Louisiana's Craft Breweries

If you’re visiting Louisiana, the majority of your time will be spent eating and getting ready to eat again. But whether it’s a fresh gulf seafood po’ boy or a platter of spicy boiled crawfish, the meal just isn’t complete without a tasty beverage to wash it all down. Fortunately, Louisiana has plenty of local craft beers to choose from.

The Rise of Louisiana's Craft Brewing Scene

In the past few years, Louisiana has made a name for itself in the craft beer world. Inspired by Louisiana products and culture, brewers throughout the state are proving that handcrafted is the way to go. Check out the Louisiana Libations Trail and discover the variety of hazy IPAs, dark porters, blonde ales and more that can be tasted throughout the Bayou State. 

Breweries in Baton Rouge

A great place to start is the capital city of Baton Rouge, home to the Tin Roof Brewing Co. With free tours and pop-up yoga classes, it’s an established Baton Rouge attraction and a great place to learn more about craft beer. Located about a mile from Louisiana State University’s campus and downtown, Tin Roof offers brews that please all sud enthusiasts, especially Tiger fans. Next, head to Baton Rouge's Mid-City area and check out Cypress Coast Brewing Co.'s taproom and enjoy their dry-hopped pilsner, Hand Gestures.

Breweries in New Orleans

Further south in the heart of New Orleans is NOLA (New Orleans Lager and Ale) Brewing Company.  NOLA’s beers are truly inspired by the city from which they come, with names like Hopitoulas, Hurricane Saison and Smoky Mary. NOLA also offers tours on Friday afternoons.  

Breweries Near Lake Pontchartrain

Breweries Across Lake Pontchartrain in Abita Springs is Louisiana’s most established brewery, Abita Brewing. Abita's brewery is open for tours four days a week and is a popular destination for both visitors and locals to sample craft beer. As one of the top 14 largest craft brewers in the country, you’ll find flagship brews such as Purple Haze, Turbodog, and Andygator, as well as seasonal and specialty brews, like Creamsicle IPA and Mardi Gras Brock.

Mandeville husband and wife Josh and Jamie Erickson have a passion for good beer. They opened Chafunkta Brewing Company on the Northshore of Lake Pontchartrain where they are creating quality small-batch brews.

Breweries Near Lafayette

In Broussard, Parish Brewing Company concocts a beer made with Louisiana’s own Steen’s sugarcane syrup. Located in Broussard, right outside of Lafayette, the nano-brewery prides itself on creating “uncompromised, independent, craft biére.” Like their counterparts in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Parish opens its doors to the public for tours on Friday afternoons.

Not too far away on Highway 31 in the small town of Arnaudville is Bayou Teche Brewing. Founded by three brothers, Bayou Teche delivers a glimpse into the Cajun culture on Bayou Teche as well as finely crafted beers that have won several national awards.

A Louisiana brewery tour is a great way to explore Louisiana while tasting some of the state’s finest brews  made by residents who have a passion for not only craft beer, but also keeping the spirit of Louisiana alive. 

Jay D. Ducote is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A culinary personality, he's a radio host and restaurateur in Baton Rouge, and you might have seen him compete on season 11 of Food Network Star.  You can find him online at JayDucote.com.