James Davidson of Biwa Restaurant on Meditation & Returning to Basics

Biwa Restaurant is an izakaya style restaurant that is known for great sake, sashimi, small dishes, grilled food and a nice atmosphere. Biwa is a very proud part of Portland’s vibrant restaurant fabric and will be the second stop on Brewed Food’s national tour. Chef James Davidson will collaborate with Chef and Certified Cicerone Jensen Cummings for a 6 course beer and food blowout. Hear what Chef Davidson has to say about the Brewed Food movement:

What was your first “aha” moment with food and beer pairings?
I was working at Eastburn and they did a series of events called Beer Belly. I had the opportunity to sit down with Chef Joe Daugherty and Anderson Valley (I think) to plan the menu for one of these. That was the first time I really tried to translate the taste of beer into culinary ideas.

Why food and beer is for you?
Food is for me because it’s meditation. Beer is for me because of genetics.

What is “next” for food and beer?
A return to something simple and basic, something timeless and primal.

What Brewer is creating something that works well with your food?
I’m excited to work alongside Base Camp Brewing Company because they have such a wide range of styles and flavors. There’s something to compliment any dish.