{"id":18680,"date":"2021-08-31T21:44:29","date_gmt":"2021-08-31T16:14:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/?p=18680"},"modified":"2026-06-05T15:01:01","modified_gmt":"2026-06-05T09:31:01","slug":"best-cafes-in-mcleodganj","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/best-cafes-in-mcleodganj\/","title":{"rendered":"Meals In The Mountains: Best Caf\u00e9s In McLeodGanj"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Thrilling adventure activities, picture-perfect scenic views, vibrant monasteries, and exciting caf\u00e9s, that\u2019s exactly how a trip to Mcleodganj would be described. A quaint suburb of Dharamshala snuggled in the Himalayas, Mcleodganj is a beautiful place to visit for all kinds of travelers<\/strong>. Popularly referred to as \u201cLittle Lhasa\u201d and \u201cIndia\u2019s Mini-Tibet\u201d<\/a> because of its large Tibetan population, this town offers unique experiences in everything, be it food or local sightseeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amongst other activities to do in the mountains, one that you simply cannot miss out on is caf\u00e9 hopping. After all, your taste buds too, are on vacation and they ought to get the best of it all! <\/strong>Here\u2019s a list of some of the best caf\u00e9s in Mcleodganj, where the delicacies served up are as unique as the name of the town. Keep reading further and you\u2019ll know what not to miss out on when planning your itinerary!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Illiterati Caf\u00e9<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If books are your second love after food, this place is nothing less than a paradise for you. Also known as Illiterati Books & Coffee, this caf\u00e9 has everything to make you want to visit it time and again.<\/strong> You can enjoy their scrumptious Italian delicacies while exploring their brilliant collection of books from all over the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even if you aren\u2019t really a bookworm, enjoying the stunning mountain views while sipping on some delicious hot chocolate will make your visit to this caf\u00e9 totally worthwhile. It offers the perfect combination of good food, lively vibes, and an appealing ambiance <\/strong>(both indoors and out!) Isn\u2019t that all you want?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caf\u00e9 Specialties:<\/strong> Chicken Schnitzel, Pepperoni Pizza, Ravioli, Mint Lemonade<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price For Two:<\/strong> INR 400 \u2013 INR 800 (Approx)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Jogiwara Road, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Timings:<\/strong> 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM on all days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Illiterati
Enjoy some great views alongside scrumptious food at Illiterati. Photo by Aditya Saxena<\/a> <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Shiva Caf\u00e9<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Before you already start painting a picture of the caf\u00e9 in your head just by looking at the name, let\u2019s tell you what this caf\u00e9 is actually all about. It\u2019s among the most famous and best caf\u00e9s in Mcleodganj that\u2019s frequented by foreign travelers from all over. <\/strong>With chill vibes and breathtaking views, this place holds a hippie atmosphere. (We know where your mind could be drifting now, but this place has much more to offer!)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The ambiance of the caf\u00e9 is serene and welcoming and their menu has many good dishes to choose from. You can also enjoy the musical vibes of the caf\u00e9 while munching on their delicious momos or a hot bowl of their famous Maggi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caf\u00e9 Specialties:<\/strong> Farmhouse Pizza, Maggi, Ginger Honey Lemon, Hot Coffee, Pancakes<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price For Two:<\/strong> INR 400 \u2013 INR 600 (Approx)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Near Bhagsunag Waterfall, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Timings:<\/strong> 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on all days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nick\u2019s Italian Kitchen<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you have a sweet tooth and cannot resist gorging on some lip-smacking desserts, a visit to Nick\u2019s Italian Kitchen is a must when in Mcleodganj. From carrot cakes and muffins to waffles and banoffee pies, your stomach will be full but your heart won\u2019t – such are their delicious desserts.<\/strong> This, of course, is their speciality, but Nick\u2019s Italian Kitchen also serves some impressive pastas, pizzas, sandwiches, and salads to balance your savory cravings. No wonder it’s one of the best caf\u00e9s in Mcleodganj!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adding to it are the perks of free Wi-Fi and the stunning views of the Dhauladhar range from its outdoor seating space. <\/strong>The caf\u00e9 is the most lively in the evenings, so make sure to reach early or reserve a spot if you\u2019re visiting it during peak times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caf\u00e9 Specialties:<\/strong> Banoffee Pie, Chocolate Mousse Cake, Spinach Momos, Pancakes<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price For Two:<\/strong> INR 350 \u2013 INR 550 (Approx)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Bhagsunag Road, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Timings:<\/strong> 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM on all days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"banoffee\"
