Welcome to Nainital, a little hill station in Uttarakhand, attractive for its immaculate lake and the mountains all around. Foodies now come to this charming town, which has a booming café culture that suits every budget and taste. From cosy corners serving steaming cups of local tea to trendy spots dishing out international flavours, Nainital’s cafes offer far more than just refreshments – they’re experiences. Ready to sip, savour, and soak in the ambience? Let us take you on a savoury tour through top cafes in Nainital, making your mountain getaway even more memorable.
Top Cafes In Nainital
With its picturesque lake and mountain views, Nainital is home to a vibrant cafe culture that caters to every taste and budget. Let’s explore some of the best cafes in Nainital, each with its distinct character and culinary delights.
1. Café Lakeside
This little café in Nainital provides a beautiful experience with its breathtaking views of Nainital Lake—warm wooden furniture and regional artwork accent the comfortable environment, which makes guests feel welcome. Indian, Chinese, Continental and Italian cuisines are among the many that make up their extensive menu. Don’t miss their classic hot chocolate, a delectable combination of rich cocoa and creamy milk that’s wonderful for cold nights. The hazelnut coffee is another popular choice, which smells nutty and goes well with their freshly made pastries. It’s the ideal hideaway for residents and visitors since the outside dining area offers a calm place to dine while enjoying the stunning lake views.
Price For Two: ₹800 onwards
Location: Mall Road, Near Municipal Library, Nainital
Timings: 9:00 AM – 10:30 PM
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2. Brittney Cafe And Restaurant
Brittney’s Cafe and Restaurant is situated above Hotel Villa Astoria in Nainital. Its swanky feature is the amazing 360-degree panoramic view of Naini Lake, which gives guests a visual feast to accompany their measure. The cafe’s interior is elegantly designed, with cozy seats and huge windows showcasing breathtaking views. Their varied menu, which offers real Indian food, aromatic Chinese stir-fries, traditional Italian pasta, and delectable Asian fare, is a culinary journey across continents. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a family celebration, or a casual meetup with friends, Brittney’s ambient lighting and attentive service create the perfect setting for any occasion.
Price for Two: ₹1900 onwards
Location: Hotel Villa Astoria, Opp. Boat House Club, Nainital
Timings: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
3. Sakley’s Restaurant & Pastry Shop
Sakley’s Mountain Cafe never fails to charm guests with its classic elegance and delicious food. The cafe’s rustic interiors, with vintage photographs and souvenirs covering the walls, take guests to the past. There, time seems to slow down, enabling guests to enjoy the magic of the hills. Their huge menu proves their culinary skill; it has a wonderful selection of dishes that satisfy any appetite. The sandwich and burger menu provides fast, delicious options for people on the go. Their wide selection of hot and cold drinks, which includes yummy smoothies and sweet coffees, will go well with your dinner. Try their well-known pastries and desserts before you go—they provide a delicious finish to a wonderful meal.
Price For Two: ₹1500 onwards
Location: Poplar Estate Alps Hotel Compound, Mallital, Nainital
Timings: 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM
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4. Café Chica
Indulging guests in the peaceful natural beauty of Nainital while taking them back to the days of British colonialism is the special eating experience that Cafe’ Chica’ provides. It is a magnificent 140-year-old colonial bungalow that is a testament to the British Raj’s architectural style with its sloping roof and worn stone walls. The tone for the sensory experience is set as soon as you arrive by a well-kept garden full of vibrant flowers and fragrant herbs. Their English breakfast is a crowd-pleaser, starring perfectly cooked eggs, crispy bacon, grilled tomatoes, and toast, all served with breathtaking mountain views. You may almost feel the mountain mist on your skin as you drink your morning coffee.
Price For Two: ₹800 onwards
Location: Palla Mangoli, Nainital
Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
5. The Cask Cafe
The Cask Cafe is a shining example of modern decor and spacious comfort within Nainital’s eating scene. The Cask café’s enormity hits you as soon as you walk in. It is the biggest café in Nainital. Impressive main dish selections include Continental grills, Chinese stir-fries, and Indian curries. There will be enough to select from for vegetarians, including innovative salads and substantial main dishes made mostly of vegetables. Everything from freshly squeezed juices to well-made drinks is available on the equally varied beverage menu. Especially noteworthy is their coffee variety, which includes beans from many parts of India. The dessert menu for those with a sweet tooth features international classics and local specialities.
