5 Best Eateries in and around Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali, the first place that comes to your mind when you think of snow, is also famous for its various cafés. Being a famous tourist destination, Manali and its neighboring places has become a hub for cafés. You can savor the famous Himachali Siddu or be it Tibetan Thukpa or even Momos, opt anything, from the various options available of Indian and continental dishes.

1. SaBa Family Restaurant

This famous and cozy restaurant is located just in front of Mall Road, Manali, since 1982 and running busy since then. This family restaurant serves not only the lip smacking desserts but also the most delicious food. Be it Burger, Pasta, Pizza or our Indian main course. The ambience is very soothing, you get the view of the beautiful snow covered mountains and the Mall Road. The people of Himachal might pronounce it as “sa- va“, but don’t get confused, its the same restaurant. You can call it a “one-stop” restaurant for anyone who is craving for some delicious food in Manali.

2. Valentino’s

As you travel from Manali towards Naggar, you come across a small village called Jagatsukh, which is full of hotels, cottages and stays. This is the place where, one of the most beautiful restaurants, Valentino’s, is located. Not just beautiful but they also serve the best food. Be it any beverage or main course or even dessert, you can’t just have enough! The owners of this place are really sweet and friendly. The best part of this place is their fireplace or Tandoor, as they call it, if you are visiting in winters.

3. German Bakery and Hotel Ragini

If Naggar Castle is one of your touring spot, German Bakery is a must visit place. Located just beside Naggar castle, German bakery serves the best desserts and beverages. Walnut cake is my personal favorite. Its a small open café and the owner is super friendly and helpful. You also can buy postcards here if interested. German Bakery is a part of Hotel Ragini. German bakery servers beverages and dessert while starters and main course is served by Hotel Ragini. This place servers the best local food, apart from their vast yet delicious menu.

4. Café Saffron & Cottages

This is one of the best places to have a Pizza in Naggar. This café is located towards Patlikuhal end of Naggar. You get 2 types of seating arrangements here, one on floor where, cushion mattress are laid for intaking the breath taking views of the valley and other table and chairs, as you can see in the picture. One medium size pizza is more than enough for 2 people at reasonable price.

5. Chinese Bowl

This is not a huge restaurant like the ones you see around. This is a tiny hotel serving local food, snacks along with a few Tibetan dishes, run by an elderly couple. It is located not too far from Naggar castle, to the opposite direction of café Saffron. They serve the most delicious food! Maa ki daal, burger and Thukpa was our favorite. The couple is very sweet and helpful. Not only this, but they make their own wheat noodles. A must visit is strictly recommended to this place.

I hope you do visit these eateries when in Manali and let us know about your favorites and your experience in comment section. Last but very important, do not forget to keep your taste buds happy.