Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir, is renowned for its iconic landmarks and out-of-the-world sightseeing spots. However, one of the most memorable parts of visiting Srinagar lies in the wide delectable dishes that you get to try at the restaurants, cafes and roadside eateries. Finding the best food in Srinagar isn’t as complicated as you think, given that there are amazing restaurants at every corner of the city. From the iconic Kashmiri Wazwan to unique vegetarian dishes, there are a lot to try and a lot of flavours to explore.
10 Best Restaurants To Try The Best Food In Srinagar
If you want to try traditional Kashmiri flavours the next time you are in Srinagar, ensure that you plan a food trip around the city.
1. Stream Restaurant
Photo: Kajori.p / Wikimedia Commons
Hands down the most popular restaurant in Srinagar is Stream Restaurant. Located around Dalgate Bridge, the restaurant is located right around Dal Lake, making it an accessible option to indulge in after you finish your sightseeing experiences. Imagine getting to enjoy your meals overlooking Dal Lake. Their menu boasts an extensive selection of delectable offerings, including fragrant phirni, melt-in-your-mouth rogan josh and crispy tabak maaz. Also, if you are travelling with your family or in a group, consider ordering their Wazwan too. There are vegetarian dishes available too if you do not consume non-vegetarian food.
Address: Boulevard Road, Opp. Ghat No. 2, Dalgate Bridge
Timings: 12 PM – 11 PM
Cost For Two: ₹1000 – ₹1500
Must Try: Rogan Josh, Tabak Maaz, Paneer Makhani, and Wazwan
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Srinagar
2. Ahdoos
Photo: Krrisd / Wikimedia Commons
If you aim to taste the authentic taste of the Kashmiri Wazwan at an age-old restaurant in Srinagar, Ahdoos is your spot. This restaurant, frequented by locals and tourists alike, prides itself on using fresh, seasonal ingredients and age-old recipes passed down through generations. Beyond their wazwan platter, you can also enjoy a variety of other dishes like tabak maaz and gustaba while you are there. Beyond getting a taste of the authentic Kashmiri culture, the restaurant has a very fast service, which adds to the culinary experience.
Address: Residency Road, Regal Chowk, Munshi Bagh, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 11 AM – 10 PM
Cost For Two: ₹1200 – ₹1800
Must Try: Wazwan Feast, Yakhni, and Gustaba.
3. The Chinar At The LaLiT Grand Palace
Photo: Shameel mukkath / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For the tourists on the lookout for some luxury dining experience in Srinagar, consider visiting The Chinar. This fine-dining restaurant features breathtaking views of the Dal Lake and offers a meticulously curated menu that includes staple and local Kashmiri dishes and a variety of other cuisines to bring a change to your palate as well. You get to truly immerse yourself in a royal dining experience, with each dish prepared and presented artistically. Some of the authentic Kashmiri dishes are also blended with international flavours, which add to the uniqueness.
Address: Gupkar Rd, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 1 PM – 11 PM
Cost For Two: ₹3000 – ₹4000
Must Try: Nadru Yakhni, Kashmiri Wazwan Chicken, and Lamb Rogan Josh with Saffron.
Suggested Read: Srinagar Temples
4. Shamyana Restaurant
Photo: Dheerajk88 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Another popular restaurant that’s located near Dal Lake is the age-old and iconic Shamyana Restaurant. You get to enjoy a blend of stunning views paired with scrumptious food at this eatery. It features a nominal interior but the food is quite delicious. They specialise in traditional Kashmiri and Mughlai cuisine, each dish bursting with flavour. Most people rave about their staff and how courteous they are. Also, the quality and the quantity of the food are good too and you can ask the staff for their best to serve if you are confused about what to taste.
Address: Ghat No.2, boulevard, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Cost For Two: ₹1200 – ₹1400
Must Try: Chicken Kanti, Barbeque, Chinese dishes, Rista, and Kashmiri Pulao.
5. Mughal Darbar Hotel
Photo: Matheus Bertelli / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you want to try some of the famous street food in Srinagar, head to the Mughal Darbar Hotel. They have three sections for the guests – Wazwan, Restaurant and Fast Food. Depending on your dinner or lunch plans, you can pick one of the options and order from their extended menu. There are also fish rolls and vegetable potato sticks on their fast food menu. They also have a spread of different types of rice dishes that you can try including their authentic Mutton Pulao and their unique Cheese Pulao.
