Kashmir is known for a wide variety of things such as beauty, handicraft products, and Kashmiri cuisine. But very few people are aware of its cafe culture. Various hidden gems in Srinagar will blow your mind with their perfectly brewed coffee.
With the rise in popularity of themed cafes in Kashmir, it is not always easy to find a place that caters to both – your eyes and your tastebuds. Whether it’s a date, a friendly meet, or a day out with cousins – I’ve some of the best themed cafes in Srinagar for you.
1. Cafe Liberty
Cafe Liberty is one of the best-themed cafes in Srinagar. It does not matter whether you are with your friends, or your family – you’ll love the ambience. The cafe comes with aesthetic interiors and loads of antiques. But that’s just not it – their food is really yum. Do try out their skewered lamb and chicken dishes.
- Location: 309, Alijan Shopping Complex, M.A road Lal chowk, Srinagar
- Timings: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Price For Two: INR 250 – 350
- Contact: 9055017361
2. Chai Jaai Tea Room
If you are a tea enthusiast, Chai Jaai will steal your heart. It is a quaint little tea room that overlooks the river Jhelum, and has a beautiful decor. The cafe has innumerable ceramic ware on display along with few antiques. You will also find traditional Kashmiri artwork on its walls. Do not forget to try out their Noon Chai, Kashmiri breads, cakes, and kahwa. Chai Jaai is also one of the best Instagramable cafes in Srinagar.
- Location: Mahattas Studio, 1st Floor, The Bund Road, Munshi Bagh, Lal chowk Srinagar
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Price For Two: INR 450 – 500
- Contact: 99068 97788
3. Gulshan Books
Gulshan Books is a bookworm’s paradise. It is located in the middle of the famous Dal Lake and comes with stunning views of the mountains. The only way to reach this bookstore cafe is by taking a shikara. So, the cafe provides complimentary shikara rides. There are over 80000 books on varied genres to choose from. You can sit and read here for hours. Their snacks, thick shakes, and choco-chip cookies are a must-try. What’s more? You get free-WIFI.
- Location: Dal lake, Srinagar
- Timings: 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM
- Price For Two: INR 400 – 550
- Contact: 09596600055
4. Books and Bricks Cafe
Books and Bricks Cafe stands out for its smart interiors, charming ambience, and excellent service. It is one of the first American diners inspired cafes in Srinagar. The walls have bricks and pages from a reader’s collection. You can either visit it alone, or with a group of friends. Their burgers, fries and fish fillets also taste heavenly. So, you can now read and enjoy delicious food at the same time.
- Location: Iqbal Park – Gogji Bagh Rd, opp. Amar Singh College, Iqbal Park, Wazir Bagh, Srinagar
- Price For Two: INR 350 – 400
- Contact: 1942310143
5. Winterfell Cafe
Winterfell is just opposite to the beautiful Dal Lake. You can tell by the name that it is a Game of Thrones-themed cafe. The stone interiors and the replica of the iron throne makes it a paradise for all GOT fans. There are also numerous quotes and small structures from the series on its walls. Their menu has many options.
- Location: Hotel Paradise Complex Boulevard Road, opposite ghat no 5, Srinagar
- Timings: 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM
- Price For Two: INR 400 – 550
- Contact: 9086537861
While you are checking cafes, do take a look at best places for destination wedding in Kashmir.
-Meenakshi Majumder