A Quick Guide to Beer Styles: What to Order at Elicit

Everyone’s had that moment where you walk up to the bar, see a dozen beers on tap, and freeze. IPAs, pilsners, stouts, lagers, etc., all sound cool, but what’s actually what? You’re not alone in that. It happens to the best of us.

The good news is that once you understand the basic styles, ordering beer gets a whole lot easier. And way more fun. You start spotting what you like, what you don’t, and what’s worth trying just for the experience. That’s kind of what Elicit Brewing is all about: exploring, tasting, and just enjoying the ride. 

In this blog, we will break down the most popular beer styles with taste cues and pairing ideas to make everything easier for you. 

Why Knowing Your Beer Styles Matters

Now, nobody’s saying you have to memorize every brewing term to enjoy a beer. But knowing a few things does help. It means you can order with a bit more confidence, no more random guesses or picking whatever your friend gets.

When you know the basic styles, you can match your drink to your mood. Maybe you’re out on a sunny day and want something cold and crisp. Or maybe it’s a cozy night and you’re craving something darker and richer. Knowing the difference just makes the whole experience smoother.

And if you’re ever not sure, ask. Seriously. At places like Elicit, that’s half the fun; the bartenders love helping people figure out what fits them best. 

The Classics, Explained: 4 Beer Styles to Know

Here’s a quick crash course in the most popular beer styles can make ordering at Elicit feel a lot more fun and way less confusing. Each style tells its own story from crisp lagers to bold IPAs. Here’s a little guide to help you sip with confidence.

IPA: (India Pale Ale), The Bold and Hoppy One

If beers had personalities, the IPA would be the loud one in the group, bold, confident, and maybe a little dramatic. IPAs are all about hops, which means you’ll taste flavors that can range from citrus and grapefruit to pine and herbs.

They can be a little bitter, no doubt about it. But that’s what makes them interesting. They pair great with anything full of flavor, burgers, wings, spicy food, you name it.

At Elicit Brewing, we rotate IPAs that keep things fresh. Some are hazy and juicy; others are sharp and crisp. It’s a fun style to explore because no two IPAs ever taste exactly the same. Try our IPA on tap. 

Stout: The Smooth and Roasty One

If an IPA is a punch of flavor, a stout is a slow hug. Dark, rich, and smooth, it’s the kind of beer that feels right on a cool night. You’ll often catch notes of chocolate, coffee, or even caramel.

People assume stouts are heavy, but that’s not really true. A lot of them are surprisingly balanced. You can sip one slowly while chatting with friends, or even pair it with dessert. Chocolate cake and stout? Unreal combo. 

Elicit Brewing usually has a few stouts on tap, especially during colder months. We change them up, but you can always expect that creamy texture and roasted flavor that just feels good.  

Pilsner: The Crisp and Refreshing One

Pilsners are what most people picture when they think of beer: pale, clear, and super drinkable. It’s clean, not too hoppy, and has that perfect balance of flavor without being overwhelming.

If you’re new to craft beer or just want something that doesn’t demand too much attention, go for a pilsner. It’s the kind of beer that just goes with everything possible: pizza, wings, or just a casual hangout.

Elicit Brewing does a great pilsner. It’s crisp, easy, and perfect when you want something that just hits the spot without overthinking it. Find it on our menu. 

Lager: The Crowd-Pleaser

Lagers are that friend you can always count on. They’re balanced, light, and super refreshing. Brewed slowly at cool temperatures, they come out smooth and clean, never too sweet or too bitter.

They’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re watching a game, grabbing a quick bite, or just hanging around, lagers fit the mood. It pairs with nearly everything: fries, tacos, pretzels, you name it.

Elicit’s lagers lean into that classic vibe but with a local touch. Every pour feels familiar but never boring, exactly what you want in a solid, go-to beer.  

How to Choose Your Style Like a Pro

Here’s the truth: the best way to figure out your favorite beer is to just try stuff. Order a flight, share a few with friends, and take a second to notice what stands out. Do you like the bite of hops? Or maybe the smoothness of something darker?

You’ll start to notice patterns pretty quickly. That’s when beer starts getting fun, when you know what you’re looking for but still leave room for surprises.

And don’t worry about sounding like a beer expert. No one’s judging you at Elicit. It’s all about finding what makes you go, ‘Yep, that’s the one.’

What You’ll Find on Tap at Elicit

At Elicit Brewing, we try to make beer approachable, not complicated. Whether you’re in Manchester, Fairfield, or Danbury, the vibe stays the same: great beer, great food, and a space built for hanging out.

We’ve got options for every taste, IPAs for the bold, pilsners for the easygoing, stouts for the cozy nights, and lagers for everything in between. Every beer is brewed with care and creativity, but the goal’s always simple: enjoy the moment.

So next time you’re at Elicit, don’t stress over the menu. Try something new, ask for a sample, or just go with your gut. Whatever you pick, it’s brewed for you to have a good time.

Quick Pairing Guide (For Fun!)

Because beer and food just belong together. And at Elicit, that pairing goes from ‘nice’ to ‘next-level.’ Here’s a quick cheat sheet inspired by what’s on the menu. Think of it as your go-to for matching your drink with your plate.

IPA

Flavor Profile: Hoppy, citrusy, bold

Best Food Match: Spicy wings, burgers

Try It If You Like: Strong flavors that make your taste buds dance

Stout

Flavor Profile: Roasty, smooth, a little chocolatey

Best Food Match: BBQ or dessert 

Try It If You Like: Coffee, richness, and a little bit of depth

Pilsner

Flavor Profile: Light, crisp, refreshing

Best Food Match: Pizza, fries, or anything crunchy

Try It If You Like: Easy-drinking, clean-tasting beers

Lager

Flavor Profile: Balanced, clean, classic

Best Food Match: Literally everything, from wings to tacos

Try It If You Like: Familiar, timeless beers that never disappoint

Each pour at Elicit is designed to pair beautifully with its food; bold flavors that work together, not against each other.

Grab a Pint and Pair Up.

FAQs

What’s the difference between lager and pilsner?
Pilsner is a type of lager, lighter, crisper, and a bit hoppier.  

Are IPAs always bitter?
Not necessarily! Many modern IPAs are juicy and balanced. 

What’s the smoothest beer style?
Try a lager or stout, both go down easy. 

Explore Beer Styles With Elicit

No beer snobbery, no guessing games, just great-tasting craft beer made simple. Whether you like crisp, hoppy, or smooth, you’ll find something that fits your taste (and your vibe).

See what’s on tap & plan your visit.

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