As a country, we’re slowly upping our drinking game. Craft beer has seen a huge explosion in popularity as more people realise that a great drink starts from the first grain and microbreweries do just that. Small batches of carefully curated beers that are conceptualised, produced and poured in-house make you a part of their process. Whether you favour a dark sultry stout or a bright, aromatic wit, here are some places you should park yourself for your next session.
1.Geist
Once upon a time, it was a plywood factory, and now it plies delectable beers. The sprawling brewery, factory and beer garden offer a unique chance to get your drinks fresh from the keg. Serving up a wide range of bar eats as well as more substantial dishes you can dine al fresco in beautiful green surroundings. Try the Geist Witty Wit for a fresh, afternoon flavour or their signature Geist Kamacitra to understand the nuance they put into each blend.
Address: No.23/3, 21st KM Stone, Old Madras Road Nimbekaipura, Bidarahalli, Hobli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560049
Timings: 12pm - 11pm
Price for two: ₹1,200
2. Quaff Brewing Co.
Among the slew of breweries in Gurgaon, Quaff is a fan favourite. With decor inspired by international travels and a menu that lives up to the same, it’s a perfect spot to grab a fresh brew and kick back for an evening. With popular numbers like an IPA and Hefeweizen along with the more distinctive Dubbel and Blonde Ale, you’ll definitely find something you like. So let the moody lighting and comfy atmosphere take you and your tastebuds on a journey.
Address: Building No 10-B, Ground Floor, DLF Cyber Hub, DLF Cyber City, Gurugram, Haryana - 122001
Timings: 12pm - 1am
Price for two: ₹1,800
3.Toit
One of India's microbrewery pioneers, Toit was first established in Bangalore and has since spread to locations across the country. Each of their locations has a similar rustic charm with wooden interiors, brick facades and a sense of stylish comfort. Their beers are their pride and joy made only with natural ingredients, imported malt, ‘the hippest of hops and the most eukaryotic of yeast’. Sample the Tintin Toit for a light wheaty sip, the Dark Knight for a full-bodied malted ale and the Mumbai Lager for an upgraded taste of your regular pours.
Other locations: Bangalore, Pune
Address: Zeba Centre, 242, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel West, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Mumbai, Maharashtra - 400013
Timings: 8.30am- 1am
Price for two: ₹1,600
4.The 1st Brewhouse - Doolally Taproom
Any discussion about microbreweries is incomplete without touching upon Doolally Taproom. Opened in 2009 in Pune it was India’s first ever microbrewery and is still going strong today. The 1st Brewhouse – as the Pune location is known – is a sprawling indoor to outdoor space that feels like an old English pub with dark wood and moody lighting, the perfect setting to while away a lazy afternoon. Sip on one of their legendary Hefeweizens or ask your waiter for their seasonal specials to experience their finely honed craft.
Other Locations: Mumbai
Address: Doolally, The Corinthians Club, NIBM Road, Mohammed Wadi, Pune, Maharashtra - 411060
Timings: 12.30pm - 12am
Price for two: ₹2,000
5.The GRID
Started in 2017 by Gaurav Karnani, the GRID was built to bring the city fresh flavour profiles, with a focus on ingredients, fermentation, maturation periods, carbonation profiles and serving temperatures. Their beers are brewed with technical precision for a sophisticated sip and their ambience is designed to match. Their vast industrial-themed space feels futuristic with its high ceilings plus glass and metal accents, and the floor plan ensures you can always find a seat. Aside from their signature brews with the usual suspects of Hefeweizen, Ciders and Stouts, they also offer seasonal options inspired by local ingredients which are favourites.
Address: D86A Topsia Road, Haute Street Building, Kolkata, West Bengal - 700046
Timings: 12pm - 12am
Price for two: ₹2,000
6.Lighthouse
Jaipur’s guiding light for thirsty beer enthusiasts, this brewery, bar and kitchen have been almost a decade in the making. Sit by the pool or on the 360° view terrace and take in the beautiful art deco ambience. With four signature brews on tap, it’s a case of quality over quantity. They use imported barley, malts, and hops from Germany with a preservative and glycerin-free promise, you know that every sip is going to deliver.
Address: Ridhi Sidhi Circle, The Park Classic, 7th to 10th Floor, Gopalpura Bypass Rd, Jaipur, Rajasthan - 302018
Timings: 2pm - 1am
Price for two: ₹1,400
7. Prost
With over 10,000sq feet of space to offer, Prost is a place to enjoy a craft beer in style. They promise fun, food and of course, amazing beer! With a range of intriguing brews they pride themselves on their unique aromas and flavour. Ask for an Exclusiv Special to taste some bold native elements or a Schmaltz Special for interesting new inventions. Settle in with your drink for a relaxed afternoon or a raucous night out, this place can do both.
Address: Ridhi Sidhi Circle, The Park Classic, 7th to 10th Floor, Gopalpura Bypass Rd, Jaipur, Rajasthan - 302018
Timings: 12pm - 12am
Price for two: ₹2,200