Coast to Coast, Cheers to Craft: Nashville vs. Los Angeles Brewery Showdown

The craft beer revolution has swept across America, painting cities in a spectrum of hop-hued creativity. From the laid-back South to the sunny West Coast, unique brewing cultures have blossomed, each with its own distinct flavor and flair. Today, we're taking a frothy journey to compare two of the nation's most vibrant beer scenes: Nashville, Tennessee, and Los Angeles, California.

While Nashville might be more renowned for its country music and hot chicken, its brewery scene has exploded in recent years. It offers a diverse range of styles and experiences. Los Angeles, on the other hand, boasts a longer history with craft beer, reflecting the city's diverse culture and innovative spirit.

A Craft Beer Showdown: Nashville vs. Los Angeles

To dive deep into this delicious debate, we've paired some of the top breweries from each city based on their craft, vibe, and the local love they command. Let's raise a glass to this one—here’s a side-by-side comparison:

1. Yazoo Brewing Co. (Nashville) = Angel City Brewery (Arts District, LA)

Vibe: Big-name, community-centered OGs.

Both Yazoo Brewing Co. in Nashville and Angel City Brewery in Los Angeles hold a special place in their respective city's craft beer history. They are the pioneers, the breweries that helped lay the foundation for the thriving scenes we see today. Yazoo, established in 2003, was one of the first to introduce Nashville to the joys of locally brewed craft beer. Similarly, Angel City, revitalized in 2010 within a historic building in the heart of the Arts District, represents a cornerstone of LA's modern brewing movement.

Why: Both are early pioneers of their city’s modern craft beer scene, with wide distribution and fun taprooms.

Yazoo's flagship beers, like the Yazoo Pale Ale and the Dos Perros Brown Ale, are familiar sights across Nashville. You can find them in bars, restaurants, and grocery stores. Their taproom in The Gulch is a lively spot, often hosting events and drawing a diverse crowd. It's a place where both seasoned craft beer enthusiasts and those new to the scene can find something to enjoy.

Angel City Brewery mirrors this community-centric approach in LA. Located in a sprawling warehouse with a vibrant, art-filled taproom, it’s a hub for locals and visitors alike. Their wide distribution makes their beers, such as the Angel City IPA and the Pilsner, accessible throughout the city. Both breweries have cultivated a sense of local pride and have become integral parts of their urban landscapes. They are the reliable favorites, the go-to spots when you want a solid, well-crafted beer in a welcoming atmosphere.

2. Southern Grist Brewing Co. (Nashville) = Modern Times (DTLA)

Vibe: Wildly creative, boundary-pushing brews.

If you're a beer geek looking for the cutting edge, then Southern Grist Brewing Co. in Nashville and Modern Times in Downtown LA are your playgrounds. These breweries aren't afraid to experiment, constantly pushing the boundaries of traditional styles and concocting beers that make your taste buds sing (and sometimes scratch their heads in delightful confusion).

Why: Known for sours, hazy IPAs, and wild flavor experiments that make beer geeks geek out.

Southern Grist has garnered a dedicated following for its innovative sours, often featuring unusual fruit combinations and intriguing flavor profiles. Their hazy IPAs are also highly sought after, packed with hop aroma and flavor. With multiple taproom locations, Southern Grist provides ample opportunity to sample their ever-evolving lineup of creative concoctions.

Modern Times, with its eclectic and whimsically decorated taproom in DTLA, shares this spirit of experimentation. They are renowned for their hazy IPAs, complex and flavorful stouts (often with coffee additions, reflecting their in-house coffee roasting program), and their foray into sour and wild fermentation beers. Both breweries are destinations for those seeking unique and memorable beer experiences, constantly releasing new and exciting brews that keep the local beer scene buzzing.

3. Bearded Iris Brewing (Nashville) = Monkish Brewing Co. (Torrance)

Vibe: IPA royalty.

For those who live and breathe hops, Bearded Iris Brewing in Nashville and Monkish Brewing Co. in Torrance are the undisputed monarchs of IPA. These breweries have built their reputations on crafting some of the most sought-after hazy, juicy, and intensely hopped IPAs in their respective regions.

Why: Hazy, juicy, and double dry-hopped. These breweries are cult favorites for IPA lovers.

Bearded Iris, with its minimalist taproom, lets the beer speak for itself. Their focus is laser-sharp on producing exceptional hazy IPAs, often double dry-hopped to maximize aroma and flavor. Beers like their Homestyle and Kaleidoscope are legendary in Nashville's beer circles, often causing lines out the door for new releases.

Monkish, while located a bit outside the immediate LA downtown area, has cultivated a similar cult following for its hazy and often high-ABV IPAs. Their name, inspired by the monastic brewing traditions, belies the modern, intensely hopped beers they produce. Known for their creative names and consistently high quality, Monkish IPAs are highly coveted and frequently traded among beer enthusiasts. If your palate craves hop-forward beers with a pillowy soft mouthfeel and an explosion of tropical and citrus notes, these two breweries are your ultimate destinations.

