Unique New Orleans Microbreweries You Should Visit

The Crescent City has its share of beer makers who take to their craft with as much joy as a jazz band. Instead of hanging out at a regular bar this weekend, why not check out some of the unique New Orleans breweries not too far from our apartment community. Here's some that should be at the top of your list. 

Crescent City Brewhouse
527 Decatur Street

For over 20 years, this French Quarter haven has been both a well-respected restaurant as well as a fine microbrewery. Featuring live jazz each night and artwork from local artists, Crescent City Brewhouse has a funky vibe well known in the Quarter. You can get award-winning beer that's made in small batches in the 17-barrel brewery. Brewed according to Bavarian Purity Laws of 1516, the beer runs from a malty Red Stallion to a golden Weiss Beer. Paired with crawfish Étouffée or southern crispy duck, the beer, the music and the art will give you an evening of New Orleans you won't forget. 

NOLA Brewing
3001 Tchoupitoulas Street

Make your way to Tchoupitoulas Street on Friday afternoon and you can tour the brewhouse and taste the beers of the New Orleans Lager & Ale (NOLA) Brewing Company. Brewery owners have just opened a new taproom and partnered with McClure's BBQ to give beer lovers an overall culinary experience. Try the initial company beer, the NOLA Blonde or dip into the Hopitoulas, which uses 6 malts and 6 hops to create its signature taste. Either way, the popular spot is a great place to spend a Friday afternoon.  

Abita Brew Pub
72011 Holly Street, Abita

To get a taste of what pure spring water does for handcrafted beer, take a short trip just outside of New Orleans to the hamlet of Abita. Abita Brewing uses wells on their property to begin the process of making Purple Haze, Turbodog, harvest ales and even root beer. Sample the beers and order dinner off the full menu for a meal that makes the out-of-town drive worth it. If burgers and fries are on tap for you, dig into the Deep South Burger, which is topped with bacon, cheddar cheese and special BBQ sauce. Or, since nothing goes better with cold beer than Louisiana seafood, order up the Bucket of Seafood and wash it down with a beautiful Abita Golden Lager. 

So, if you appreciate the complex tones of New Orleans jazz and the layered flavors of New Orleans food, take some time to get to know New Orleans beer. You will never look at that can in your fridge the same way again.