Must-Try Foods In Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India

Shimla, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, holds a rich history that extends to its culinary traditions. Influences on the cuisine of Shimla come from the mix of cultures, including British colonial, Punjabi, and Tibetan, alongside the indigenous Himachali practices. During the British Raj, Shimla was declared the summer capital, which led to the introduction of European food styles that blend with the local flavors to create unique fusion dishes. Traditional Himachali cuisine is characterized by the use of lentils, rice, meats, and yogurt, with a distinct flavor coming from the local herbs and spices used.

Must-try Top 10 Food Dishes in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

1. Madra (Vegetarian) - A signature dish of Himachal Pradesh made from chickpeas cooked in a thick yogurt gravy with a blend of spices and typically served with rice.
2. Sidu (Vegetarian) - A local bread made from wheat flour, often stuffed with poppy seeds, nuts, or dal, and typically served steamed.
3. Babru (Vegetarian) - A variation of the popular North Indian kachoris, Babru is a crispy flatbread filled with black gram paste and spices.
4. Dham (Vegetarian) - A festive meal of rice, dal, rajma, and curd, which is prepared by special chefs known as 'Botis'.
5. Chha Gosht (Non-Vegetarian, not cow meat) - A meaty delicacy made from marinated lamb, cooked in a gravy of gram flour and yogurt, with a mix of spices and served with bread or rice.
6. Thukpa (Non-Vegetarian) - A Tibetan noodle soup made with vegetables or meat, flavored with gentle spices and perfect for the cold Shimla weather.
7. Chicken Anardana (Non-Vegetarian) - A dish made with chicken cooked in pomegranate paste along with Himachali spices.
8. Trout Fish (Non-Vegetarian) - Found in the rivers of Himachal, the trout is marinated and grilled or fried with spices and is a must-have for fish lovers.
9. Patu (Vegetarian) - Steamed leaves rolled with gram flour and cooked in local spices, resembling savory Swiss roll.
10. Mittha (Vegetarian) - A sweet rice dish usually served as a dessert, adorned with dry fruits and raisins.

Top Famous Restaurants in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

• Wake & Bake Café
  Address: 34/1, Mall Road, Across Town Hall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
  Famous Food: Mixed Sauce Pasta (Vegetarian), Hummus & Pita (Vegetarian)
• Café Simla Times
  Address: The Mall, Adjacent to Hotel Willow Banks, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
  Famous Food: Wood-fired Pizzas (Vegetarian/Non-Vegetarian options available), Gourmet Burgers (Vegetarian/Non-Vegetarian options available)
• Goofa Ashiana
  Address: Ridge, Near Goofa Restaurant, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
  Famous Food: Chicken Curry (Non-Vegetarian), Palak Paneer (Vegetarian)
• Indian Coffee House
  Address: The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
  Famous Food: South Indian Platter (Vegetarian), Scrambled Eggs (Non-Vegetarian)
• Chaman Sweets
  Address: Lower Bazar, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
  Famous Food: Gulab Jamun (Vegetarian), Samosas (Vegetarian)