Support Local Beer: Abita New Orleans

When most people think of Abita Brewing, their minds immediately go to the brewery in Abita Springs. But if you find yourself in New Orleans, you don't have to leave the city to enjoy one of Louisiana's most iconic breweries. Abita New Orleans, located on Tchoupitoulas Street, is the perfect place to grab a cold local beer and experience a little piece of Louisiana brewing history.

Whether you're exploring Magazine St, heading to a Saints or Pelicans game, or just looking for a great place to escape the heat, Abita New Orleans is an easy stop that's worth adding to your itinerary. Hell, it pretty much starts a nice little brewery crawl which can have you hitting Abita, Urban South, Miel, NOLA Brewing and Port Orleans!

Anyway, inside Abita, you'll find a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of Abita favorites on tap, along with seasonal and limited releases that you may not find elsewhere. Whether you're loyal to Amber, can't pass up a Purple Haze, or like trying whatever's new, there's something for every beer drinker. I'm still waiting on Fall Fest to come back.

During my visit, I tried the Marengose, a refreshing fruited gose named after nearby Marengo Street, along with Bugs and Hugs, a Czech-style pilsner brewed as part of a collaborative tribute to Michael Garcia. Michael, who was tragically killed in April, was a beloved figure in the New Orleans craft beer community, and many local breweries came together to honor his lasting impact with this special beer. It was a meaningful way to celebrate someone who played such an important role in the city's beer scene while enjoying an exceptionally well-crafted pilsner.

This year also marks an incredible milestone as Abita Brewing celebrates its 40th anniversary. In an industry where breweries come and go, four decades of brewing is an impressive achievement. Abita helped pave the way for craft beer in Louisiana and continues to represent the state with every pint they pour.

What I like most about the New Orleans location is that it gives visitors an authentic Louisiana beer experience without leaving the city. Instead of settling for the usual tourist spots, you can enjoy a brewery that's become part of Louisiana culture while relaxing with a fresh pint in a welcoming atmosphere.

If you're planning a trip to New Orleans, make some time for Abita New Orleans. It's a great place to slow down, enjoy a locally brewed beer, and raise a glass to 40 years of one of Louisiana's greatest craft beer success stories. Cheers to Abita on 40 years—and here's to many more!

ADDRESS: 2375 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130

HOURS:

Sunday 11 AM - 10 PM

Monday 11 AM - 10 PM

Tuesday 11 AM - 10 PM

Wednesday 11 AM - 10 PM

Thursday 11 AM - 10 PM

Friday 11 AM - 10 PM

Saturday 11 AM - 10 PM

The 6 Pack: Church of the Sacred Brew's Mike Paw Paw Peters

1) Tell me about The Church of the Sacred Brew. When did you start it and why?

I started managing a group called Church of the Sacred Brews (plural) in 2015, helping out a friend of mine. I was doing lots of beer reviews, and the membership began to rapidly grow. As it got bigger, the other guy decided he wanted out, so in July of 2016, I created a new group by simply dropping the (S) on Brews. I became enthralled with craft beer, and I was reading your Beer Buddha Blog, and I wanted to do something just like it using Facebook (instead of a blog). I attended lots of beer events, began going to breweries all over the USA, and the membership grew to what it is today (over 7200). I loved the camaraderie of beer lovers.

2) What’s the most challenging aspect of running an online beer group?

I learned a ton, (me and my fellow admins) about things. We made some mistakes along the way, but it was a learning process. People are so different and opinionated, and we had to learn to keep the focus on beer (no politics). I wish we had known 10 years ago what we know now (especially about human nature). I have come to be very knowledgeable about human nature, and I have also developed some very, very lasting friendships over the years. At this point, I recognize a post as being from a specific person, just because each user has his/her own different style. One of the most rewarding things for me has been and still is all the people from different areas that have established friendships with other users they possibly might have never met were it not for the group. And I honestly feel like I have earned a degree in Human Psychology and the beer industry as a whole with all I have seen.

3) Favorite beer style? Least favorite beer style?

These days, I am loving lagers and pilsners. These beers really demonstrate what a brewer can do because there are no adjuncts to hide flaws. Least favorite nowadays is black IPA and milkshake sours.

