Darjeeling, known for its breathtaking views and chilly weather, is a haven for travellers looking for an escape. But beyond just scenic views and cool weather, Darjeeling has more to offer – Cafes being one of them.
Over the past decade, cafe culture has been thriving in Darjeeling. They’re where friends hang out, couples go on dates, and solo visitors unwind with a book or their laptop. Weather you’re looking for stunning views, cozy ambience, good food, freshly brewed coffee, we’ve got it all.
To help you find the right Cafe, we have made a list of Top 10 best Cafes in Darjeeling each unique in their own way, in no particular order.
1. Keventer’s
📸 Photo by Pinakpani, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Located right in the middle of town, Keventer’s is a heritage spot. They have been active in serving customers since 1911. This place is a must visit for all tourist. Now top 10 best cafes list is complete without Kev’s.
What to expect?
- Scenic view of Kanchenjunga and Darjeeling town
- Heritage cafe with colonial charm
- Great view of the heritage clock tower
- Best English breakfast platter
- Outdoor balcony and indoor seating area
When to visit?
- Best time to visit Keventer’s is in the morning for breakfast
- Evening time during sunset is also a good time to visit for a view of the town
- Avoid peak hours (10am – 11:30am) as you might not get a table
Read reviews : Google reviews, Tripadvisor
2. Glenary’s
📸 Photo by Pinakpani, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
One of the oldest bakeries and cafes in Darjeeling, Glenary’s is an iconic establishment that will take you back in time with its heritage and history. Loved by locals and tourists alike, Glenary’s is known for its bakery, cafe, restaurant and live music bar.
What to expect?
- A heritage bakery with a cafe and restaurant
- Freshly baked cakes, breads, cookies etc. that are delicious
- Outdoor and indoor seating areas
- Vintage interiors with colonial architecture
- Free Wifi and good hot beverages
- Good jazz music in the background
- Good view of the town
When to visit?
- Best time to visit the cafe would be evening during sunset
- The bakery is perfect for an evening time snack
- Best time to visit the restaurant is Lunch or Dinner time
- The restaurant tends to get crowded during peak ours of lunch and dinner
Read reviews: Google reviews, Tripadvisor
3. Himalayan Coffee
A relatively newer cafe, Himalayan Coffee is a contemporary cafe with cozy and aesthetic interiors. It is a peaceful cafe where you can indulge in some local coffee blends and have a quite time to yourself or with company. It is a must-visit cafe in Darjeeling for all the coffee lovers.
What to expect?
- Freshly brewed Nepali coffee blends
- Very close to chowrasta
- A peaceful and calm ambience, great for reading and working
- Menu with good food
- Hygienic and good service
When to visit?
- Morning hours to night, anytime is a good time to visit this cafe
- Tends to get a little crowded after evening
Read reviews: Google reviews, Tripadvisor
4. Machhan Tea Bar | Cafe
A rooftop cafe, Machhan Tea Bar offers you more than just good food – one of the most breathtaking panoramic views you’ll find at any café in Darjeeling. This spot is a local favorite, especially among the youth, who come here to have a good time with their friends while enjoying a beautiful view.
What to expect?
- Great panoramic view of mountains and the town
- A rooftop cafe with indoor and outdoor seating options
- Great selection of tea served in pots
- Great food menu and pizzas to die for
- Great for taking photos with a scenic backdrop
When to visit?
- When the skies are partially clear or clear
- Sunset time gives the best view of the town
- Cozy atmosphere when it’s raining
Read reviews: Google reviews, Tripadvisor
5. Nerdvana Bookstore & Cafe
A creative space, Nerdvana cafe is popular among Darjeeling’s youth. Situated close to Chowrasta, it’s a place where creative meets coffee. If you meet a young local, chances are he’ll tell you that this is the best cafe in Darjeeling.
What to expect?
- Creative interiors with artsy vibes
- Lots of reading materials
- Both indoor are outdoor seating options
- Creative events that happen every now and then
- Good food menu and an even better beverage menu
When to visit?
- Afternoon for a more peaceful vibe
- Evenings for a more social scene, events are usually scheduled around this time
- Feels cozy during the cold or when its raining
Read reviews: Google reviews. Tripadvisor
6. Sol Cafe & Studio
A cute cafe cum studio, Sol is situated on a quieter part of town away from the noise. Creative interiors with a great ambience make Sol a must-visit cafe in Darjeeling. They offer a truly unique menu you won’t find anywhere else in town.
What to expect?
- Artistic interiors with bright colors and an open kitchen
- Cook your own ramen with you choice of toppings
- Very cute and ‘instagramable’ interior
- Studio-meets-cafe concept that makes it a creative space
- A great menu with a wide selection of delicious food
- A very well curated beverage menu with locally sourced ingredients
When to visit?
- Late mornings and afternoon for a relaxed experience and good lunch
- Evenings to night for a full dinner
Read reviews: Google reviews, Tripadvisor
7. Gatty’s cafe
Gatty’s cafe brings together food and music with it cozy and vibrant atmosphere. A cozy cafe in the morning turns a lively bar at night. You’ll meet several travellers here at this cafe having a good time.
What to expect?
- Small and cozy interiors with dim lights at night
- Live music, karaoke and fun events
- Backpackers, Digital nomads and all kinds of travellers
- Fun collection of board games
- Great food and a variety of drinks
When to visit?
- During the weekends, evening to night
- Late afternoons if you’re looking for a quieter and peaceful time
Read reviews: Google reviews, Tripadvisor
8. Nom Nom Bakery & Korean Cafe
For all the Korean-heads this is the place to be. Nom Nom Bakery is a korean themed cafe with cute interiors with the posters of your favorite K-stars. Darjeeling has a lot of Kpop fans so you might just run into someone who shares the same interest as you.
What to expect?
- Korean inspired menu with dishes like Kimbap, ramen, tteokbokki tec
- A nice bakery
- A treat for Kpop lovers
- Friendly staff and a good service
When to visit?
- Ideal for lunch or during the evening
- Cozy interiors when its cold or raining
Read reviews: Google reviews, Tripadvisor
9. Suzam’s Cafe and Kitchen
A Home-cafe, this place will make you feel at home away from home. It also has a panoramic view of the mountains and the hills. Suzam’s cafe offers great comfort food along with the nicest hospitality making them one of the best cafes in Darjeeling.
What to expect?
- Menu featuring a wide selection of dishes, all home-cooked
- Warm and cozy interiors
- A relaxed vibe with a great staff that’ll make you feel at home
- Reasonable and great quality
When to visit?
- For lunch or for dinner
- Whenever you’re craving for a hearty, home-cooked meal
Read reviews: Google reviews, Tripadvisor
10. Sonam’s Kitchen
One of the best breakfast spots in Darjeeling, Sonam’s Kitchen is well known amongst backpackers and travellers. A small cafe that is easy to miss, but an iconic cafe in Darjeeling to say the least.
What to expect?
- One of the best breakfast place that serves pancakes, scrambled eggs, fresh breads etc
- Freshly brewed coffee with tasty food
- Foreigners love this place
- Lots of travel books to read while you wait for food
- Small place with not a lot of seatings, but definitely worth the wait!
When to visit?
- Early mornings for breakfast
- Best to visit before noon
Read reviews: Google reviews, Tripadvisor
Hope you have a wonderful time Cafe hopping in Darjeeling! There are so many more unique and beautiful cafes in Darjeeling and we couldn’t do justice to all of them.
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