Sikkim food guide: Where to eat in Gangtok and beyond

Like any other child studying in the hills, I couldn’t wait for the school year to end. Winter holidays meant a trip from Kalimpong to New Delhi to visit family and with it, the exciting world of Domino’s pizza. I was obsessed with it. When school resumed, I’d flaunt all the Mc Donald’s Happy Meal toys I’d collected, and I lived on the memory of pepperoni pizza for the rest of the year.

Despite the rich and varied cuisine of the hills of North Bengal and Sikkim, shaped by its role in the Silk Route trade and the diverse communities living here, dining out was a rare indulgence. Cafés were typically chai shops serving samosas, and a lunch in town usually meant a standard momo meal. On special occasions, we’d be treated to something a bit more theatrical, like a sizzler.

Those days of limited choices are long gone. The current food scene is both classic and contemporary. New establishments are trend-driven, with Korean cuisine as common as momo, yet classic dishes still hold their place. And while travellers as well as locals still find comfort in debating on the best momo joint in town, the burgeoning food scene, particularly in Gangtok, is a melting pot of flavours. With recommendations from the region’s food enthusiasts, here’s a round-up of the best places to eat in Gangtok and beyond.

The essential Sikkim food guide

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Restaurants in Gangtok
Cafés in Gangtok
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Beyond Gangtok

Snow Lion Restaurant and Bar: For gyakho

A 10-minute walk from MG Marg is Hotel Tibet. The in-house family restaurant, Snow Lion, has been serving up some of the best Tibetan food for over two decades and was “one of the fanciest places to dine out back in the day”, as per author Prajwal Parajuly. He believes the chicken momo is still just as good. Try a hearty bowl of thenthuk (torn handmade noodles in chicken broth) or one of their specials, gyakho, Tibetan chimney soup. Best eaten with noodles on a cold winter day, the gyakho is loaded with vegetables and black mushroom and served in a simmering soup pot that resembles a chimney. This item requires advance notice and is ideal for a group of four or more, so contact the restaurant ahead of time to place an order.

Timings: Monday- Sunday, 9am-8pm
Hotel Tibet, Paljor Stadium Road, Gangtok; 03592-203468 / 204962

Solpon: For pork ribs

As the buzz of MG Marg fades and you find yourself yearning for comforting food, Solpon emerges as the ideal spot for no-nonsense fare. The menu offers distinctly local flavours, including laphing (a cold mung bean noodle soup), shapta (thin slices of stir-fried meat), and droepa khatsa (tripe) for more adventurous diners. Food entrepreneur Gyurme Tenzing considers Solpon his go-to for clean, wholesome food, with his favourite being shyaphaley—deep-fried bread stuffed with minced meat, served in bite-sized pieces. He highly recommends their best-seller, the falling-off-the-bone glazed pork ribs, paired perfectly with ting mo (steamed buns). The wait time is well worth it, knowing that everything is prepared fresh.

Timings: Monday-Saturday, 12- 9pm
31 - A National Highway, Near Lal Bazaar, above Hotel Dhewachen, Gangtok; +91 77978 96230

Lhasa Newar Kitchen and Bar, Tree of Life Indra Mandala: For chicken choila

Lhasa Newar is owner Rashik Pradhan’s attempt to tell the story of the Nepalese trading community who journeyed between Nepal, Tibet and India during the Silk Route trade. The restaurant marries Newari and Tibetan fare. Since the region lacks in specialty cuisine, Dr Hishey Doma Lepcha, a Sikkimese veterinarian and food blogger @KitchenSalubrious, recommends Newari essentials like chicken choila (bite-sized pieces of tempered grilled chicken). Their thakali thali (A Nepalese staple of dal-bhaat (lentils-rice) with gheu (ghee), tarkari (seasonal vegetables), masu (meat curry), and a variety of achar or condiments) is another highlight and a wholesome representation of regional fresh ingredients with seasonal favourites like iskus ko munta (tender chayote shoots), ningro (fiddlehead fern) and gundruk ko achar (dried and fermented mustard greens), paired with a ratey chu cocktail (made with titaura, a sour Nepalese hogplum candy).

Timings: Monday- Sunday, 10am-10pm
Tree of Life Indra Mandala, Lower Luing, Road, Bakthang, Gangtok; +91 80011 00916

Nimtho: For Sikkimese thali

The restaurant has firmly established itself as a top destination for Himalayan cuisine and as a go-to spot for whenever friends from other cities visit. "You can’t go wrong with any of their thalis," Parajuly states, particularly praising the Sikkimese thali, which includes dishes that many establishments might consider too adventurous, such as kinema—a notoriously pungent fermented soybean dish cooked with onions and tomatoes—and khutta ko achar, or pork trotters. For a true taste of the region, try their buff sukuti, a shredded buff jerky mixed with onions, tomatoes, and chilies, or the jhol momo, Nepal’s take on momo served in a tangy, tomato-sesame-hogplum sauce known as jhol achar. Skip your usual poison and opt for tongba, a traditional millet-based alcoholic beverage served in a wooden vessel with a bamboo straw, to complete the Himalayan dining experience. As the cuisine makes use of chillies liberally, be sure to specify your spice tolerance when placing your order.

