The Top 10 Microbreweries in India

The Windmills Craftworks is as much known for its ales, as its jazz studio and food menu, which reflects both heavy and light fare. It serves up an array of seasonal ales, like American Amber Ale, Coconut Brown Ale and a Bohemian Pale Ale, in addition to the standards, such as an IPA, stout, blonde ale and a helles. There is also a library and a jazz theatre where live performances are held regularly to keep you entertained. Visitors may sit inside, complete with laidback vibe and warm lighting, or may opt for the al fresco seating, which is perfect for people-watching. http://instagram.com/p/Ba_Mux7n_5y/

7 Degree Brauhaus is a beloved, authentic Bavarian microbrewery and kitchen that serves freshly brewed German beers along with Indian, continental and German food delicacies. The interior, complete with high ceilings, chestnut trees, wooden furniture, rustic flooring, hanging lamps and an in-house microbrewery plant and machinery, is a stunning space in which to relish the brewery’s delicious creations. You’ll find everything from light and mild flavours to bold brews.

The White Owl cranks out top-quality brews made with new-age and traditional brewing methods that give brew enthusiasts a memorable first impression. Its mood lighting and exposed brick setting make a comfortable spot to relax with friends and chug a beer or two. The first-timers can try Irish Red Ale or Belgian Wit, while the seasoned drinkers can go for Torpedo (American pale ale), Shadow (English porter) or Outlander (Munich lager), or check out the bistro’s array of seasonal brews.

Toit is one of the most famous microbreweries in Bangalore, which is distinguished by brown wooden interiors, brick-lined walls and stylish ambience. At Toit, beer aficionados can indulge in naturally-crafted beers and wood-fired oven delicious pub grub. Using creative brewing techniques and styles, Toit offers a wide array of beers, ranging from Double IPA and pale ales, to lagers and porters. Some highlights include Independence Brew (smoked rye ale), Belgian Riot (Belgian style ale), Breaking Matt (Indian pale ale), CzechMate (Czech style lager), the Dark Knight (specialty brew), Tintin Toit (light brew) and A Winter’s Ale (Scottish ale). There are several specialties ales also on offer. Whether you’re a brew novice or a brew pro, you’ll find a pint to toast at Toit! Interested in a brewery tour? You can book through their website.

Opened in 2009 in Pune, Doolally Taproom is the first microbrewery in India, and in 2015, it branched out to Mumbai. From the on-site brick-walled bar to the artisanal brews, Doolally offers a wonderful experience. Go for apple cider, Hefeweizen (German wheat beer) or oatmeal stout (British classic stout). Also, there is a wide range of food items, perfect for beer munchies. To enhance the experience, there are board games, books, as well as music, spanning everything from latest chart-toppers to rock and classic pop. http://instagram.com/p/BcCOwnbBgmW/

Arbor Brewing Company – or ABC as it is known among locals – is India’s first American craft brewery in India. Originally started by Matt and Rene Greff in Ann Arbor, Michigan in 1995, and further expanded to India in 2012, which is owned by Bangalore native Gaurav Sikka. At ABC, beer enthusiasts can sample different ales, from spiced and smoked to bitter and dark; listen to 90s music, and indulge in beer-pairing grub. Be sure to sample one of the IPAs, the brewpub’s best sellers. Some other must-try beers include the Belgian-style Phat Abbot, Honey Lavender Ale, Irish Stout Dark and No Parking Pilsner (German beer) – these are especially for the most experienced of drinkers. http://instagram.com/p/Bbmv0ySBe2G/

The Barking Deer is the first microbrewery of Mumbai, known for its authentic craft beers that are brewed on-site. The barking Deer provides beer connoisseurs with six different beers on tap to choose from, including IPAs and Belgian-style witbier. Favourites include Bombay Blonde Ale, Flying Pig Belgium Wit, and Chocolate Stout. Be sure to accompany your brew with one of the delicious bar bites that includes local and international options.

The Biere Club was the first microbrewery in South India. It offers an assortment of traditional beers, including lagers, wheat, stouts and ales, all are made fresh and in small batches. You can try one of the mainstays like coffee-flavoured stout, or pick from its rotating seasonal brews – the mango beer made here is absolutely to die for. The brewery kitchen dishes out some delicious Mediterranean and beer-centered eats, too. http://instagram.com/p/BbE6CP4HvPW/

Independence Brewing Company is craft brewing at its finest. As their motto goes – ‘Independence from boring beers’, Independence Brewing Company makes innovative, distinctive and delicious hand-crafted brews, so beer lovers can rest assured that this place is doing it right. On the menu, you’ll find a long list of classic cocktails, aperitifs, shooters, wines and craft beers, providing a plethora of selections for any palate. However, the highlight of the menu is the beers. There is an on-site brewery, and two levels of outdoor seating, where beer connoisseurs can indulge in delicious brews while lounging on a patio and listening to live music. Go for the Belgian wit, Hefeweizen, Four Grain Saison or Kolsch style ale, all award-winning beers.

Gateway Brewing Co. was established by three friends who were united by their passion and love for beer. Specializing in classic-style brews made with natural ingredients sourced locally, the Gateway Brewing Co. is an institution. It creates an assortment of beers that appeal to all preferences and palate. You can swill their classic creations at either their own brewpub, or in bars and restaurants across Mumbai. http://instagram.com/p/BcKEVQMj1ZH/