Chefs Name Top Light Beers for Summer

Three professional chefs have identified their preferred light beers for summer consumption, highlighting specific brands and their characteristics. Chef Anya Fernald, founder of Belcampo Meat Co., favors Lagunitas DayTime IPA for its hop-forward yet sessionable profile, noting its suitability for outdoor activities and grilled foods. She emphasizes that a good light beer should not sacrifice flavor for lower calories.

Chef and restaurateur Michael Anthony of Gramercy Tavern selected Allagash White, a Belgian-style wheat beer, appreciating its subtle citrus and coriander notes. He suggests it pairs well with lighter fare like seafood and salads, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional lagers. Anthony also pointed out the importance of a clean finish, which he finds in Allagash White.

Lastly, Chef and author Jamie Bissonnette, known for Toro and Coppa, recommended Firestone Walker Pivo Pils. He described it as a crisp, dry, and highly drinkable pilsner that complements a wide range of summer dishes, from pizza to spicy tacos. Bissonnette underscored the beer's balanced bitterness and clean malt character as key attributes for warm-weather enjoyment. The chefs' selections collectively offer a diverse range of styles within the light beer category, catering to different palates and culinary occasions.