Something is brewin’ in DeSoto County

Who doesn’t love a nice craft beer straight from the tap? When planning your next visit to DeSoto County, Mississippi, add this locally owned spot to your itinerary.

A ‘beer bar for beer lovers’ is how Mississippi Ale House and Brew Pub describes itself. Nestled in Old Towne Olive Branch on Highway 78, the Ale House opened its doors in 2017 and is the brainchild of Derric Curran (pictured below). He saw a need for a place to go after work to grab a pint and hang out with friends. Thus, Mississippi Ale House and Brew Pub was born.

The pub features specialty beers from dozens of Magnolia State breweries, as well as several brewed on-site. From lagers and IPAs to stouts and ciders, you’re sure to find a cold one you’ll love. Yes, we said ciders. Curran recently acquired Backwater Brewing, Mississippi’s first cidery. The original location opened in the state’s capital, Jackson, and moved next door to Ale House in 2020. Backwater offered a diverse rotation of beers, ciders, cysers and session meads. The cidery now operates under the umbrella of Mississippi Ale House and Brew Pub.

After opening with 11 taps, the Ale House has since expanded its offerings greatly. In fact, it recently added a 30th beer tap to celebrate five years in business. The newly christened brew titled Top of the ‘Sip, is a Czech pilsner. It was named in partnership with us here at DeSoto County Tourism and is a perfect “all-day” beer for these hot summer months. 

So, what goes into the new beers they create? Whatever they like at the moment, really. Curran, along with beer manager Joe and brewmaster JR, develop a recipe and go through some trial-and-error to create the perfect pint. Their selection of seasonal beers that rotate throughout the year often include locally sourced ingredients like coffee grounds from Athena Coffee Roasters and honey from Pigeon Roost Apiary.
 

The “whatever we like at the moment” mantra also relates to the brewery’s food menu – there isn’t one. Instead, they welcome outside food in, especially from neighbors OB Pizza Co. and SideStreet Burger. Rumor has it that Mississippi Ale House’s specially chosen initials of M.A.H. pay homage to the owner of both restaurants, Chef Jonathan Mah.

If you’re wondering about entertainment, they have that covered, too. Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday, and trivia on Tuesdays with prizes ranging from a free bar tab to lottery tickets.

Looking for your own Cheers? Mississippi Ale House and Brew Pub is the spot where everybody knows your name. Happy SIPPin’!