Top 20 Restaurants in Kashmir You Must Try in 2025
Restaurants in Kashmir Photos
Introduction
Kashmir is a paradise not just because of its scenery but for its food, which brings many-stepped stories of tradition, flavors, culture, and hospitality dating back centuries. From the royal Wazwan feasts at Srinagar to cozy mountain cafés in Pahalgam and Gulmarg, every bite in Kashmir feels like a trip to the past.
In 2025, as more adventurous travelers are looking for genuine experiences created and produced locally, Kashmiri cuisine leaps to the forefront – rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. Whether you are craving Rogan Josh, Sheermal or sipping that fragrant hot cup of Kahwa with saffron, Kashmir Traveler shares the best of the best of 20 restaurants you just have to visit in Kashmir this year.
All of the restaurants on this list are authentic, unique in atmosphere, and hold the local character of the cuisine so that you get to taste its real soul!
1. Ahdoos Restaurant – The Timeless Classic (Srinagar)
No trip to Kashmir is complete without eating at Ahdoos, one of the most famous restaurants in Srinagar and the oldest.
Ahdoos opened in 1918, and has been serving Wazwan dishes such as Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, and Yakhni, to customers since the early 20th century. The restaurant’s vintage setting is enhanced by the smells of meat slow-cooked in old-school copper pots.
What to eat: Rogan Josh, Tabak Maaz, Gushtaba, Kashmiri Pulao
Where: Residency Road, Srinagar
Ambiance: Vintage charm, Family-friendly
A great place to eat for anyone interested in experiencing authentic Kashmir cuisine cooked in the traditional style.
2. Stream Restaurant – Riverside Dining (Srinagar)
Stream Restaurant, situated near Dal Lake, features a quaint ambiance with its indoor and outdoor seating options, located next to a babbling brook.
Its menu has a fusion theme—where guests can experience traditional Kashmiri dishes prepared with a modern touch with some Indian and Continental dishes as well.
What to Order: Chicken Kanti, Trout Fish, Butter Chicken
Address: Boulevard Road, Srinagar
Ideal for couples and families looking for a scenic dining experience.
3. Mughal Darbar – Wazwan Royalty (Srinagar)
Whenever the people of Kashmir have a notable occasion to celebrate, they frequently pick Mughal Darbar — known to have one of the most traditional Wazwan spreads in the Valley.
Mughal Darbar captures the princely tradition of Kashmiri dining — rich gravies, aromatic saffron, and delicious meats that are tender.
If you only try one meal from Kashmiri cuisine, make sure to select Rista, Rogan Josh, or the Wazwan Thali.
Located on Residency Road, Srinagar.
Experience the royal grace of Kashmiri feasts in this establishment.
4. Chai Jaai – Where Art Meets Tea (Srinagar)
Chai Jaai is the place where contemporary sophistication encounters the traditional craftsmanship of Kashmir. Its views of the River Jhelum promise to bring delight to many a photographer.
With handcrafted teas and traditional breads and desserts on offer, it’s an experience that spans culture, art, and food.
What to Try: Noon Chai, Kahwa, Walnut Tart, and Lavasa bread
Location: Polo View Road, Srinagar
A perfect stop for selfies during afternoon tea, or simply divine a moment and unwind.
5. Shamyana Restaurant – Dining by Dal Lake (Srinagar)
Founded on the Boulevard with a view of Dal Lake, Shamyana has been a local favorite for travelers and tourists alike for years.
The restaurant serves anything from traditional Kashmiri food to North Indian and even Chinese cuisine. The outdoor seating area creates a perfect viewpoint for shikaras sailing on Dal Lake.
Things to Try: Tandoori Trout, Kebabs, Rogan Josh
Location: Boulevard Road, Srinagar
You will feel as if you are dreaming when you have dinner here while the sun sets over Dal Lake.
6. Krishna Vaishno Dhaba – Vegetarian Heaven (Srinagar)
For travelers prioritizing vegetarian ingredients, Krishna Vaishno Dhaba is a godsend. It’s a simple, no-frills, authentic North Indian vegetarian restaurant featuring tasty meals that would be suitable for any house cook.
What to Try: Rajma Chawal, Paneer Butter Masala, Poori Bhaji
Location: Dalgate, Srinagar
A wholesome, budget option that is very recommended, especially for families and backpackers.
