Barzini's

From this grocer's good-sized beer selection:

Boom (16.9 fl. oz; $1.99), Pardubice, Czech Republic. According to the importer's website, this is "light beer of the light color with a reduced hop bitterness, offers an excellent taste for refreshment after working at cottages, weekend-houses gardens, at sitting with friends, family. Ideal beverage for the middle class where there is high demand for their efficiency." Almost metallic flavor, especially the aftertaste; perhaps I should look for Porter Boom and Extra Boom, which are also available for "higher and high classes."

BrouCzech lager (16.9 fl. oz; $1.99), Nova Paka, Czech Republic. Another reason to stick with Pilsner Urquell. Deep gold color, but a bitter, metallic taste as if the hops had gone bad. Poured most down the drain.

Barzini's
2451 Broadway (90th-91st Sts.)