When you think of New Orleans, your mind might jump to jazz, incredible food, and a city buzzing with life. But, there’s another side to NOLA that’s growing in popularity..its craft beer scene. Over the past few years, the city has become a hot spot for craft beer lovers, with a variety of breweries offering everything from light and refreshing lagers to bold, experimental ales. Whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a seasoned craft beer enthusiast, New Orleans has something for everyone.
Let’s take a tour of 7 of the best breweries in the Greater New Orleans area, each offering something unique to the city’s already rich culture.
Urban South Brewery
Address: 1645 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: Urban South Brewery
Urban South Brewery is a major player in the NOLA beer scene. Since opening its doors in 2016, it has drawn a huge following, and it’s easy to see why. Their beers are fun, approachable, and full of flavor, making this a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.
Best Beers to Try:
- Paradise Park Lager: A smooth and easy-drinking lager that’s great for warm New Orleans days.
- Holy Roller IPA: A juicy, hazy IPA that’s packed with tropical flavors.
- Sourline Series: A rotating collection of tart, fruity sours for those who want something adventurous.
Why You Should Go:
Urban South is all about good times and great beer. The taproom has a welcoming, industrial vibe, and it’s not uncommon to find live music or food trucks parked outside. Whether you’re grabbing a quick drink or spending the afternoon, this spot has a lively atmosphere that keeps people coming back.
NOLA Brewing Company
Address: 3001 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70115
Website: NOLA Brewing
NOLA Brewing Company has been at the forefront of New Orleans’ craft beer scene since 2008, making it one of the city’s pioneering breweries. They’ve perfected the art of brewing everything from crisp lagers to bold stouts, ensuring there’s something for every beer lover.
Best Beers to Try:
- NOLA Blonde Ale: Light, crisp, and endlessly drinkable.
- Hopitoulas IPA: A balanced IPA with citrus and pine notes.
- Irish Channel Stout: A rich, dark beer with deep roasted malt flavors.
Why You Should Go:
NOLA Brewing offers a laid back vibe that’s perfect for kicking back and enjoying a pint. Their downstairs taproom is cozy, but if you’re after a little more atmosphere, head up to their rooftop for great city views. Plus, they’re all about supporting local, with every beer brewed right in-house.
Port Orleans Brewing Company
Address: 4124 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70115
Website: Port Orleans Brewing Co.
Founded in 2017, Port Orleans Brewing Company pays tribute to New Orleans’ riverside history while brewing clean, refreshing beers. Their focus is on crafting beers that are easy to drink but full of flavor, making it a perfect stop for both craft beer newcomers and veterans.
Best Beers to Try:
- Riverfront Lager: Crisp and refreshing, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
- Storyville IPA: A well-rounded IPA with hints of citrus and floral notes.
- Slack Water Brown Ale: A smooth, malty brown ale with chocolatey undertones.
Why You Should Go:
Port Orleans has a relaxed, community-focused vibe. They often host events and fundraisers that support local causes, and their taproom comes with a full kitchen serving up delicious eats. It’s the perfect place to settle in for a beer and a meal.
Parleaux Beer Lab
Address: 634 Lesseps St, New Orleans, LA 70117
Website: Parleaux Beer Lab
Located in the Bywater, Parleaux Beer Lab is a little off the beaten path, but it’s well worth the trek for its experimental, small-batch brews. Every visit offers something new, with a rotating menu that showcases creative takes on classic styles and adventurous flavors.
Best Beers to Try:
- Bywater Wheat: A refreshing wheat beer with bright citrus and spice notes.
- Saison de Pêche: A seasonal farmhouse ale brewed with local peaches for a fruity twist.
- Funky IPA Series: Their ever-changing IPA series keeps beer lovers on their toes with fresh and innovative hop profiles.
Why You Should Go:
Parleaux Beer Lab is all about laid back vibes and creative brews. The outdoor beer garden feels like a hidden gem in the middle of the city, perfect for sipping a cold one in the shade. It’s a great spot to enjoy some quiet time or gather with friends.
Second Line Brewing
Address: 433 N Bernadotte St, New Orleans, LA 70119
Website: Second Line Brewing
Second Line Brewing is all about community, and it shows. Located in Mid-City, this brewery has become a neighborhood favorite thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and quality beers. They opened their doors in 2014 and have been serving up solid brews and good times ever since.
Best Beers to Try:
- Batture Blonde Ale: Light, crisp, and a local favorite.
- IPA 7: A solid, well-balanced IPA with just the right amount of bitterness.
- Crescent City Connection Pilsner: Clean and refreshing, with a classic pilsner flavor.
Why You Should Go:
Second Line Brewing is family- and dog-friendly, making it a great spot to bring the whole crew. Their outdoor beer garden is a relaxed space to hang out, and they often host events that draw in the community, from food pop-ups to live music.
Faubourg Brewing Co.
Address: 3501 Jourdan Rd, New Orleans, LA 70126
Originally founded as Dixie Brewing, Faubourg Brewing Co. is one of the most iconic names in New Orleans beer history. After a rebrand in 2020, they continue to honor their legacy while embracing the modern craft beer movement. The massive brewing facility is just outside the city but offers a perfect escape for a beer filled afternoon.
Best Beers to Try:
- Faubourg Lager: Light and refreshing, ideal for any occasion.
- Blackened Voodoo: A dark, malty lager with a slightly sweet finish.
- Dat’suma IPA: A citrusy IPA brewed with Louisiana satsumas for a local twist.
Why You Should Go:
Faubourg Brewing is a destination in itself. The sprawling brewery offers tours, a huge beer garden, and a family-friendly environment. If you’re looking for a spot to relax with a pint and learn a bit about NOLA’s brewing history, this is it.
Brieux Carré Brewing Co.
Address: 2115 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: Brieux Carré Brewing
Right in the heart of the French Quarter, Brieux Carré Brewing Co. is all about embracing the quirky, creative spirit of New Orleans. This tiny microbrewery may be small in size, but it’s big on flavor, offering an ever-changing lineup of beers that push boundaries.
Best Beers to Try:
- Funk You Very Much: A funky, fruity sour ale.
- Hoppy McHopFace: A double IPA with bold hop flavors.
- Red Beans & Rice: A local-inspired red ale that captures the essence of New Orleans cuisine.
Why You Should Go:
Brieux Carré is as eclectic as the neighborhood it calls home. The taproom is cozy, and the beers are always something out of the ordinary. Plus, being in the French Quarter, it’s the perfect pit stop while exploring the area.
Conclusion
The Greater New Orleans area is home to an ever-growing number of breweries that offer something for everyone. From the well-known, like Urban South and NOLA Brewing, to the off the beaten path gems like Parleaux Beer Lab and Brieux Carré, each brewery adds its own flavor to the city’s vibrant craft beer scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic lager or an experimental sour, you’re sure to find something to love in this incredible city.