The 13 Best New Orleans Breweries

Abita Brewing Company

Looking for the best craft breweries in New Orleans? You’re in luck! We’ve scoured the city to bring you our top picks of the breweries you absolutely must check out. Our team has spent time sampling their brews, exploring their taprooms, and reading all the reviews to give you our take on the best craft breweries in New Orleans to visit this year.

New Orleans Craft Beer Scene

New Orleans is a city steeped in rich history, vibrant culture, and a unique flair for all things fun and festive. It’s a city known for its lively music scene, delicious food, and of course, its legendary cocktails. But in recent years, the city has also become a hotspot for alcohol innovation, with a growing craft beer scene that’s been making waves in the industry.

While New Orleans has a long history of beer brewing, it wasn’t until the craft beer movement started gaining popularity in the 1980s that the city began to see a resurgence of local breweries. In the early 2000s, the craft beer scene in New Orleans began to really take off, with new breweries popping up all over the city. Today, the craft brewery scene in New Orleans is thriving, with a wide variety of local breweries that offer everything from crisp lagers and hoppy IPAs to tart sours and easy-drinking ales.

One of the unique things about the craft beer scene in New Orleans is how it reflects the city’s culture and history. Many local breweries draw inspiration from the city’s famous hurricane drinks, incorporating tropical flavors like passionfruit, mango, and pineapple into their brews. And just like the city itself, the craft beer scene in New Orleans is full of character and personality, with breweries that range from cozy taprooms to massive warehouse facilities.

Who Makes The Best Beer in New Orleans?

When it comes to the best craft beers in New Orleans, there’s no shortage of top-notch breweries to choose from. From the oldest brewery in the city to the newest kid on the block, each one offers a unique and delicious beer experience that’s worth checking out.

One of the top breweries in New Orleans is NOLA Brewing Company, which holds the distinction of being the oldest craft brewery in the city. Another standout brewery in New Orleans is Faubourg Brewing Company, located in the city’s East neighborhood. Or, if you want to support an up-and-coming brewery, visit Courtyard Brewery, a tiny but mighty microbrewery.

PS. If you really can’t decide, we recommend checking out Avenue Pub which features over 40 craft beers on tap, tons of bottled selection, and an opportunity to sample all the best breweries in one place.

How We Picked The Top Breweries in New Orleans

With every ‘top breweries’ post that we write, we make sure to do diligent online research to determine who makes it on our list. From reading online reviews and reviewing beer selections to checking other authority websites and sampling their beers. We do our best to take all the information we collect and give you our opinion of the top breweries in New Orleans.

However, we know that everyone’s taste in beer is different, and there may be a New Orleans brewery that you think deserves a spot on our list. That’s why we invite you to head over to our Voting Page and cast your vote for your favorite brewery. Your vote will help us continue to provide valuable recommendations to our readers.

Did we miss something?

If you think a brewery deserves a spot on our list, Vote for them! If you’re a brewery looking to update your information or get in touch, contact us!

The Best New Orleans Breweries

Alright, let’s get to it, shall we? Here’s our list of the top New Orleans Craft Breweries!

New Orleans Lager & Ale (NOLA) Brewing Company

New Orleans Lager & Ale (NOLA) Brewing Company
New Orleans Lager & Ale (NOLA) Brewing Company

NOLA Brewing Company is the oldest craft brewery in New Orleans, and it’s not hard to see why it’s still going strong. They’ve got an extensive tap list that’s sure to satisfy any beer lover and an upstairs balcony that offers breathtaking views of the mighty Mississippi River.

What really sets them apart is that NOLA Brewing Company prides itself on its commitment to the community. They organize weekly trash cleanups, support various charities, and give local artists and musicians a platform to share their talents. Plus, they’ve even got their own pizza joint called NOLA Pizza Co. – the perfect pairing for your favorite brew.

Customer Review: Great brewery, chill vibes, lots of space and a balcony. Beer was tasty and staff was polite and on point. Would love to come back.

Parleaux Beer Lab

Parleaux Beer Lab
Parleaux Beer Lab

If you’re looking for a great craft beer spot in New Orleans, Parleaux Beer Lab is an absolute must-visit. This microbrewery and neighborhood taproom is located in the Bywater area, just a short walk from the French Quarter. They’re known for their delicious, crisp lagers and easy-drinking beers, like their popular pale ales and saisons.

