Monk’s Addiction Is Here to Teach You How to Pair it Like a Pro
Written By: Raphael Madrid
Photographed By: Hannah Wilson Monk’s Addiction Huntington Beach
Pairings have always been instrumental in all levels of cuisine—peanut butter and jelly, chicken and waffles, wine and cheese. Unlike the other two, however, the task of pairing wine and cheese can be quite daunting. With countless varieties at your disposal, how do you know if you’ve picked the right options? What about the different meats? The combinations have become increasingly complicated, so why not let someone else do it?
The experts at Monk’s Addiction are your best bet when it comes to these tricky decisions. This specialty store with a sports bar attitude houses around 120 different types of cheeses imported from all around the world. The selections are rotated with an assortment of wine and beer on tap, so you’re sure to find the perfect medley. Owner Dan Finnerty took over the business in August 2019 with the vision of continuing to provide a relaxed atmosphere, paired with a love of cheese.
“Everything we have available pairs well with each other, but it also depends on your preference,” Finnerty says, regarding the options. Their charcuterie boards can be as simple or as complicated as you desire them to be. “Brie, gruyere, and cheddar can pair with different kinds of reds,” he says, explaining the nuances and intricacies of the craft.
While Monk’s Addiction boasts an impressive selection of cheese and wine, the atmosphere is laid back—equal parts classy and fun, with shelves adorned with memorabilia that caters to the owner’s obvious love of football. You don’t need a “sophisticated” palate to enjoy what Monk’s Addiction has to offer.
“Soon, we’ll have pairing events, and we want folks to try the different things we offer,” adds Finnerty, whose face lights up when showing his passion for bringing the community together.
The kid-friendly, dog-friendly patio space seeks to inject a bit of that “California casual” attitude to an otherwise elevated bar menu. Although their charcuterie boards sit as the centerpiece, their pizza, macaroni and grilled cheeses are not to be overlooked.
Monk’s Addiction
7631 Edinger Ave, Ste 1512
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
714.372.7706 Monk’s Addiction Huntington Beach
