety – The Hungry Gnome, Hamilton Small Fries, and several from the Belly Monsters crew. We foodies know how to do it – a quick chat, then scope out the food! Radius prepared a tasty menu to pair with Samuel Adams’ Boston Lager and to actually use the beer in each item. They describe the Boston Lager as their “go-to” beer. I was a fan before even tasting the beer, just from looking at the deep amber brew in the curvy glass that I was handed. The Boston Lager is a full-bodied beer, with Samuel Adams two-row pale malt blend and Caramel 60. It paired perfectly with Radius’ apps:
– Mini fish & chips with house Tartar
– Pretzels and beer cheese
– Mozzarella sticks with Nona’s gravy
– House kettle chips and Sam Adams all day onion dip
– Beer braised chicken flat bread, jalapeno, arugula, diced tomato, red onion, garlic yogurt
I loved all of the different pops of flavour on the chicken flat bread. The mozzarella sticks were also delicious and were the perfect snack with our beer. The Radius staff also had to keep restocking the little bun-shaped pretzels. They were so tasty, especially with a little dip.
Of course, Radius’ regular menu was also an option, and Chanry of The Hungry Gnome was quick to order a round of oysters for the table. I was glad she was there for my first oyster experience (and also thankful for the Samuel Adams beer to wash it down)! I look forward to sampling more of Radius’ menu in the future, especially with patio season on the way.
The Social was an awesome idea to pair Samuel Adams with a local restaurant to create a fun menu and showcase both the beer and restaurant. I look forward to hearing about more collaborative events like this to come.
Note: I attended the event as a guest of Branding & Buzzing and was compensated for my work, but all thoughts about the night are my own.
