Best Restaurants in Srinagar for Authentic Kashmiri Cuisine
Restaurants in kashmir Photos
Introduction
Located among calm lakes and snow capped mountains Srinagar is not only the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, it is also the culinary capital of the valley, where age-old flavors are married with royal tradition. From sumptuous Wazwan platters served on copper trays, to aromatic Kahwa tea on the houseboats of Dal Lake; every meal here celebrates the merits of life, love and tradition.
If you’re intending to find a culinary adventure through Kashmir, this post will take you to the top places in Srinagar that offer traditional Kashmiri cuisine that’s memorable long after you’ve left the valley.
Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, this list compiled by Kashmir Traveler will take you to the best venues for authentic Kashmiri hospitality, royal recipes and a taste of the city’s culinary magic.
Understanding Kashmiri Cuisine – A Taste of Royal Heritage
Before you explore the dining scene in Srinagar, it’s a good idea to know what sets Kashmir’s food apart. The food of the valley displays influence from Central Asian, Mughal, and Persian kitchens, masterfully adapted to local ingredients, climate, and practices.
🕌 The Wazwan – A Royal Feast of Kashmir
The word ‘Wazwan’ comes from the Kashmiri ‘Waza’, for “cook”, and ‘Wan ‘, for “shop” or “meal”. A conventional Wazwan comprises of multi course, slow cooked meat dishes, primarily consisting of sheep, which utilize various styles of rich cooking to produce complex flavours based on the building of food and flavour levels.
Some of the signature dishes in Wazwan cuisine are:
Rogan Josh – tender lamb cooked in a red chili gravy.
Gushtaba – tender meatballs heated in a yogurt sauce.
Rista – spicy red meatballs, often infused with saffron and aromatic spices.
Yakhni – mutton cooked in curd and seasoned with herbs.
Tabak Maaz – tender ribs, put together with clove and cardamom and pan fried.
Dum Aloo – baby potatoes in a rich gravy flattened across affordable quota.
The slower the call to meal, the greater the pride of Kashmiris – food is served at a deliberate pace, leisurely and fragrant, just like the valley.
Top 10 Best Restaurants in Srinagar for Authentic Kashmiri Cuisine
Below is a curated list of restaurants that combine traditional recipes, local ingredients, and heartwarming hospitality to give you a true taste of Kashmir.
Before exploring the restaurant scene in Srinagar, it helps to know something about Kashmiri cuisine. Ahdoos Restaurant – Srinagar’s Crown Jewel
1. Ahdoos restaurant has been in business since 1918. It is not only a restaurant, but a legacy. For the past century, Ahdoos has catered to local residents, travelers, celebrities, and everyone in between with authentic Kashmiri Wazwan.
Once you enter, the warmth of Kashmiri hospitality and the delicious aroma of simmering Rogan Josh confront you.
Must Try: Gushtaba, Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Tabak Maaz
Where: Residency Road, Srinagar
Ambiance: Vintage, traditional
Why Go: Oldest and reputable Kashmiri restaurant in Srinagar
A visit to Ahdoos for a meal is a pilgrimage for any food lover when visiting Srinagar or Kashmir. The food of the valley has inputs from Persian, Central Asian, and Mughal kitchens, and so delves deep and beautifully into the influence of local ingredients, climate and traditions.
🕌 The Wazwan — A Royal Feast of Kashmir
Wazwan comes from the word “Waza,” meaning cook, and “Wan,” meaning shop or meal. You may have noticed the “Wazwan” consists of multiple slow-cooked dishes, most mutton based, and are all complex, rich in flavor, and utterly delicious.
Signature dishes include:
Rogan Josh — tender lamb in a red chili gravy
Gushtaba — soft meatballs in luscious yogurt sauce
Rista — spicy red meatballs with saffron
2. Mughal Darbar – The Royal Wazwan Experience
If there is any place that gives food the feeling of royalty, it is Mughal Darbar. The restaurant is famous for its extravagant Wazwan platters, where each dish compliments each other — spicy, creamy, and aromatic.
