As they say, the way to heart of anyone is through stomach and nothing defines the essence of a place like the taste it leaves you with. When it comes to a hilly place like Manali, where snow meets rivers and adventure meets, the café culture experience here is something you won’t soon forget. The town’s rustic charm and bohemian vibe is reflected in cafes of this place.
Be it riverside spots where you can sip coffee or a place with lively hangouts with live music, each café in Manali has its own character and flavors that reflects the spirit of this hill station. Whether you are a foodie, coffee lover or just looking for a cozy spot to unwind Manali’s cafes promise a delicious escape we are here to give you solution to all of it. This is a list of the Best Cafes in Manali to make your Manali Tour as memorable as the mountains themselves.
Old Manali is like a hidden treasurer of charming cafes, each with its own unique vibe and flavorful menu. Here are some of the Best cafes in old Manali that you must not miss:
If you wish to experience food with the relaxed vibe, soulful live music and sound of water running alongside, this place is for you. Located along the banks of Manalsu River, this is one of the most famous cafés which is also known because it is the first music café in Manali there. It is a perfect place for Date, to plan family dinner, celebrate birthday or just hang out with Friends.
Location: Old Manali Road, near the bridge
Timings: 12 PM - 11 PM (different timings for Wednesday)
Must-Try: Pizzas, Pasta Alfredo, Hot Chocolate
Highlights: Riverside seating, live music nights
To try the blend of Asian and European dishes with a twist you must visit The Lazy Dog café. Located near the river, it has live music nights and a relaxed vibe, making it a top spot for travellers and one of the famous café in Old Manali. It has a spacious outdoor seating which makes it a perfect place to spend your leisurely afternoons but the live music nights makes it a perfect place for cozy dinner.
Location: Old Manali, near the bridge
Timings: 10 AM - 11 PM
Must-Try: Sushi, Korean Bibimbap, and Cocktails
Highlights: Riverside seating, live music, international menu
As the name describe, Café Amigos is small, budget friendly place and best for those looking for a simple but delicious food in serene setting. This place’s burgers and momo are locals favourite. Other than this you can also find other international, European as well as healthy food here. They also have vegan options available. This decent place is perfect to visit with friends and family to have a complete meal.
Location: Near Old Manali Bridge
Timings: 10 AM - 11 PM
Must-Try: Burgers, Momos, and Masala Chai
Highlights: Relaxed ambiance, riverside views, budget-friendly
Boho Café is a place with perfect Old Manali vibes with its colourful quirky decor and laid back atmosphere. This popular café with backpackers and locals serves healthy, organic food for those looking to eat fresh and clean. Here you can try vegan burgers, smoothies and chia pudding. Whether you want to chill after a day of exploring or have a meal with friends, Boho Café is the place.
Location: Old Manali near the main road
Timings: 8 AM to 10:30 PM
Must Try: Vegan Burgers, Smoothies and Chia Pudding
Highlights: Colourful, bohemian decor, chill vibes, solo and group friendly
Also read – Manali Travel Guide
Mall Road offers a lively café scene that’s perfect for those wanting to explore the main hub of Manali. Here are a few popular choices:
To try the best hot chocolate you can visit this place. Known for its delicious baked goods, fresh coffee and quick bites. This Manali Mall road café is a great place when you are tired of shopping and sightseeing. You can also try the delectable dishes from Israeli cuisine here with an adorable rustic interiors here.
Location: Mall Road, Manali
Timings: 9 AM - 10 PM
Must-Try: Brownies, Falafel Wraps, and Cappuccinos
Highlights: Mall Road location, bright and airy interiors
Looking for a romantic place to eat in Manali with charming interiors? If you are on a Manali Honeymoon tour then this is the best place where you can take your partner, as the name defines it. This café has a cozy lighting and seating which makes it ideal for couples. The menu features everything from wood fired pizzas to delicious desserts. Make moments with your partner more special and have some memorable food memories.
Location: Old Manali near the main street
Timings: 10 AM to 11 PM
Must Try: Wood Fired Pizzas, Creamy Pasta, Desserts
Highlights: Cozy and romantic ambiance with perfect mountain views, setting perfect for couples
For a picturesque dining experience, these riverside cafes in Manali offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and great food:
This legendary spot in Manali has a reputation for its beautiful outdoor seating, fresh trout dishes and cocktails. This café has a modern décor mixed with natural scenery which offers an outstanding experience which makes it perfect for Instagram aesthetics. The best part is here you can also try wood fired pizzas, sounds perfect right? – visiting here with the chilly outdoors but enjoying in the warmth of the café with some wood fired pizza.
Location: Circuit House Road, near Hadimba Temple
Timings: 10 AM - 11 PM
Must-Try: Trout Fish, Wood-Fired Pizzas, and Himachali cuisine
Highlights: Scenic views, chic interiors, great wine selection
The Secret River Café is a nature escape. Surrounded by greenery and the gentle sound of water, it’s a perfect hideaway from the crowds. This hidden spot is known for its rustic eco-friendly setup and fresh wholesome food including hummus platter and herbal teas.
Location: near the riverbank, near the lazy dog cafe
Timings: 9 AM to 10 PM
Must-Try: Hummus Platter, Freshly Baked Bread, Herbal Teas
Highlights: peaceful riverside seating with natural ambiance, eco-friendly décor
With unique themes and beautiful setting these cafes in Manali are perfect to relax for travellers. From cozy spaces to riverside dining, Manali is the perfect place to unwind and recharge. Whether you are visiting to do Skiing in Manali or visiting for fun trip, do not forget to add these eateries in your list to make your trip more memorable. Add the perfect flavours of Himachal to your trip. Eat, Explore and Enjoy!