Address: Residency Road, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Cost For Two: ₹1000 – ₹1200
Must Try: Rogan Josh, Chicken Kanti, Sheermal, Wazwan, Mutton Pulao, Fish Roll
Suggested Read: Best Food In Jammu
6. Lhasa Restaurant
Photo: Ansh Rajput / Wikimedia Commons
For tourists looking for vegan options and outdoor seating for enjoying their meals, consider visiting the Lhasa Restaurant. Most people have reviewed this place for their authentic flavours and awesome ambience. One of their highlights is the Hooku soup, which offers respite from the chilly winters in Srinagar. You can also try their mutton rogan josh and keema for robust flavours. They have a separate vegan and vegetarian menu as well for your convenience and preference. You can also order Chinese and Tibetan cuisine and desserts like fruit salad, ice cream, kesar phirni, etc.
Address: Boulevard Road, Dal Gate, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Cost For Two: ₹800 – ₹1000
Must Try: Thukpa, Momos, Chilli Chicken, Rogan Josh.
7. Crescent Lake View Restaurant
Photo: Miansari66 / Wikimedia Commons
Among the popular restaurants in Srinagar, Crescent Lake View Restaurant is one that never fails. It’s a multicuisine restaurant that offers an exquisite dining experience with its lakeside location and scenic views. You get to enjoy Kashmiri and North Indian cuisine, with a menu that features a wide array of delicious dishes. However, the highlight of this place is its outdoor seating from where you can enjoy the lake view while having your meal. A few of the dishes are curated and prepared by the owner’s mother, so be sure to indulge in authentic Kashmiri cuisine.
Address: Boulevard Road, Dal Gate, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Cost For Two: ₹1400 – ₹1600
Must Try: Mutton Rogan Josh, Kashmiri Dum Aloo, and Zafrani Pulao
Suggested Read: Offbeat Places In Kashmir
8. Cafe De Linz
Photo: Ella Olsson / Wikimedia Commons
Craving a taste of Europe amidst the beauty of Kashmir? Look no further than Cafe de Linz. This is perfect for people who want a different taste, especially when you are craving something continental. This cosy cafe offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its dimly lit interiors, inviting armchairs, and an extensive coffee menu, Cafe de Linz is perfect for a relaxing afternoon. They have an extensive array of European dishes that you can try as well. Also, while there, don’t miss out on trying their pizza and salads.
Address: 1st Floor, Clay Model House, Barzulla Bridge, opp. J7k Bank, Baghat, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190005
Timings: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Cost For Two: ₹800 – ₹1000
Must Try: Pizza, Salads, Goshtaba, Yakhni, Mirchi Qorma, and Fast Food Snacks
9. Krishna Vaishno Dhaba
Photo: Akash128 / Wikimedia Commons
For vegetarians seeking a delightful and affordable dining experience, Krishna Vaishno Dhaba is a haven. This popular eatery offers a wide range of North Indian vegetarian dishes, prepared using fresh ingredients and traditional methods. From the creamy dal makhani to the delectable palak paneer, there is a variety of amazing and traditional dishes you can try at the restaurant. The quick service and friendly atmosphere make this restaurant a great spot to stop by after sightseeing in Srinagar.
Address: Srinagar Ladakh Rd, Srinagar 190001 India
Timings: 8 AM – 10 PM
Cost For Two: ₹500 – ₹800
Must Try: Dal Makhani, Palak Paneer, and Malai Kofta
Suggested Read: Best Food In Kashmir
10. Jade Dragon, Vivanta By Taj
Photo: Archon6812 / Wikimedia Commons
Beyond the street food in Srinagar, you can indulge in local Indo-Chinese flavours at Jade Dragon in Srinagar. This sophisticated restaurant features a stylish ambience and an extensive menu showcasing delectable dishes from various regions of China. From the delicate dim sum to the flavourful Sichuan specialities, you get to have an out-of-the-world experience trying some of their house-special dishes while you are at the restaurant. The ambience is quite aesthetic and the service is quick too. The price might be on a little higher side, but worth trying the dishes.
Address: Vivanta by Taj, Srinagar, 190001
Timings: 12 PM – 3 PM and 7 PM – 11 PM
Cost For Two: ₹2500 – ₹3500
Must Try: Dim Sum Platter, Kung Pao Chicken, and Sichuan Prawns
Srinagar has a diverse culinary scene, one that caters to the interests of varying visitors. You have authentic Kashmiri cuisine and international cuisines to cater to your taste buds. So, if you are on the lookout for the best food in Kashmir, keep a variety by visiting local restaurants and luxury dining experiences. Plan a trip with TripXL to secure the best deals and discounts of your next Kashmir trip.
Cover Photo: Sayantan Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons