In the last few years Pune has undergone a transformation, from a laid-back and academic city to becoming one of India’s major IT and start-up hubs with a throbbing nightlife and food scene. Here we take a look at the best bars in Pune to have a drink.
Doolally on Tap! is Pune’s first microbrewery and one of the pioneers of the microbrewery industry in India. The beers are crafted by German brew master Oliver Schauf and change every month. His influence can also be seen on the menu which includes German sausages among other Indian and European dishes. The interior of the pub is very traditional with wooden bar stools and floor panels, barrels as tables and huge tanks belonging to the brewery in the background. It also has an outside seating area for guests to enjoy Pune’s charming climate with the handcrafted beer.
The High Spirits Café
A favorite among students and music lovers, High Spirits is one of those few places in Pune which is always buzzing with activity. From regular theme nights, live music gigs and poetry competitions to having the capacity to hold 300 people, this bar has it all. It has hosted India’s major musical acts such as Indian Ocean, Pentagram and Raghu Dixit. Head here for its fun themes, cheerful crowd and affordable drinks.
The Ship is one of Pune’s most popular bars. This resto bar was built using wood from wrecked ships found in the ship-breaking yards and the bar is designed to resemble an actual ship. It has a relaxed ambiance with a fair mingling of young and old. They have different themes for most of the days and an extensive cocktail list which never fail to disappoint. They also host live gigs every Friday. With its wooden furniture and well-done European menu, The Ship suits most tastebuds.
The Single Malt And Co.
Bar, Beer, Indian
Located in the central lobby of the plush Hyatt Regency, Single Malt And Co is an elegant bar for after-work mingling and drinks. Dim lights, neat decor and a live jazz band make it a truly worthwhile visit. True to its name, the bar has a collection of 28 single malts along with a wide range of wines and scotches. It also houses delicious food as a good accompaniment with the drinks. Each guest is also offered a variety of six Cuban cigars upon their visit which puts The Single Malt And Co in a league of its own.
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Swig Bar & Eatery
Bar, Restaurant, Beer, Italian, Indian
With an outdoor seating area with a telephone box reminiscent of Doctor Who, bare brick walls and a foosball table, Swig is one of Pune’s most chic and stylish bars. Upon entering, guests are welcomed to funky designs on the walls lit up by green lights, making the atmosphere relaxed and fun. Swig hasn’t tried to overreach in terms of their menu but has scored on keeping it simple and classy. It’s a perfect place for reunions and for couples to unwind over a couple of drinks and finger foods.
Toons-The Café Down Under
Cafe, Pub, Restaurant, Asian, Beer, Italian
Toons is that pub which has been witness to most college students tasting their first drink. No doubt, it’s a student favorite. From illustrations of famous people on the walls to a jukebox belting out classic rock songs, it’s a fun and loud atmosphere. The patrons often come here to watch football and cricket matches being broadcasted live and nothing is more than comfortable that watching a match with a drink in hand.
Wtf! is a pretty famous bar in Pune among the younger generation. With an indoor air-conditioned area and rooftop seating, it can accommodate a lot of people. It has a foosball and a pool table for its patrons to enjoy while they nibble on bar food and sip a drink. The square bar in the middle is well stocked with standard cocktails, mocktails, shots and liquor. The drinks are reasonably priced while the food served is delicious, making Wtf! an ideal place to relax and sample new cocktails and brews.
YOLO Gastro Bar is the recent addition to the surging levels of pubs in Pune; located on the eighth floor of Spot 18 mall, this bar offers the most spectacular views. It has an elevated dance floor and there’s a big screen which is always tuned to a sports channel for the sports loving patrons. YOLO has a thoughtful menu with interesting names for their cocktails such as ACDC or Smoke On The Water. It has a relaxed and chilled-out ambiance while the food is pretty well made, with the garlic bread being a special favorite.
Oaks
Bar, Indian, Beer
1000 Oaks is an institution in Pune. It was originally a bungalow which was later converted into a resto bar, and has a wonderful ambiance with a vibrant crowd. It features an outside seating area where full meals are served while the bar area inside serves only bar snacks along with the drinks. The music is quite retro in nature with the likes of Bryan Adams being played often. It’s a fitting place to catch up with friends or for casual business meetings.
KueBar
Bar, Nightclub, Beer, Indian
With high ceilings, vibrant designs in shades of red, numerous neon lights and fabulous artwork on the walls, KueBar is the most happening bar and nightclub in Pune. Located in the Westin Hotel, it doesn’t believe in providing mains or desserts but only finger-licking starters, a wide variety of drinks and a terrific dance atmosphere. There are two areas, one for having the drinks and a huge empty space for dance. The music is catchy with a mix of commercial and hip-hop. It’s the place to go to for catching up with friends over drinks and having a good time with a very talented DJ playing a good mix of songs.
Shreyas Kulkarni has a BA where he studied History, Political Science and Economics. He holds an interest in writing and the use of game theory to develop a better and just world. Why write for The Culture Trip? It's a great place to read and write about the simple and important things in life. Literature, travel, food, culture, and art are the fields which can make humans better and more developed than money or a nine to five job. He hopes that you enjoy his writing.