Timings: Monday – Sunday, 11 am to 11 pm
Chungyalpa Building, New Market, MG Marg, Gangtok

The Noodle House: For Japanese

In a region starved of contemporary pan-Asian food, chef Lalit Tamang took Kalimpong by storm when he first launched The Noodle House back in 2020. His Sikkim outlet at Vajra World, Gangtok is a cosy space with soft lighting and an outdoor seating area with stunning views of the cityscape. The menu offers a range of Asian cuisines, but it is the Japanese dishes that are the clear winners. Try their ultra-light and crispy ebi tempura, yaki udon, takikomi gohan, ramen, tori katsu, and you will leave smiling ear-to-ear.

Timings: Monday – Sunday, 11am-10pm
4^th floor, Vajra World, Baluakhani Rd, Sungava, Gangtok, Sikkim; +91 70012 39603/9587285483

The Coffee Shop: For tenderloin steak

When the region was still relying on pre-packaged pizza bases and handmade cappuccinos, The Coffee Shop entered Gangtok's food scene. Leveraging their first-mover advantage, the restaurant has perfected the trifecta of a great dining experience with consistency, an inviting ambiance and excellent service. Parajuly still frequents the place for their fun western fare, even though he’s not a coffee drinker. Dr Lepcha enjoys the pasta menu here and adds, “Their pasta always hits the spot with the fresh sauces they serve.” Head here to experience their take on Italian cuisine— begin with the antipasti, followed by bruschetta, grilled tenderloin steak, and finish with an enjoyable coffee. Vegetarians will find plenty of options too. If you're in for breakfast, try their Himalayan breakfast, a sizable platter with phaley (Tibetan bread), aloo dum, omelette, sausage and “Gorkhay” tomato chutney, all while taking in the lively view of MG Marg below.

Timings: Monday – Sunday, 8:30am – 9pm
Anola Building, Mg Marg Anola Building, Gangtok; +91 70765 23402

Café Fiction: For books, bakes and brews

What began as a small cafe at independent bookstore Rachna Books is now a popular stop in Gangtok that Parajuly refers to as his “happiest place on earth.” The quirky, concept-driven café on the ground floor of the bookshop is a sanctuary for book lovers, where owner Raman Shrestha frequently hosts curated events. Savour their Vietnamese coffee, brewed from locally sourced beans, along with homemade bakes straight from Sarvada Chettri’s oven. While the menu is modest, with small bites like sandwiches, wraps, ramen, coffee and kombucha, arrive without an agenda and you’ll find yourself whiling away the day with good books and engaging conversation.

Timings: Monday- Saturday, 9am – 7pm
Below Rachna Books, Development Area, Jeewan Theeing Marg, Gangtok; +91 97331 02304

Travel Connect: For bacon avocado toast

The minimalist space with monochrome details centres on self-service, with an open kitchen where the owner Dawa Doma Lepcha is often seen bustling about. Ideal for a leisurely brunch or a late evening snack, the café offers brioche banana caramelized French toast, croissant sandwiches with smoked ham, and the ultimate bacon avocado toast, made with seasonal avocados from the region. The menu is intentionally limited, ensuring that everything offered is made with fresh ingredients like lettuce and rocket, sourced from Ramalaya Farm, an organic farm in Rhenock, East Sikkim. The coffee selection features options tailored to different brewing methods. Pro tip: Be sure to check their Instagram story for the latest opening hours to avoid any disappointment. It’s a great idea to plan your visit to the café en route to Tashi View Point, as it conveniently falls along the way.

Timings: Check Instagram
Lower Bojhogari, near Bakthang petrol pump, Sirik, Gangtok; 9800680281

Craft Theory Collective: For tea and tiramisu

Curious about the subtleties of tea? At this gallery café, try an eclectic array of specialty teas sourced from Sikkim’s only private organic tea garden, Bermiok Tea Estate, the only boutique estate recognized by the Tea Board of India. Request a tea tasting, and the owner will personally guide you through the tea-making process and its diverse flavor profiles. Try the Imperial Spring from the Connoisseur’s Collection—a first flush tea with fresh notes of legumes, sweet grass, and budding flowers—or the autumn flush Golden Fall, a richer brew with malty hints of grapefruit, nuts, rose, and chocolate. For tea enthusiasts, the savory pu’er offers a complex flavor that matures over years. A fruity Maywulong oolong pairs well with homemade tiramisu, or stick with the classic scone and jam. Pro tip: Look out for their crop to cup coffee appreciation, a fixed price experience on cupping and conversation that launches in September for coffee enthusiasts.

