At the heart of the Deccan Plateau – a vast triangular area of high ground that covers much of southern India – lies the vibrant city of Hyderabad. Long revered for its rich cultural heritage and culinary delights, the city has transformed into a global IT and pharmaceutical hub in recent decades.
Major international players such as Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have opened offices in the special economic zones around town. Concurrently, UNESCO has designated Hyderabad a creative city of gastronomy for its celebrated Biryani and Haleem. Furthermore, the local Telugu box office surpassed Bollywood as India’s highest-grossing film industry in 2021. This has provided the sunbaked and dusty cityscape with a dash of glamour.
The end product of these distinctive features is a captivating blend of history and modernity. Covering 650 km2 of hilly terrain along the banks of the Musi River, Hyderabad is a pulsating metropolis with more than 11 million inhabitants. As the sixth most populous urban area in India, it also boasts a lively craft beer scene. More on that further down the line, once its setting as been brought into context.
The First Dynasty
Hyderabad was originally established in the tenth century as Golconda Fort, a diamond-trading centre fed by nearby mines. Held synonymous with great wealth, the fort changed hands many times before it came under the control of the Bahmani Sultanate in 1463.
In 1518, the main administrator declared the region independent from the sultanate and founded the Qutb Shahi dynasty. In 1591, his grandson decreed the construction of a new capital some 10 km to the east in order to ease the pressures of population growth – such as water shortages and pestilence – on the fortress city.
The new capital was built around the Charminar, a mosque with four arches and an equal number of towering minarets. Its construction was reportedly commissioned as a token of gratitude to Allah for curbing the rampant spread of a plague endemic. The Golconda Fort and Charminar are both encompassed by the modern day metropolis and considered its main historic landmarks.
According to folklore, the city’s current name has its origins in an affair between the founding father and a local Telugu courtesan named Bhagmati. The new capital was was initially named Bhagyanagar in her honour. When she converted to Islam and took on the name of Hyder Mahal, the city’s name was changed to Hyderabad.
The Qutb Shahi dynasty would span seven generations. In memory of each departed sultan, an imposing tomb was erected at a site 1 km north of Golconda Fort. The domes of the larger mausoleums remain distinctive features of the Hyderabad skyline to this day and the grounds on which they stand have become a popular tourist destination.
The City of Nizams
The old fortress and new capital were seized by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1687. A Nizam-ul-Mulk – which translates to “Governor of the Kingdom” in Arabic – was appointed but the reign of the Mughals over Hyderabad would prove to be short-lived.
In 1724, the Nizam Asaf Jah I declared independence from the crumbling Mughal empire. Legend has it that, whilst on a hunting expedition, he was offered some kulchas (flatbreads) by a holy man and encouraged to eat as many as he could. The Nizam only ate seven, leading the holy man to prophesy that his dynasty would last for seven generations. And so it came to pass.
Somewhere around 1763, facing the scorn of bloodthirsty neighbours, Nizam Asif Jah II entered into a subsidiary alliance with the British. As a British protectorate, Hyderabad became one of the largest and richest princely states on the subcontinent – and the only one that issued its own currency.
Praised for their patronage of the arts, architecture, and administration, the City of Nizams attracted learned individuals from far and wide. The amalgamation of local and immigrant talent gave rise to a distinctive culture – manifested in the likes of local handicraft, literature, and dialect – that remains prominent to this day.
It was during this period of colonial rule that beer first started gaining popularity in Hyderabad. Imported British ales and lagers became available in the clubs and cantonments frequented by military and administrative officials stationed in the region. The more affluent segment of the local population also took to enjoying a nice cold brew (or two!) whenever the opportunity arose.
Integration into India
After India declared independence in 1947, the seventh Nizam – reluctant to cede his principality – professed a preference for incorporation into Pakistan. Be that as it may, the holy man’s prophecy was ultimately fulfilled on September 17, 1948, when India sent its troops into Hyderabad state and annexed the territory.
Hyderabad was made capital of the newly formed state of Andhra Pradesh in 1956. All Telugu-speaking areas, which had historically been split between the states of Hyderabad and Madras, were now consolidated into one single administrative region.
This framework lasted until 2014. In response to persistent demand, the region of Telangana – basically the Telugu-speaking part of the Nizam’s old dominion – was carved out of Andhra Pradesh. Once again, Hyderabad maintained its status as capital – this time of Telangana state.
In the decades following its assimilation into India, Hyderabad’s drinking culture remained conservative. Alcohol consumption was generally associated with specific communities – the types that congregated at elite gatherings in private clubs, to be exact.
However, the liberalisation of India’s economy in the 1990s completely altered the alcohol industry. International brands started entering the market, and beer consumption began to rise.
Craft Beer Comes to Hyderabad
Hyderabad has witnessed a major transformation in terms of drinking habits over the course of the past ten years. The city’s growing young, cosmopolitan population – often employed in the IT sector – played a crucial role in this evolution.