They have a constantly rotating tap list, which means there’s always something new to try. And with a large beer garden complete with hanging lights, simple patio furniture, and board games, it’s the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy a cold one with friends.

Customer Review: Friendly bartender and amazing patio. Any of the brews you try are unique and refreshing. Beer snobs should flock here for a delightful exercise in the palate and beer geekery.

Courtyard Brewery

Courtyard Brewery
Courtyard Brewery

Courtyard Brewery is a nano brewery located in an actual courtyard, making for a cozy and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for sipping on some of the best IPAs and saisons around. Actually, all of Brewer Scott Wood’s creations are delicious! Plus, they also have guest beers on tap to keep things interesting.

If you’re looking for something sweet to go along with your brew, you can pick up some Rahm Haus Ice Cream right there on-site. And with various food trucks parked just outside the courtyard, you won’t have to go far to grab a bite to eat.

Customer Review: Great little neighborhood craft brewery on the border of the garden district. A variety of offerings (gose, sour, blondes, IPAs and boozy stouts). Nice outdoor area to enjoy with friends.

Miel Brewery

Miel Brewery
Miel Brewery

Miel Brewery is a gem in the New Orleans craft beer scene that you won’t want to miss. The name Miel actually comes from the founder’s parents’ beekeeping hobby that supplied them with tons of honey – so you know their beers are sweetened to perfection!

While they don’t make mead, they do use honey in a few of their beers like the La Ventana Central American lager brewed with honey malt and flaked corn, and the Surrealista Honey IPA with notes of roasted peaches, tannic oak, and honey throughout. Beyond its diverse flavors, Miel Brewery has an unbeatable vibe and appealing aesthetic that’s perfect for kicking back with friends.

Customer Review: Love this place! Amazing beer, fantastic people, and a business that cares about supporting the local community. Hands down one of my favorite places in New Orleans.

Brieux Carre Brewing Company

Brieux Carre Brewing Company
Brieux Carre Brewing Company

The goal at Brieux Carre Brewing Company is to have brews that are just as wild and unconventional as the city they call home. With some of the longest beer names you’ve ever seen, like “‘Cause I’m Long, And I’m Strong And I’m Down To Get the Nectaron Apricot Sour with Smoked Sea Salt,” Brieux Carre is definitely not your typical craft brewery. But what really sets them apart is their commitment to constantly bringing new and unique recipes to the taproom every single week. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind craft beer experience, Brieux Carre Brewing Company is definitely worth a visit.

Customer Review: Stumbled upon this walking around Frenchman. Really solid hazy IPA. Everyone is brewing them but this one stands out. Great little beer garden in back too. Highly recommend this place!

Zony Mash

Zony Mash
Zony Mash

Zony Mash is a must-visit craft brewery in New Orleans that’s truly a beer lover’s paradise. Housed inside an old theater, the atmosphere alone is enough to transport you to a different time and place. But what really makes Zony Mash stand out is their incredible sour beers that truly steal the show.

With an outdoor patio that often hosts live music, you can sip on your favorite brews while enjoying some of the best local tunes around. If you’re in town on a Sunday, be sure to check out their Crawfish Sunday event – it’s not to be missed! All in all, Zony Mash is a real beer destination that you won’t want to miss if you’re in New Orleans.

Customer Review: Amazing beers and great vibes!!! Good music, good pop-up food stands, and a great hangout space!!!

Urban South Brewery

Urban South Brewery
Urban South Brewery

Urban South Brewery is a unique craft brewery that combines the heritage of European beer-making with the brashness of new American styles. Their casual taproom is the perfect place to relax with friends and family, with a large, open warehouse space that’s filled with games for all ages. And what’s even better is that it’s a kid and dog-friendly spot, so you can bring the whole gang along to enjoy some award-winning beer.

Customer Review: Really good beer! They have a really nice variety. The indoor space is nice and big with plenty of room to spread out. Outdoor patio is nice too. The burger from the food truck was also delicious.

Faubourg Brewing Company

Faubourg Brewing Company
Faubourg Brewing Company

If you’re searching for a true beer destination in New Orleans, look no further than Faubourg Brewing Company. Located in New Orleans East, this massive warehouse facility is an absolute must-visit for beer lovers. With a disc golf course, bocce ball, corn hole, a pond, and even a walking path, there’s something for everyone at Faubourg. And if you want to learn more about the brewing process, they even offer brewery tours!