Things you must try: Rista, Rogan Josh, Mutton Kebab, Wazwan Thali
Where they are located: Residency Road, Srinagar
The vibe: Traditional and family-friendly
Why you should visit the restaurant: Great for large groups and regal dining
It is where the heart of the city beats in a copper daig (pot) exploding with valley flavours.
3. Shamyana Restaurant – Dining by Dal Lake
Shamyana is ideally situated on Boulevard Road, serving delicious Kashmiri flavors with an amazing Dal Lake view. Its charming wooden interiors and lakeside dining form the perfect backdrop for dinner at the end of the day.
Recommended: Mutton Rogan Josh, Seekh Kebabs, Trout fish
Location: Boulevard Road, Srinagar
Ambiance: Elegant kashmiri ambiance with outdoor lakeside dining
Why you should go: Authentic food with a view right by the lake.
Where sunset dinners with good flavors meet peace.
4. Stream Restaurant – A Riverside Delight
Nestled next to a stream close to Dal Lake, Stream Restaurant provides traditional recipes with a modern presentation advocate. It’s a popular choice for tourists who want to enjoy some traditional Kashmiri dishes in a natural and relaxing atmosphere.
Must Try: Trout Curry, Chicken Kanti, Dum Aloo
Location: Boulevard Road, Srinagar
Atmosphere: Cozy, romantic, riverside tables
Why to Go: Couples and for picture-taking.
The sound of the stream, smell of saffron, and warmth of Kahwa — the ultimate Kashmiri moment.
5. Chinar at The Lalit Grand Palace – Fine Dining in Heritage
Dining at The Lalit Grand Palace Srinagar is an experience befitting royalty. The hotel’s signature restaurant, The Chinar, presents an assortment of Kashmiri dishes raised to luxurious heights.
Recommendation: Yakhni Lamb, Saffron Pulao, Walnut Tart
Location: The Lalit Grand Palace Hotel, Srinagar
Ambiance: Historic architecture with extensive gardens
Reason to go: Enjoy the experience of royal dining
Every dish comes as a tribute to the everlasting elegance of the valley.
6. Krishna Vaishno Dhaba – Vegetarian Haven
Krishna Vaishno Dhaba is a delight for vegetarian travelers. Set near Dalgate, North Indian and Kashmiri vegetarian dishes were made to order – fresh, fulfilling, and tasty.
Must Try: Rajma Chawal, Paneer Butter Masala, Poori Bhaji
Location: Dalgate, Srinagar
Ambiance: Family friendly, simple
Why Go: It is the best vegetarian restaurant in Srinagar
Pure vegetarian comfort food with a hint of Kashmiri flavor.
7. Chai Jaai – Art, Culture, and Kahwa
With a view of the Jhelum River, Chai Jaai, is not just a café, it is an artistic oasis. The interior design is a reflection of Kashmiri culture, with its use of Papier-mâché, wooden work, and warm lighting.
Must Try – Noon Chai, Walnut Tart, Lavasa Bread, Saffron Kahwa
Location – Polo View, Srinagar
Ambiance – Artistic, cozy, photogenic
Why Visit – Elegant tea experience, local charm.
Sipping saffron tea, while watching life by the Jhelum, is pure magic!
8. Lhasa Restaurant – Kashmiri-Chinese Fusion
Situated in the city center of Srinagar, Lhasa Restaurant offers a combination of Kashmiri and Tibetan-Chinese food made. Many of the younger travelers who came to visit Sriangaar find it an appealing choice due to the nice garden seating and affordable meals.
Must Try: Chicken Momos, Hot Garlic Trout, Dumplings
Location: Boulevard Road, Srinagar
Vibe: Relaxed gardens, casual vibes
Why Go: Fusion flavors in a local restaurant
A great option for travelers looking for an Asian twist on local ingredients.
