There is no better way to relax and enjoy the moment than with a glass of fresh, locally brewed beer in hand. Ask any beer enthusiast and a microbrewery will always be their favorite haunt. And why not? It gives you a chance to taste the fresh beer straight out of the tap and a good microbrewery also gives you different options under one roof. The concept of microbreweries in India is relatively new. Over a decade ago, there were only 4 microbreweries in India and the tricity of Chandigarh was introduced to the growing beer culture with the first microbrewery in the city – Hops ‘n’ Grains in Panchkula.
Called the pioneers of the beer drinking culture in the tricity of Chandigarh, Hops ‘n’ Grains founders Amritanshu Agarwal and Priyanka Gupta revolutionized the scenario by setting up India’s 5th microbrewery which is now proudly recognized as the country’s 2nd oldest operational microbrewery. They then opened another Hops ‘n’ Grains in Mohali and The Great Bear in the heart of Chandigarh.
These three microbreweries not only serve great craft beer, but also provide memorable dining experiences. From the first sip to the last bite, my exploration of Hops ‘n’ Grains and The Great Bear introduced me to some great beers that made my spirits “high”. (YKWIM!)
Hops N Grains, Panchkula
Located in Panchkula, Hops ‘n’ Grains kickstarted Chandigarh’s microbrewery scene with its massive three-storey building. Even though it was a weekday, the microbrewery was almost packed. Upon entering, the warm glow of hanging lights and tastefully designed wooden interiors immediately set the ambiance for my evening. However, the real star is their beer selection.
Before deciding on my drinks for the night, I sampled a few different flavours that were unique and I had never tried in a beer before – Green Apple, German Bock, Lager, Guava – they had it all! I was truly spoilt for choices. My personal favourite, the Green Apple beer, offered a perfect balance of sweetness and crispness – an unexpected delight that left a lasting impression. All the flavoured beers were refreshing, lightly sweet and very tasty. I just realised I had anointed the beers with the word ‘delicious’! But they really were. While the beer is a must at Hops ‘n’ Grains, non-beer drinkers also have a range of spirits, cocktails and mocktails to choose from.
The drinks were accompanied by appetizers like Crispy Okra (my favorite), Pita Bread with Hummus, Crispy Nachos (another must try), Meze Platter and more. If you love Desi Kebabs and Tikkas with your drinks, you won’t be disappointed here. Just get the Chelo Kabab Platter or the Chicken Tikka Platter. You will love the Meze Platter too. I also loved their Quinoa Salad which was as healthy as it was delicious.
The food menu is so extensive that you can’t possibly try them all, so many more dishes have been added to my bucket list for my next visit. And that is Hops ‘n’ Grains Mohali. For those who live on the other side of Chandigarh or in Mohali or in neighbouring cities of Punjab, Hops ‘n’ Grains is the ideal place for ‘beer and chill’.
Hops N Grains, Mohali
After the success of its venture in Panchkula, Hops ‘N’ Grains expanded to Mohali as well, and showed the same dedication to quality and innovation. Conveniently located for residents of Chandigarh, Mohali and its neighbouring cities of Punjab, this outpost maintains the same high standards in both beer and cuisine. With a vast menu including tempting appetizers and hearty main courses, Hops ‘N’ Grains Mohali promises an unforgettable dining experience for both beer enthusiasts and foodies.
Hops ‘n’ Greens won my heart, so I was excited to go to The Great Bear the next day. How was it? Was it as good as Hops ‘n’ Grains? Read on to find out.
The Great Bear, Chandigarh:
Located on the bustling streets of Chandigarh, The Great Bear is definitely famous because of its location. It is located on the main Madhya Marg Road of Chandigarh and is in the area where most of the restaurants and lounges are located. Although it is smaller than Hops ‘n’ Grains, that does not make it any less attractive. This establishment reflects the same lively ambiance.
Here I visited their brewery where the magic of beer making happens. Amritanshu enthusiastically explained the whole process of getting the grains, malting, milling, fermentation and ageing to create the delicious beer they serve there. I loved their Mango beer – it was truly exceptional. In the scorching heat of summer, what could be better than a cool refreshing beer with the fragrance of the summer favourite mango? The food here was also great. From salads to kebabs, Thai curries to dal makhani, there is something for everyone. I loved the tandoori prawns. Great Beer ensures that every dish is a perfect accompaniment to their beer.
A toast to the Tricity of Chandigarh:
Whether you’re a local or a visitor to this vibrant region, you must check out these microbreweries that promise flavour, ambiance and a journey of discovery through the emerging landscape of craft beer in India.
So, raise your glass and set out on your beer adventure in the Tricity of Chandigarh-you won’t be disappointed. Cheers to good times and great beer!
