Let’s be honest – when you are on a vacation in a pretty hill station like Kasauli, you do not just want good food. You desire that ideal picture as well. The one that has your friends go, “Where is this place?!”
So if you’re staying at one of those cosy hotels in Kasauli and wondering where to head for both great bites and great pics, I’ve got you covered. Here are six cafes that totally get it.
Cafe Mitti: That Warm, Fuzzy Feeling
Imagine that it is a little wooden hut on a meandering road, where mist is floating around, and you can see the valley far below. That’s Cafe Mitti for you. It is all down-to-earth colours and homely spaces, as if it were someone’s really cool mountain home that happens to serve amazing pizzas and thick shakes. The whole place just has a good feeling and yeah, your phone camera is going to love it too.
Cafe Olio: A Little Bit of Italy in the Hills
Ever dreamed of brunch in Europe, but you’re actually in Himachal? Cafe Olio is your spot. They’ve got this open brick oven where they bake thin, crispy pizzas that smell incredible. And the setting? Pure green magic. Tall trees everywhere, peace and quiet, and that fresh mountain air. Your Instagram feed basically edits itself here.
Freq Café: The Prettiest of Them All
Okay, if you are looking for that “most beautiful cafe” award winner, this is apparently it. Freq Cafe looks like someone actually designed every single thing to be photo-ready. Juice glasses that catch the light perfectly, colourful pizzas, and gracefully served teas in pretty cups. Plus those mountain views that make you forget there is even a city around you. Listen, creative souls — This one is calling your name.
Cafe Mantra: Keep It Real
Hidden in the Heritage Market, this place is different. There’s nothing forced or flashy about it. There’s live music, simple tasty food, and a chilled-out vibe that attracts travellers from all over the world. It feels genuine, like you’ve stumbled onto something special. And the best part? It won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
Cafe Shubhmita: Fancy But Cosy
Feel like being big and not bulky? Cafe Shubhmita balances that. Imagine wooden floors that are polished, comfortable chairs that one would like to sit on, and hut-like roofs. The open-air space lets you enjoy crisp, high-mountain air throughout your visit. Their creamy pastas and mocktails are pretty great too.
Cafe Rudra: Grunge Meets Mountains
Right in the Heritage Market, this little corner spot has personality for days. Graffiti on the walls, old-school music playing, and their famous Irish Coffee for when it gets chilly. It’s that perfect mix of urban edge and mountain warmth. Whether you want Indian comfort food or something international, they’ve got you.
Why These Cafes Work for Tourists (and Your Instagram!):
- Easy to Find: Most of them are close to hotels or major walking trails; no hiking required.
- Great Light & Views: Big windows, outdoor seats, or interesting walls: easy, nice photos (no fancy filters needed!).
- Food You’ll Actually Like: Mix of pizza, pasta, shakes, fries, and local drinks: not just “fancy” stuff that you won’t eat.
- Different Vibes: Want quiet trees? Graffiti energy? Market buzz? There’s a spot for your mood.
- Won’t Cost a Fortune: Most have snacks/drinks under ₹250 – fits a tourist budget.
Bottom Line for Travellers:
Don’t stress about getting the “perfect” shot. Just pick a cafe that looks fun to you, order something you’re excited to eat, and snap a pic where the light hits your pizza or your shake looks extra frothy. Kasauli cafes are about relaxing and enjoying the hill vibe where the photos just come naturally!
