I have written many articles advising you on what specific beers to drink. During my last review article, I had an epiphany. I usually sit at home with the beers that I am going to review and go to work with nothing and no one else around me to cloud my judgment. Rarely in the real world is that how beer is enjoyed. It is with friends – both old and new – entertainment and often food.

I’ve decided this month to give you some ideas of what Worcester has to offer for experiences that go along with the beer I feature in this column. Some are old favorites, some are new ones. It was difficult to boil it down to just five; I might have to do this again soon. The bottom line here is that Worcester and the surrounding area has a lot to offer, and we should all be supporting it. Cheers!

Vincent’s, Worcester
The sign in the window says “This is it,” and it could not be more accurate. Most Wednesday nights there is a four-piece instrumental funk/soul/groove band that you just need to experience. Speaking of need to experience, the meatball sandwich is one of the best I have ever had in my life. Pair this sandwich with a Narragansett on draft, and you have a religious experience. The assorted taxidermy on the wall above the bar is a sure conversation starter. The outdoor patio is reminiscent of a campground, right in the middle of Worcester.

Beer festivals
Brew Woo and Craft Beer Races are the two most popular beer festivals in Worcester, but keep an eye out for others nearby. Breweries also sometimes host similar events, so be sure to follow all of your local favorites on social media for updates. If you have never been to a beer festival, make it a priority to go. It is like a party with friends that you have not met yet. It is really a simple premise. You purchase admission and, perhaps, drink tickets. At the venue are assorted brewers and distributers dispensing beer and similar beverages. Usually, there’s food and live music. The people who attend these festivals are some of the friendliest folks I have ever encountered. If I could offer a helpful hint, be sure to stay hydrated. The smaller cups have a way of sneaking up on you, and you could lose track of time and the amount that you drink. Safety first!

The Dive Bar, Worcester
It is no secret that I am a big fan of Armsby Abbey. The Dive Bar is owned by the same people and has a similar world-class tap list, but the venue is a bit different. In the past, the bar has shown movies outside and hosted live music, art shows and even yoga. There is a huge outdoor patio, and the enclosed area is home to Mama Roux, a food truck that is getting rave reviews. Everything that I have had from the menu thus far has been nothing short of stellar. The communal seating outside will assure that you will be leaving with new friends. I can only imagine what’s next.

Tree House, Monson/Charlton
If you have not yet, you simply must make the pilgrimage to Tree House Brewing in Monson; perhaps by the time this article is printed, the new Charlton location will be open. Do not be afraid of the stories of the long lines; the staff there are true professionals. I have rarely encountered a wait longer than 30 minutes. After leaving, head on over to BT’s Smokehouse for some of the finest barbecue in the area. It is BYOB, so feel free to bring in some of your spoils from the trip to Tree House. You will not be alone, as BT’s is a part of a Tree House trip for many. Try the Pig Trip Platter for a taste of most of what’s on the menu there.

Brew City, Worcester
Brew City has been a staple in the city for beer for more than 20 years; it must be doing something right. This was the place many of us experienced our first “beer menu.” There were so many bottles and drafts to choose from, it was mind-boggling at a time when just having a small selection of craft beer in a restaurant was considered a welcome surprise. Even today, Brew City has one of the wider selections in the city. Your friend that enjoys a mass-market lager can do so, and even order a pitcher for the table, and you can order some of the best craft beer available. When the weather is nice, the seats on Shrewsbury Street are hard to beat for people watching, and there always seems to be a special going on to bring me back.

Kerry Cyganiewicz