The quirky little hamlet in the Himalayas is not so little anymore. But its quaintness remains as it was decades ago when the hippies and wandering souls would come to find their calling.

And over the years this town grew into a tourism hotspot for both Indian and international travelers, alluring them to its snow-capped peaks, lush pine forests and the gurgling rivers. I always get a good cab service in Delhi with 24/7 support before heading out for Manali.

Manali’s Food Heritage

Another aspect of Manali that has nicely shaped up in the last few decades is its growing culinary interest and rightly so. With residents and travelers from various Indian states and countries around the world, Manali has become a melting pot of cultures who have each brought their cuisine here and given it a Himalayan twist. From European fare to Asian delicacies, you can expect to find Russian, German, French, Italian, Afghani, Chinese, Tibetan, Korean, and of course our very traditional Indian food.

If the very thought of food brings you joy, then Manali has a decadent culinary trail carved out just for you. Whether you are a maiden visitor or a seasoned traveler to this Himalayan town, Manali promises you an incredible gastronomic experience every time.

Johnson’s Café

One of the oldest and the most visited, this restaurant on the Circuit House Road is a hot spot in Manali town. With alfresco seating overlooking the mountains, live music every evening, and a well-stocked bar, Johnson’s Café promises a great dining experience. Don’t forget to try their trout recipes which come in ten variations.

Café 1947

Take the road towards Old Manali and you will find this prominent eatery welcoming you to the main town. Sitting right on the river, the café offers excellent views of the landscape. If the outdoor weather becomes unbearable, this place also has a cozy den where you can sit on the floor and get comfortable. As far as food is concerned, they score high with food bloggers and travel experts with their hearty Italian spread. And, the hookahs too!

People’s Café

When we said Russian food in Manali, this is one of the places we referred to. Owned and run by a Russian lady, this quirky café is not just a dining place but a destination for artists and even those who appreciate independent art. You will be amazed to find yourself among some really talented people and in case you have an artistic side too, you can perform your own compositions.

Food-wise, this place serves vegetarian dishes but the best in town, nevertheless. Order yourself a platter of grilled potatoes and exotic vegetables, set up a hookah and you can spend an entire day listening to music, poetry, meeting interesting people at the People’s Café!

Chopsticks

Craving for Indian style Chinese or good Tibetan? Then head to Chopsticks on Mall Road, near the bus station. Pamper yourself with an eclectic mix of Japanese, Indian Chinese, Indian, Tibetan, and Thai, this place is one of the best in town for Asian food. From spicy stir-fry to the steaming wonton soup, Chopsticks makes for the perfect respite from a tiring tour on a freezing day.

Casa Bella Vista

If you do not look this place up on the internet beforehand, you will never be able to find this place while randomly driving down the Manali roads. Because this casa is camouflaged by thick pine woods and offers the most beautiful vistas of the Himalayas. Set in a lush green garden, this eatery offers a luxurious dining and visual treat. Serving Spanish home-style recipes, they specialize in wood-fired pizzas and rich coffee concoctions.

Drifter’s Café

If you are tired of your resort’s breakfast menu and looking for a good pick-me-up spread, Drifter’s is the place to be. Despite being tucked in an alley of Old Manali, this café is bathed in sunlight and cheers you up with its bright interiors and the best egg dishes in town. You cannot leave without their egg benedict, home-made pancakes and waffles. They also have a fine selection of Indian and Italian dishes for lunch and dinner.

Dylan’s Toasted and Roasted

Quite a popular hangout joint in Manali, this place run by three friends has earned its name and fame with their ambiance and good food. Do try their house special Shakshuka- an Israeli egg recipe with onions, tomatoes, and exotic spices topped with eggs.

Lazy Dog

The hottest place to lounge, drink, or dine, Lazy Dog tops the chart of food destinations in Manali (and also in Himachal). With the most scenic views of the mountains and the rivers, talented musicians performing live, while you dig into a hearty meal of butter garlic trout, Lazy Dog is truly a place to laze and absorb the good vibes.

If a holiday is on your cards, book a quality taxi from Delhi to Manali with an experienced driver and head to this quaint old town and sample its unique flavors!

Published: 2019-02-19 20:39:13