When it comes to seafood, knowing what to eat with cocktails can elevate your meal from satisfying to sensational. Whether you favor a libation that complements your dish’s subtleties or one that brings out a refreshing contrast, there are some perfect pairing options on the Eagle Cafe menu that you’ve just got to try for yourself. Here are just a few of our top recommendations for exceptional cocktails and food pairings.
Seared Salmon Sandwich and Our Eagle Bloody Mary
Salmon is a versatile fish, and its firm texture makes it a great choice for a brunch or lunch sandwich. Better still, the rich fattiness of the fish means it pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of our Eagle Bloody Mary.
This cocktail, featuring vodka, our house-made mix, pickled veggies, and bacon, is a savory powerhouse that complements the salmon, veggies, and spicy aioli that gives this sandwich its unique kick. The tangy kick of the Bloody Mary cuts through the richness of the seafood, while the bacon adds a salty contrast that makes this one of the harder-to-resist cocktail and food pairings!
Clam Chowder and Our Watermelon Jolly Rancher
The cocktail combines watermelon schnapps, rum, and fresh lime juice for a drink that’s sweet, tangy, and refreshing.
Ordered on its own or in a classic sourdough bread bowl, our clam chowder’s richness and savory depth are lightened by the cocktail’s fruity, acidic notes. The contrast makes for a dynamic flavor experience that offers an intriguing solution when you’re wondering what to eat with cocktails.
Fish Tacos and Our Jalapeño Margarita
Few dishes are more emblematic of idyllic casual seaside dining than fish tacos. Their zesty, spicy, flavors make them a perfect partner for our signature Jalapeño Margarita. This cocktail, featuring Tanteo Jalapeño Tequila, triple sec, our house-made agave sour mix, and a spicy salt rim, is bold and brimming with character.
The smoky heat of the jalapeño tequila enhances the kicky toppings on the fish tacos, while the citrusy sour mix complements the blend of fresh flavors. The spicy salt rim adds an extra layer of sublime salinity, making each sip as exciting as each bite. Margaritas and tacos are among the most iconic cocktails and food pairings for a good reason!
Crab and Our Blood Orange Mimosa
With its sweet, delicate flavor, crab truly shines when paired with a bright, citrusy cocktail like our Blood Orange Mimosa. Made with sparkling brut and blood orange purée, this cocktail adds a refreshing fruity twist to any of our crab dishes.
Whether you choose our crab cake Benedict or crab avocado omelet at breakfast or visit us for brunch or lunch and sample our crab cakes or crab avocado toast, add our Blood Orange Mimosa to your order. The effervescence of the sparkling wine cleanses the palate, while the blood orange purée amplifies the crab’s natural sweetness. The citrus notes cut through the richness of the dishes, making each bite feel fresh and vibrant.
Pairing Tips
When it comes to seafood and other dishes, the beauty of cocktails and food pairings lies in the interplay of flavors. Here are some tips for deciding what to eat with cocktails:
1) Consider the dominant flavors in both the dish and the cocktail. Rich and creamy dishes pair well with acidic or citrusy drinks, while spicy meals benefit from sweet or tangy beverages.
2) If the dish has a lot of seasoning or a heavy sauce, choose a lighter cocktail that won’t overwhelm the food.
3) Pair a sparkling cocktail with a rich, creamy dish or a spicy cocktail with something fried to create an enjoyable contrast.
With so many fantastic seafood and beverage options, it’s easy to create perfect cocktails and food pairings at the legendary Eagle Cafe. Join us for brunch and cocktails in our cozy dining room or take in the gorgeous San Francisco Bay views from our unique patio. Then sit back, enjoy a fantastic meal and signature cocktail, and savor every delicious bite and sip at our iconic Pier 39 cafe.