Crying Eagle Brewing: A Premier Destination for Craft Beer, Bistro Fare, and Live Music
Crying Eagle Brewing has evolved far beyond a traditional brewery. Dissatisfied with solely offering their exceptional beer lineup, they expanded into a full-service bistro. Building on that success, they've launched the Crying Eagle Concert Series, featuring major music acts from April through September.
The team at Crying Eagle excels at fostering the communal spirit central to craft beer culture. Bottle-sharing among breweries promotes idea exchange through unique beers, and Crying Eagle elevates this by inviting the public to contribute menu and beer concepts.
Marketing Director Krickett Schmidt Racca, who juggles events, orders, and more, favors the Don’t Blush Raspberry Berliner Weisse—a delightful sweet-tart fruit beer—paired with the Butcher Block pizza topped with Tabasco and Sriracha.
The menu debuted with authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas baked in a brick oven, a natural beer pairing. Recent dough innovations now yield fluffy, crispy crusts in just 3 minutes.
This commitment to improvement underscores their transformation from taproom to multifaceted venue. The bistro now offers salads, avocado toast, baked oysters, lobster rolls (inspired by Krickett’s family recipe), street tacos, and nachos.
“We craft food we love,” shared Krickett over a Passionfruit Berliner Weisse, as I enjoyed their Louisiana Lager. “Our diverse staff and global visitors inspire us to embrace new beer and food ideas.”
Customer feedback drives menu growth, with tested ideas becoming specials or new taps.
“Seafood joined for Lent, alongside salads and sandwiches for lighter options beyond pizza,” Krickett explained.
Sundays now feature brunch with breakfast pizzas and frittatas, following approval for extended hours.
The community welcomed their entry into live music. The Concert Series launches April 20 with glam rock band L.A. ROXX, followed by Rebirth Brass Band on May 18, plus Lost Bayou Ramblers, Bag of Donuts, and Rusty Metoyer.
“Our birthday bashes with big bands were hits, so we’re making live music a staple and a new venue for Lake Charles,” Krickett noted.
Future plans include barre classes, summer yoga, beer workshops, and special events like goat yoga. Visit CryingEagle.com or their Facebook page for concert details.
Learn more about the Southwest Louisiana Brews and Spirits Trail here.
