Louisiana, known for its vibrant culture, Cajun cuisine, and jazz music, is also home to a thriving craft beer scene. From New Orleans to Shreveport, the state boasts a variety of breweries that are pushing the boundaries of flavor and creativity. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or experimental sours, Louisiana’s breweries have something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of the best breweries in the Pelican State, each offering unique brews and experiences that make them stand out.
Parish Brewing Co. – Broussard
Why It’s One of the Best: Parish Brewing Co. has become a national name in the craft beer world, thanks to its sought-after IPAs like the legendary Ghost in the Machine, a double IPA bursting with tropical fruit flavors. Known for its innovative approach, the brewery also produces great beers like Canebrake, a wheat ale brewed with Louisiana sugarcane, giving it a distinctly local flair.
What Makes It Unique: Parish Brewing uses cutting edge brewing technology to produce some of the cleanest, hop-forward beers in the state. Their limited release barrel-aged stouts, such as the “Reve” coffee stout series, are highly coveted among craft beer aficionados.
Address: 229 Jared Dr, Broussard, LA 70518-4362
Website: https://parishbeer.com/
Abita Brewing Company – Abita Springs
Why It’s One of the Best: As Louisiana’s oldest and most iconic brewery, Abita Brewing Company is practically synonymous with Louisiana beer. Their flagship brew, Abita Amber, has been a staple at Louisiana festivals, crawfish boils, and backyard gatherings for decades. Other releases like Purple Haze Raspberry Lager celebrate local ingredients, further connecting their beer to Louisiana’s roots.
What Makes It Unique: Located in the picturesque town of Abita Springs, the brewery is powered by pristine artesian spring water, lending a unique purity to their beers. Abita also focuses on sustainability, making them a great choice for environmentally conscious beer lovers.
Address: 21084 Highway 36, Abita Springs, LA 70433-8651
Website: https://abita.com/
Urban South Brewery – New Orleans
Why It’s One of the Best: Urban South Brewery has become a leader in Louisiana’s craft beer scene with its fun, flavor-forward creations. Known for its flagship Holy Roller IPA and Paradise Park Lager, this brewery is a hit among locals and visitors alike. Urban South also dives into the wild world of sour beers with creative options like their “Spilled” series, featuring fruit packed combinations that taste like liquid desserts.
What Makes It Unique: The brewery’s taproom is one of the most vibrant and family-friendly spaces in New Orleans, complete with games, outdoor seating, and an ever changing menu of experimental beers.
Address: 1645 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130-1852
Website: https://urbansouth.com/
Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. – Hammond
Why It’s One of the Best: Gnarly Barley has made waves with beers like Jucifer, a hazy IPA with massive juicy hop flavor, and Korova Milk Porter, a creamy, rich dark beer with hints of vanilla and coffee. Their lineup strikes a perfect balance between creativity and drinkability.
What Makes It Unique: Gnarly Barley embraces a laid back, grassroots vibe that resonates with its loyal following. Their small town charm and commitment to quality have earned them recognition far beyond Louisiana.
Address: 1709 Corbin Rd, Hammond, LA 70403-3719
Website: https://gnarlybeer.com/
Bayou Teche Brewing – Arnaudville
Why It’s One of the Best: Bayou Teche Brewing focuses on creating beers that complement Cajun and Creole cuisine, making it a great destination for food and beer lovers alike. Their Cajun Pale Ale and LA-31 Bière Pâle pair perfectly with jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish étouffée.
What Makes It Unique: Bayou Teche’s family owned brewery offers a true Louisiana experience, complete with live Zydeco music and a welcoming beer garden. Their commitment to local culture and food makes this brewery a standout.
Address: 1002 Noth Ln, Arnaudville, LA 70512-3518
Website: https://bayoutechebrewing.com/
Great Raft Brewing – Shreveport
Why It’s One of the Best: Great Raft Brewing has built a reputation for crafting elegant, balanced beers that showcase the art of brewing. Their flagship pilsner, Southern Drawl, is a crisp, refreshing beer that’s perfect for Louisiana’s hot summers, while their Reasonably Corrupt black lager offers something darker and more complex.
What Makes It Unique: Great Raft is dedicated to brewing “beer that matters,” with a focus on quality, creativity, and community. Their barrel-aging program and limited releases keep fans coming back for more.
Address: 1251 Dalzell St, Shreveport, LA 71103-3705
Website: https://greatraftbrewing.squarespace.com/
Zony Mash Beer Project – New Orleans
Why It’s One of the Best: Housed in a historic movie theater in New Orleans, Zony Mash Beer Project combines striking aesthetics with bold, experimental beers. Their inventive creations include fruited sours, hazy IPAs, and decadent stouts.
What Makes It Unique: Zony Mash’s taproom is a visual treat, blending old-world charm with modern art and design. Their dedication to pushing boundaries in brewing makes them a favorite among adventurous beer drinkers.
Address: 3940 Thalia St, New Orleans, LA 70125-2008
Website: https://www.zonymashbeer.com/
Chafunkta Brewing Company – Mandeville
Why It’s One of the Best: This Northshore gem specializes in small batch brews that pack a punch. Kingfish Ale, their honey cream ale, is a local favorite, while their Voo Ka Ray IPA pays homage to Louisiana’s vibrant culture.
What Makes It Unique: Chafunkta’s unpretentious approach to brewing and warm, community focused vibe make it a great place to kick back and enjoy the day.
Address: 69123 Sky Brook Rd, Mandeville, LA 70471
Website: https://chafunkta.square.site/
Crying Eagle Brewing Company – Lake Charles
Why It’s One of the Best: Crying Eagle Brewing Company brings a touch of sophistication to Southwest Louisiana with beers like The Calcasieu Common, a lager inspired by traditional California Common beer, and Hop Blooded IPA, a hoppy yet balanced brew.
What Makes It Unique: Their on-site bistro elevates the brewery experience with a menu of gourmet pizzas and shareable plates, making it a destination for beer and food lovers alike.
Address: 1165 E McNeese St, Lake Charles, LA 70607-4753
Website: https://www.cryingeagle.com/
Flying Heart Brewing & Pub – Bossier City
Why It’s One of the Best: Flying Heart has carved out a niche with its unique beer styles and relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Their Firehouse Blonde and Pumpkin Pi Porter showcase their ability to balance creativity with great flavors.
What Makes It Unique: Housed in a former firehouse, the brewery’s charming setting and delicious wood fired pizzas make it a top spot in Bossier City.
Address: 700 Barksdale Boulevard, Bossier City, LA 71111
Website: https://flyingheartbrewing.com/
Louisiana’s craft beer scene is as colorful and diverse as the state itself. Whether you’re a fan of hazy IPAs, rich stouts, or crisp lagers, there’s a brewery here for you. Plan your visit to one (or all!) of these standout breweries, and experience the passion and creativity that make Louisiana’s beer scene one of a kind.
If we overlooked your favorite Louisiana brewery, please let us know in the comments below. We’re always looking for our next favorite spot!
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