7. The Chinar – Luxury Dining at The Lalit (Srinagar)
The Chinar at The Lalit Grand Palace Srinagar is unparalleled if you are into high-end dining in a luxurious ambiance.
With the royal scenery of Dal Lake and Zabarwan Range, the Chinar serves Kashmiri, Continental, and Pan-Asian delicacies with immaculate presentation.
What to Try: Lamb Shank, Grilled Trout, Saffron-inspired Desserts
Where: The Lalit Grand Palace Hotel
Access a lavish meal for the luxury traveler.
8. Dana Pani – Family Dining in Pahalgam
Dana Pani is one of the most loved restaurants in Pahalgam, offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian North Indian fare.
Its charm lies in its simplicity — warm hospitality, hearty portions, and delicious comfort food after a long day of exploring the valley.
What to Try: Dal Tadka, Tandoori Chicken, Butter Naan
Location: Main Market, Pahalgam
Great value and great taste in the heart of Pahalgam.
9. Troutbeat – Freshwater Trout Delights (Pahalgam)
Most tour packages to Srinagar and Kashmir will include Chashme Shahi in their plans. Packages are usually:
- Couple: Romantic stays and sightseeing.
- Family: Relaxed visits with child-friendly itineraries.
- Photographers: Season trips to photograph tulips, leaves in autumn or snow.
Whether you have a 3 nights/4 days Srinagar package or a longer 7 nights/8 days Kashmir package, Chashme Shahi is almost always part of the trip.
10. Trout House Grill & Bar – By Heevan (Pahalgam)
Situated at Heevan Resort, this riverfront eatery provides an upscale dining occasion showcasing local and global flavors.
Recommended Dishes: Smoked Trout, Barbecue Platter, Kahwa
Address – Heevan Resort, Pahalgam
Ideal for couples seeking a candle-light dinner by the riverside.
11. Café Log Inn – Mountain Café Charm (Gulmarg)
Café Log Inn is just a stone’s throw away from the Gondola base, providing a nice warm retreat from Gulmarg’s freezing temperatures. It has a wooden cabin feel & it serves coffee, pizzas, and desserts, which you can enjoy with views of snow in the wintertime.
What to order: cappuccino, waffles, veg sandwich
Location: Gulmarg
Appointment of Rest: This would be a great place for coffee after experiencing some skiing or snowboarding!
12. Bakshi & Sons Bakery – Local Sweet Treats (Srinagar)
Bakshi & Sons Bakery has been a fixture in Kashmir since the 1950s and the bakery is famous for its Sheermal, Kulcha, and Bakarkhani – local breads that are traditionally baked on hot clay walls.
What to Order: Sheermal with Kahwa, Walnut Cake, Puffs
Where: Lal Chowk, Srinagar.
The perfect location to pick up local baked goods to take with you.
13. Winterfell Café – Themed Dining for Young Travelers (Srinagar)
Drawing from the renowned Game of Thrones series, Winterfell Café has ushered a sense of fun, modernity, and excitement into the dining landscape of Kashmir.
The café is trendy and popular among young tourists, with delicious continental food, burgers, and shakes served in the most delightful interior setting.
What to Try: Burgers, Cold Coffee, Brownies
Where: Rajbagh, Srinagar
It’s a hip, quirky space full of buzz and energy. A great place to share with your friends.
14. Nedous Dining Room – British-Era Elegance (Gulmarg)
This dining room at the historic Nedous Hotel is over a century old and adds an old-world atmosphere to the experience.
What to Have: Lamb chops ,Grilled Trout, Walnut Tart
Location: Nedous Hotel, Gulmarg Part colonial shadows, part valley tastes.
15. Chopsticks Noodle Bar – Asian Delight (Leh Road, Srinagar)
If you are a traveler that is craving some Asian flavors, Chopsticks Noodle Bar is a great option.
The restaurant offers an array of Chinese, Thai, and Pan-Asian dishes expertly prepared – great after days of Wazwan eating.
What to order: Chicken Manchurian, Hakka Noodles, Momos
Location: Leh Road, Srinagar
A fantastic fusion of Asia in the heart of Kashmir.
16. Vintage – European Style Bistro (Srinagar)
Vintage serves up eclectic international fare in a classy European-style ambience. The rooftop section has a spectacular view of the sunset over Dal Lake.
