Top 15 Cafes in Shimla: A Guide to the Best Coffee and Snacks in the Queen of Hills

Shimla, the picturesque hill station in the heart of the Himalayas, is not just about stunning landscapes and beautiful architecture. The city also boasts a thriving café culture that caters to the diverse tastes of tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re in the mood for a steaming cup of coffee, a quick bite, or a leisurely brunch with a view, Shimla has a café to suit every preference. In this article, we will explore the top 15 cafes in Shimla that are sure to delight your taste buds.

1. Wake and Bake Café

Located on Mall Road, Wake and Bake Café, Shimla is a popular spot for coffee enthusiasts and food lovers. The cosy ambience, combined with an impressive menu of delicious treats like waffles, pancakes, and sandwiches, makes this café a must-visit.

Their extensive beverage menu features a variety of coffee, tea, and smoothies to satisfy any craving.

2. Café Shimla Times

Café Shimla Times, nestled near the Ridge, offers stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. The café’s quirky décor and laid-back vibe make it a favourite among tourists and locals alike. The menu features a mix of Indian and Continental dishes, including mouthwatering pizzas, burgers, and pasta. Don’t forget to try their signature hot chocolate while you’re there as this is one of the best cafes in Shimla.

3. Honey Hut

If you have a sweet tooth, Honey Hut is the place for you. Located on Mall Road, this charming café is known for its honey-infused dishes and beverages. The menu includes honey-based smoothies, tea, and coffee, along with delicious snacks and desserts. Be sure to try their signature Honey Chilly Potato and Honey Almond Cake. This Café Shimla is one of the best cafés in Shimla that never fails to impress customers.

4. The Restaurant at The Oberoi Cecil

For a luxurious dining experience, head to The Restaurant at The Oberoi Cecil. The elegant café, set within the historic hotel, offers a lavish spread of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. With an extensive selection of Indian, Continental, and Southeast Asian cuisine, there is something for everyone. You will love this place for delicious food. Also, you will feel that eating here is one of the best things to do in Shimla.

The warm, inviting atmosphere and impeccable service make this café a truly memorable experience. Most visitors to Shimla call it one of the best cafés in Shimla.

5. Hide Out Café

Hide Out Café, situated on Mall Road, is a cosy retreat for those seeking a quiet, relaxing environment. The café’s rustic wooden interiors and warm lighting create a welcoming ambience. The menu features a variety of comfort food, including sandwiches, burgers, pasta, and shakes. Their signature Nutella Hot Chocolate is a must-try. Mainly for this drink, many visitors call this one of the best cafes in Shimla.

6. Indian Coffee House

A visit to Shimla is incomplete without stopping by the iconic Indian Coffee House. Established in 1957, this historic café on Mall Road is famous for its no-frills ambience and delicious, affordable food. Their filter coffee, dosas, and omelettes are especially popular among patrons. If you are a filter coffee lover, you will call this one of the best cafes in Shimla for sure.

7. Café Sol

Located within Hotel Combermere, Café Sol offers an exquisite fusion of Indian and international cuisine. The vibrant interiors and comfortable seating make it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal.

Their extensive menu includes wood-fired pizzas, pasta, sizzlers, and an array of mouthwatering desserts. The café Shimla also features a well-stocked bar, perfect for a relaxed evening with friends. Never forget to include a visit to this place as one of the best cafes in Shimla.

8. The Brew Estate

For craft beer lovers, The Brew Estate is a must-visit. This chic café on Mall Road offers a selection of in-house brewed beers, including wheat beer, lager, and stout. The menu features a range of gourmet dishes, such as wood-fired pizzas, tacos, and burgers, designed to complement the brews. The lively atmosphere and regular live music events make The Brew Estate a popular hangout spot and one of the best cafes in Shimla.

9. Café 1947

Café 1947, located near the historic Gaiety Theatre, exudes an old-world charm with its vintage décor and warm ambience. The café offers a diverse menu, featuring a mix of Indian, Italian, and Israeli cuisine. Their delicious pasta dishes, bruschetta, and falafel are particularly popular. Don’t forget to try their signature 1947 Coffee for an authentic taste of Shimla’s history. You will accept this as one of the best cafes in Shimla.

10. Trishool Bakers and Café

Trishool Bakers and Café, situated on Mall Road, is a delightful spot for those craving freshly baked goods and delicious snacks. This family-run establishment is known for its scrumptious cakes, pastries, and bread. The cosy interiors, friendly staff, and a variety of sandwiches, wraps, and salads make it an ideal place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Most visitors call this one of the best cafes in Shimla.

11. Eighteen71 Cookhouse and Bar

Located within the Willow Banks Hotel, Eighteen71 Cookhouse and Bar offers a fine dining experience with a blend of classic and contemporary cuisine.

The elegant décor, featuring vintage photographs of Shimla, transports patrons to a bygone era. The menu includes a range of Indian, Continental, and Asian dishes, as well as a well-curated selection of wines and cocktails. Make sure to include this Café Shimla in your places to visit in the Shimla list.

12. Beekays

For a taste of Shimla’s street food culture, head to Beekays, a popular fast-food joint on Mall Road. Known for its mouthwatering burgers, sandwiches, and rolls, Beekays is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Their signature Veg Grilled Sandwich and Chicken Burger are especially popular. Be sure to try their thick shakes and cold coffee for a refreshing treat. These dishes make this one of the best cafes in Shimla.

13. Bird’s View Café

As the name suggests, Bird’s View Café offers stunning panoramic views of the Shimla Valley. Located near the Jakhu Temple, this quaint café Shimla is a great spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the region. The menu features a mix of Indian and Continental dishes, including sandwiches, pasta, and momos. The serene atmosphere and friendly service make it one of the best cafes in Shimla.

14. The Corner Café

The Corner Café, located in the Chotta Shimla area, is a cosy spot offering a variety of scrumptious snacks and beverages. The café’s homely ambience, complete with comfortable seating and board games, is perfect for a relaxed afternoon with friends or family. The menu includes sandwiches, wraps, salads, and a range of delicious hot and cold beverages. Any dish you taste here will give you a feel that this is one of the best cafes in Shimla.

15. Rendezvous Bar & Café

Situated within the Hotel Shingar, Rendezvous Bar & Café is an ideal spot for an evening of relaxation and entertainment. The café features a well-stocked bar, offering a variety of wines, cocktails, and mocktails, along with delicious finger food.

The vibrant interiors, comfortable seating, and regular live music events make Rendezvous Bar & Café a popular spot for both tourists and locals. So, both accept this to be one of the best cafes in Shimla.

Conclusion

Shimla’s diverse café culture offers something for everyone, from cosy spots with stunning views to bustling fast-food joints and luxurious fine dining establishments. These top 15 cafes in Shimla are sure to delight your taste buds and provide a memorable culinary experience during your visit to the Queen of Hills. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the best that Shimla’s café scene has to offer. Located around 350 kms from Delhi, Shimla has a lot to offer for food and beverage lovers.