Shimla’s food scene is a flavorful fusion of Himachali tradition and North Indian comfort. From piping-hot siddu to rich butter chicken and fragrant masala chai, this hill station serves soul-warming dishes in cozy mountain cafés and old-school eateries. Here’s a taste of the must-try local foods and the best places to find them.
1. Siddu – Himachali Rasoi
Why visit: This steamed wheat bun stuffed with spiced lentils or nuts is a beloved local delicacy.
Highlights: – Served with ghee – Walnut or poppy seed fillings – Traditional cooking method
Timing: 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Entry: ₹100–₹150 per plate
2. Madra – Himachali Rasoi
Why visit: A slow-cooked yogurt-based curry made with chickpeas or kidney beans, it’s a staple in Himachali festivals.
Highlights: – Creamy and tangy – Served with rice – Part of the traditional Dhaam feast
Timing: 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Entry: ₹120–₹180 per plate
3. Chana Madra & Babru – Wake & Bake Café
Why visit: Babru is like a Himachali kachori, paired perfectly with spiced chana Madra in this café’s fusion twist.
Highlights: – Crispy exterior – Rich filling – Best with mint chutney
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–₹250
4. Butter Chicken & Tandoori Naan – Eighteen71 Cookhouse
Why visit: For a luxurious take on this North Indian classic in an upscale setting.
Highlights: – Creamy gravy – Chargrilled chicken – Buttery soft naan
Timing: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Entry: ₹400–₹900 per dish
5. Tibetan Momos – Devicos or Krishna Bakers
Why visit: Warm, comforting dumplings found everywhere—from restaurants to roadside stalls.
Highlights: – Steamed or fried – Chicken/veg filling – Served with spicy chutney
Timing: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹70–₹120 per plate
6. Himachali Dham Thali – Himachali Rasoi
Why visit: This thali captures the essence of a traditional feast served at local weddings and fairs.
Highlights: – Includes madra, mahni, khatta, and more – Seasonal ingredients – Authentic flavors
Timing: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM (limited availability)
Entry: ₹250–₹300
7. Fruit Chaat & Tikki – Lakkar Bazaar Street Stalls
Why visit: For spicy-sour, crunchy street food that balances the chilly mountain air.
Highlights: – Fresh fruits with tangy masala – Crispy potato tikki – Must-try local snack
Timing: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: ₹30–₹70
8. Chole Bhature – Sita Ram & Sons
Why visit: A Shimla favorite, this eatery is legendary for its fluffy bhature and spicy chole.
Highlights: – Served with raw onions and chutney – Iconic breakfast or lunch item
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: ₹80–₹120 per plate
9. Masala Tea & Pakoras – Indian Coffee House
Why visit: Warm up with old-school masala chai and crispy snacks in a classic colonial café.
Highlights: – View of the Mall – Budget-friendly – Quiet vibes
Timing: 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Entry: ₹20–₹60 per item
10. Apple-Based Desserts – Café Simla Times
Why visit: Shimla is famous for its apples, and this café crafts them into pies, tarts, and warm crumbles.
Highlights: – Baked fresh daily – Pairs well with coffee – Cozy rooftop seating
Timing: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹200–₹350 per dessert
Feature Image:- Photo by Tahir Ansari on Unsplash