Inspired by the craft beer boom in other parts of the country, particularly Bengaluru and Pune, the first Hyderabad microbreweries became operational around 2015. Since then, brewpubs have become cultural hotspots where beer lovers are treated to live music and stand-up comedy whilst enjoying their favourite brews.
Lagers, pilsners, and wheat beers – often infused with citrus and spices to cater to Indian palates – are staple choices. IPAs are still gaining traction, while stouts and porters can be considered niche but growing. In a bid to create unique beers that reflect Hyderabad’s culinary heritage, some breweries have experimented with local ingredients like mangoes, spices, and jaggery. All in all, the scene is slowly but surely coming into its own.
Nevertheless, there are several repressive influences to contend with. Setting up a brewpub in Hyderabad is not for the faint-hearted. It involves navigating a complex regulatory landscape of stringent licensing procedures, compliance and monitoring requirements, and operational restrictions.
Stumbling Blocks
Regulations concerning the production and sale of alcohol in Telangana are much more stringent in comparison to neighbouring states such as Karnataka and Maharashtra. Obtaining a brewing license requires multiple approvals from various governmental departments. The complexity of these procedures demand considerable administrative efforts and invariably lead to delays. Attached licensing costs are also notably higher than in other parts of India, consigning new establishments to significant financial burdens from the get-go.
Once the necessary license has been obtained, holders find themselves under strict supervision of the excise department. Any deviations to protocol are met with penalties or license revocation. Moreover, brewpubs are excluded from 24/7 permits. This particular limitation affects operational hours and, fundamentally, potential revenue.
In short, brewing craft beer in Hyderabad requires thorough preparation, substantial financial investment, and continuous compliance with rigid regulatory standards. Doesn’t exactly sound like a walk in the park, or down to the pub, does it? Thankfully, the undeterred souls behind the venues listed below have gone ahead and done it anyway!
Hyderabad Craft Beer Directory
Click on any venue listed below for more information, or scroll through the rest of this page to review Beer Asia’s directory of craft beer venues in Hyderabad (in no particular order):
Craft Beer Venues in Hyderabad
The Hoppery
Situated at a vantage point overlooking Durgam Cheruvu lake, The Hoppery’s split-level glasshouse and deck offer some of the best views in Hyderabad. The microbrewery is run by the same owners as the neighbouring Olive Bistro, and the two venues share the same food and drinks menus. The brewery itself is also located on site so the beers are always nice and fresh!
The Hoppery’s range consists of six brews, all of them available on tap. Besides the compulsory lager, wheat beer, and IPA, patrons can treat themselves to a stout and a cinnamon ale as well. If you’re in the mood for a chilled out afternoon with friends or looking to impress on a first date, this is the place to be!
For those seeking a more buoyant atmosphere, live music performances are held on Thursday and Saturday evenings.
- Address
Inside Durgam Cheruvu, Road no. 46, near Ambedkar University, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +91 95731 17862
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Operating hours
Sunday – Thursday: 12PM – 11:30PM
Friday – Saturday: 12PM – 12AM
Zythum Brewing Co.
Arguably the grandest of the Hyderabad brewpubs, Zythum offers three levels of seating upon which its patrons can enjoy a range of in-house brews as well as a variety of dishes from all over the world. Built around a central atrium with a humongous fan overhead, the venue looks as stunning as it feels airy.
Zythum’s selection of beers include a Belgian witbier, hefeweizen, chocolate stout, Czech pilsner, and a west coast IPA. A trio of ciders – apple, guava, and mango – are also available. High time you gave them all a try, don’t you think?
- Address
74a, Jubilee Hills Check Post Rd, Park View Enclave, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +91 91543 62313
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Operating hours
Sunday – Thursday: 12PM – 11:30PM
Friday – Saturday: 12PM – 12:30AM
Prost Brewpub
Originally established in Bengaluru in 2012, Prost was the first microbrewery to obtain a brewing license in Hyderabad in 2016. Held in high regard for its elegant decor, expansive food menu, and top-notch craft beers, the venue is a popular hangout spot among the city’s jet-setters.
Prost pours a range of five beers and one cider, all concocted on-site. Apart from a wheat, blonde, and vanilla stout, unique brews such as the Schmaltz Special Red Rice Ale and the Excklusive Special – prepared with organic native ingredients – are waiting to be sampled. Well? What’s keeping you?!
- Address
Beside Quadro living, Plot # 1026, Road No. 45, CBI Colony, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +91 91009 21161
- Visit Website
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Operating hours
Sunday – Thursday: 12PM – 11:30PM
Friday – Saturday: 12PM – 12:30AM
Red Rhino Craft Brewery
Located in the heart of HITEC City, Red Rhino caters to office goers and beer lovers alike. A total of eight brews are to be had, five signature and three seasonal. Among the latter, enthousiasts have the option of tasting an English pale ale, a raspberry pale ale, or an apple cider. Or all of ’em, should you so desire!
In true Hyderabad fashion, Red Rhino’s assortment of victuals extends to a variety of dishes and cocktails. All of the beers served have been created to pair with the food menu.
