#42 of 198 Destin Restaurants

Bayou Brewing Company

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Bayou Brewing Company – Where to Enjoy Creative Brewskis in the Heart of Niceville
Local Expert's Rating:
5.0 / 5
The Bottom Line:

Delightfully creative brewskis are the name of the game at the Bayou Brewing Company. A beloved Niceville gathering spot, this veteran owned and operated joint rolls out new creations on the regular for your pure enjoyment. On top of that, they serve every last one with a smile, ensuring you always feel right at home in their taproom and outside in the beer garden.

- The FloridaPanhandle.com Local Expert Team

Whenever you’re in the mood for truly imaginative brewskis made fresh, get on over to the Bayou Brewing Company. Set in the heart of Niceville, this joint goes big on the flavor while creating every last small batch of craft brews. Then, they serve them all with a smile, so you always feel right at home at this veteran owned and operated joint.

As a result of their efforts, they’re no longer a tightly kept secret. In fact, people come in from far and wide for a taste of the brews of the season, which keeps their modest taproom filled to the hilt always. Fortunately, they’re happy to make room for all their guests by letting the party spill out into the beer garden outside. All across their outdoor space, they have picnic tables set up for their patrons, giving everyone space to settle down for a tasty drink.

Before you find a seat, sidle up to the bar and check out the menu along the side. Their offerings change often, depending on what they’ve decided to brew up for the season. So, take your time in exploring each one, and don’t hesitate to ask the bartender for recommendations. Upon getting that question, they’ll find out your flavor preferences, and then take the time to point out a few brews you might like.

If you’re feeling a bit peckish during your visit, there are usually food trucks on site ready to serve up tasty bites to eat. If not, you can go next door to Bistro 20 or across the street to Taco Town to Go for a meal. Then, bring your food back to your spot in the brewery and chow down while sipping on your brews of choice.

Depending on when you arrive, you might even get to enjoy live performances by local musicians. Or you may get to participate in trivia night or other fun events. If you’re not sure what’s on the calendar, just ask when you arrive to see if there are any special happenings that day or in the near future.

Fan favorites include:

Black Dog Milk Stout
A true sight to behold, the Black Dog Milk Stout takes dark beer to the next level. This bold milk/sweet stout boasts a rich flavor profile that’ll keep you happily sipping away all evening long. With its 5.5% ABV, the alcohol content probably won’t sneak up on you – unless you can’t quit savoring this pitch black brew.

Miss Mullet
For a truly refreshing brew, you cannot go wrong with the Miss Mullet. This drink starts with a blonde ale base that tapers off into a bright kick of watermelon flavors. A 5% ABV keeps the experience low-key, so you can keep the sipping going all night long.

Hidden House IPA
When you want a drink that just gets straight to the point, the Hidden House IPA is the way to go. A true house favorite, this New England/Hazy IPA brings on the fruity hop flavor. Citrus notes dance throughout each sip as a result, keeping you carefully coming back for more of this 6.8% ABV brew.

If you’d like to show your love for the brewery wherever you go, stop by the front shelves for swag galore. They have branded glassware, of course, plus hats, t-shirts, and so much more. Every last item features their logo emblazoned across the front, reminding you to come back again soon for another sip.

Insider Tips:
-If they have to close for improvements, emergencies, and the like, the crew posts an announcement on their Facebook page.
-Watch their Instagram and other social media pages for opportunities to participate in charity events, like dog food drives for local rescues.
-Well-behaved pups are always welcome to join their owners at the picnic tables outside. There are even treats available whenever your dog is feeling a little bit snacky.