A Food Lover’s Guide to Srinagar: Where to Eat & What to Try
- Aj
- Mar 10
- 4 min read
Srinagar isn’t just about breathtaking landscapes and shikara rides on Dal Lake—it’s a culinary treasure trove that blends centuries-old Kashmiri flavours with Mughlai, Tibetan, and global influences. From the legendary wazwan feasts to cozy cafés serving French pastries, this city has something to satisfy every craving.
So, whether you’re a foodie on a mission or just want to indulge in Srinagar’s best flavours, this guide has you covered!
Traditional Kashmiri Cuisine
1. Ahdoo’s – The OG of Kashmiri Food
📍 Residency Road💰 ₹600 - ₹1,500 per person | $7 - $18 per person
Ahdoo’s is a culinary institution in Srinagar, serving authentic Kashmiri cuisine since 1918. If you want a true taste of traditional flavours, this is the place to go.
⭐ Must-Try Dishes:
Rogan Josh – Tender lamb slow-cooked in aromatic, spicy gravy.
Mirchi Korma – A fiery red mutton curry that packs a punch.
Gushtaba – Soft mutton meatballs in a rich yoghurt-based gravy.
👉 Pro Tip: End your meal with a cup of kehwa (Kashmiri green tea) for the perfect balance of warmth and spice.
2. Mughal Darbar – A Royal Kashmiri Feast
📍 Lal Chowk💰 ₹700 - ₹1,500 per person | $8 - $18 per person
Mughal Darbar is where flavours meet grandeur. Their take on wazwan (a multi-course Kashmiri feast) is legendary, and their signature butter chicken is a must-try.
⭐ Must-Try Dishes:
Wazwan Platter – A royal spread of Kashmiri dishes, best shared.
Mutton Rista – Minced mutton dumplings in saffron-infused gravy.
Butter Chicken – Not traditionally Kashmiri, but rich, creamy, and oh-so-good.
👉 Pro Tip: If you’re new to Kashmiri cuisine, ask for a half-portion of wazwan—trust us, it’s huge!
3. Krishna Vaishno Dhaba – A Haven for Vegetarians
📍 Near Lal Chowk💰 ₹300 - ₹700 per person | $4 - $8 per person
While Kashmiri food is often meat-heavy, Krishna Vaishno Dhaba is a paradise for vegetarians. Simple, no-frills, but bursting with homely flavours.
⭐ Must-Try Dishes:
Rajma Chawal – Comforting kidney bean curry with steamed rice.
Paneer Butter Masala – Creamy, mildly spiced, and utterly satisfying.
Chole Bhature – A North Indian favourite done right.
👉 Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a sweet lassi for the ultimate North Indian dhaba experience.
Grilled & Street Food Delights
4. Ground Zero Grill & Café – Smoky & Succulent Kebabs
📍 Lal Chowk💰 ₹500 - ₹1,200 per person | $6 - $14 per person
If juicy, smoky kebabs are your thing, Ground Zero Grill & Café is your spot. This casual eatery is famous for its grilled meats and North Indian flavours.
⭐ Must-Try Dishes:
Mutton Seekh Kebab – Perfectly spiced and grilled to perfection.
Chicken Tandoori – Tender, smoky, and loaded with flavour.
Naan & Kebabs Combo – Soft, buttery naan with juicy kebabs.
👉 Pro Tip: Go in the evening when the vibe is livelier, and order their garlic naan to go with the kebabs.
5. Lhasa – The Best Momos in Srinagar
📍 Boulevard Road, near Dal Lake💰 ₹400 - ₹1,000 per person | $5 - $12 per person
Craving something different? Lhasa serves up Tibetan and Chinese delicacies with a serene view of Dal Lake.
⭐ Must-Try Dishes:
Steamed Chicken Momos – Soft dumplings packed with juicy fillings.
Thukpa – A comforting noodle soup perfect for chilly evenings.
Chili Chicken – Spicy, tangy, and addictive.
👉 Pro Tip: If it’s raining or snowing, grab a hot bowl of thukpa and enjoy the cozy ambience.
Cafés & Bakeries
6. Books & Bricks Café – For Coffee & Comfort Food
📍 Rajbagh💰 ₹500 - ₹1,200 per person | $6 - $14 per person
A bookstore meets café, Books & Bricks is the perfect place to unwind with a cup of coffee and a good read.
⭐ Must-Try Dishes:
Fish Fillet – Light, crispy, and served with a tangy sauce.
Cakes & Pastries – Always fresh and delicious.
Freshly Brewed Coffee – A must for caffeine lovers.
👉 Pro Tip: Visit in the afternoon for a quieter, relaxed experience.
7. Winterfell Café – A Treat for GoT Fans
📍 Lal Chowk💰 ₹600 - ₹1,200 per person | $7 - $14 per person
A Game of Thrones-themed café, Winterfell Café is not just about décor—it serves up some seriously good food.
⭐ Must-Try Dishes:
Salisbury Steak – Juicy steak with mashed potatoes & gravy.
Wood-Fired Pizzas – Thin-crust, cheesy goodness.
Kashmiri Noon Chai – Salted tea for an authentic local twist.
👉 Pro Tip: Ask the staff for a fun trivia challenge—they love GoT debates!
8. Le Delice – A Taste of France in Srinagar
📍 Gupkar Road💰 ₹400 - ₹1,000 per person | $5 - $12 per person
If you have a sweet tooth, Le Delice is your go-to French bakery for some of the best pastries in town.
⭐ Must-Try Dishes:
Macarons – Delicate, airy, and full of flavour.
Croissants – Buttery, flaky perfection.
Pain au Chocolat – Chocolate-filled delight.
👉 Pro Tip: Grab a croissant and coffee for a Parisian-style breakfast in Srinagar.
Final Thoughts: A Food Journey Through Srinagar
Srinagar’s food scene is as diverse as its landscapes. Whether you're indulging in a royal wazwan feast, enjoying steaming momos by the lake, or sipping kehwa in a cozy café, every meal here tells a story.
So, come hungry, explore fearlessly, and leave with unforgettable flavours lingering on your palate. After all, in Srinagar, food isn’t just fuel—it’s an experience.