Located at around 2,622 metres above sea level, Kufri is around 16 kilometres from Shimla and is a favourite detour for travellers exploring the region. The pine-covered slopes, pleasant weather, and sweeping valley views are sure to mesmerise you when it comes to first impressions. However, after ticking off Mahasu Peak and Himalayan Nature Park from your bucket list, Kufri’s local culinary stops add to the perfect ending for your action-packed itinerary. Below you’ll find a host of local eateries and offbeat cafes that are sure to tickle your taste buds, regardless of your itinerary, budget, or personal food preferences.
HPTDC Café Lalit Kufri
Café Lalit in Kufri, operated by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, is a popular stopover destination for tourists seeking a cosy and comfortable ending to their day. With its warm and inviting wooden interiors and spacious lawn seating area that offers beautiful views of the nearby mountains, this café serves some of the best variety of spiced teas that pair perfectly with hot pakoras.
The Thali House Restaurant
The Thali House Restaurant offers a selection of Himachali, Rajasthani, and Punjabi thalis, which makes it a great choice for travellers or families with diverse, intercultural food preferences. The open-air dining terrace overlooks the lush green valley below, which further adds to the joy of enjoying a hearty meal. However, do remember to arrive early, preferably before your usual lunch hours, to avoid having to wait for a table during peak hours or a busy weekend.
Honey Hut
For a more offbeat and nutritionally conscious experience, Honey Hut is the place to go. This establishment earns a loyal customer following, owing to its eco-friendly and healthy food options, where refined sugar is largely replaced with honey across the menu. The Kawa tea here is particularly good, and the light snacks combine well with the establishment’s relaxed surroundings. It is popular with younger visitors, health-conscious travellers, and tourists seeking environmentally sustainable experiences in their journey. This is truly a worthwhile stop if you want something a little different from your everyday commercial cafés and bustling local eateries near the busy markets.
The Kufri Main Bazaar Stalls
The main market area is where Kufri’s local food stops come alive. Local dhabas line the lanes serving authentic Himachali food, and the stalls here are where you will find dishes like siddu and chana madra. Siddu is a steamed wheat bread traditionally served with ghee or spiced chutney, for a warm, comforting and fulfilling meal. The Momo stalls and Maggi counters are perennial favourites too, particularly in the colder months when a hot bowl of comfort food is perfect for your cravings.
Pappi Da Dhaba
Pappi Da Dhaba is your everyday, local stop that offers authentic and delicious vegetarian Himachali cuisine at affordable prices. If scenic views or an elaborate menu are not what you are after, then this establishment is for you. The food is simple, wholesome, and prepared by locals who have been running this establishment for quite some time.
A Word for Those Staying Longer
Several excellent hotels in Kufri offer comfortable accommodation with a range of in-house regional meals. Several properties like Sterling Kufri and Fortune Park Kufri Shimla serve fresh vegetarian meals and are located within easy reach of the town’s main attractions.
Kufri will not overwhelm you with choices when it comes to food, and that is honestly part of its charm. Every stop here feels deliberate, every meal feels earned, and the mountain backdrop makes everything taste just a little bit better.
