Best Drafts (Beer) In Every NFL City
The 2023 NFL Draft is finally upon us! Whether you like the picks or not, it’s all official now. Maybe it’s not the pick you wanted, like a running back in the first round, or maybe it is exactly what you wanted! You’ve probably been creating new mock drafts every day in eager anticipation of who the Detroit Lions, or whomever your team of choice may be, will end up selecting when they’re on the clock.
It seems like the word “Draft” has been trending on Twitter for months now. Every time I refresh there’s a new mock draft out, or a new draft rumor coming out, or a trade you can expect to see on draft day. Personally, all this “draft” talk has me thinking about cold, refreshing draft beer. Even as a big sports fan, when I hear “draft” my head doesn’t necessarily go to sports.
Michigan isn’t the only state with delicious draft beer, however. You can find it all across the country. Hold on Cort. Even in Jacksonville? Yes! No matter what NFL city you visit, you’re certain to find delicious beer. To prove this is true, I have decided to share my favorite Draft Beers in every NFL city.
I don’t think it’s a coincidence that football and beer go together so well. Both have drafts. Cities take a lot of pride in their football teams and take a lot of pride in their local beers. Living in Michigan we’re very fortunate to have local breweries like Bell’s, Short’s, Founders, and more. We swear by them being the best in the country–and it very well may be. However, across the country others have different opinions. Just as we believe in our Lions, Chicago believes in their Bears…and their own local breweries. They’ll swear they are the best, not the stuff you can get in Michigan. Who’s to say who’s right and who’s wrong? (Spoiler: Michiganders can because we do have the best beer around without a doubt.)
Now, let’s take a tour around the country and see what the best draft beer they have to offer is. That way the next time the Lions have a road game, you might have a new excuse to travel and go to the game and discover a new beer. It helps during wins and loses. Let’s dive in.
Arizona Cardinals
Phoenix is hot. Beer is cold. That’s a nice combination. When I’m in the greater Phoenix area, which isn’t often but has happened, my favorite brewery is Wren House. I went with Hippo Hoppin’ but you can go with whichever you prefer, you really can’t go wrong.
Atlanta Falcons
Coca Cola isn’t the only delicious beverage being served to the masses in Atlanta. There are tons of breweries to enjoy. I’d have to say the best is Three Taverns. Not only is it tasty, but I’m a sucker for a cool looking can…and they don’t come much cooler than this. Prince Of Pilsner is an easy like. Well done, Three Taverns. Falcons fans thank you. They need it. Anything to help forget “that one game.”
Just posted a photo https://t.co/NsxV1sk6FW
— Three Taverns Brewery (@ThreeTaverns) February 24, 2023
Baltimore Ravens
Ministry Of Brewing gets the nod in Baltimore. I’m a sucker for old churches renovated and turned into restaurants or bars. I always dig it. It reminds me of the Union in Clarkston. Home sweet home. I’d order the Boujie. Great name and I love a good stout.
Buffalo Bills
I’ve never been, but I imagine Buffalo knows a thing or two about beer. Something is making these people jump on tables…and I want a taste of it. Friends of mine who have visited recommend Pressure Drop and I feel like they’re trustworthy on the matter. They have a beer called Sticky Trees. Need I say more? I have got to try that.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers play in Charlotte and I have never visited. However, I have enjoyed some cold beverages from Birdsong that a friend brought back after a visit there. Remember earlier when I talked about cool cans? (hehe cool cans) Well, they have plenty of them at Birdsong. This Is It was the one I had. It was a crispy hazy, just my style.
Cincinatti Bengals
Rhinegeist has to be my favorite brewery in Cincinatti. It’s probably the most popular, too. I don’t think this is a very hot take by any means. Truth is very popular but I’m more of a Juicy Truth guy, myself. They also have a killer cider that I would highly recommend.
Cleveland Browns
I spent a little more than two years living in Cleveland, and did my fair share of sampling during that time. They don’t get enough credit for their vast selection of breweries. There’s Masthead, Fat Head’s, and of course…Great Lakes Brewing Company. Their Christmas Ale is the benchmark of Christmas ales, what every one tries to be and should be, but never come close. It’s worth the hype.