Timings: Wednesdays-Mondays (Tuesdays closed), 10am-8pm
Deki Building, Upper M.G. Marg, New Market, Gangtok

The Rabbit Hole: For a classic pub experience

This is a great little watering hole hiding in plain sight on MG Marg, with rustic wooden interiors, soft lighting, and a well-stocked bar. Tenzing recommends spending an evening at Phuchung Diyali’s pub enjoying Danny Denzongpa’s local Dansberg beer, or sampling the signature cocktail, The Madhatter, along with prawn chips or the quintessential regional chakhna, sadeko WaiWai (dry Wai Wai served salad style). Also try Chinese sausages and lowa khatsa, or fried lung, two classic pub grub specific to the Himalayan region.

Timings: Closed only on dry days, 2pm – 10:30pm
Rasaily Building, Below Beyul Demazong, M.G Marg, Gangtok; +91 93397 70387

The Rooftop: For dancing and local acts

As the week winds down, Gangtok’s nightlife converges at The Rooftop. This two-story hotspot has a bar and lounge on the upper floor that transforms into a lively dance floor as the night progresses. If dancing isn’t your scene, head to the lower floor and enjoy a drink at the Gigroom that showcases local artists from Tuesday to Saturday. They serve mainly pan-Asian cuisine and the bartender whips up some excellent cocktails.

Timings: Monday – Sunday, 10:30am – 11pm
Snod Complex, Deorali, Gangtok; +91 99322 04622

Gangtok Groove: For live music

This venue is a favourite among the Gen-Z crowd for its live music and outdoor seating with views of MG Marg. On weekends, it buzzes with energy as local bands deliver lively performances on Friday and Saturday nights. With ample space for large groups, it’s a great spot to experience Gangtok’s vibrant nightlife with a drink on the balcony and stunning views of Kanchendzonga on a clear day.

Timings :Monday –Sunday, 1pm – 11pm
Above Pantaloons, New Market, Mahatma Gandhi Marg; +91 3592 202 348

241 Brewhouse: For local craft beer

Launched just over a month ago, the brewhouse has already become a destination where craft and community converge. As the first in the region to brew its own craft beers, this brewhouse is setting a new standard by infusing local elements into every pour. Currently on offer are three varieties - Witbier (wheat beer), Mango Hefeweizen (Mango Wheat Beer) and Himalayan Black Beer (stout). The fourth beer, named Bhaat & Beyond, is a lager made using local rice and will hit the tap by mid-September. The menu is designed to complement the brews, leaning towards Indian flavours.

Timings: Monday- Sunday, 12pm- 11pm
Below Khel Ground, Reshithang, Gangtok; +91 7797999241

Kyichu Ga-Tsal: For spicy tuna rolls and a spring-water swimming pool

Kyichu Ga Tsal feels like stepping into a manga fairytale, reminiscent of a zen garden. Once a stony wasteland, this space has been transformed into a serene haven with lush greenery and koi fish ponds. Dine alfresco at The Garden Café, where you can choose from a variety of cuisines including continental, Chinese, Japanese and Italian. Don’t miss the spicy tuna roll, a local favourite, or their winter special, harusame noodle soup—a comforting Japanese glass noodle dish in chicken dashi with wakame, fluffy eggs, and tofu. The real allure of Kyichu Ga Tsal lies in its ambience. Spend a few leisurely hours in their spring-water-fed swimming pool or wander through the numerous flower varieties on display. Pro tip: An entry fee is charged per head; extra charges for swimming pool use are applicable. Make the most of your visit to Kyichu Ga-Tsal and club it with Banjhakri Falls since it lies a 40-min drive away from the town.

Timings: Monday – Saturday, Garden opens 7:30am – 9:30pm, Cafe opens 10:30am – 9:30pm
Lower Sichey, Ranka Rd, Gangtok

Mynt, Vivanta Pakyong: For river trout curry

Located conveniently close to Pakyong airport (12km), the hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys but also a great dining experience worth making a pit-stop for. Densapa appreciates the food for its emphasis on fresh, flavourful dishes. Mynt, the all-day diner, offers local Sikkimese flavours alongside other cuisines. Go for snacks like sel roti, a traditional rice flour doughnut, and try their trout fish curry, made using fresh river trout that the state is known for. Enjoy these dishes in traditional brassware “kaansa ko thaal” to enhance the cultural experience.

Timings: Monday – Sunday, 7am – 10:30pm
Bassnett Gaon Namcheybong, Pakyong

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