It’s about that time to celebrate another Guide of the Month! This beer guide is from from Philadelphia, PA, enjoying city life and Philly’s amazing craft beer scene both at his leisure and on the clock. This July, we’re all about the Philly beer guide, Zach Amato. I sat down with Zach and asked him some questions about his job, and here’s what he said. Enjoy!
Q: How long have you lived in the Philly area? What is it about the city that you love?
A: I was born in the area and lived here my whole life except when I went away to Pittsburgh for college. I love almost everything about Philly, the culture, the history, beer, food, sites, you name it. Philly is home.
Q: What do you love about beer?
A: I love the variety and the overall culture. The people who work in the beer industry are some of the coolest people I’ve ever met and it’s awesome to see their passion in what they do.
Q: How long have you worked for City Brew Tours?
A: I’ve worked for City Brew Tours since April of 2016, so roughly 15 months.
Q: Do you remember your first day? How have you changed since then?
A: Oh, I remember my first day. It was a baptism by fire, but I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. Since then I’ve changed some jokes, learned more about beer than I thought I ever would, and learned some tricks for handling any problems that come up. I’ve always felt comfortable, but now I feel like I really know what I’m doing.
Q: What’s your favorite part of your job?
A: My favorite part of my job is meeting new people, teaching them something they didn’t know about beer, and helping them have a great time.
Q: Do you have any beer-drinking tips?
A: Never be afraid to try a beer. Your taste buds change over the years, so something that you hated a few years ago might taste like the best thing you’ve ever had now. Plus you’ll never truly know unless you try.
Q: Are you a home brewer?
A: Yes I home brew, but I’m not very good. I’ve been doing it for less than 2 years, but don’t get the chance to brew as often as I would like. I want to start brewing more, but other things are more important right now.
Q: What is your current favorite beer? Beer-drinking activity?
A: That’s always a hard question. There’s so many great beer out there that it’s impossible for me to pick a favorite. This past weekend I had True Green by Other Half which was dope. As for favorite beer-drinking activity, I would say drinking with family and friends. Most of my family is into beer as much as I am, so we always have great brews at home.
Q: What could someone catch you doing in your spare time?
A: In my spare time I’m probably at the gym, on my computer, or woodworking. I’m honestly pretty basic, but not as lame it sounds.
Thanks so much for everything, Zach! Stay tuned for next month’s Guide of the Month profile.