Get lost in a maze at this new brewery in Bengaluru, spread over 60,000 square feet

Maize and Malt in Whitefield offers expansive space, craft beers, and a diverse menu in a picturesque setting

Maize and Malt is expansive. The first thing we see as we walked in is a sweeping walkover bridge and winding pathways going around an indoor pool. This new brewery in Whitefield is spread over 60,000 square feet, and joins the ranks of breweries in Bengaluru that are competing with each other to be the largest. My friend and I visit on a quiet weekday for lunch.

Located very close to the metro station, and Phoenix Marketcity mall, Maize and Malt is easy to get to. It has two floors, an island bar, a DJ deck and an indoor cocktail bar. We take a seat on the open terrace area and pore over the menu. The staff is warm, friendly and efficient.

The craft beer selection

The beer menu offers a selection of their craft beers. We get a tasting sampler. Among the seven options, a few stand out. The Porter, a dark beer made with English hop from Kent, has notes of coffee. The Golden Strong Ale is more tropical and fruity, and pairs well with finger food. If beer is not your thing, we are impressed with their mocktails too. The one we try is called Cad Purity, and has a well balanced blend of fresh orange juice, mint and brine.

The menu claims to be Colonial and Anglo Indian-inspired. However, apart from a select few dishes, we cannot find too much of a British influence. We start with a tandoori chicken and a Tangra-style chicken lollipop. The former is a classic and delicious. But the latter is not fried too well and the batter is uncooked in a few places. The Buffalo wings are one of favourites from the appetisers. The roasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavour to the wings. Try the harissa grilled vegetables served with hummus: the hummus is smooth and creamy, and the charred veggies give it a good textural contrast.  

Pizza, a hit and a miss

For mains, Maize and Malt offers pastas, burgers, north Indians curries and pizzas. Aiming to keep it light, we opt for pizza. The vegetarian farm to table pizza is a hit on the table. The sourdough base is baked to perfection and toppings include veggies and crispy kale. The Mediterranean shrimp flatbread is not to our liking. Topped with shrimp and bonito flakes, this experimental number does not quite hit the spot. We end with a slice of mango cheesecake that comes with a side of fresh aamras. A must-try for mango lovers.