One of the oldest alcoholic drinks in human history, beer has stood the test of time and is now one of the most widely-consumed drinks in the world. People love a good, cold beer, and what better place to drink a glass or two in one of the best beer cities in the world?
These bars may offer their patrons more than beer, but they are known for having either a large selection of beer or a good selection of beer that comes from places near and far. Whether it be for National Beer Day, Beer Can Appreciation Day, or really any day, New Orleans has more than enough places to satisfy folks who want a golden glass of brew. Here are 10 fantastic spots around the Big Easy for beer lovers.
10 Best Places for Beer in New Orleans
1. The Avenue Pub
1732 St. Charles Ave., (504) 586-9243
theavenuepub.com
Nationally recognized, and distinct in style, the Avenue Pub sports an old word feel which transports you as soon as you enter. Featuring interior tin ceilings and a fireplace, you can find similarly rustic intrigue in the available craft beer and specialty bourbon, sourced locally in America or Europe.
Their extensive beer list features over 40 rotating taps and multiple cask engines, showcasing rare Belgian imports, local craft brews, and limited releases. Their carefully curated selection includes everything from traditional Trappist ales to experimental sours and barrel-aged stouts. The knowledgeable staff regularly updates the digital beer board with new arrivals and can guide you through their impressive bottle collection. Open 24/7, it's a favorite among beer connoisseurs and industry professionals seeking both classic styles and hard-to-find specialties.
2. The Bulldog
Multiple Locations
thebulldog.bar
The Bulldog has established itself as a premier craft beer destination in New Orleans, with two locations offering one of the city's most extensive beer selections. Both venues feature an impressive array of over 61 rotating draft beers and hundreds of bottled options from around the world. Their tap walls showcase everything from local Louisiana breweries to rare international imports.
The knowledgeable staff can guide patrons through their vast selection, and their weekly rotating tap specials and beer events make every visit unique. Both locations maintain a casual, welcoming atmosphere perfect for sampling new brews or enjoying old favorites.
3. Cooter Brown's Tavern
509 S. Carrollton St., (504) 866-9104
cooterbrowns.com
A New Orleans institution since 1977, Cooter Brown's combines the best of a sports bar and craft beer haven. With over 400 different bottled beers and 40+ rotating draft selections, this Uptown favorite offers one of the city's most extensive beer collections.
The tavern features local brews alongside rare imports, complemented by their famous raw oyster bar and pub fare. Make sure to order one of their delicious po-boys.
4. Wrong Iron on the Greenway
3532 Toulouse St., (504) 302-1503
wrongiron.com
This vibrant Mid-City beer garden along the Lafitte Greenway offers an impressive selection of 50 beers, 10 wines, five cocktails, and four frozen drinks on tap, plus an extensive wine and cocktail menu.
The spacious outdoor setting features rotating food trucks and pop-up vendors, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for both casual gatherings and special events. Dog-friendly and featuring ample seating, Wrong Iron has quickly become a neighborhood favorite for craft beer enthusiasts and social butterflies alike.
5. Black Penny
700 N. Rampart St., (504) 304-4779
blackpennymenu.tiiny.site
Located at the intersection of Rampart and St. Peters streets, Black Penny offers a thoughtfully curated selection of craft beers in a historic setting. The bar's carefully preserved 19th-century architecture creates an atmospheric backdrop for enjoying their extensive collection of craft brews, featuring over 50 different canned beers and a rotating draft selection.
The knowledgeable staff and laid-back atmosphere make it a favorite among locals and visitors seeking quality craft beer in the French Quarter. Their commitment to supporting small and independent breweries is evident in their ever-changing beer menu, which regularly features limited releases and hard-to-find selections.
6. St. Joe's Bar
5535 Magazine St., (504) 899-3744
stjoesbar.com
St. Joe's is a great spot for drinks in New Orleans. With an array of drinks and a distinct atmosphere inside, owing to the visible beams and tall ceiling, St. Joe's is sure to keep guests coming back.
The location is also frequented by the famous Rolling Elvi of New Orleans, commonly seen walking (or rather scooting) through various parades. The location is also home to the famous blueberry mojito.
7. Barrel Proof
1201 Magazine St.
drinkbarrelproof.com
This Lower Garden District whiskey haven boasts an impressive collection of over 350 whiskeys and a carefully selected craft beer menu. The industrial-chic space offers a sophisticated yet casual atmosphere perfect for both whiskey connoisseurs and casual drinkers.
Barrel Proof's knowledgeable bartenders can guide you through their extensive selection, from rare bourbon to international spirits. The bar regularly hosts tasting events and features rotating craft beer selections to complement their world-class whiskey collection.
8. Ryan's Irish Pub
241 Decatur St., (504) 523-3500
This spot located in the French quarter is one of the best Irish pubs you can find, well, outside of Ireland. Beer, wine, or cocktails—this spot has it all. A favorite for locals, Ryan's location shouldn't deter interested parties.
While in the French Quarter, Ryan's is home to a more calm and quaint atmosphere, creating a perfect venue for watching your favorite sporting event.
9. Oak St. Brewery
8201 Oak St., (504) 533-9139
oakstbrewery.com
Oak St. Brewery is a small-scale working brewery conveniently situated near several live music venues and restaurants. Due to the laws regarding breweries of this size, the only place you can get Oak St. Brewery's beer is at this nano-brewery and taproom.
This brewery serves up Imperial stout, IPA, Reds, Ambers, blondes, and pales, satisfying a wide range of palettes. Check out their social media to see what's going on each week. There's usually an event every day like food trucks, trivia, video games, and more.
10. Bayou Beer Garden
326 N. Norman C Francis Pkwy., (504) 302-9357
bayoubeergarden.com
Bayou Beer Garden is the perfect location for everyone. They have 21 rotating beers on tap and 36 rotating wines—available by the glass, bottle, and carafe. From their vast selection of beer and wines, to their extensive food menu, you are able to enjoy all of the above in their beer garden. You can have anything from burgers to cheese boards.
Its cozy interior will make you feel right at home so you can sit back and relax. Make sure to also check out their live music every Sunday and Monday, as well as Trivia Tuesday. Bayou Beer Garden also hosts live crawfish boils.
Grab a Pint from These 10 NOLA Spots
Beer is the perfect choice to beat New Orleans' infamous humidity. Being one of the best cities in the world for beer drinkers, the Crescent City has plenty of establishments people can go to. So the next time you're in the mood for a delicious craft beer, these 10 spots will definitely hook you up and leave you satisfied. Prost, y'all!
