Places to eat in Shimla: Shimla, the charming hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is not just known for its scenic beauty and colonial architecture, but also for its rich culinary heritage. From traditional Himachali food in Shimla to global cuisines served in cozy cafes on Mall Road, Shimla offers a diverse and delightful food experience for every visitor. Whether you’re a foodie searching for authentic Himachali cuisine, a street food lover, or a tourist looking for famous food places in Shimla, this guide is for you.
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Let’s dive into the Shimla food specialties, must-eats, and top restaurants to explore during your next visit.
Famous Food Places in Shimla
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Here are some famous food places in Shimla you shouldn’t miss:
Indian Coffee House (The Mall)
The interiors reflect old-world simplicity—rows of wooden chairs, red-uniformed servers, and a no-frills vibe that encourages conversation rather than lingering. Popular for filter coffee, South Indian staples (dosa, idli, vada), and basic breakfast & snack options. Though economical and cozy, some reviews point out inconsistency, especially cold sambhar or weak coffee at times.
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Wake & Bake Café (Mall Road)
Cozy interiors with wooden tables, vintage posters, and vivid wall art that “pop” in the evening’s light, giving a 3D feel. Offers window seats looking onto Mall Road’s colonial charm, plus an open-air terrace with sweeping views of Shimla’s valley.
Café Simla Times (Hotel Willow Banks)
Named after Shimla’s historic newspaper, “The Simla Times,” is reflected in quirky artwork throughout. Offers a charming fusion of indoor comfort and terrace seating with expansive hillside views—ideal for sunset. Frequent live music: local retro, Sufi, and Pahadi genres in the evenings
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Sita Ram & Sons (Lakkar Bazar)
Six generations strong, celebrated for its chole-backed specialities. Loved by locals and Bollywood celebs from Shimla like Preity Zinta and Anupam Kher, Food media also recommend it as a Shimla trip.
Hide Out Café (Middle Bazaar)
Cozy, rustic ambience with a charming window view over Mall Road—great for people-watching. Known for friendly, attentive service and a clean, well-maintained spot (including one of the cleanest washrooms on Mall Road).
These places are consistently featured in lists of the top 10 restaurants in Shimla, and rightly so.
What Food is Shimla Famous For?
Shimla’s food reflects the simplicity and richness of Himachali culture. Some of Shimla’s famous dishes include:
- Chana Madra – A yogurt-based curry made with chickpeas and spices.
- Tudkiya Bhath – A spiced rice dish cooked with lentils, yogurt, and vegetables.
- Babru – A Himachali version of kachori stuffed with black gram paste.
- Sidu – Sidu (also spelled Siddu) is a beloved traditional Himachali steamed bread—think of a filled bun—that’s especially popular in the Kullu–Shimla–Mandi region.
- Chha Gosht- Chha Gosht (literally “buttermilk meat”) is a signature, tangy mutton curry from Himachal Pradesh, especially beloved in the hills for its rich, sour-spiced flavor and creamy texture.
- Aktori – A pancake-like sweet dish made from buckwheat and wheat flour.
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These delicacies are part of the Shimla food specialities that every visitor must try at least once.
Traditional Himachali Food in Shimla
When it comes to traditional Himachali food in Shimla, one cannot ignore the unique preparation methods, slow cooking techniques, and generous use of local herbs and spices. The dishes are mostly cooked in mustard oil or ghee, giving them a rich and earthy flavor.
One of the highlights of traditional cuisine is the Himachali Dham in Shimla, a festive meal usually served during weddings and religious ceremonies. Dham includes:
- Rajma (kidney beans)
- Sepu Vadi (urad dal dumplings in gravy)
- Khatta (tangy pumpkin dish)
- Meetha (sweetened rice or boondi)
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Some local restaurants and homestays now offer Himachali Dham in Shimla on request, especially for tourists wanting a full cultural food experience.
Best Local Food in Shimla You Must Try
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Apart from the traditional fare, Shimla is also home to several local favorites you’ll find in homes and local dhabas:
- Thukpa and Momos – With Tibetan influence, these are comforting meals, especially in cold weather.
- Cholle Bhature – A North Indian classic served in local eateries.
- Bread Omelet & Bun Chole – Common yet filling breakfast or evening snacks in Shimla.
These dishes represent the best local food in Shimla, perfect for those who want to taste something unique yet comforting. Apart from Himachali preparations, many restaurants offer classic North Indian chicken, mutton, and Chinese non-veg dishes that tourists enjoy.
Conclusion: A Foodie’s Paradise in the Hills
Shimla is much more than just a summer retreat or a winter wonderland—it’s a food lover’s delight. From authentic traditional Himachali food in Shimla to global dishes and heartwarming street snacks, the city serves flavors that reflect its history, culture, and climate.
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Whether you’re looking for famous street food in Shimla, top 10 restaurants in Shimla, or just curious about what food Shimla is famous for, you’re bound to find something delicious at every corner.
So, the next time you’re in this hill station, don’t just admire the views—savor the food. Your taste buds will thank you!
