Thanksgiving is a time to gather, indulge, and reflect on what we’re grateful for. And what better way to elevate the feast than with thoughtfully paired New York craft beers? Whether you're hosting a big family dinner or showing up with a six-pack to impress your in-laws, the right beer can turn every bite into a moment worth savoring.
Here’s our course-by-course pairing guide featuring beer styles to help you celebrate Turkey Day in style.
Turkey & Main Dishes
Roast turkey is the star, but let’s be real: it can be dry if not done right. That’s why you want a beer with a touch of citrus or spice to bring it to life.
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Saison or Belgian-style Ale — Light, zesty, and dry with fruity esters to brighten up the turkey.
- Crisp Pale Ale — A hop-forward pale ale with citrus notes cuts through gravy and stuffing like a dream.
Both enhance the main dish without overwhelming it, creating balance on the plate and in your glass.
Savory Sides (Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Veggies)
Sides are often the real MVPs at Thanksgiving. Their rich, herby, and earthy flavors call for beers that offer a malty backbone and a touch of toastiness.
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Amber Ale — Smooth, malt-forward beers with light caramel notes that sync perfectly with traditional stuffing.
- Biere de Garde or Brown Ale — Rustic, subtly sweet, and complex—a great match for roasted root vegetables and hearty gravies.
These picks amplify the comfort-food vibe while adding a layer of depth.
Sweet Potato Casserole & Cranberry Sauce
These dishes bring sweet and tart to the party. Look for beers with spice or a soft malt presence to tie everything together.
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Spiced Brown Ale — Smooth with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg; perfect against those sugary sweet potatoes.
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Tart Wheat Ale — Tart, refreshing, and palate-cleansing—ideal with cranberry sauce.
Together, they add some flair to your plate and offer a festive twist.
Desserts (Pumpkin Pie, Apple Crisp, Pecan Pie)
End on a high note with big, bold, or dessert-inspired brews that match the richness of your final course.
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Pastry-style Sour or Fruited Ale — Packed with fruit and vanilla, these beers taste like pie in a glass.
- Imperial Stout or Barrel-Aged Beer — Deep roasted malts, chocolate, and a hint of coffee—a decadent match for pumpkin or pecan pie.
If you haven’t had a stout with your pie before, you're missing out.
Build Your Thanksgiving Beer 4-Pack
Whether you're bringing something to the party or just treating yourself, a curated 4-pack makes a perfect all-around holiday bundle:
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Saison or Pale Ale – for the turkey
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Amber Ale or Biere de Garde – for the sides
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Spiced Brown Ale or Fruited Wheat Ale – for the sweet stuff
- Imperial Stout or Dessert-Inspired Ale – for dessert
Check out our online store to grab these brews and more Thanksgiving-ready picks. Stock is limited and holiday favorites move fast, so don’t wait!
From all of us here at DNYC, we wish you a warm, joy-filled, and flavor-packed Thanksgiving. Cheers to good beer and even better company!