Dig into some sumptuous banoffee at Nick\u2019s Italian Kitchen! Photo by Annie Spratt<\/a> <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Moonlight Caf\u00e9<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Looking for a soothing place to just chill and unwind? Head over to the Moonlight Caf\u00e9 in Dharamkot. It has a wonderful ambience and a fair variety of dishes to enjoy with the splendid view. Sipping on a hot cup of coffee or the famous ginger lemon honey tea is what even the locals would recommend to try out at the Moonlight Caf\u00e9. <\/strong>It has a warm and welcoming vibe which is just perfect when you need a break from the bustling city life. Pair a cup of their ginger tea with their famous Bhagsu cake and that\u2019s sure to leave you asking for more.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caf\u00e9 Specialties:<\/strong> Bhagsu Cake, Ginger Lemon Honey Tea, Nutella Pancake<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price For Two:<\/strong> INR 400 \u2013 INR 600 (Approx)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Dharamkot, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Timings:<\/strong> 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM on all days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carpe Diem Caf\u00e9<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Indian, Italian, Mexican, Mediterranean, Continental – you name it and this caf\u00e9 has it all. The tantalizing aroma of the wood-fired pizzas is enough to make you drool even before the dish is at your table! <\/strong>Whether you\u2019re a morning person who enjoys a hearty breakfast or a night owl for whom dinner has to be on point, this caf\u00e9 can satisfy all your hunger pangs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The rustic setting of the caf\u00e9 offers a welcoming vibe to everyone who wishes to enjoy a meal by themselves.<\/strong> The convenient location, artsy ambience, and scenic landscape of this caf\u00e9 are also perfect to spice up your social media game with a story or post! All these things combined with the lip-smacking food easily make this place one of the best caf\u00e9s in Mcleodganj.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caf\u00e9 Specialties:<\/strong> Wood Oven Pizza, Spaghetti Pasta, Cheese Omelette<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price For Two:<\/strong> INR 500 \u2013 INR 700 (Approx)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Jogiwara Road, Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh 176219<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Timings:<\/strong> 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM on all days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jimmy\u2019s Italian Kitchen<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The name of this caf\u00e9 stands up to the expectations and doesn\u2019t disappoint Italian food lovers. From pastas and pizzas to lasagna and cheesecakes, you can go crazy with the variety of options offered at this caf\u00e9. <\/strong>The ambiance is pretty with walls painted and decorated with framed pictures that take you on a little tour to Italy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s even better is that Jimmy\u2019s Italian Kitchen leaves you with a wholesome experience without burning a hole in your pockets. Just make sure to save some space in your stomach for their amazing desserts. Their chocolate mousse and lemon cheesecake are to die for and no food lover would ever want to miss out on them!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caf\u00e9 Specialties:<\/strong> Grilled Sicilian Chicken, Pepperoni Pizza, Chocolate Mousse, Cheesecake<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price For Two:<\/strong> INR 500 \u2013 INR 700 (Approx)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Mcleodganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Timings:<\/strong> 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on all days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Namgyal Caf\u00e9<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Located near Dalai Lama\u2019s Temple complex, Namgyal Caf\u00e9 will be loved by all pizza lovers. The authentic wood-fired pizzas found at this caf\u00e9 are truly one-of-its-kind and are worth having at least once when in Mcleodganj. <\/strong>Not just pizzas, but the caf\u00e9 also offers a good range of sandwiches and pastas to keep all foodies hooked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This caf\u00e9 has a fun and colorful ambiance that\u2019s soothing to your souls. If you want to keep yourself occupied while munching on their delicious dishes, you can also grab a book from their vast collection of fictional and spiritual books. Visiting the caf\u00e9 in the evening is a beautiful experience as enjoying the sunset while sipping on your ginger tea is sure to transport you to another world.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caf\u00e9 Specialties:<\/strong> Roquefort Pizza, Chilli Tofu, Ginger Lemon Honey Tea<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price For Two:<\/strong> INR 350 \u2013 INR 500 (Approx)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Temple Road, Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh 176219<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Timings:<\/strong> 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM on all days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Namgyal
