Nashville’s Craft Beer Scene: A Guide to Top Breweries

Nashville’s craft beer movement has found its groove. While craft breweries have existed here since the early days of America’s beer-making renaissance, a bounty of new and inventive operations have placed the city firmly on the map for lovers of quality suds.

Nashville’s beer has long reflected the region’s complicated history with spirits and ale. Influenced by the competing forces of lager-drinking German immigrants and a Bible Belt interest in moderation, the city’s available beer has historically been limited to light-bodied, mass-produced lagers.

However, Music City is quickly changing its tune. Since 2010, over 15 new craft breweries have opened in Nashville and the surrounding area. Moreover, the state of Tennessee has passed legislation to relax strict drinking laws, enabling breweries to craft and stock high-gravity ales (beers over 6.25% alcohol by volume). Consequently, Nashville is experiencing a vibrant craft brewing era with breweries eager to explore new territory and experiment with recipes while catering to a knowledgeable (and thirsty) clientele.

Yazoo Brewing Company

Hop onto a taproom bar stool or relax on the patio at this popular brewery in the Gulch, Nashville’s urbanite hotspot. Yazoo has been rolling out barrels of their beer since 2003, establishing a strong reputation. The lineup includes classic ale styles like a Hefeweizen (wheat beer), a pale ale, and an American brown ale. Importantly, Yazoo is also at the forefront of Nashville’s sour beer movement, with their Embrace the Funk series offering delightful flavors. Be sure to try the tart and fruity Barrel-Aged Brett Saison and consider a brewery tour ($8, 45 min, includes tastings).

Best for: hanging with friends before bar- and restaurant-hopping in the Gulch

Tennessee Brew Works

The opening of Tennessee Brew Works in 2013 generated significant buzz, and the brewery has maintained this momentum with an ever-evolving lineup of beers and events. The taproom has transformed into a popular venue for live music, featuring local acts every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Signature beers include the Basil Ryeman, a spicy farmhouse ale brewed with local Thai basil, and Country Roots, a sweet potato stout using real sweet potatoes from Delvin Farms. Their kitchen elevates typical taproom fare with quality dishes. Head upstairs to the patio for fantastic sunset views.

Best for: Nashville newbies and locals wanting a taste of the music scene

Czann’s Brewing Co

Czann’s, the new kid on the block, is making a name for itself with clean, crisp, easy-to-drink beers. Located in the brewery-rich area south of downtown, this one-man operation (brewer Ken Rebman runs both the business and the brewhouse) offers several solid ales, including a pale ale, an IPA, and a blonde ale, all excellent for summer sipping.

Best for: small-group hangouts in the intimate taproom

Bearded Iris Brewing

This inventive brewery, named for Tennessee’s state flower, opened in 2016 in a former industrial space within the booming Germantown neighborhood. It’s well worth the trek for their perfectly balanced flagship beer, the Homestyle IPA, served in an eclectic taproom that features an elegant antique wooden bar and wing-back chairs. Additionally, there’s a ‘hoppy hour’ from 5-6pm on weekdays, offering $3 IPAs and $5 double IPAs.

Best for: open mic hip-hop every Tuesday

Jackalope Brewing Company

Situated just a block away from Yazoo Brewing, this upstart brewery has the advantage of utilizing second-hand equipment from Yazoo. Jackalope’s relaxed and well-designed taproom is popular among both young urbanites and family-oriented Nashvillians alike. The brewery features entertainment options like board games (including oversized Jenga) and an enticing selection of experimental beers. Be sure to try the Casper, a Gose sour beer brewed with sea salt and coriander, featuring a herby, mango-tinged aroma.

Best for: sampling experimental brews

Little Harpeth Brewing

Welcome to Nashville’s most eco-friendly brewery. Almost all materials and equipment (excluding direct brewing components) at Little Harpeth have been donated, recycled, or upcycled from local businesses. The beers here draw from German traditions, featuring Pilsners, lagers, and white beers. Standout offerings include Chicken Scratch, a refreshingly crisp American Pilsner that pairs perfectly with Nashville’s iconic hot chicken. Their dog-friendly taproom offers stunning views of the Cumberland River and regularly hosts live music.

Best for: stocking up for a day of canoeing down the Harpeth River

Smith & Lentz Brewing

At Smith & Lentz, you might never see the same beer twice on the menu, as this small-batch brewery excels in crafting American-inspired beers like the fruity Cheerbeer (inspired by Door County, Wisconsin cherries) and the Tryin to find Jebus IPA. The spacious, picnic-table-filled taproom is easy to spot on Main Street in East Nashville, accommodating large groups comfortably.

Best for: those who enjoy a little unpredictability in their beer selection

Black Abbey

Inspired by the Protestant Reformation and Martin Luther’s relationship with beer, Black Abbey focuses on approachable Belgian-style ales. Opened by two brewing brothers, Black Abbey’s taproom, known as Fellowship Hall, captures the monastic theme with picnic-tables that encourage mingling with friends and strangers alike. The range of Belgian beers are malty and highly drinkable. Be sure to try The Special, a biscuity, crimson-colored ale, and make some new friends along the way.

Best for: out-of-towners seeking a taste of Nashville’s beer scene away from the downtown crowd

Nashville’s Best Craft Beer Bars

Want to sample a variety of brews in one tipsy sitting? Here’s where to go: