Sisters of the World, Unite!

It took me just one evening to understand why women think men are gross pigs. Attired in a simple apron which depicted an ersatz healthy, buxom, dirndl-clad woman, and wearing a rather stunning brown wig, I was immediately targeted as a sex object. Did these Luddites care what I was saying about beer? Did they pay the least bit of attention to my instructions about how to taste beer? When I came near them for a picture, did these Neanderthals treat me with the respect I deserve?

No. But it was fun for all. I may have been ogled and groped, but I never felt threatened, because the occasion was another well-done beer dinner at Hailey's Harp in Metuchen. The all-in-fun cross-dressing was just another ingredient that added to the atmosphere. A few rounds of Ein Prosits and ziggy-zoggies, some jokes and toasts to the newbies from a group called Metuchen Dining Out made for a very good time. Lots of excellent food prepared by McMoe and Johnny, an outstanding collection of beers and good folks all made for another outstanding evening at the thriving Main Street mainstay.

How people behave at an event like this depends on many things, but one of the most important is the seating arrangement, and Chris Flynn had his back room set up perfectly. It allowed people who knew each other--and people who didn't-- to sit in a proximity that encouraged conversation and interaction. Of course, the "fuel" also helped. But you can tell you have a winner of a dinner when midway through it, you have to strain to get everyone's attention amid the chatter, laughter and the leering at and groping of the host.

McMoe and Johnny once again outdid themselves in the scullery. Many of the thirty attendees left with "doggie boxes" of food, some guys carrying three out the door. The beer was not "take-homeable," but Weihanstephan's Dunkelweiss, Steenbruge Blond, SixPoint Autumnation, Blue Point and Paulaner Oktoberfest and an absolutely kick-ass Goose Island Bourbon County Stout were matched with appropriate dishes. My dining neighbor  Steve and I commented that this year's version of Paulaner Oktoberfest looked and tasted rather lighter than past versions, but since the Blue Point was so good, we stayed with it for the main course of Pork Jager. A sinfully delicious Bavarian Creme dessert (of which McMoe complained about the prep time) went exceptionally well with the Stout.

Chris Flynn apparently has this down to a science. In all, another eventful and fun night was had by all, and just two and a half hours from my entrance as Brunhilda, the sated company was departing. None of the men said goodnight, though. I saw them, but they appeared not to take notice of me. I had removed my wig and apron, you see.

Pigs.
Sisters, you rock!

You can check out the rest of the photos here.