Standouts: Pasta Alfredo, Chicken Steak, Saffron Crème Brûlée
Location: Boulevard Road, Srinagar
We recommend this for a romantic lunch or dinner with a laid-back vibe.
17. Alpine Lounge – Fine Dining in Gulmarg
Located at Hotel Hilltop Gulmarg, the Alpine Lounge features multi-cuisine fare with sweeping mountain vistas.
What to Try: Paneer Tikka, Trout Curry, Hot Chocolate.
Location: Hilltop Gulmarg.
Ideal for families and couples after a fun day in the snow.
18. Nedous Café Pahalgam – Heritage Meets Modern Taste
Nedous Café is one of the most fashionable locations in Pahalgam, offering a combination of vintage architecture and a contemporary menu.
Must-try: Pizza, Trout Tikka, Kashmiri Tea.
Location: Pahalgam Main Market.
An upscale establishment that merges local charm with international comfort.
19. Café Arabica – Coffee Culture in Srinagar
Café Arabica, located at the Four Points by Sheraton, is recognized for its menu that intermingles international food, a cozy ambiance, and artisanal coffee.
What to Order: Cheesecake, Espresso, Kashmiri Tea
Location: Four Points, Sonwar
A lovely space for business travelers or reading in a quiet atmosphere.
20. The Khyber Himalayan Resort Restaurant – Luxury Meets Nature (Gulmarg)
If you’re interested in eating like a king while you are in the Himalayas, then check out the restaurant at The Khyber Resort, an outright showpiece of sublime luxury.
Offering gourmet meals, international fare, and stunning vistas of snow-capped pine forests, this hotel is an restaurant not to miss!!
Best bets: Kashmiri thali, barbecue platters, saffron desserts.
Place: Khyber Himalayan Resort, Gulmarg.
A high-end dining experience in one of India’s most scenic mountain resorts.
Other Food Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
- Street Food in Lal Chowk: Don’t miss Seekh Kebabs, Golgappas, and Masala Chai.
- Floating Food Stalls on Dal Lake: Enjoy Kahwa and local snacks while you enjoy a ride in the Shikara.
- Village Dhabas in Ganderbal or Anantnag: Experience rural flavors of Kashmir.
Why Try Local Restaurants with Kashmir Traveler
Handpicked suggestions for every pocketbook and palate.
Locals who understand timing and niche cafes.
Personalized itineraries that blend food, culture, and sightseeing.
Verified sanitation and security protocols for all travelers.
Kashmir Traveler provides the authentic tastes of the valley — from street corner to royal dining room.
Final Thoughts
Food is at the heart of culture in Kashmir, the language of love, tradition, and grace.
From a hot bowl of Yakhni in a 100-year-old restaurant to a fresh pot of Kahwa with the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, every bite is a reminder that you are in Kashmir.
In 2025, we invite you to join us at Kashmir Traveler for a culinary experience of the valley, each meal an experience, and each restaurant a little piece of Heaven.
Kashmir Traveler – Taste the Tradition, Live the Experience.
Top 10 FAQs About Restaurants in Kashmir
1. What are the best restaurants in Srinagar for Kashmiri food?
Ahdoos, Mughal Darbar, and Stream Restaurant are top-rated for authentic Wazwan meals.
2. Are vegetarian restaurants available in Kashmir?
Yes, Krishna Vaishno Dhaba and Dana Pani in Pahalgam are excellent vegetarian options.
3. What is the average cost of dining in Kashmir?
Expect to spend ₹500–₹1,000 per person for a good meal, depending on the restaurant.
4. Can I find international cuisine in Kashmir?
Yes, restaurants like Chopsticks Noodle Bar and Café Arabica serve global dishes.
5. Which restaurant is best for fine dining?
The Chinar at The Lalit and The Khyber Resort’s restaurant are top fine-dining choices.
6. What are some local dishes I must try?
Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Yakhni, Tabak Maaz, and Kashmiri Pulao are must-tries.
7. Are restaurants open in winter in Gulmarg and Pahalgam?
Yes, most hotel restaurants operate year-round, especially during snow season.
8. Is street food safe in Srinagar?
Stick to popular, busy stalls and ask your Kashmir Traveler guide for the best local picks.
9. Can I get halal food in Kashmir?
Yes, nearly all meat served in Kashmir is halal.
10. Do restaurants accept digital payments?
Most do, but it’s best to carry some cash for smaller eateries.