Price for Two: ₹1000 onwards
Location: Sukhatal Mallital Nainital Opposite Cave Garden Sukhatal, Nainital
Timings: 10:15 AM – 11:00 PM
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6. Pots & Stones Cafe
The charming combination of restaurant and art gallery Pots & Stones Cafe provides guests with a unique sensory experience right in the centre of Nainital. Situated close to the ropeway entrance on busy Mall Road, this café is distinguished by its unique exterior covered with elaborate brickwork and intricate stonework. Their menu includes a well-chosen assortment of Italian and Continental dishes, each artistically styled to complement the cafe’s design. Late risers will love the all-day breakfast selections, while those watching their health will find fresh, crisp salads. Though small, the outside dining area is much sought after because of its atmosphere and views. Whether you like cuisine or art or are just seeking a comfortable place to unwind, Pots & Stones Cafe provides a unique eating experience that appeals to all your senses. It is one of the must-visit cafe in Nainital.
Price for Two: ₹1100 onwards
Location: Mall Road Next To Ropeway Entry, Mallital, Nainital
Timings: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
7. Simz Café
Offering a comfortable haven by Nainital’s lakefront, Simz Café epitomises the friendliness and warmth of a family-run business. This little Nainital café has developed a reputation for its freshly made coffee, which smells wonderful as soon as you walk in. Comfortable seating arrangements in the warm, unassuming décor encourage guests to unwind and stay. Thus, a distinctive aspect of Simz Café is the wall covered with brilliant sticky notes that previous guests have left, expressing their experiences and weaving together a vivid tapestry of memories. Remember to add your own message to this wall before you depart so that it becomes a part of Simz Café’s continuing tale. It is one of the best cafes in Nainital.
Price for Two: ₹300 onwards
Location: Anand Complex, Tallital, Nainital
Timings: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
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8. Baker’s Hut
Baker’s Hut, located inside the Hotel Pavilion next to the High Court, is a secret hideaway for anyone looking to escape the tourist bustle of Nainital. Their waffle selection offers something for everyone, whether your tastes run to traditional butter and maple syrup or more decadent choices like chocolate and fresh fruits. Picking up a book to read while drinking coffee is also possible in the little library nook. Baker’s Hut is a great site for small parties searching for a peaceful area for deep talks or lone travellers looking for a quiet space to write or ponder.
Price for two: ₹200 onwards
Location: Near Uttarakhand High Court, Nainital
Timings: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Further Read: Hotels In Bhowali
Nainital’s cafe scene offers a delightful mix of experiences, from serene lakeside views to artistic havens and nostalgic journeys through time. Each cafe has its unique charm, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether seeking a quiet spot for reflection or a cosy nook to enjoy with friends, Nainital has something for everyone. Ready to explore these charming cafes and create memorable moments in Nainital? Plan your trip to Nainital and discover the magic of this hill station. The expertly curated packages ensure you experience Nainital’s natural beauty, rich culture, and culinary delights.
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Cover Image Credit: Skalvanov for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Cafes In Nainital
Are there any adventure sports suitable for teenagers in Nainital?
Yes, Nainital offers several adventure sports suitable for teenagers. Here are some popular options. Some of the options are paragliding rock climbing, and trekking. It is important to note that age restrictions and physical fitness requirements may apply to some of these activities, so it's best to check with the operators beforehand.
Are there any vegan-friendly cafes in Nainital?
Though there aren't many completely vegan cafés in Nainital, several do have vegan choices. To meet the increasing demand, cafes like Sakley's Restaurant & Pastry Shop and The Cask Cafe have begun including vegan options. Telling the staff about your dietary needs is a good idea since they can usually make current recipes vegan.
Which cafe offers the best view of Naini Lake?
Though several cafes have views of Naini Lake, Brittneys Cafe and Restaurant is generally considered to have the greatest view. Atop Hotel Villa Astoria provides an amazing 360-degree sweeping view of the Kumaon highlands and Naini Lake. For those who would rather see things from ground level, Café Lakefront, located on Mall Road, offers fantastic lakefront views.
Are reservations necessary for popular cafes in Nainital?
Most cafes in Nainital don't require reservations, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. However, popular spots like Sakley's or Brittney's can get crowded during weekends, summers, and holidays, especially at lunchtime. If visiting during peak times or with a large group, it's advisable to call ahead and check if reservations are possible to avoid long waits.
What is the average cost for two people at a cafe in Nainital?
A meal for two at a Nainital café ranges from ₹300 to ₹1900, depending on the restaurant's style and location. Budget options like Simz Café offer meals for around ₹300, mid-range places like Café LakeSide or Cafe' Chica charge about ₹800, while upscale restaurants like Brittneys can cost up to ₹1900. On average, expect to spend ₹800 to ₹1000 for a satisfying dinner for two in most Nainital cafes.
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