The Namgyal Caf\u00e9 is located near the Dalai Lama\u2019s Temple so make sure you drop in. Photo by Dave Kleinschmidt<\/a> <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Lobsang\u2019s Four Seasons Caf\u00e9<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If there\u2019s one meal you cannot miss munching on in the mountains, it has to be the momos. And if there\u2019s one place in Mcleodganj that serves mouth-watering momos, it\u2019s the Lobsang\u2019s Four Seasons Caf\u00e9.<\/strong> Don\u2019t just go by the appearance of this quaint little caf\u00e9, because it\u2019s almost always full of localites and tourists who can\u2019t resist the delicious Italian and Tibetan dishes. When you do finally manage to grab a table at this caf\u00e9, the sumptuous meals will make it all worth the wait!<\/strong> A visit to this caf\u00e9 will also give you a peek into Tibetan history and culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caf\u00e9 Specialties:<\/strong> Chicken Chow Mein, Veg Kothe, Soutsemen, Momos, Mix Thukpa<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price For Two:<\/strong> INR 400 \u2013 INR 600 (Approx)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Jogiwara Road, Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh 176219<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Timings:<\/strong> 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM on all days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you\u2019re a foodie or not, you\u2019ll definitely agree with the fact that no trip will ever be complete without experiencing the authentic culinary dishes of a place. Checking out these best caf\u00e9s in Mcleodganj certainly needs to be on your bucket list. Especially when you\u2019re planning a trip in the mountains, treating your tastebuds to the local specialties is an experience not worth leaving behind.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"goSTOPS
Wake up to these fantastic views at goSTOPS Mcleodganj.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re looking for a fellow foodie or some company to enhance your travel experience, make sure to hop onto our goSTOPS Mcleodganj hostel. <\/strong>Like-minded travelers, adventure stories, and loads of entertainment options at the hostel are sure to leave you with a wholesome experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What Is Mcleodganj Famous For?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Known to be the home of the 14th Dalai Lama, Mcleodganj is famous for its beautiful monasteries, trekking trails, mesmerizing scenery, and not to forget \u2013 a number of quaint little caf\u00e9s. From sightseeing and adventure activities to spiritual places and cultural institutions, there\u2019s a lot to explore and enjoy in Mcleodganj. Caf\u00e9 hopping and shopping for unique items are also things that Mcleodganj is famous for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Should I Buy From Mcleodganj?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Like other activities, shopping in Mcleodganj also has its own charm. The Mcleodganj Central Square, Kotwali Bazaar, and Jogiwara Road are some of the most popular shopping joints in the district. You can buy the classic Himalayan handicrafts, wooden carvings, and Thangka tapestry paintings from the Mcleodganj Central Square area and go for souvenir shopping to the Jogiwara Road. Mcleodganj is also famous for its Tibetan carpets, rugs, and exotic sculptures that you can shop for in the street shops of Kotwali Bazaar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Do I Get To Shiva Caf\u00e9 Mcleodganj?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Shiva Caf\u00e9 is located near the Bhagsu Falls in Mcleodganj. You can take a taxi or a bus to reach the Mcleodganj market point and from there on, you\u2019ll have to trek your way up to the Bhagsu falls and the Shiva Caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Far Is Dharamkot From Mcleodganj?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The bohemian town of Dharamkot is just about 2 km away from Mcleodganj. You can hike your way up there amidst the beautiful scenery or even hire a taxi to go uphill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is The Best Time To Visit Mcleodganj?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Mcleodganj is one of those scenic destinations that can be visited all year round. The summer months from March to June are the best time to visit Mcleodganj if you\u2019ve planned an itinerary full of sightseeing and trekking trips. For a romantic getaway amidst the scenic snowfall, the months from November to February are a good time to visit Mcleodganj.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Many Days Are Enough For Mcleodganj?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Mcleodganj is a small town near Dharamshala that can be explored well enough in a 2-3 days trip. You can also extend your stay if you wish to spend more time enjoying the weather and nature over there.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Thrilling adventure activities, picture-perfect scenic views, vibrant monasteries, and exciting caf\u00e9s, that\u2019s exactly how a trip to Mcleodganj would be described. A quaint suburb of Dharamshala snuggled in the Himalayas, Mcleodganj is a beautiful place to visit for all kinds of travelers. Popularly referred to as \u201cLittle Lhasa\u201d and \u201cIndia\u2019s Mini-Tibet\u201d because of its large […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":18681,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_title":"Meals In The Mountains: Best Caf\u00c3\u00a9s In McLeodGanj","_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"From the pizzas of Nick's Italian Kitchen to the fame of Shiva Caf\u00e9, here's a list of the best caf\u00e9s in Mcleodganj where you foodies find your paradise!","footnotes":""},"categories":[31,23],"tags":[372,328,332,337,325,327,334],"class_list":["post-18680","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-food","category-india-travel","tag-cafes-in-mcleodganj","tag-exploring-mcleodganj","tag-food-in-mcleodganj","tag-gostops-mcleodganj","tag-mcleodganj","tag-travel-to-mcleodganj","tag-what-to-eat-in-mcleodganj"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18680","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18680"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18680\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18685,"href":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18680\/revisions\/18685"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18681"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18680"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18680"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gostops.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18680"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}