The outdoor seating area is pet-friendly and often hosts live music, making it the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a cold one with friends and family. If you’re looking for a brewery that’s all about having a good time, Faubourg Brewing Company is the spot for you.

Customer Review: Off the beaten path, but well worth the trip! The brewery itself is beautiful, staff is hospitable, and events on the grounds are kid- and pet-friendly.

Bywater Brew Pub

Bywater Brew Pub
Bywater Brew Pub

Bywater Brew Pub is a craft beer haven in New Orleans that’s definitely worth checking out. The space features unique and eclectic art from local artists, giving it a cool and hip vibe. With a great variety of house-made beers on tap as well as a full bar, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And if you’re looking for a fun night out, they even host events like trivia night to keep things interesting.

Customer Review: BBP is amazing! Incredible food, drink, and staff and located a stones throw from the quarter. If you are looking for local and lovely then you’ve found it:) The artwork is also pretty killer!;)

Port Orleans Brewing Company

Port Orleans Brewing Company
Port Orleans Brewing Company

If you’re in the mood for a cold beer and some tasty bites, Port Orleans Brewing Company is the spot for you. Located just a short walk from the Garden District, this craft brewery has both indoor and outdoor seating so you can enjoy your favorite beers no matter the weather. And speaking of food, they’ve got you covered with delicious eats from Avo Taco which includes bites like tacos, quesadillas, and burgers.

With a great variety of beers on tap, including a line of hard seltzers, there’s something for everyone at Port Orleans Brewing Company. Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends over some tasty bites and drinks or just want to relax with a cold one, Port Orleans is definitely worth a visit.

Customer Review: This is a fantastic brewery. The staff was wonderful, the beer was tasty, and the atmosphere is really nice. 10/10 recommend.

Crescent City Brewhouse

Crescent City Brewhouse
Crescent City Brewhouse

Crescent City Brewhouse is a must-visit spot for beer and music lovers in New Orleans. The warm, relaxed, and festive atmosphere is perfect for enjoying the sounds of live jazz performances by local musicians every night. And when it comes to food, their fresh seafood is a must-try, including their famous raw oyster bar.

But what really sets Crescent City Brewhouse apart is their incredible variety of craft beers on tap including German-style lagers and ales. Their signature “brew-tails” are also a must-try, we recommend the Sweet Peach Ale which is a Weiss beer with peach schnapps and orange juice. Whether you’re in the mood for a cold brew or a refreshing cocktail, Crescent City Brewhouse has got you covered.

Customer Review: Great beers and service, and outstanding food. The Jambalaya and steak dishes were so full of flavour and as good as we’ve had anywhere. Highly recommended.

Second Line Brewing Company

Second Line Brewing Company
Second Line Brewing Company

Second Line Brewing Company is named after the city’s famous Second Line Parade, a beautiful expression of fun and celebration in the community. And with food trucks serving up delicious food options ranging from fried chicken sandwiches, BBQ eats, Vietnamese tacos, and burgers, you’ll have plenty of tasty bites to enjoy alongside your brews.

The large outdoor patio and beer garden is the perfect place to sit back and relax with friends while sipping on their delicious coffee blonde ale with cinnamon and vanilla. And with a well-curated tap list full of interesting concoctions, Second Line Brewing Company is definitely worth a visit for any craft beer lover.

Customer Review: Very cool spot to grab some beers and hang out. Great food truck, excellent variety of beer styles, and super friendly staff!

Abita Brewing Company

Abita Brewing Company
Abita Brewing Company

While Abita Brewing Company isn’t technically located in New Orleans, we just had to give them an honorable mention because their beer is just too good to pass up. With a massive selection of delicious brews, there’s something for every taste preference. And if you’re not in the mood for an alcoholic drink, you’ve got to try their root beer – it’s seriously some of the best you’ll ever taste.

Customer Review: Fun tour of the brewery. Tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly. Best part were the sampling of the beers with flights. Some of the flights were not yet out on the market yet. Delicious!

Enjoy the Best Breweries in New Orleans!

Make sure to go and check out New Orleans’s best craft breweries, grab a locally brewed pint (or 2), and support your local brewers!

If we’ve missed a brewery on our list that you think should be added, head over to our Voting Page and vote for them! Let us know who they are and why you think they should be added to our list of the top breweries in New Orleans!

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