Jammu & Kashmir is not only a paradise for nature lovers but also a dream destination for food enthusiasts. From traditional Kashmiri Wazwan to cozy hillside cafés serving freshly brewed coffee, the best restaurants & cafes in Jammu & Kashmir offer unforgettable culinary experiences. Whether you are a family traveler, solo explorer, honeymooner, or a coffee lover searching for scenic cafés, this guide will help you discover authentic flavors, hidden gems, and must-visit dining spots across the region.
While exploring Srinagar, you’ll find that some of the best restaurants & cafes in Jammu & Kashmir are located near Dal Lake, offering both incredible food and stunning views.
For travelers who enjoy café hopping, the best restaurants & cafes in Jammu & Kashmir combine modern ambiance with local flavors.
What makes the best restaurants & cafes in Jammu & Kashmir stand out is their warmth, authenticity, and deep connection to regional culture.Whether you’re a family traveler, solo explorer, honeymoon couple, or a café-hopping coffee lover, this guide covers the best restaurants and cafes in Jammu & Kashmir you simply shouldn’t miss.
Why Jammu & Kashmir Is a Must-Visit for Food Lovers
The food in Jammu & Kashmir reflects its geography, culture, and history. Influenced by Central Asian, Persian, and North Indian cuisines, the region offers everything from hearty meat-based dishes to comforting vegetarian meals and modern café-style food.
What makes dining here special:
- Locally sourced ingredients
- Slow-cooked traditional recipes
- Warm hospitality
- Cafés with unmatched natural views
Let’s dive into the best restaurants and cafés in Jammu & Kashmir, categorized by region and travel style.
Best Restaurants in Srinagar (Kashmir Valley)
1. Ahdoos Restaurant – Srinagar
Best for: Authentic Kashmiri Wazwan
Location: Residency Road
Ahdoos is more than a restaurant—it’s a Srinagar institution. Established in 1918, it’s the first place locals recommend for experiencing traditional Kashmiri cuisine in a refined setting.
Must-try dishes:
- Rogan Josh
- Gushtaba
- Rista
- Kashmiri Pulao
Why I love it:
The flavors are deep, authentic, and consistent. On my last visit, a local family guided me on how to eat Gushtaba the traditional way—an experience I still remember.
2. Mughal Darbar – Srinagar
Best for: Budget-friendly Kashmiri food
Location: Multiple branches
If you’re looking for rich Kashmiri flavors without burning a hole in your pocket, Mughal Darbar is the place.
Highlights:
- Generous portions
- Fast service
- Authentic spices
Perfect for families and first-time visitors wanting a taste of Wazwan without committing to a full multi-course meal.
3. Stream Restaurant – Srinagar
Best for: Indian & Chinese cuisine
Location: Boulevard Road
A favorite among tourists staying near Dal Lake, Stream Restaurant offers variety—ideal if you’re traveling with people who want different cuisines.
Best Cafes in Srinagar for Coffee & Views
4. Winterfell Café – Srinagar
Best cafe for coffee lovers in Jammu & Kashmir
Location: Zaina Kadal
This cozy café quickly became one of my personal favorites. Warm interiors, friendly staff, and great coffee make it ideal for slow travelers.
What to order:
- Cappuccino
- Chocolate brownies
- Pancakes
Why it stands out:
It feels like a hidden gem—a perfect place to journal, relax, or plan your next day in Kashmir.
5. Café De Linz – Srinagar
Best cafes in town for breakfast
Location: Boulevard Road
Overlooking Dal Lake, this café is ideal for early mornings. Watching shikaras glide by while sipping hot coffee is an experience in itself.
Best Restaurants & Cafes in Gulmarg
6. Bakshi Restaurant – Gulmarg
Best for: Kashmiri & North Indian food
Location: Near Gulmarg Gondola
After a long day in the snow or trekking through meadows, Bakshi Restaurant offers comforting meals in a warm setting.
7. Highland Park Café – Gulmarg
Best cafe for views
This café inside Highland Park Hotel offers:
- Fresh coffee
- Wood-fired pizza
- Stunning mountain views
It’s perfect for couples and solo travelers looking to unwind.
Best Cafes & Restaurants in Pahalgam
8. Dana Pani – Pahalgam
Best for: Vegetarian food
Location: Main Market
Dana Pani is simple, affordable, and reliable—especially great for families.
9. Café Log Inn – Pahalgam
Best cafe in Jammu & Kashmir for relaxed evenings
A riverside café with a peaceful vibe, perfect for:
- Evening tea
- Light snacks
- Reading or photography
Best Restaurants in Jammu City
10. Pahalwan’s – Jammu
Best for: Street-style Dogra cuisine
Famous for its Rajma Chawal, this place defines comfort food in Jammu.
Travel tip:
Go early—the place gets crowded quickly.
11. Imperial Grill – Jammu
Best restaurants in Jammu for families
If you’re traveling with family and looking for hygienic, multi-cuisine dining, Imperial Grill is a solid choice.
Best Cafes in Jammu (City Café Culture)
12. Café Blue Door – Jammu
Best cafe in Jammu for coffee lovers
Modern, stylish, and youth-friendly, this café is popular with students and digital nomads.
Must-try:
- Cold coffee
- Pasta
- Cheesecake
13. Café 17 – Jammu
Best cafes in town for casual meetups
Perfect for:
- Friends
- Solo travelers
- Work-friendly environment
Local Food You Must Try in Jammu & Kashmir
No food guide is complete without highlighting local specialties:
Kashmir Valley
- Wazwan (traditional multi-course feast)
- Yakhni
- Kashmiri Kahwa
- Sheermal bread
Jammu Region
- Rajma Chawal
- Kalari cheese
- Ambal
- Dogra-style curries
Practical Dining Tips for Travelers
- Respect local customs: Many places don’t serve alcohol
- Ask locals for recommendations: They often know hidden gems
- Try Kahwa instead of regular tea: It’s aromatic and warming
- Carry cash: Smaller cafés may not accept cards
- Winter travel tip: Cafés are great places to stay warm and socialize
Final Thoughts: A Culinary Journey Worth Taking
Exploring the best restaurants & cafes in Jammu & Kashmir is an essential part of any trip to this beautiful region. From rich traditional meals to peaceful cafés tucked away in the mountains, every dining experience adds flavor to your journey. If you’re planning a visit, make sure to include these food spots in your itinerary—they’re just as memorable as the landscapes themselves.
Whether you’re sipping coffee beside Dal Lake, enjoying Rajma Chawal in Jammu, or warming up in a Gulmarg café after snowfall, the food here stays with you long after the journey ends.
Planning a trip to Jammu & Kashmir?
Save this guide, share it with fellow travelers, and don’t forget to explore beyond the famous spots—you might just discover your new favorite café in the mountains.
