Khandala is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India. It is a popular spot for travellers seeking an escape from the urban hustle. It’s not only the scenic beauty and pleasant weather that attracts people to Khandala. The local culinary scene also has a lot to offer. One such delight is the town’s unique café culture. As Khandala is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai, many Mumbaikars do visit this spot. Here, I would like to introduce you to the top 10 cafes in Khandala you must visit during your trip.
1. Café 24 – Della Resorts
One of the more upscale options, Café 24 is part of the Della Resorts. The café boasts a chic, modern ambience and a stunning view of the lush surroundings. Their menu is an eclectic mix of Indian and international cuisines, with a special focus on Italian. Don’t forget to try their creamy Tiramisu and steaming hot cappuccino.
Café 24’s dessert selection deserves special mention. Their creamy Tiramisu is a crowd favourite, boasting perfectly balanced flavours that leave a lingering sweetness. Their homemade gelato and the decadent chocolate lava cake are also worth trying.
To accompany your meal, the café offers a variety of beverages. From frothy cappuccinos and aromatic teas to fresh fruit juices and smoothies, you have plenty of options. Their in-house sommelier can recommend excellent wine pairings for your meal as well. For these reasons, this is one of the best cafes in Khandala.
2. Fariyas Resort Café
Fariyas Resort Café offers an impressive range of snacks and beverages with a captivating view of the Sahyadri Range. The café, with its warm and hospitable staff, offers a variety of cuisines, including Continental, Chinese, and Indian. Their grilled sandwiches and Masala Chai are must-try items.
The Fariyas Resort Café, situated within the stunning Fariyas Resort in Khandala, offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Bathed in warm tones, the café has a comfortable and inviting ambience that blends perfectly with the natural beauty seen through the large, panoramic windows.
The café’s menu reflects a sophisticated fusion of Continental, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. Must-try dishes include their Grilled Sandwiches, a hearty preparation that’s an absolute treat for the palate, and their special Masala Chai, a traditional Indian tea infused with a blend of aromatic spices and herbs, perfect for the hill station’s climate.
The staff’s hospitality is commendable, making you feel welcomed and cared for. Their personalized service, coupled with the delightful food, ensures an enjoyable dining experience at Fariyas Resort Café making it one of the best cafes in Khandala.
3. German Bakery Wunderbar
A delightful haven for pastry enthusiasts, the German Bakery Wunderbar brings European flavours to the heart of Khandala. Famous for its freshly baked bread, cakes, and pastries, the café also serves a range of beverages. The quaint décor, comfortable seating, and calming ambience make it an ideal spot for a leisurely breakfast.
A slice of Europe in Khandala, the German Bakery Wunderbar is a haven for pastry enthusiasts. This bakery-café is the epitome of rustic charm, with its quaint décor, cosy seating, and a display of freshly baked goods that instantly makes you feel at home.
Their menu boasts an impressive variety of European baked goods, including different types of bread, cakes, pastries, and sandwiches. Every item on their menu is baked in-house, ensuring that you get the freshest and most authentic taste. The bakery is particularly famous for its German Pretzels and Black Forest Cake.
Despite being in the heart of India, the German Bakery Wunderbar successfully brings the taste and feel of a traditional German bakery to Khandala, making it a must-visit for every traveller. So, do visit this place as one of the best cafes in Khandala.
4. Café Coffee Day
Café Coffee Day, or CCD as it’s popularly known, is a well-known coffee chain in India. Their Khandala outlet, located near the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, offers travellers a relaxing space to enjoy a cup of their signature coffee while admiring the picturesque views.
Café Coffee Day, fondly known as CCD, is one of India’s largest coffee chain outlets. With its presence across the country, it provides a homely space for coffee lovers to unwind and socialize. For this particular factor, this is one of the best cafes in Khandala.
The CCD outlet in Khandala is strategically located near the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, serving as a refreshing pit stop for travellers. The café is known for its relaxed and warm ambience, complemented by its delectable range of coffees, snacks, and desserts.
Their signature beverages like the Café Frappé and Cappuccino are a must-try. Pair these with their delicious Tandoori Paneer Sandwich or the classic Chocolate Fantasy pastry for a delightful snack. The café’s friendly service and serene views of the hill station make your coffee break even more enjoyable.
5. Rama Krishna
Rama Krishna isn’t a café in the traditional sense, but it’s a must-visit for its exceptional South Indian fare. Rama Krishna offers a casual, laid-back ambience that’s perfect for a quick snack or a filling breakfast.
Rama Krishna is a popular dining spot in Khandala, renowned for its authentic South Indian cuisine. While it doesn’t fall into the conventional category of a café, it offers a casual, laid-back ambience that’s perfect for enjoying a warm cup of traditional filter coffee.
