Explore The Restaurants In Manipur Serving Traditional Manipuri Dishes, Fusion Flavours, And Multicuisine Options

Interior view of the Hotel Imoinu with tables, chairs and dim lighting, one of the best restaurants in Manipur.

Restaurants in Manipur offer a rich and diverse culinary experience that reflects the state’s unique heritage. Known as the Jewel of the East, Manipur is home to eateries that serve everything from traditional Manipuri thalis to popular global cuisines. What sets these restaurants apart is their use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and authentic recipes passed down through generations. Especially in Imphal, food lovers can expect distinct flavours, a warm dining atmosphere, and dishes that celebrate the region’s culture. Exploring these restaurants in Manipur is a true gastronomic adventure.

10 Best Restaurants In Manipur

Taste the diverse flavours of Northeast India at top restaurants in Manipur, where traditional thalis and modern cafés serve up authentic and unforgettable culinary experiences.

1. Luxmi Kitchen

Interior of Luxmi Kitchen with tables, chairs, and hanging lights, one of the top restaurants in Manipur.

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Luxmi Kitchen is one of the most loved restaurants in Imphal, known for serving traditional Manipuri food in its most authentic form. The restaurant may look modest, but its reputation is built entirely on flavour and consistency. The Manipuri thali here is a complete experience, usually featuring rice, fish curry, mashed vegetables and side dishes made with seasonal greens. Luxmi Kitchen is unique because it uses little oil and spices to make strong flavours while keeping the earthy flavours of local food. As a bonus, many people who eat here say that the thalis make them feel like home-cooked meals.

Location: Thangal Bazar, Imphal
Speciality: Manipuri thali with Iromba, Nga Thongba, and Eromba
Nearby Attraction: Khwairamband Keithel (Ima Market)

Suggested Read: Best Foods In Guwahati

2. Hotel Imoinu

Hotel Imoinu interior showing a long table with yellow chairs and black tablecloths.

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Hotel Imoinu is another celebrated restaurant that showcases the richness of Manipuri cuisine, with its hearty thali meals being the highlight. Spiced fish, bamboo shoot curries and fresh vegetable stews are some of the meals that are served here. Each one is made with great care for taste and balance. Many places only serve meat, but Hotel Imoinu has a lot of options for vegetarians as well, so it’s good for all kinds of diners. The decor is simple but cosy, so you can focus on your food without being bothered. Because they only use fresh and locally grown ingredients, this place stands out because each dish has its own unique flavour.

Location: Paona Bazar, Imphal
Speciality: Fish-based thalis and bamboo shoot preparations
Nearby Attraction: Kangla Fort

3. Old Delhi Grillzz

A long table with plates of food at Old Delhi Grillzz, one of the restaurants in Manipur.

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Old Delhi Grillzz is a restaurant in Imphal that brings the flavours of North India to the heart of Manipur. Grills, tandoori specialities, and spicy curries that remind people of Delhi’s famous food culture are what this place is all about, as the name indicates. The menu has all the classics you’d expect from a North Indian kitchen, like smoky kebabs, butter chicken, and spiced biryanis. What makes it appealing is how these meals are slightly changed to fit local tastes while still keeping their richness. The interior is relaxed and friendly with a cosy feel that’s great for both family trips and get-togethers with friends.

Location: Thangmeiband, Imphal
Speciality: Tandoori kebabs, butter chicken, and biryani
Nearby Attraction: Kangla Fort

Suggested Read: Best Street Food In Guwahati To Let Your Taste Buds Savour

4. Classic Grande’s Coffee Shop

Creamy pasta served at Classic Grande’s Coffee Shop on a white plate.

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The Coffee Shop at Classic Grande is one of the most popular dining destinations for those who prefer a modern and luxurious experience. It combines the charm of Manipuri flavours with global cuisines, giving diners a wide range of choices. From local fish curries and rice-based meals to continental dishes like pasta, sandwiches, and grilled meats, the variety is remarkable. The interiors are elegant, with comfortable seating and warm lighting that make the space inviting. It is especially famous for its buffet spread, where you can taste different cuisines in one sitting.

Location: Chingmeirong, Imphal
Speciality: Multi-cuisine buffet and Manipuri fusion dishes
Nearby Attraction: Manipur State Museum

5. Rita Café

A plate filled with samosas is served with chutneys at Rita Cafe, among the best restaurants in Manipur.

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Rita Café is a popular choice for people looking for light meals and snacks in a relaxed environment. It is particularly known for its tea-time offerings, including pakoras, samosas and local Manipuri bites that pair beautifully with tea. The café serves snacks and light meals, making it a good place to go if you need a fast lunch or dinner. The prices are reasonable, which attracts a large number of young people, including students and office workers. The place is bright and friendly, which makes people want to come back.

Location: Singjamei, Imphal
Speciality: Tea-time snacks and Manipuri light meals
Nearby Attraction: ISKCON Temple Imphal

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Kamakhya Temple

6. FLAVOUR Restaurant

A plate of noodles with veggies, and chopsticks served at FLAVOUR Restaurant.

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One of the newest restaurants in Imphal is FLAVOUR, but it has quickly become popular thanks to its stylish decor and wide range of food. The restaurant offers food from China, India, and Manipur, so it can accommodate a lot of different tastes. People really like the Chinese platters because they have dishes like noodles, fried rice and stir-fried veggies. And yet, the diner stays true to its roots by serving Manipuri side dishes that are popular in the area. The modern decor, lively mood and friendly service make eating here a pleasant experience.

