Blueberry Beer? Lobster Pizza? This Must Be Sea Dog Brew Pub

The Maine-flavored Sea Dog Brew Pub of Clearwater is doing a brisk business far from its home base in the Northeast, introducing Floridians to some intriguing menu items.

They include blueberry beer and lobster pizza. These unlikely combos are creating quite a following for the new restaurant/brew pub.

The fruity beer is made from wild Maine blueberries, of course. And the lobster pizza? The topping includes chunks of Maine-harvested lobster meat.

Sea Dog Brew Pub is among a growing number of places in the Tampa Bay area to offer its own homemade craft beer, as well as a selection of "cask-conditioned" and seasonal brews on tap.

The Forsley family of Maine recently expanded their business to Clearwater and Orlando, noting the growth and demand for craft beers in the Sunshine State.

Patch talked with the folks at Sea Dog Brewing Co., located at 26200 US 19.

Patch: What distinguishes Sea Dog Brewing Co. from other craft beer makers?
Sea Dog: We have a very unique brewing style that uses top fermentation and a specific type of yeast called Ringwood yeast, which is from England.

Patch: Do you make your beer on site?
Sea Dog: We make Sea Dog beer on site in small batches. Our local brewer is Bobby Baker.

Patch: Tell us a little more about the craft beers you offer.
Sea Dog: We have everything from stout, to IPA, to fruit beers. Our most popular brew is Sea Dog Wild Blueberry Wheat Ale. It's a wheat-based beer with a quenching blueberry essence.

Patch: What about the food? Oh, and is there Maine lobster on the menu?
Sea Dog: We most definitely feature Maine lobster.  We also feature oysters, local seafood, and creative pub fare, from the BBQ Pork Sandwich, Blonde Ale Cheese and Bacon Burger to the Apricot Chicken Sandwich.

Patch: What's it like to visit Sea Dog Brewing?

Sea Dog: Our atmosphere is fun and family friendly.  After dining hours, we feature late night entertainment in a relaxed, casual setting.  We strive to be a community gathering place for a wide variety of customers. Our Mug Club is a unique way people can become a part of the Sea Dog family as well.

Patch: How would you describe the craft beer scene in Florida compared to Maine?
Sea Dog: The craft beer scene began in the mid-80's in Maine and the state has over 30 craft breweries.  Florida has really begun to embrace craft beer over the last decade, and appreciation for hand-crafted brews continues to grow. Sea Dog beers have been very well received.

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Now Open: Sea Dog Brew Pub

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