4. Tennessee Brew Works (Nashville) = Golden Road Brewing (Atwater Village)

Vibe: Popular, sunny, and great for groups.

When you're looking for a brewery with a lively atmosphere, plenty of space for friends, and beers that appeal to a wide range of palates, Tennessee Brew Works in Nashville and Golden Road Brewing in Atwater Village fit the bill perfectly. These are the spots where you can gather with a group, enjoy some sunshine, and find an easy-drinking beer that everyone can appreciate.

Why: Bright spaces with live music and patios, and easy-drinking beers with broad appeal.

Tennessee Brew Works, located near downtown Nashville, boasts a spacious taproom with a stage for live music and a welcoming patio. Their beers, like the 1927 Lager and the Basil Ryeman Pale Ale, are approachable and well-crafted. They make popular choices for both casual drinkers and craft beer aficionados. The vibrant atmosphere and regular events make it a great spot to spend an afternoon or evening.

Golden Road Brewing, with its prominent location in Atwater Village, offers a similar experience in LA. Their large, sunny patio is a major draw, and their diverse beer menu features a range of styles, from the easy-drinking Wolf Pup Session IPA to more adventurous offerings. They also frequently host events and have become a popular spot for families and groups looking for a relaxed and enjoyable brewery experience. Both breweries excel at creating spaces that are both welcoming and energetic, with beers that are both satisfying and accessible.

5. Jackalope Brewing Co. (Nashville) = Smog City Brewing (Torrance)

Vibe: Local pride with great variety.

Representing the heart and soul of their local beer scenes are Jackalope Brewing Co. in Nashville and Smog City Brewing in Torrance. These independent, community-driven breweries offer a strong core lineup of well-made beers, complemented by occasional seasonal releases and experimental brews that showcase their creativity.

Why: Independent and community-driven with a strong core lineup and occasional seasonal gems.

Jackalope, one of Nashville's early craft breweries, has cultivated a loyal following with its reliably delicious beers and its strong commitment to the local community. Their taproom in Wedgewood-Houston is a welcoming space where you can always find a solid pint of their flagship Rompo Red Rye or their Bearwalker Maple Brown Ale. They also regularly release seasonal beers that highlight their brewing prowess.

Smog City Brewing, located in the South Bay area of LA, shares this dedication to quality and community. Their diverse beer menu features a range of styles, from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, all brewed with precision and care. Their commitment to sustainability and their active involvement in local events have made them a beloved brewery in their neighborhood. Both Jackalope and Smog City embody the spirit of independent craft brewing, offering a diverse range of well-crafted beers with a strong sense of local pride.

6. East Nashville Beer Works (Nashville) = Highland Park Brewery

Vibe: Neighborhood vibes, great pizza and beer.

Sometimes, all you need is a cozy neighborhood spot where you can grab a delicious slice of pizza and a freshly brewed beer. East Nashville Beer Works and Highland Park Brewery both excel at creating this kind of laid-back, local-first atmosphere, making them perfect for casual hangouts with friends.

Why: Chill, local-first spots perfect for hanging with friends and sipping something fresh.

East Nashville Beer Works has become a beloved fixture in its namesake neighborhood. Their taproom is a relaxed and friendly space, and their wood-fired pizzas are a major draw. Of course, the beer is equally important, with a rotating selection of well-crafted styles that cater to a variety of tastes. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a few hours catching up with friends over a pint and a pie.

Highland Park Brewery, with its multiple locations, embodies this same neighborhood ethos in LA. While known for their excellent IPAs, they also offer a diverse range of other styles. Their food menu, featuring creative pizzas and other tasty bites, complements the beer perfectly. Their casual and welcoming atmosphere makes them a popular spot for locals looking for a reliable place to enjoy good beer and good company.

7. New Heights Brewing (Nashville) = Mumford Brewing (Downtown LA)

Vibe: Under-the-radar with serious talent.

If you're looking for hidden gems, breweries that consistently produce exceptional beers without necessarily chasing the hype, then New Heights Brewing in Nashville and Mumford Brewing in Downtown LA should be on your radar. These are the smaller, perhaps less widely known breweries that impress with their dedication to quality and their seriously talented brewing teams.

Why: Both are small and mighty—pumping out great beers without the hype machine.

New Heights, located in a more industrial part of Nashville, might not have the flashiest taproom, but their beers speak for themselves. They consistently brew excellent examples of classic styles, from crisp lagers to well-balanced IPAs, often with a focus on technical brewing proficiency. Their beers are a testament to their brewing expertise and their commitment to quality.

Mumford Brewing, with its unassuming location in DTLA, has quietly built a reputation for producing a wide range of high-quality beers. From their clean and refreshing lagers to their hop-forward IPAs to their well-crafted stouts, Mumford consistently delivers flavorful and well-made beers. These are the breweries that reward those who seek them out, offering a taste of genuine brewing talent without the need for fanfare.