4) You're invited to a crawfish boil. What beer are you bringing?

Either a lager/pilsner from Parleaux or Ecology or German Coast.

5) What’s your favorite guilty pleasure beer?

A classic Belgian Dubbel or Tripel or OWK from Side Project.

6) What is your current favorite beer from a local brewery in Louisiana?

German Coast Morning Star is my jam, and it has been for a while. It is a rock solid, classic Helles Lager that is perfectly executed.

Support Local Beer: Bayou Teche Brewery

The wife and I had an opportunity for a weekend trip to Breaux Bridge back in May and if you've spent any time exploring South Louisiana, you know about Bayou Teche Brewing in Arnaudville. And if you haven't been yet, make sure you add it on your list.

Amongst some folks in the beer nerd community Bayou Teche get's a bad rap for their beer which is bullshit. Their beer is great. Bayou Teche's beer isn't just about what's in the glass it's about the entire experience.

The first thing you'll notice is that this place doesn't feel like some sterile warehouse with a few picnic tables thrown outside. It feels like Louisiana. From the giant outdoor space to the live music, the food, the people, and even the dogs running around, it's got that laid back Acadiana vibe that makes you want to stay a little longer than you planned.

You can no longer find this beer in stores or bars. Bayou Teche pulled out of distribution years ago and shifted to tap room only model. They decided to pull out of distribution for a number of reasons but mostly slim margins, distribution issues and state alcohol regulations. And the decision to shift to an outdoor venue with pizza, tiki drinks and arcade games has paid off.

Currently they are expanding their seating inside the brewery and also partnering with Hotel Lafayette in downtown Lafayette to occupy a 4,500-square-foot space in the $19 million hotel which is expected to open mid-year 2026 and will feature their beer, tiki drinks and food.

And speaking of food, let's talk about Cajun Saucer Pizza.

Look, I know pizza isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you're driving through Cajun Country, but trust me on this one. Whether you're grabbing a classic pie or something loaded with Louisiana flavors such as the Bobby Boucherie, it's the perfect pairing with a cold beer on a warm afternoon. The wife and I got a pepperoni pizza(wife is boring) and some boudin egg rolls which are my vice for real.

The brewery itself has become one of those destinations that people from Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and beyond will gladly make the drive for. And after a few visits, it's easy to see why.

Maybe it's the beer. Maybe it's the pizza. Maybe it's the live music drifting through the air while the sun starts setting over Acadiana. Whatever it is, Bayou Teche Brewing has figured out something a lot of places haven't. They've created a spot where people genuinely enjoy spending time together and experiencing Acadian culture.

In a world where local breweries are struggling daily that's worth raising a glass to.

So the next time you're headed through Breaux Bridge, Arnaudville, or just looking for a reason to take a Louisiana day trip, make the stop. Go support local. Grab a beer. Order a pizza. Stay awhile.

ADDRESS: 1002 North Ln, Arnaudville, LA 70512

HOURS:

Monday-Closed

Tuesday-12pm-8pm

Wednesday 12pm-8pm

Thursday 12pm-8pm

Friday 12pm–9pm

Saturday 12pm–9pm

Sunday 11am–6pm

It's Crawfish Season! Here are 5 Louisana Beers To Drink At Your Next Crawfish Boil

There are few things more sacred in South Louisiana than a table covered in newspaper, a mountain of spicy crawfish, and a cold beer sweating in your hand. Crawfish season isn’t just about the boil,it’s about the experience. And choosing the right beer can elevate the whole thing.

Right beer you say? The cold one in front of you is the right beer but you want something refreshing, flavorful, and sturdy enough to stand up to the spices, garlic, lemon, and heat. Here are five Louisiana beers that pair perfectly with a good crawfish boil.

Just a note: All the beers listed are distributed state-wide. There are tons of other options from breweries like: Courtyard Brewing, Brieux Carré Brewing, Parleaux, etc., that would also be perfect! If you have a favorite beer you enjoy with crawfish let me know in the comments!

