Best Food In Shimla: Unleash Your Taste Buds At These Top Spots

Try delicious non-veg food in Shimla like fried chicken momos on your visit here

Shimla, the queen of hill stations in the Himalayas, has a perfect image, as proven by the visuals and food joints. Options of the best food in Shimla reflect the geographical diversity of this place, with small, intimate coffee shops selling freshly made coffee and fine dining restaurants offering different cuisines. The good news is that this city will not disappoint as it caters to various tastes like classic Indian flavours, Tibetan dishes, or even exotic food foreigners might appear fond of. Find out where you can take your palate on a breathtaking gastronomic experience in Shimla.

Best Food In Shimla: Top 10 Best Places To Eat

Discover the best food in Shimla with our list of the top ten most incredible places to dine, which provide a wonderful blend of traditional Himachali flavours and modern cuisines in this hill town.

1. Cafe Shimla Times

Sip on a fresh coffee at the Cafe Shimla Times whilst enjoying the scenic views

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Cafe Shimla Times is a popular eating place in Shimla known for its attractive environment and extensive food options. Nestled in the centre of the city, this café serves a delectable selection of Continental, Italian, and Indian food, making it a favourite with both locals and visitors. The cosy environment and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills produce a tranquil ambience ideal for breakfast, lunch, or a quick coffee break. Cafe Shimla Times, with its courteous service and popular goods such as freshly baked pastries and handcrafted coffee, offers a remarkable dining experience that encapsulates Shimla’s dynamic food scene.

Location: Near Jackson’s, Lakkar Bazaar, Shimla
Timings: 8 AM – 10 PM
Cost / Person: ₹500 – ₹800

2. The Oberoi Cecil

Enjoy a warm and hearty egg thukpa bowl at The Oberoi Cecil in Shimla

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The Oberoi Cecil, a premium hotel, offers a delectable dining experience in Shimla that complements its aristocratic appeal. Its in-house restaurant has a sophisticated menu of multi-cuisine selections that combines Indian and foreign flavours while emphasising fresh, high-quality ingredients. Guests may enjoy excellent meals in a refined atmosphere, complemented by exceptional service. The environment, wherein you get spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, complements the dining experience. Whether it’s a magnificent breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a romantic evening, The Oberoi Cecil in Shimla delivers a gastronomic adventure to remember.

Location: The Oberoi Cecil, The Mall, Shimla
Timings: 7 AM – 11 PM
Cost / Person: ₹2000 – ₹3000

3. Writers Bar

Writers Bar in Shimla has some of the best food with a modern twist and fine dining experience

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Writers Bar, housed in the famous Oberoi Cecil, provides a refined and best dining experience in Shimla. This exquisite bar mixes historical charm with a modern twist, making it the ideal place to unwind after exploring. The menu combines Indian and Continental food with excellent drinks and superb wines. The warm, friendly ambience and stylish furnishings offer a relaxing atmosphere perfect for a leisurely dinner or socialising with friends. Writers Bar’s magnificent service and skillfully created cuisine provide a remarkable and sophisticated experience in Shimla’s posh environment.

Location: The Oberoi Cecil, The Mall, Shimla
Timings: 11 AM – 11 PM
Cost / Person: ₹1500 – ₹2500

4. Trishul Cafe

Trishul Cafe is a hidden gem in this hill station that serves tasty Tibetan cuisine

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Trishul Cafe, a hidden treasure in Shimla, serves authentic Tibetan and Indian food in a cosy, friendly environment. The café is popular amongst residents and visitors due to its welcoming atmosphere and pleasant service. The menu includes traditional Tibetan foods like momos and thukpa and substantial Indian alternatives. The relaxed, rustic ambience matches the flavourful cuisine, making it a great spot to unwind and have a delicious meal. Trishul Cafe, emphasising authentic flavours and comfort, offers a lovely eating experience in Shimla.

Location: Near State Library, Shimla
Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM
Cost / Person: ₹300 – ₹500

5. Ashiana & Goofa

Enjoy some of the best food in Shimla like tandoori curries and naan at Ashiana & Goofa

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Ashiana & Goofa is one of the prominent Shimla restaurants known for its genuine Punjabi food and boisterous environment. This popular cafe serves traditional meals, including flavourful tandoori, substantial curries, and freshly baked naan. The dynamic setting, complete with colourful design and pleasant service, elevates the eating experience, making it ideal for family gatherings and social lunches. Ashiana & Goofa, known for its vast quantities and great food, embodies Punjabi hospitality and offers a warm, inviting atmosphere for a memorable supper in Shimla.

