Crying Eagle Brewery Celebrates 5th Anniversary with New Specialty Brews, Events, and Lakefront Expansion
Crying Eagle Brewery Celebrates 5 Years on July 17!
Crying Eagle Brewery continually evolves, offering fresh experiences through its dynamic menu, innovative beers, and engaging events. Each visit reveals new favorites that elevate the standards, driven by a forward-thinking team that adapts swiftly to change.
The brewery's resilience over the past year and a half stands as a model for the industry. Facing challenges, Crying Eagle took bold risks and emerged stronger. "We had to evolve quickly, and it’s been a sensational success," said Avery. "Being a taproom wasn’t enough; we needed to become a bigger brand that really mattered in the community." This shift incorporated music, food, and atmosphere, shaping its current vibrant identity.
The Beers
While craft beer staples endure, Crying Eagle prioritizes innovation and authenticity to meet modern demands. Specialty releases have become essential, complementing local favorites. "There’s really no room for bad beer on our menu," Avery noted. "We put a lot of our effort into better quality beer that is as creative as our team."
Brewmaster Ryan O’Donnell’s latest creations gain momentum, highlighted at the 5th Annual Birthday Bash on July 17 in Lake Charles. New releases include the Front Porch Breakfast IPA, a hazy, juicy brew bursting with citrus and tropical notes like orange, lemon, grapefruit, mango, pineapple, melon, and stone fruit, balanced by pine resin, dried roses, and sage.
The Jalapeño Hefeweizen adds spice to the classic German wheat beer, while the Peanut Butter Stout features peanuts in an oatmeal base. The Cherry Saison blends New Zealand hops and cherry puree for a fruity, dry farmhouse ale. Other debuts: Happy Birthday Mr. President (cream ale with vanilla cake, bean, and icing notes) and Blueberry Cheesecake Smoothie (with fresh blueberries, cream cheese, and vanilla). Sample responsibly at the event.
The Food
Chefs Matt Kaub and Nick Thibodeaux craft dishes inspired by global flavors, testing and refining them based on customer feedback. Standouts include Butcher Block pizza, nachos, Eagle Wings, Kobe beef burger, and upgraded chicken nuggies made with flavorful dark meat chicken for superior taste and texture.
Other highlights: shrimp and andouille quesadillas with local shrimp, sausage, pepper jack cheese, avocado mousse, and lime crema; and a warm farro grain bowl with corn, carrot, frisée, shaved Parmesan, and vinaigrette from Broken Vows brew. The menu rotates to keep offerings fresh and exciting.
Upcoming Events
A permanent outdoor stage and expanded patio host regular live music and events. Check their Facebook for weekly lineups featuring local and popular acts. The July 17 Birthday Bash features LA Roxx headlining at 9 p.m., with Brad Brinkley Duo, Long Sunday Drive, Sarah Russo Trip, The Vibes, Infinite Bus, and Dead or Alive. Tickets at cryingeagle.com.
Part of the 2021 Summer Concert Series, upcoming acts include Cowboy Mouth (August 21) and Three Thirty-Seven (September 11). Additional events: Food Truck Nights, Family Fun Fest, karaoke, art nights, and Brunch After Parties. Fall highlights: Oktoberfest with specialty beers, games, and music (details at VisitLakeCharles.org); Back in Flight relief concert; and the top Halloween Party.
Lakefront Update
Crying Eagle's second lakefront location promises a transformative tourism hub, blending architecture, greenspace, elevated cuisine, and unique beers for multisensory experiences. Avery's team remains enthusiastic post-hurricanes. Follow on social media or visit CryingEagle.com for updates on beers, dishes, and events.