The café’s main attractions are its classic South Indian dishes like idli, dosa, and vada, all served with tangy sambhar and fresh coconut chutney. Their Masala Dosa, in particular, is a crowd favourite, known for its crispy exterior and flavourful potato filling.
Rama Krishna offers a simple yet inviting setting for travellers seeking to explore the local cuisine. Its friendly service, comfortable seating, and delicious fare make it one of the best cafes in Khandala.
6. The Food Studio – All Day Dining
Located in the Mystica Resort, The Food Studio offers a fine dining experience with an exotic menu that ranges from Indian to Asian. The café’s stylish ambience, coupled with views of the beautiful lake, makes it a memorable dining spot.
The Food Studio offers an all-day dining experience that caters to diverse culinary preferences. The restaurant boasts a stylish, contemporary ambience, enhanced by the mesmerizing views of the resort’s lake.
The menu at The Food Studio is an exotic blend of Indian and Asian cuisines, featuring everything from buttery naan and succulent kebabs to stir-fried noodles and dim sum. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, showcasing the rich flavours of the respective cuisines.
The service is top-notch, with the staff ensuring a pleasant and comfortable dining experience for every guest. The Food Studio is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a fine dining experience in a beautiful setting in Khandala. Do visit this place as one of the best cafes in Khandala.
7. Café Chikki
Café Chikki offers a unique blend of café and confectionery. As the name suggests, they are known for their chikkis, a traditional Indian sweet made from jaggery and nuts. The café ambience is casual, making it a perfect place for families. Try their thick shakes along with a variety of chikkis.
Their Peanut Chikki and Mixed Nut Chikki are particularly popular among locals and tourists alike. In addition to its sweet offerings, Café Chikki also serves a range of thick shakes, perfect to cool down on a warm day. The Nutella Shake and Mango Shake are must-tries. After trying these dishes, you will accept that this is one of the best cafes in Khandala.
The café has a casual, family-friendly ambience with comfortable seating arrangements. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a cool beverage, Café Chikki offers an enjoyable experience with its unique offerings.
8. Bagicha Corner
Located near Rajmachi Garden, Bagicha Corner is famous for its Indian street food, particularly the spicy vada pav and cutting chai. The café has an open-air setting that complements the beautiful natural surroundings, providing a simple, rustic dining experience.
Bagicha Corner is particularly famous for its Vada Pav, a traditional Maharashtrian snack consisting of a spicy potato fritter sandwiched in a soft bread bun. This, paired with a cup of their robust ‘cutting chai’ (strong tea served in small glasses), offers an authentic taste of local flavours. For these dishes, the locals call it one of the best cafes in Khandala.
With its simple, homely atmosphere and delicious, affordably priced food, Bagicha Corner provides a unique dining experience that’s a must-try on your visit to Khandala.
9. Mapro Garden Restaurant
Even though this is one of the best cafes in Khandala, you will have to drive a bit to reach this café. Known for its farm-fresh strawberry products, the café serves pizzas, sandwiches, and desserts. The highlight is their strawberry with cream – a heavenly combination that will leave you wanting more.
The café serves an array of dishes including pizzas, sandwiches, and desserts, all prepared with fresh ingredients. However, the showstopper here is their strawberries with cream. This dish features ripe, juicy strawberries served with fresh whipped cream, a heavenly combination that is a must-try for all visitors.
Surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers, the café offers a relaxed dining atmosphere. A visit to Mapro Garden Restaurant is a delightful experience that combines delicious food with beautiful surroundings.
10. Café Narangi
Café Narangi is a small, cosy café that promises a homely experience. Their menu is a mix of Indian and Continental cuisines, but the star is their range of coffees. The rustic décor, combined with a warm and friendly staff, makes Café Narangi a must-visit.
Café Narangi is a charming little café tucked away in the heart of Khandala. Known for its homely and cosy atmosphere, this café promises a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience. The rustic décor, combined with the warmth of the friendly staff, adds to the café’s inviting ambience.
The menu at Café Narangi offers a mix of Indian and Continental cuisines, catering to diverse tastes. From hearty sandwiches to traditional Indian snacks, the café ensures that there’s something for everyone. The real highlight, however, is their range of coffees, which are a hit among visitors.
Whether you’re seeking a quiet spot for a morning coffee or a comfortable place to unwind after a day of exploring, Café Narangi is a great choice. These factors make it one of the best cafés in Khandala.
Conclusion:
These are just a few of the fantastic cafes that Khandala has to offer. Each café has its unique ambience, flavour palette, and charm, catering to a wide range of preferences. So, whether you are a coffee enthusiast, a foodie, or someone seeking a cosy corner to relax, Khandala’s café culture has something in store for everyone. Enjoy the breathtaking views, sip on some exquisite coffee, and indulge in delicious fare at these cafés on your next trip to Khandala.
Khandala is near Pune and so you can plan your visit to Pawna Lake. My post on the same can help you.