- Address
Western Dallas Center, Hitech City Main Rd, Silpa Gram Craft Village, Madhapur, Rai Durg, Hyderabad - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +91 40 4917 0000
- Visit Website
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Operating hours
Sunday – Thursday: 8:30AM – 12AM
Friday – Saturday: 8:30AM – 1 AM
Forge Breu-Hous
In a bid to create an incomparable drinking and dining experience, Forge has assembled a team of experienced brewers, chefs, mixologists, and sommeliers. The result of their communal endeavour is a food menu that links seamlessly with the items on the cocktail and wine lists.
As far as craft brews are concerned, Forge guests have a total of eight to choose from. Besides the ubiquitous styles such as wit, lager, and IPA, there is also a pineapple sour and a strawberry cider on tap.
Be forewarned, though – Forge’s in-house DJs like to crank up the volume to deafening heights so you may want to reserve a table in the venue’s stylish outdoor section.
- Address
Plot No 775 I, Road No. 45, Masthan Nagar, CBI Colony, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +91 91548 99915
- Visit Website
- Follow on Instagram
- Check-in on Untappd
- Operating hours
Sunday – Thursday: 12PM – 11:30PM
Friday – Saturday: 12PM – 12:30AM
Broadway The Brewery
Another local craft beer institution operating out of the leafy Jubilee Hills section of the city. Broadway’s original brewpub is located within walking distance of both Prost and Forge, making it a perfect pit stop on a mini pub crawl. The venue itself is just as impressive as the two neighbouring brewpubs, featuring multiple stories, slick interior design, and shiny brewing equipment on display.
Broadway purveys a selection of six signature brews. On top of the best-selling wit and hefeweizen, there are alternative options such as the chocolate vanilla stout and winter ale. Unfortunately, none of the aforementioned are currently available at the Whitefields outlet due to licensing issues. As it stands, these are expected to be resolved before the end of March 2025.
Be aware that Broadway admission policy is geared towards equal representation of both sexes. As a result, groups of males – referred to as stags – are likely to be refused entry. It is also advisable for men to wear long trousers to avoid being turned away at the door.
Jubilee Hills
- Address
Rina Mandal Road, CBI Colony, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +91 91333 16699
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Check-in on Untappd
- Operating hours
Sunday – Thursday: 12PM – 11:30PM
Friday – Saturday: 12PM – 12:30AM
Whitefields
- Address
Opposite Google office, Whitefields, Kondapur, Hyderabad - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +91 79979 91801
- Operating hours
Sunday – Thursday: 12PM – 11:30PM
Friday – Saturday: 12PM – 12:30AM
The Beer Cartel
Located on the ground floor of a brand new, glistening glass tower in the vicinity of Red Rhino, The Beer Cartel also predominantly caters to office staff working in the area. As is the norm in Hyderabad, the venue’s prime concerns are not limited to beer. The food menu is made up of Indian and western dishes, a variety of spirits and cocktails are available too.
When it comes to beer, The Beer Cartel serves both craft and mainstream brews. Apart from three in-house expressions, four Geist Brewing Co. creations are also available on tap. Efforts are being made to scale up the current craft selection with a handful of Susegado brews but, once again, licensing issues are putting a spanner in the works.
- Address
Unit no. 4, Tower 1, Gate no. 1, Sattva Knowledge Park, Raidurgam, Hyderabad - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +91 63093 32727
- Visit Website
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Check-in on Untappd
- Operating hours
Sunday – Thursday: 12:30PM – 11:30PM
Friday – Saturday: 12:30PM – 12:30AM
Zero40 Brewing
Named after the dialling code for Hyderabad, Zero40 has been up and running since 2016. Since then the brewery has launched eight signature brews – including a tropical lager and a rauchbier – and a number of seasonal specials. Curious to see which ones are on offer? There’s only one way to find out!
Jubilee Hills
- Address
271/A, Road Number 10, Venkatagiri, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +91 73308 40040
- Visit Website
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Check-in on Untappd
- Operating hours
Sunday – Thursday: 12PM – 12AM
Friday – Saturday: 12PM – 1AM
Financial District
- Address
Anvaya Conventions Rd, Financial District, Gowlidoddy, Nanakramguda, Hyderabad - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +91 72079 11039
- Operating hours
Sunday – Thursday: 12PM – 11:30PM
Friday – Saturday: 12PM – 12:30PM
MOB – Belgian Beer House
Mad Over Beer (MOB) is India’s first exclusively Belgian beer house. Established in 2014, the venue is a tribute to Belgian brewing traditions and the beer styles they have generated.
MOB is the exclusive importer on the Indian subcontinent of the six draught and twelve bottled beers it stocks. Included are a number of blondes, dubbels, tripels, and a kriek. If you have a special affinity with Belgian brews or are in the mood to try something different, this venue is bound to be right up your street. Santé!
- Address
8-2-293/82/J-III 550-I (above Little Italy), Road No. 92, near Apollo Hospital, Film Nagar, Hyderabad - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +91 40402 03311
- Visit Website
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Operating hours
12PM – 12AM daily