8. Fat Bottom Brewing (Nashville) = Arts District Brewing Co.

Vibe: Retro, fun, and all about the experience.

For a brewery that offers more than just great beer, Fat Bottom Brewing in Nashville and Arts District Brewing Co. in LA provide a complete experience with playful branding, large taprooms, and a focus on creating a fun and engaging atmosphere. These are the places to go when you want to enjoy your beer alongside games, good food, and a vibrant crowd.

Why: Playful branding, large taprooms, arcade games, and a great place to bring a crowd.

Fat Bottom, with its distinctive name and colorful branding, boasts a spacious taproom in The Nations neighborhood of Nashville. They offer a diverse range of beers, from their flagship Ruby Red Ale to more experimental offerings, and their on-site kitchen serves up delicious food. The taproom often features arcade games and other entertainment, making it a popular spot for a fun night out.

Arts District Brewing Co. mirrors this playful approach in LA. Their massive taproom in the heart of the Arts District features a full kitchen, a wide selection of their own beers (as well as a guest tap list), and a plethora of arcade games. It’s a lively and energetic space that’s perfect for bringing a group of friends for an evening of beer-fueled fun. Both breweries understand that the experience surrounding the beer is just as important as the beer itself, creating destinations that are as entertaining as they are delicious.

9. Black Abbey Brewing Co. (Nashville) = Indie Brewing Company

Vibe: Low-key, high-quality, with a distinct identity.

Black Abbey Brewing Co. in Nashville and Indie Brewing Company in LA represent breweries that have carved out their own niche within their respective beer scenes by focusing on specific styles and cultivating a distinct identity. They are the breweries that offer a more focused and perhaps more nuanced approach to craft beer.

Why: Abbey-style and dark beers in Nashville; IPAs and lagers in LA—both authentic and unpretentious.

Black Abbey stands out in Nashville for its dedication to brewing Belgian-inspired abbey-style ales and other dark beers. Their taproom, designed to resemble a medieval monastery, provides a unique and contemplative atmosphere. Beers like their The Brother Ambrose Dubbel and The Reverend Belgian IPA showcase their commitment to these classic styles, offering a different perspective within Nashville's hop-heavy scene.

Indie Brewing Company in LA takes a slightly different approach, focusing on crafting high-quality IPAs and lagers. While LA is known for its IPAs, Indie distinguishes itself with its consistently well-executed versions, alongside crisp and refreshing lagers. Their unpretentious taproom and their focus on brewing classic styles with precision have earned them a loyal following among those who appreciate well-made, straightforward beers. Both breweries demonstrate that having a clear vision and executing it well can lead to a strong and respected presence in a competitive market.

10. TailGate Brewery (Nashville) = Firestone Walker – The Propagator (Venice)

Vibe: Experimental with big personality.

Rounding out our comparison are TailGate Brewery in Nashville and Firestone Walker – The Propagator in Venice. These breweries share a penchant for experimentation, a bold personality, and a commitment to offering both creative new brews and beloved flagship favorites. They are the breweries that keep things interesting, always offering something new and exciting to try.

Why: Pizza, creative pours, and flagship beers alongside new releases—always something fresh on tap.

TailGate Brewery has grown to become a significant player in the Nashville scene, with multiple locations offering a wide range of beers, from their popular flagship TailGate Lager to an ever-rotating selection of experimental brews. They are also known for their delicious pizza, making their taprooms popular destinations for both beer and food lovers. There's always something new and exciting happening at TailGate.

Firestone Walker – The Propagator in Venice embodies this same spirit of innovation within the renowned Firestone Walker family. While they offer many of the brewery’s well-loved flagship beers, The Propagator also serves as a test kitchen for new and experimental brews. This gives visitors a chance to taste beers that might not be widely available elsewhere. Combined with a vibrant atmosphere and delicious food options, The Propagator offers a dynamic and engaging brewery experience. Both TailGate and Firestone Walker’s Venice location demonstrate the power of combining established quality with a constant drive to innovate.

A Toast to Two Great Beer Cities

While Nashville and Los Angeles each possess their own unique character and cultural nuances, their craft brewery scenes share a common thread: a passion for quality, a spirit of innovation, and a deep connection to their local communities. Whether you prefer the hazy IPAs of Bearded Iris and Monkish, the creative sours of Southern Grist and Modern Times, or the community-centered vibes of Yazoo and Angel City, both cities offer a wealth of exceptional breweries to explore.

So, whether you find yourself strolling down Broadway in Nashville or soaking up the sun in Venice Beach, be sure to seek out the local craft beer scene. You’re sure to find a brewery that perfectly suits your taste and offers a taste of the unique brewing culture of these two dynamic American cities. Cheers to that!