In a town known for its colonial charm, scenic beauty, and peaceful pine forests, something exciting was brewing—literally. When Brook & Pines opened its doors, it wasn’t just another restaurant in Kasauli. It marked the beginning of a new chapter: Kasauli’s very first microbrewery.
But like any great beer, it wasn’t made overnight. The story behind Brook & Pines is one of passion, craftsmanship, and a desire to bring something truly special to the hills. Here’s a look at how Brook & Pines came to be—and why it continues to be a local favorite and a must-visit for travelers from across the country.
1. It All Started With a Dream (And a Love for Beer)
The idea for Brook & Pines was born out of a simple yet powerful love—for beer, food, music, and the beauty of Kasauli. The founders, frequent visitors to the hills, often wondered why the town didn’t have a lively yet cozy place where people could unwind, sip on freshly brewed beer, and enjoy great food with even better company.
They dreamed of creating a space that brought the vibrancy of a city brewpub and the tranquility of a mountain retreat together. That dream became Brook & Pines—a place where every element was designed to celebrate good times.
2. Crafting a Concept: A Brewpub in the Mountains
Opening a microbrewery in Kasauli came with its own set of challenges—regulatory approvals, the logistics of transporting brewing equipment up winding mountain roads, and most of all, building a brewing process that worked at a higher altitude.
But the founders were determined. They worked with experienced brewmasters, explored Himalayan ingredients, and carefully crafted small-batch recipes that could thrive in Kasauli’s unique climate. The result? A microbrewery that doesn’t just serve beer—it tells a story in every glass.
Brook & Pines officially became Kasauli’s first microbrewery, and the locals (and tourists) embraced it wholeheartedly.
3. Design That Reflects the Soul of the Hills
When you walk into Brook & Pines, it doesn’t feel like just another restaurant. The space was thoughtfully designed to reflect both the rustic charm of Kasauli and the modern vibe of a brewpub.
Wooden beams, warm lighting, vintage-inspired decor, and expansive windows that let the pine-scented air flow through—it’s a setting that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The design pays tribute to the natural surroundings while offering the comfort of a contemporary dining and drinking experience.
And of course, the centerpiece of it all is the gleaming brewing setup, where the magic happens right before your eyes.
4. The Brews That Started It All
From Day 1, Brook & Pines focused on quality over quantity. Each brew is crafted in small batches using carefully selected malts, hops, and yeast. The beer menu evolves with the seasons, but some flagship favorites have become permanent residents:
- Brook’s Golden Ale – light, crisp, and refreshing.
- Pine Hill IPA – bold, hoppy, and full of citrusy character.
- Stout Valley – smooth, dark, and rich with notes of coffee and chocolate.
- Misty Wheat – hazy, fruity, and easy on the palate.
The brewery also experiments with local ingredients—think Himalayan herbs, mountain berries, and even pine tips—for limited-edition seasonal specials that you won’t find anywhere else.
5. Food That Complements the Craft
Brook & Pines wasn’t just built for beer lovers—it was built for food lovers too. The founders knew that to create a complete experience, the food needed to match the quality and character of the brews.
So, they brought in experienced chefs to design a menu that paired perfectly with the beers, while also offering plenty of variety. The result is a vibrant mix of Indian, Continental, and Fusion dishes—from spicy tikkas to gourmet burgers, from momos to Mediterranean-style platters.
Each dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and bold flavors—just like the brews.
6. A Space for Community and Celebration
More than just a business, Brook & Pines was envisioned as a community hub—a place for locals to gather, for travelers to meet, and for everyone to enjoy live music, open mic nights, and weekend vibes.
Since its launch, it has hosted:
- Romantic dinners
- Family gatherings
- Birthday celebrations
- Music nights featuring local artists
- Brewery tours and tasting sessions
And each event is approached with heart, because the team believes that memories matter just as much as meals.
7. What the Future Holds
Brook & Pines continues to innovate, and the journey is far from over. The team is working on:
- New experimental brews using rare mountain ingredients
- Collaborations with artists and musicians for unique events
- Sustainability initiatives, including waste reduction and local sourcing
- Expanding the menu with even more family-friendly and vegan options
The goal? To not only remain Kasauli’s favorite hangout, but to raise the standard for what a mountain dining experience can be.
Conclusion
Brook & Pines isn’t just a place to grab a drink or a bite. It’s the story of a dream turned into reality. It’s the spirit of Kasauli, poured into a glass and served with a smile. As the town’s first microbrewery, it introduced something new, exciting, and deeply rooted in the culture of celebration and community.
So the next time you visit Kasauli, stop by not just to eat or drink—but to experience the story that started it all. At Brook & Pines, every sip has a story—and every visit is a new chapter.