Location: Near Christ Church, The Mall, Shimla
Timings: 11 AM – 11 PM
Cost / Person: ₹600 – ₹1000

6. Chopsticks

Chopsticks is a popular diner which has some of the best food in Shimla

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Chopsticks is a renowned Shimla diner that serves delicious Chinese and Asian food. Thanks to its relaxed and welcoming ambience, it’s a popular destination for people looking for flavourful dim sum, fragrant noodles, and savoury stir-fries. The restaurant’s menu includes a variety of classic Chinese meals cooked using fresh ingredients and genuine techniques. The modern yet cosy décor makes for a relaxing eating experience, whether for a quick lunch or a leisurely meal. Chopsticks’ dedication to quality and flavour assures a delightful lunch, making it a must-stop for foodies in Shimla.

Location: Lower Mall, Shimla
Timings: 11 AM – 10 PM
Cost / Person: ₹400 – ₹700

7. Hotel Shimla View Restaurant

Hotel Shimla View Restaurant has some of the best food in Shimla made with fresh and quality ingredients

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The Hotel Shimla View Restaurant provides a fantastic dining experience with panoramic views of Shimla’s picturesque surroundings. This restaurant has a peaceful setting and a broad menu with Indian and Continental food. Guests may enjoy a variety of cuisines, from traditional curries and tandoori specialities to worldwide favourites, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The vast and well-appointed dining area offers a pleasant environment for having meals while admiring the breathtaking views. Hotel Shimla View Restaurant, with its friendly staff and diverse cuisine, is an excellent choice for visitors looking for a memorable dining experience in Shimla.

Location: Hotel Shimla View, The Mall, Shimla
Timings: 7 AM – 10 PM
Cost / Person: ₹500 – ₹800

8. Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar

Drink a delicious concoction of mocktails at the Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar in Shimla

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Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar provides a refined dining experience in Shimla, combining modern elegance with a broad menu. This upmarket restaurant is noted for its stylish design and lively atmosphere, making it ideal for both private dinners and social groups. The menu offers a variety of multi-cuisine meals, including Indian, Continental, and international favourites, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Guests may also sample an excellent selection of drinks and premium wines. Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar offers a sophisticated dining experience with exceptional service, encapsulating Shimla’s modern dining spirit.

Location: The Oberoi Cecil, The Mall, Shimla
Timings: 12 PM – 11 PM
Cost / Person: ₹1500 – ₹2500

9. The Old Stone

The Old Stone has some of the most famous food in Shimla and has a relaxing ambience as well

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The Old Stone is a beautiful restaurant in Shimla known for its rustic design and delectable Italian and Continental food. With a welcoming ambience, it’s the perfect place to experience homemade pizzas, flavourful pasta, and a variety of foreign specialities. The restaurant’s unusual setting, with its stone walls and cosy environment, enhances the eating experience, making it both relaxing and unforgettable. Customers love the personal service and high-quality ingredients utilised in all dishes. Whether you are searching for a simple lunch or a memorable evening out, The Old Stone offers a lovely culinary experience in Shimla.

Location: Near The Ridge, Shimla
Timings: 11 AM – 10 PM
Cost / Person: ₹600 – ₹1000

10. Cafe Sol

Enjoy a delicious bowl of pasta and other Italian delicacies at Cafe Sol in Shimla

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Cafe Sol is a colourful and modern cafe in Shimla, noted for its laid-back environment and extensive cuisine. It specialises in Italian and Continental cuisine and serves a variety of excellent alternatives, including freshly made coffee, artisan pastries, and savoury entrees such as pasta and sandwiches. The cafe’s contemporary décor and comfy seating make it an inviting space for casual meals and social gatherings. Whether you’re coming by for a leisurely breakfast, a short coffee break, or a light supper, Cafe Sol’s delicious food and friendly service assure a gratifying and pleasurable Shimla experience.

Location: The Mall, Shimla
Timings: 9 AM – 11 PM
Cost / Person: ₹400 – ₹700

Shimla’s culinary culture combines traditional Himachali flavours with world cuisines, making it a foodie’s dream. The city’s numerous options ensure an unforgettable culinary adventure, whether savouring local specialities or indulging in gourmet meals. Ready to discover restaurants offering the best food in Shimla? Book your vacation with TripXL today and experience a flavourful tour in the heart of the Himalayas!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Shimla offers many cuisines, including traditional Indian, Tibetan, Chinese, Italian, and continental. The city provides a variety of eating experiences, from native specialities to international cuisine.
Yes, Shimla offers various vegetarian eateries with a diverse menu. Places such as Ashiana & Goofa and Cafe Sol provide good vegetarian alternatives in addition to their standard menus.
The finest months to visit Shimla are March to June and September to November. The weather is favourable during these months, making it ideal for discovering the city's culinary culture.
Reservations are recommended for prominent restaurants such as The Oberoi Cecil and Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar, particularly during busy tourist seasons.
Shimla serves various cuisines, including Italian, Continental, and Asian, at restaurants such as The Old Stone, Chopsticks, and Cafe Sol.

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