JulyPA Festival

During Pizzeria Paradiso’s annual “ JulyPA ” festival, beer director Greg Jasgur changes every one of the draft beers at all three Paradiso locations to an India Pale Ale - 44 in all. Last year, the tap takeover lasted a full month; this time, it’s going until July 15. “I think a whole month might be a little much,” Jasgur says, for people who aren’t into hoppy beers. Despite the shortened event, the list of beers is stronger than ever. Look out for such rare treats as the Kind by New York’s Three Heads brewery (”I brought that one down myself,” Jasgur says) and Victory’s Ranch R (”I’m in love with that beer. It’s clean and crisp and has high alcohol, even though it doesn’t taste like it.”). All three locations are pouring different brews at different times, so check out www.eatyourpizza.com to see whether there’s a specific beer you want to try. The best time to go? Happy hour, which runs from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the Georgetown and Dupont locations and from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday in Old Town; all beers are half-price. “We’ve got Dogfish Head 120 Minute IPA on at Old Town right now, and it’s $5 [at happy hour],” Jasgur boasts. “No exceptions.”

-- Fritz Hahn (July 2, 2012)