1. Abita Amber – Abita Brewing (Abita Springs, LA)

If crawfish had an official beer, Abita Amber would be it. I'm sure folks will disagree but if you were drinking craft beer back in the day with your crawfish most likely this is the one you were drinking. With its smooth caramel malt backbone and crisp finish, it balances heat without overpowering the food. The slight sweetness tames the spice, while the carbonation keeps your palate refreshed for the next peel.

Why it works:

🍺Malty enough to handle spice

🍺Clean finish that doesn’t linger

🍺Easy-drinking for long boils

2. Canebrake – Parish Brewing

Brewed with Steen’s cane syrup, Canebrake is uniquely Louisiana in every sense. The subtle sweetness and earthy character play beautifully with spicy crawfish, especially if your boil leans heavy on cayenne and garlic.

Why it works:

🍺Slight sweetness balances heat

🍺Medium body stands up to seasoning

3. Golden Sombrero – Rally Cap Brewing

This Mexican lager from Rally Cap hits that “just right” balance between flavor and drinkability. Light malt character and a clean finish make Golden Sombrero a perfect match for spicy, citrusy crawfish boils. It won’t compete with heat or seasoning—instead, it refreshes your palate so every peel tastes just as good as the first.

Why it works:

🍺Light, crisp, and refreshing

🍺Subtle fruit cuts through spice

🍺Perfect warm-weather beer

4. Jucifer – Gnarly Barley

Not everyone wants light and crisp. If you’re the person who brings extra seasoning and likes your crawfish nuclear-hot, Jucifer is your beer. This juicy, hazy IPA brings big hop flavor and enough body to stand up to bold spices. It won’t cool the heat—but it will ride shotgun with it.

Why it works:

🍺Big flavor doesn’t get lost

🍺Citrus hops complement lemon and spice

🍺Great contrast to rich crawfish fat

5. Paradise Park – Urban South

Paradise Park is light, crisp, and ridiculously drinkable. It’s a great “all-day boil” beer—something you can crack open early and keep drinking without burning out your palate. This is the beer you hand to friends who “don’t really like beer” and watch them change their mind.

Why it works:

🍺Bright citrus notes lift the food

🍺Clean finish keeps you refreshed

🍺Crowd-pleaser at any boil

Crawfish boils are about community, tradition, and having a damn good time. The beer doesn’t need to be complicated, it just needs to be cold, local, and complementary. Whether you’re in the Abita camp, repping Parish, or cracking a Jucifer, drinking Louisiana beer with Louisiana crawfish just makes sense.

Shirt is from Southern Drinking Club!

Immigration and New Orleans Beer Culture

When people think of New Orleans drinks, they immediately think of cocktails like Sazeracs, Hurricanes, or frozen daiquiris. But long before beer was mass marketed or nationally distributed, New Orleans was already a beer town. And the reason for that is simple: immigration.

In the 18th century, New Orleans was one of the most important port cities in North America. It boasted a strategic position along the Mississippi River which made it a gateway for immigrants arriving from Europe, the Caribbean, and beyond. With them came different languages, traditions, food and more importantly beer.

Unlike wine-drinking France or Spain, many of the immigrants arriving in New Orleans came from more beer centric cultures such as the German and the Irish. Those German immigrants brought with them a deep knowledge of brewing and a strong demand for beer as an everyday beverage.

German immigration had hands down the single greatest impact on beer in New Orleans. Beginning in the early 1800s, waves of German immigrants settled throughout the city, mostly in what is now the Lower Garden District and Mid-City. These immigrants didn’t just drink beer, they brewed it. By the mid-19th century, German-owned breweries were popping up across the city.

Jacob Zoelly, a German immigrant who opened City Brewery at 139 Delord(Now Howard St), between Camp and Magazine St around 1849. Another German immigrant named JJ Weckerling purchased City Brewery and renamed it Louisiana Brewing Co. In 1870 Philip Wirtz opened Pelican Brewing which was located at 282(now 1230) Villere St. In 1887, it was purchased by Eugene Erath and moved to a larger facility on the river side of Chartres St, between Louisa and Clouet St. Both Pelican Brewery and Louisiana Brewery along with Weckerling, Southern, Lafayette and Crescent City Brewery merges with New Orleans Brewing Association in 1890.The New Orleans Brewing Association itself was formed to counter the threat of a English brewing syndicate.