Kickaround POG Tart is packed with passion fruit, orange, guava, and a *hint* of tartness. Learn how our brewers kick up the flavor: https://t.co/px6Vq6D2Q3 pic.twitter.com/pq5EDDYF7v
— GreatLakesBrewingCo. (@GLBC_Cleveland) April 27, 2023
Chicago Bears
Ah Chicago. I lived there for a while and it’s one of the greatest cities in the country. Of course, I think the food is a bit better than the beer, but that’s nothing against the beer. I just think Chicago has some of the best restaurants in the country. Maybe number two on my list of food cities, only behind New Orleans. When I think of Chicago beer, I still go to Goose Island and the classic 312 Wheat Ale. Go for the food, but do enjoy a beer while you’re in town. But don’t fill up on the beer. You’re going to want to make sure you have room for food. Lots of food.
Dallas Cowboys
I’ll admit Deep Ellum is really the only one I’m familiar with, so it wins. I go with the Cadillac Bandito.
Denver Broncos
While understandably more famous for its weed scene lately, don’t let that herb make you forget Denver still has some great breweries. You’re going to judge me for this, because there are so many great breweries around and unique craft beers to choose from…but for me…nothing can beat Blue Moon. When you’re talking drafts it’s near criminal not to mention Blue Moon. C’mon. It’s the best. Even when you’re in Denver. That’s right…did you know Blue Moon is a Denver product? It is. And it’s the best.
Detroit Lions
We have arrived. So, earlier I mentioned some of my favorite Michigan breweries…but none are in Detroit. Is that okay? Can we still count those? Founders is famously in Grand Rapids, Bell’s in Kalamazoo, Short’s is way up north in Bellaire, and none of those are even remotely close to Detroit, really. So, if we’re allowed to count those then I’ll tell you I’m a Short’s guy. Soft Parade may look incredibly feminine…but that’s how I like my beers. Fruity and unique. Also, many years ago I saw Ween play a show at Short’s and I think it says a lot about them as people that they would host a Ween show, so that’s a plethora of brownie points right there.
If you don’t want to count any of those as “Detroit” beers, I would understand. The Lions play in Detroit and none of those breweries are in Detroit. So, in that case I’d go Atwater. Give me a Dirty Blonde.
Green Bay Packers
Spotted Cow by New Glarus Brewing Co. is not only one of the best beers in Wisconsin, it’s one of the best in the Midwest. I know people who would drive from Chicago to Wisconsin weekly to get their hands on some. That’s dedication. Is it based in Green Bay? No. Do I think it matters? No. People who go there support the Packers and I think that’s good enough here.
When in Wisconsin, gotta try the Spotted Cow by New Glarus Brewing! Good Pale Ale! Cheers Peeps 🍻 pic.twitter.com/Eogs8B73kf
— Cory CATbrew (@CATbrew13) September 3, 2022
Houston Texans
Houstonians love them some Buffalo Bayou Brewing. As Guy Fieri would call it, probably, Triple B. Look up Dreamsicle and tell me it doesn’t sound like…well…for lack of a better term…a dream. Wowza. I picture Houston being very sweaty, sticky, and humid and a nice refreshing Dreamsicle would always hit the spot.
Indianapolis Colts
I’m going to break my own rules here again and pick a brewery outside of Indianapolis. Instead, we’re going to Bloomington. Why? Upland Brewery. Sound familiar? It was featured on an episode of NBC’s Parks and Recreation. Again, no offense to Indianapolis. This is just my list. I’m sure Guggman Haus and St. Joseph’s are fantastic and at the top of someone in the know within Indianapolis’ list. Just not mine.
Kansas City
Friends and family in Kansas City all say it’s BKS Artesian Ales. I’ll agree with them. I’ll take a glass of the Citra & (Ocho). I’ve told you once, I’ve told you twice. I’m a hazy guy, and this hazy is what has Jackson Mahomes dancing. Take a sip and you’ll have you phone out doing the latest TikTok dance, too. Seriously. You ever have something so good you for some reason start dancing? If not, you soon will.
