Bengaluru’s newest microbrewery ICB-Indian Craft Brewery has opened its doors today. ICB is a 1,500-seater microbrewery spread over two acres of space and located in the business district of Manyata Tech Park Nagavara. The microbrewery has drawn inspiration from India’s ancient brewing traditions, indigenous ingredients, and rich culinary flavors to create a uniquely Indian food and beverage experience that sets it apart from any other microbrewery in India.
ICB’s offerings are steeped in deep research into the culinary diversity, cultural legacy and richness of India. The microbrewery has set up a dedicated research and development (R&D) center in Belgium for driving beer innovations, while its beers are crafted by master brewer Antonio Rodriguez-Giralt, a celebrated name in the global brewing circles. One of its signature brews will be a range of premium non-alcoholic beers named Ramanujan, a homage to India’s legendary Math genius.
“ICB-Indian Craft Brewery is a groundbreaking endeavor to reinvent the craft beer experience in India by connecting with our country’s roots and our rich cultural and culinary heritage. With our dedicated craftsmanship and a team of seasoned brewmasters, including a master brewer from Costa Rica, and culinary experts, including a former master chef at ITC Hotels’s flagship restaurant, we’ve perfected the art of creating unique flavors and experiences that are global and yet deeply rooted in India’s rich history and are truly a class apart from what any other microbrewery in India offers,” says Gopi Chand Cherukuri, cofounder of ICB-Indian Craft Brewery.
The brewery’s launch sets a new benchmark in Bengaluru’s iconic beer and dining culture as ICB will also serve as a unique cultural hotspot to imbibe and savour rare Indian culinary experiences. Starting next month, ICB will also host thoughtfully curated pop-up experiences led by renowned chefs, including erstwhile Maharajas from around the country, and featuring their royal heirloom recipes.
The interiors featuring high arches and dotted with larger-than-life replica artifacts from ancient India, including the famous Dancing Girl sculpture from IVC, complement the beer and culinary experience to create a truly unique experience that is unlike any other microbrewery in India.
All nine beers available on tap at ICB-Indian Craft Brewery embody innovation and meticulous craftsmanship, led by master brewer Antonio. With a research center in Belgium, ICB combines institutional R&D with the expertise of its master brewer Antonio, and head brewer Mahesh. ICB has also painstakingly sourced natural or wild (non-farmed) ingredients for its beers.
The focus on innovation shines through in the food menu. The entire food menu is a result of deep research into culinary tastes and cultures of various regions of India and perfectly complements the beers and other drinks available at ICB.
ICB is also committed to sustainability and has partnered with Saving Grains, a Bangalore-based sustainability-focused organisation. The spent grains post the brewing process will be used as raw ingredients for crafting nutritious snacks like granola and crackers.
