4 Breweries with Rich, Local Flavors Around New Orleans

There’s nothing better than a delicious brew on a chilly autumn afternoon. Whether you’re stocking up for football Sunday or looking for something to sip as you host your Halloween party this season, you’ll find unbeatable flavors in the breweries around New Orleans. Try these destinations near our Springs communities.

1. Covington Brewhouse
226 E Lockwood St, Covington

The tasting room at the Covington Brewhouse is open Thursday through Sunday, with free brewery tours at 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays. The brewery’s flagship flavors include everything from their sweet Strawberry Ale to the rich dark Anonymous IPA. The flavor of the season for autumn is the Fest Bier with earthy hops and a warm toasty flavor.

If you want to try a unique take on your brewery visit, head over on Thursday at 5:15 p.m. for the weekly Down Dogs & Drafts yoga class. The class is free, and live music is on hand as you unwind.

2. Abita Brewing Company
166 Barbee Rd, Covington

Less than 20 minutes from our Springs at River Chase apartments, this Covington brewery is a great pick for a fun afternoon just a short drive from home. Year-round brews include distinctive picks like Purple Haze, a lager with a ripe raspberry punch. If you enjoy high-gravity brews, try the Andygator, with a sweet taste and dry finish. Available through September and October, Abita’s Pecan Ale is a must-sip with the authentic flavor of Louisiana roasted pecans.

Stop at the tap house for a guided tour every half hour from Wednesday through Sunday. Tours are just $5 and include four 4-ounce tastings. Guests under 21 are welcome to attend free of charge. Free self-guided tours are available with a touchscreen device every day but Saturday, though tastings are not included.

3. Chafunkta Brewing Company
21449 Marion Ln #2, Mandeville

Residents of our Springs at Fremaux Town Center community are less than half an hour from the Chafunkta Brewing Company tap room. Open from Thursday through Sunday, the tap room offers its brews in 5-, 10-, and 16-ounce sizes. If you’re looking for an IPA with less bitterness than usual, go for the Voo Ka Ray IPA. The Old 504 is a robust porter infused with the rich flavors of Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans and coffee. Enjoy a small menu of outstandingly perfected flavors at Chafunkta.

4. Courtyard Brewery
1020 Erato St, New Orleans

The Courtyard Brewery is open seven days a week so you can fit this spot into any schedule. Best of all, there’s a different food truck on hand each day of the week. The draft list includes a broad selection of flavors from hard cider to IPAs to strong ales, porters and fruit beers. Though there are several familiar brands on the menu, don’t miss Courtyard’s own brews, from the hoppy Courtyard This and That to the sour All’s Ephemeral.

What’s your favorite local brew in the New Orleans area? Share your top sips with other Springs residents in the comments section below.