Hard to believe that it’s been 15 years since Big River Grille opened in Chattanooga on Broad Street. It was the first to open in the chain, and has now been followed by three more — another at Hamilton Place, one in downtown Nashville and one in Lake Buena Vista, Fa. I’m not a beer drinker, unless it’s a burning hot day and the beer is colder than ice. But this restaurant was one of the first in the South to feature beer brewed in-house. Now, boutique breweries have become a big business. But, do you even wonder when dining at Big River or another establishment known for its beer and food, what dishes go best with beer?

The National Beer Wholesalers Association has some suggestions:

1. Light ales, light lagers and blonde ale beers are perfect with spicy foods, such as Mexican, Indian and Caribbean flavors.

2. Wheat beers like Hefeweizen are also delicious with light or citrus-flavored desserts. For a chocolate dessert, try an imperial or sweeter stout beer.

3. Brown ale beer goes well with beef entrees, like steak, pot roast or roast beef.

4. Dry stout beers like oatmeal stout and Porters are hearty beers that are good with soups, stews and dishes served with brown gravy. They also bring out a unique flavor in oysters.

5. Bock beer pairs well with heavy, spicy dishes such as sausages and sauerkraut.

6. Lighter fruit-flavored beers are tasty with leafy green salads or fresh fruit. They are also a nice complement to fruity desserts.

7. An unusual beer, the Dunkelweiss has a delicious yeasty taste that goes well with delicate foods such as pasta or light soups.

8. Amber ale beer is a good all-round beer choice that works well for any food that isn’t too sweet. Pair it with pizza to spice up a cozy evening at home.

9. Bitter ale’s hoppy flavor is a nice match for fried foods, such as calamari, shrimp or other seafood.

10. Many beers work well with vegetable dishes. Try ambers, brown ale or Porters, especially if the dish contains heavy flavorings, such as garlic.

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