Location: Sagolband, Imphal
Speciality: Chinese platters and Manipuri side dishes
Nearby Attraction: Manipur Polo Ground

7. The Sangai Continental

Grilled fish served at The Sangai Continental, among the top restaurants in Manipur.

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Located inside The Sangai Continental hotel, this restaurant is suitable for those who enjoy fine dining in an elegant setting. Manipuri favourites and Indian classics are both on the menu, making it a fun experience for both visitors and locals. The fish dishes from Manipur are highly suggested because they are made with real spices and methods from the area. The atmosphere is classy, and the rooms are stylish enough for both casual family meals and formal events. The staff works hard to make sure that customers are happy and comfortable.

Location: MG Avenue, Imphal
Speciality: Fine dining with Manipuri fish dishes
Nearby Attraction: Kangla Fort

Suggested Read: Exploring Khonoma Fort

8. Forage Café

Interior of Forage Café featuring tables, chairs, and a wall-mounted bookshelf.

Photo: Sung Jin Cho / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Forage Café is a youthful and vibrant dining spot that caters to those who enjoy experimenting with food. It is well known for its smoothies, wraps and continental favourites like pasta and burgers, but what makes it truly interesting is its inclusion of Manipuri-inspired fusion dishes. These use ingredients from around the world and methods from around the world to make flavours that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a creatively designed café with colourful walls, bookshelves, and music that make it feel relaxed. People travelling alone, with friends or as digital nomads who want to relax and eat well should go there.

Location: Uripok, Imphal
Speciality: Smoothies, wraps, and Manipuri-inspired fusion dishes
Nearby Attraction: Singda Dam

9. Leirung Resto

Roasted fish served at Leirung Resto, one of the popular restaurants in Manipur.

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Leirung Resto is a popular dining spot in Imphal known for its calm atmosphere and beautifully presented meals. The restaurant combines traditional Manipuri cooking with continental and Asian-inspired dishes, giving diners plenty of variety. Many visitors love the way Leirung Resto experiments with flavours while still keeping local ingredients at the centre of its menu. The dishes are served with care, from fresh fish curries to flavorful stir-fries. This makes it suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions. The interior is well-designed, with comfortable seating that makes you want to talk for a long time over food.

Location: North AOC, Imphal
Speciality: Mix of Manipuri dishes and continental-inspired meals
Nearby Attraction: Khonghampat Orchidarium.

Suggested Read: Discover The Top Places To Visit In Manipur To Explore Scenic Beauty

10. Shosa Kitchen

Butter chicken in a black bowl served at Shosa Kitchen, Manipur.

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Shosa Kitchen is a modern restaurant that has quickly gained a reputation for serving bold flavours in a relaxed setting. The restaurant takes pride in serving a range of Manipuri delicacies, complemented by Indian and Asian dishes. One of the highlights here is the attention to detail in both taste and presentation. Popular items include local fish curries, chicken gravies, and vegetarian thalis with an assortment of side dishes. The menu also includes lighter snacks, making it a versatile place for both full meals and short breaks. The interiors are thoughtfully decorated, creating a cosy and inviting environment for diners.

Location: Thangmeiband, Imphal
Speciality: Manipuri thalis and fusion chicken dishes
Nearby Attraction: Kangla Museum

Restaurants in Manipur beautifully blend tradition with modern flair. From thali-serving spots like Luxmi Kitchen and Hotel Imoinu to stylish cafés like Forage Café, there’s something for every palate. Enjoy authentic Manipuri dishes alongside familiar comfort foods. Dining here is more than a meal—it’s a cultural experience. Planning a North East getaway? Let TripXL help you explore Manipur’s culinary gems with ease.

Cover Photo: Glenov Brankovic / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Manipur is famous for dishes like Iromba (fermented vegetable mix), Nga Thongba (fish curry), Chamthong (vegetable stew), and bamboo shoot delicacies. The Manipuri thali is also well loved for its variety and balance of flavours.
Yes, many veg restaurants in Manipur serve vegetarian meals. Hotel Imoinu is particularly known for its vegetarian and organic spreads, which include locally grown vegetables and traditional recipes.
Many restaurants serve Manipuri food. But for those who like a wide range of foods Forage Café and Classic Grande serve both Indian and international dishes.
A lunch at a cheap restaurant can cost between INR 100 and 200. Thali dinners are cheap and filling. A lunch at a high-end restaurant like Classic Grande can cost between INR 500 and 800 per person.
Most restaurants in Imphal close early, usually by 8:30 pm. For late-night dining, hotels like Classic Grande and The Sangai Continental are better options, as they serve till later hours.
Harshita Lal

Harshita Lal

Harshita Lal is a travel writer who finds inspiration in the winding roads of hill towns, crisp mountain air, and the quiet stories hidden in everyday journeys. With a soft spot for the Himalayas and small-town simplicity, her writing blends personal discovery with practical travel insights. She enjoys writing pieces that help readers feel more connected to nature, to adventure, and to themselves. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her planning her next trek, journaling in a hillside café, or chasing the sunset.
Harshita’s Top Travel Highlights:
Harshita’s travels include memorable treks and quiet hill escapes, offering experiences of nature, peace, and simple moments that stay long after the journey ends.
1. Treks That Stay With You:
Completed treks like Triund, Kheerganga, Tosh, and Malana, each offering its own lesson in resilience, stillness, and the quiet power of nature.
2. Offbeat Hill Escapes:
Explored peaceful spots like Jibhi, Shoja, Barot Valley, and Mashobra, where there’s more pine than people, and every corner feels like a postcard.

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