Mussoorie, often referred to as the Queen of the Hills, has a rich culinary tradition that is a blend of influences from the indigenous Garhwali people as well as the various waves of colonizers and settlers like the British and Tibetans. Being a popular hill station, Mussoorie has developed a food culture that caters to a wide range of palates while maintaining its local flavors. While Uttarakhand's traditional cuisine is predominantly based on locally grown pulses, grains, and vegetables, Mussoorie also offers a variety of other Indian cuisines as well as international flavors.
1. Kafuli: A staple Garhwali dish, Kafuli is a thick gravy preparation made with spinach or fenugreek leaves. It is a nutritious, vegetarian dish and is usually enjoyed with rice.
2. Aloo Ke Gutke: A simple, spiced potato dish that is often served as a snack or side. It's a zesty vegetarian dish seasoned with local aromatic spices.
3. Garhwali Dal: This is a mixed lentil preparation, common in the hills of Uttarakhand. The dals are slow-cooked and tempered with spices. It is a hearty vegetarian dish.
4. Jhangora ki Kheer: A traditional dessert made from barnyard millet, milk, and sugar, and garnished with dry fruits. It is a sweet vegetarian delicacy.
5. Phaanu: Another popular Lentil dish, Phaanu is made from different dals and is quite rich and thick. This vegetarian dish is also savored with rice.
6. Mall Road's Momos: Tibetan Momos have become a part of the local cuisine and can be found at various spots on the Mall Road. They're served as vegetarian or chicken dumplings.
7. Bhatt ki Churkani: A traditional preparation of black bhatt or black soybean, cooked in a thick gravy. This vegetarian dish is known for its rustic flavor.
8. Gahat ki Dal: Also known as Kulthi in other parts of India, this lentil preparation is unique to Uttarakhand and is often cooked during the colder months. It is a nutritious vegetarian meal.
9. Tibetan Thukpa: This popular noodle soup has gained fame in Mussoorie. It often includes mixed vegetables, and sometimes chicken, which makes for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions.
10. Mussoorie's Pancakes and Waffles: A recent add-on to the hill station's cuisine, several cafes in Mussoorie offer a variety of pancakes and waffles. These are popular vegetarian breakfast options among tourists.
Kalsang Friends Corner
Address: The Mall Road, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand 248179
Famous for: Its wide range of Tibetan and Chinese cuisine, including vegetarian and chicken momos.
Chic Chocolate
Address: The Mall Road, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand 248179
Famous for: Charming cafe known for its hot chocolate, pizzas, and vegetarian pasta dishes.
Lovely Omelette Centre
Address: The Mall Road, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand 248179
Famous for: Its fluffy, cheese-filled omelets, which are specifically vegetarian (involving egg).
Char Dukan
Address: Near St Paul's Church, Landour, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand 248179
Famous for: This cluster of shops is famous for their waffles, pancakes, and honey ginger lemon tea, all vegetarian offerings.
Emily's
Address: Rokeby Manor, Landour, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand 248179
Famous for: Another great place for English breakfast and a variety of vegetarian as well as chicken dishes, in a charming Victorian setting.
Tip Top Tea Shop
Address: Landour Bazaar, Landour, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand 248179
Famous for: Known for its homely and warm vegetarian snacks like the banoffee pie.
The dining scene in Mussoorie is quite cosmopolitan and offers a mix of traditional Garhwali dishes along with a range of other Indian and international cuisines. Whether you're looking for a luxurious dining experience or street-side comfort food, Mussoorie caters to all tastes.