Bengaluru's Ultimate Trail For Craft Beer
By Shireen Jamooji
The rise of craft beer in Bengaluru isn't simply about finesse; it's about putting Indian beers on the world map. Craft brewers in Bengaluru are fearlessly experimenting with traditional Indian ingredients and flavours, infusing them into their brews with a dash of innovation.
Arbor, Brigade Road
Known for pushing boundaries with beer and for being the first American Brewery in Bangalore, Arbor is a haunt of all the city’s OG craft beer fans. For 25 years the company has been dedicated to creating new spaces in craft beer. Elizabeth Yorke, head of Edible Issues and Saving Grains – an organisation created to help upcycle spent brewery grain – knows the craft beer scene all too well. When it comes to picking a spot her motto is, "Geist all the way!". It's become her home turf and they're an everyday go-to for excellent beer (especially the Kamacitra!). But when she's not at Geist she can be found at Arbor, where her preference is The Lazy Drongo. “(It’s) a cascara saison launched by Arbor Brewing Co. in collaboration with coffee company Kerehaklu,” she says, “it’s a fun citrusy-earthy beer. One of the star ingredients is cascara - which is the fruit husk that surrounds the coffee bean.”Biergarten, Whitefield
Another familiar face on the scene is Biergarten. This expansive space is home to a selection of exotic beers made from German ingredients and all with a promise of quality. “Biergarten has a luxurious and spacious ambience with upbeat music, fancy delicacies and amazing craft beer choices,” says Haya, “they have a koi pond in the centre which adds up to the beauty of this place. It has the best craft beers and you can have chill time with your loved ones with beautiful ambience, lively music, good food and the best craft beers.”Byg Brewski Brewing Company
Most ‘Luru natives haunt the tables at Byg Brewski, and with 65,000 square feet of space, it definitely has room to accommodate them all, it’s a haven for all things beer. For Mohit P, it’s a must-visit. “Mostly known for their opulent ambience and being the pioneers for incorporating the koi-pond thingy into the brewery landscape in Namma Ooru, Byg has set the bar for their Tripel (variety of beer), and I love the place for these.” he says, “Although not perennial, I am always on the lookout for whenever these are available. High ABV percentage with fruity notes and these get you happy high in no time. Having a club within the Hennur brewery – Gylt, does help their case and you can spend your night dancing to techno and EDM, if that’s your thing.”Geist Brewing Co. Hennur
Geist is another brewery on the forefront of innovation and quality brewing, and for over a decade, they’ve been one of the city’s leading breweries. “Geist is home for me, the beers are crisp and fresh. I love that there is so much attention to detail in the crafting process.” says Sreya, “My favourites here are the Geist Kamacitra, an American-Style India Pale Ale. Love the citrus notes and pleasant bitterness. The Geist Rauch-a-Fella tastes like liquid bacon. It’s a smoked wheat beer with a toasty malt character. Delicious stuff! And of course the Geist Stouter Space, who doesn’t love a good stout? The mark of a good brewery for me is based on how good their stout is and Geist knocks it out of the park with their Stouter Space. Perfect hints of chocolate, vanilla and coffee. So beautifully made. All of this combined with their amazing food, it’s an experience by itself. Geist does both beers and food, they take their menu very seriously.”Ironhill, Marathahalli
With over 1,30,000 sq. ft Ironhill currently holds the title of biggest microbrewery in India, and has an ambience and offerings that match that prestigious title. They’re dedicated to bringing flavours from all over the world onto one menu and are dedicated to the highest quality in both beer and food. “Witbier is a must-try here paired with Chipotle chicken tacos.” adds Vidyalakshmi.Long Boat Brewery, Marathahalli
A newcomer in the city, this Viking themed hideout has been drawing attention. They are also committed to making craft beer that’s high quality, but affordable to induct more people into the craft beer fan club. “Long Boat is an emerging brewery in Bangalore that has gained popularity for its exceptional ambiance,” says Himaja, “The highlight being the mesmerising waterfall. Long Boat also impresses with its delectable food and enticing cocktails. It is an ideal choice for a romantic date night. Additionally, their seasonal beers, including the Mango Milkshake IPA and Chocobar Stout, have left a lasting impression on me.”Murphy’s Brewhouse, Domlur
It doesn’t get more authentic than an Irish Pub and Murphy’s holds the title of being the first Irish-style brewhouse in Bangalore. Located in The Paul Hotel, it’s known for its thick and creamy stout and laid-back vibes. “It’s an Irish-style microbrewery, tucked away in a quiet corner in Domlur.” says Sreya, “Their Paddy’s Poison is wonderful! Lovely English ale that is full-bodied and has classic malty-honey flavour notes.”The Bier Library, Koramangla
A hidden gem of Koramangala, this spacious brewhouse is sure to have something for everyone. “When you are talking about one of the best breweries in the city, no list can omit- The Bier Library,” assures Mohit, “The place has everything – mind-blowingly good beers, good fusion food from around the world and a kick-ass ambience. Pair all this with the live music gigs over the weekend and you get a banger experience in the heart of the city. If you want to introduce someone to beer and they say that they do not like the taste of beer, make them try the Wittle Wit (Belgian Wit) here and they will end the night as beer lovers. For people who already like beers, DIPA (or Double IPA) is a must-try here.”Toit Brewpub
“When you talk about beers and breweries, the first place that comes to my mind is Toit,” says Himaja, “Toit is my all-time favourite place, and it's the oldest brewery in Bangalore, having been established in 2010. It holds a special place in my heart because it was where I had my very first beer. I absolutely love everything about Toit, from its incredible beers and the inviting ambience to the lively vibe and delicious food. Even after all these years, Toit remains the best brewery in my opinion. It is undoubtedly one of the must-visit places in Bangalore. Among their extensive beer selection, my personal favourites are the Basmati Blonde and Tin Tin Toit.”Windmills Craftworks, Whitefield
If you’re looking to go a bit swankier, then Windmills is the first name that should be on your list. This chic spot describes itself as the, ‘harmonious union of music, carefully curated food & fine craft beer, set amidst a treasure trove of hand-picked books.’ They source the very best hops and grains to brew their meticulously crafted beers and offer up a relaxed backdrop to enjoy some live music and some fine beers or as Gourav puts it, “I say this place for Beers Beers and Beers!”
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