Also, in 1890, Jackson Brewing Company was founded by Lawrence Fabacher, a local businessman of German descent, at 620 Decatur Street. Finally, Dixie Brewing, started in 1907, was started by German immigrant Valentine Merz and was the longest lasting out of all the German breweries.

These German breweries introduced lagers, pilsners, and bocks to a city that previously relied on imported or small-scale ales. These beers were cleaner, more consistent, and better suited to the New Orleans’ hot, humid climate.

In German culture, beer wasn’t just a drink; it was a social glue. German immigrants established beer gardens, music halls, and social clubs where families gathered, bands played, and politics were discussed over steins of beer. These spaces helped shape New Orleans’ communal drinking culture which emphasized social connection rather than exclusivity. This model blended seamlessly with the city’s existing traditions of public celebration, parades, and street life. Over time, beer became just as much a part of New Orleans’ social fabric as cocktails and cuisine.

The Irish immigrants, many of whom arrived during the mid-19th-century famine, also contributed to the city’s beer demand, favoring ales and stouts. Meanwhile, Caribbean influences added new rhythms to beer consumption, merging beer with Creole cooking, music, and neighborhood culture. New Orleans beer culture was never purely European—it was Creole by nature. Immigration didn’t replace existing traditions; it layered them.

The story of beer in New Orleans is a reminder that immigration doesn’t dilute culture but rather it builds it. Every wave of newcomers added knowledge, flavor, and tradition, helping turn New Orleans into one of the most unique drinking cities in America. Without immigrants, there is no New Orleans beer history. And without immigration today, there is no future for it.

Sources:

New Orleans Beer: A Hoppy History of Big Easy Brewing

Ellen C. Merrill 64 Parishes

WGNO


NOLA.COM

It's Mardi Gras! Here are 5 Local Louisiana Beers You Should Be Pairing With King Cake

The Beer Geeks Guide to Mardi Gras was getting to be the same places every year so I made it a page rather than something I release every year. I still wanted something to release today for the start of Mardi Gras season!

Here are 5 local Louisiana beers that pair well with king cake.

Note: Everyone's taste buds are different and food and beer pairing is subjective. Let me know your favorite local beer and king cake pairings in the comment section.

1. Urban South Carnival Time Sour Ale

Style: Sour Ale brewed with cinnamon and cream cheese

Why it works:

Urban South Brewery created this beer in collaboration with New Orleans’ Dong Phuong Bakery to capture the essence of cinnamon and cream cheese king cake right in the beer itself which makes it one of the most directly complementary Louisiana beers for king cake on this list. It's bright, tart sourness also helps cleanse the palate between sweet bites.

2. Parish Brewing Canebrake

Style: American Wheat Ale brewed with local sugar cane syrup

Why it works:

Canebrake’s light wheat body and subtle honey-spice notes from Louisiana cane sugar mirror king cake’s brioche sweetness without overpowering it. A wheat beer’s crispness also balances rich fillings like cream cheese or praline.

3. Bayou Teche LA-31 Bière Noire

Style: French Saison

Why it works:

This deep, dark brew carries roasty malt character with subtle coffee and chocolate notes, which can complement the cinnamon and sweet bread of king cake without completely overpowering it.

5. Great Raft Reasonably Corrupt (Black Lager / Schwarzbier)

Style: Black Lager (dark lager)

Why it works:

This darker lager has malty sweetness and roasted notes but a crisper body than many stouts/porters. That balance means it can stand up to the sweet spice in king cake without feeling overly heavy. Great if you are looking for a more sessionable dark beer for the parade route.

5. Gnarly Barley Korova Milk Porter

Style: Milk Porter (Baltic Porter)

Why it works:

Porters like this often bring chocolate, coffee, and toffee flavors with a hint of sweetness (from the milk sugar in this case), which mirrors king cake’s richer elements like praline or cream cheese fillings.

Hope you enjoy this list and have a great Mardi Gras! Let me know what you're drinking while munching on king cake!

Cheers!