9. Dana Pani – Comfort Food in Srinagar
Previously well known in Pahalgam, Dana Pani has now earned itself another location in Srinagar with meals that offer vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian meals. It is recognized for being neat, relatively homely in style, and has big portions.
To order: Butter Chicken, Dal Fry, Garlic Naan
Where is it: Near Dalgate, Srinagar
Ambiance: Family-friendly
Why go: Solid taste and dependable quality
Where quality food meets heartwarming hospitality.
10. Winterfell Café – Modern Vibes, Local Flavors
Taking a note from Game of Thrones, Winterfell Café is one of Srinagar’s most popular hangouts for youth and travelers. It features a variety of continental and Kashmiri food in a stylish environment.
Must Try: Burgers, Hot Chocolate, Kashmiri Tea
Location: Rajbagh, Srinagar
Ambiance: Modern, fun and Instagrammable
Why Go: To lounge after a day of sightseeing
Offers a unique café experience, the creation of a modern flair in the valley’s charm.
Hidden Culinary Gems in Srinagar
In addition to the prominent spots, Srinagar also has some hidden gems which aren’t on tourist’s radar but loved by locals.
- Bakshi Bakery (Lal Chowk): Check out their Sheermal, Bakarkhani, and Walnut Cake.
- Café Liberty (Rajbagh): A lovely café serving coffee and snacks.
- Lazeez Rasoi (Nowgam) Great for traditional homestyle Kashmiri dishes.
- 14th Avenue Café (Rajbagh): Ideal for pizza, pasta and dessert.
- Café Arabica (Four Points by Sheraton): Great for business travelers and coffee enthusiasts alike.
These three restaurants also give a unique account into the food landscape of Kashmir, as it evolves beyond tradition into innovation.
Dining Tips for Travelers in Srinagar
- Book tables during busy dining times (mostly summer season).
- Try “Lavasa” or “Girda” with Kahwa at local bakeries in early mornings.
- Please ask locals or from a Kashmir Travler organized guide for family-run restaurants that will serve Wazwan in smaller servings.
- Don’t order every available dish that is spicy at once- Kashmiri food is full of flavor but heavy.
- You should drink saffron Kahwa with your meals (for a fuller experience).
Why Choose Kashmir Traveler for Culinary Tours
At Kashmir Traveler, we appreciate that food is the heart of travel. Our culinary experiences will give you a deep sense of connection with Kashmiri culture with:
- Carefully chosen restaurants for all budgets
- Local guides to explain the history of each dish
- Custom food tours in Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg
- Authentic, hygienic, and comfortable settings for dining
Taste Kashmir with the locals — every bite has a story.
Top 10 FAQs About Restaurants in Srinagar
1. What is the most famous restaurant in Srinagar for authentic Kashmiri food?
Ahdoos Restaurant tops the list for its traditional recipes and century-old legacy.
2. Which restaurant serves the best Wazwan in Srinagar?
Mughal Darbar is famous for its Wazwan Thali — a full royal Kashmiri feast.
3. Are there vegetarian restaurants in Srinagar?
Yes, Krishna Vaishno Dhaba and Dana Pani serve delicious vegetarian food.
4. What is the average meal cost in Srinagar restaurants?
You can enjoy a full meal for ₹500–₹1,000 per person, depending on the restaurant.
5. Can I find fine dining options in Srinagar?
Yes, The Chinar at The Lalit Grand Palace and Shamyana offer premium dining experiences.
6. Is street food in Srinagar safe for tourists?
Yes, if you stick to popular stalls and eat freshly prepared items.
7. What are some must-try local dishes?
Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Rista, Dum Aloo, and Yakhni are essentials.
8. Are restaurants open during winter?
Yes, most operate year-round, especially in popular areas like Boulevard and Residency Road.
9. Can I get halal food in Srinagar?
Yes, almost all non-vegetarian food in Kashmir is halal.
10. Which restaurant offers the best view while dining?
Shamyana Restaurant on Dal Lake and The Chinar at The Lalit offer stunning lake views.