Cider has come a long way from its rustic roots. Once considered a humble drink, it’s now celebrated by foodies, brewers, and chefs alike for its depth, range, and food-friendliness. At The Ciderworks @ Story Tavern in Burbank, we believe cider isn’t just a beverage—it’s a versatile pairing partner that elevates the entire pub dining experience. From crisp dry varieties to sweet, fruit-forward blends, there’s a cider for every palate and plate.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons cider pairs perfectly with pub food, highlight some of the best food pairings, and show how this drink continues to charm guests at gastropubs and cider bars alike.
A Match Made in Culinary Heaven
Cider and pub food aren’t just good friends—they’re a culinary power couple. Here’s why this pairing hits all the right notes:
1. Cider Balances Rich, Fried Foods
Pub favorites like fish and chips, onion rings, or fried pickles are delicious, but let’s face it—they’re heavy. That’s where cider steps in. The effervescence and acidity of cider help cleanse the palate, cutting through the richness and preventing flavor fatigue. A dry apple cider, in particular, can refresh the mouth between bites of golden fried goodness.
2. Cider Offers Complex Flavor Profiles
Unlike beer, which is typically grain-based and hoppy, cider is made from apples (and sometimes pears or other fruits), giving it a different set of tasting notes—tart, sweet, funky, or floral. This makes it incredibly flexible when pairing with the bold, savory, or sweet-and-salty flavors commonly found in pub dishes.
A cider with spicy notes can complement wings with buffalo sauce or jalapeño poppers, while a fruit-forward cider can balance salty meats like prosciutto or bacon.
3. Sweetness Tames the Heat
Spicy pub foods—think loaded nachos, peppered sausages, or curry fries—find a perfect counterpart in cider. Semi-sweet or sweet cider helps cool the palate and amplify other flavors in the dish. The natural sugars in cider tone down the burn, creating a more balanced bite.
Try a medium-sweet cider with Story Tavern’s spicy chicken sandwich or any of our chipotle-dressed sliders for a delightful contrast.
4. Cider Is a Gluten-Free Alternative
For patrons who are gluten-sensitive or gluten-intolerant, cider is an excellent option. Unlike most beers, cider is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe yet flavorful pairing option for those enjoying pub staples like burgers (on gluten-free buns), fries, or grilled meats.
At Story Tavern, we’re proud to carry a rotating list of both local and imported ciders so there’s something for everyone—regardless of dietary restrictions.
5. Seasonal Pairing Possibilities
One of cider’s superpowers is its seasonality. In the fall, spiced ciders pair beautifully with hearty dishes like pot pies and bratwursts. In the summer, light, sparkling varieties complement grilled fare, fresh salads, and seasonal produce.
We love rotating our cider menu to reflect what’s in season—offering everything from tart cranberry blends in winter to floral, citrusy ciders in spring.
Popular Pub Food and Cider Pairings
To help you navigate the perfect pub night, here are a few classic pairings to try at Story Tavern:
Fish and Chips + Dry Apple Cider
A British classic deserves a traditional partner. The crisp, slightly bitter bite of a dry cider cuts through the richness of the batter while complementing the tender fish inside.
Spicy Chicken Wings + Semi-Sweet Cider
The mild sweetness helps soothe the tongue and brings out the tangy vinegar notes in a buffalo-style wing sauce.
Cheeseburger + Hopped Cider
A hoppy cider adds just the right amount of bitterness to cut through melted cheese and charred meat, adding complexity without overwhelming the burger.
Sausages + Pear Cider
Pear ciders tend to be softer and rounder on the palate, pairing especially well with pork-based sausages, mustard-forward toppings, and roasted veggies.
Soft Pretzels + Spiced or Barrel-Aged Cider
The yeasty, doughy flavors of soft pretzels are a cozy match for the warm spices or oak notes found in certain barrel-aged ciders.
Cheers to the Perfect Pair
Cider’s resurgence in the craft beverage scene isn’t a coincidence—it’s a testament to its versatility, wide appeal, and how beautifully it pairs with the comfort food we all crave. From its palate-cleansing properties to its gluten-free nature, cider is a smart, satisfying choice for pub lovers everywhere.
So next time you pull up a seat at The Ciderworks @ Story Tavern, don’t just order a pint—ask us for the perfect cider pairing. We’ll make sure your meal sings from the first sip to the last bite.
We Invite You to Story Tavern and The Ciderworks @ Story Tavern
Discover the perfect pairing of craft beer, cider, and cuisine at Story Tavern and The Ciderworks @ Story Tavern in downtown Burbank. Whether you’re savoring our curated selection of craft beers or exploring the handcrafted ciders from our in-house Ciderworks, every visit promises a dynamic and flavorful experience. Pair your drink with dishes from our thoughtfully designed menu, featuring everything from savory street tacos to indulgent chocolate desserts—each crafted to complement your beverage of choice.
Conveniently located at 150 S San Fernando Blvd., we’re more than just a tavern or cider house; we’re a community where great food, exceptional drinks, and good company come together. Join us for your next outing and discover why we’re a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Your table—and your next great pairing—awaits!