Los Angeles Chargers and Rams
I lived in LA my senior year of college while interning at Comedy Central. It was the opportunity of a lifetime. Literally a dream come true. However, as I said I was interning, which meant I couldn’t afford beer in Los Angeles. According to the internet Highland Park Brewery is a favorite for locals. According to Reddit they also have the best ranch?
Jacksonville Jaguars
Honestly…I’ve never been to Jacksonville…and don’t really plan to. Seems like a good place for a beer on the beach. I don’t know a single thing about their beer scene. Lemonstreet has a cool name though and it’s in Jacksonville, so try that, or something.
Las Vegas Raiders
No question: Abel Baker and its famous Atomic Duck. Next.
Miami Dolphins
Miami isn’t known for its beer scene. But once you get there a beer always sounds good for some reason. Maybe it’s the 90 degree weather and insane humidity. Tripping Animals is my favorite brewery in South Florida. It’s an experience. Don’t believe me? Just check out their website. Creative and cool. I respect that.The Ever Haze is my favorite (the one with the alligator on it, because duh).
Minnesota Vikings
Castle Danger Brewery gets the nod in Minnesota. It’s not in Minneapolis, but considering they’re the Minnesota Vikings and not the Minneapolis Vikings, I’m going to allow it. This is state-wide, baby. Castle Danger is home of the famous Castle Cream Ale. A one of a kind buttery beer that’s certain to be a favorite after your first sip. Mmm.
New England Patriots
I’m going to throw a curveball at you here. We all know Boston is home of countless excellent beers. However, my favorite find in Boston is actually a Cider. There is truly nothing better than Downeast Ciders. It’s so smooth and satisfying. It beats out any other cider, and I’ve tried many. This one is the best. Sorry, Boston. I mean no disrespect, you have great beers, but nothing scores higher than Downeast. The original blend is the grand champion.
a new summer seasonal is here i hope you like it do you have any questions about this or anything else pic.twitter.com/3FznwnBxhV
— downeast cider (@DowneastCider) April 4, 2023
New Orleans
New Orleans is my favorite food city in the country, and yeah, the drinks aren’t bad either. Beer may not be the first beverage you think of in NOLA, but there are some gems. My favorite is Courtyard in the Garden District. One of the most beautiful areas in the city, and some of the best cold beverages, as well. If only every bar sold Juanita’s Chocolate Gold…
New York Giants and Jets
It being New York, there are obviously no shortages of options for craft beers, especially in Brooklyn. The one that stands out to me is Other Half Brewing. Their options include funny names like Broccoli and Blackberry Cannibal, but these flavors are no laughing matter.
Philadelphia Eagles
Philly and Beer go hand in hand. One of my favorites is Human Robot. Strata was my order and it was enjoyed. This is what fuels Philly fans. Bring out the crazy.
San Francisco 49ers
When in San Francisco, enjoy Barrel Head. I go for Chance The Setter, but you simply can’t go wrong. Plus, the architecture alone is amazing and worth going to check out…and the beer.
Seattle Seahawks
Seattle is famous for its coffee, and if the coffee wasn’t so good, it would have a reputation for beer. When in town, I suggest you grab two beers at Two Beers. Skytower Pilsner anyone? Yes, please!
Pittsburgh Steelers
East End is my go to spot in Pittsburgh. I don’t think I’m alone on that one, either. It’s incredibly popular. Summer Hill is light and refreshing and cider fans will enjoy A Long Came A Cider. Fans of puns will clearly enjoy, too.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
7venthsun for the win! *George Costanza voice* Seven!!! Graffiti Orange for me, please
Tennessee Titans
Skip the brewery and go find a whiskey place.
Washington Commanders
When in Capitol City, go to Capitol City. They have a beer called Amber Waves which I find fitting given the location. Love me some good word play. And cool cans…did I mention that?
