14 Drool-Worthy Restaurants & Cafes In Rishikesh, India
From traditional Indian cuisine to tasty Western treats, there is an abundance of delicious restaurants and cafes in Rishikesh to suit every palette.
From a Western perspective, all of the cafes in Rishikesh are extremely budget-friendly and I can honestly say I didn’t have one bad meal during my week in this magical town.
Rishikesh is the yoga capital of the world, but I unashamedly spent more of my time in Rishikesh trying out all the scrumptious food than I did engaging in yoga and all of the other spiritual practices you can find here.
It’s important to note that Rishikesh is a meat and alcohol-free zone, but to be completely honest you won’t even notice.
All the food here is flavoursome and filling and the spiritual buzz around the place will give you a natural high.
So, what are the best restaurants and cafes in Rishikesh?
Read on below to find out.
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Best restaurants and cafes in Rishikesh – Tapovan
Cafe Moktan
Cafe Moktan is an unassuming place that is essentially a hole-in-the-wall, but it’s one of the best cafes in Rishikesh.
Not only do they serve some of the best *cheap* coffee I’ve had in India (if you’re wondering oat milk lattes ARE on the menu) but the homemade pastries here are absolutely divine and pretty much the size of your head.
I was addicted to the cinnamon buns at this place.
I spent a week in Rishikesh and made it my ritual to head to Cafe Moktan every single morning and with coffee and a cake only setting me back 250 Rupees, it was an easy ritual to have.
This place is small and popular, so you might struggle to get a seat, especially if you are in a group.
Try and get here either early in the morning, or later in the day to enjoy the cosy environment here.
Cafe Moktan is a great place for solo travellers.
I struck up a conversation with someone new on almost every visit here!
Anna’s Mess
If you’re craving South Indian food whilst in the North, Anna’s Mess is one of the best cafes in Rishikesh to visit.
Here you can find a variety of delicious Dosas, hearty Uthappam and scrumptious Kerala Parota.
I had dinner at Anna’s mess about 4 times in the space of a week, so for me this was one of the best places to eat in Rishikesh.
Oh, and trying their homemade coconut milk is a MUST.
The Arches Cafe & Bakery
The Arches is one of the more sophisticated and stylish cafes in Rishikesh and for that reason, it comes with an ever-so-slightly higher price tag (but certainly not breaking the bank by any means).
If you’re craving Western food, and a big old slice of cheesecake this is THE PLACE to come.
Whilst I was here I had the spicy arancini balls, and I must say they were probably some of the best arancini I have had in a long time!
The Arches is also a great place to get some work done if you are a digital nomad in Rishikesh.
Oh, and it has an awesome view of the Ganges, but the outside space is small so these spots get taken pretty quickly!
Bhumi Cafe
Bhumi is a little oasis in the middle of Rishikesh.
It’s an aesthetically pleasing cafe with its own little courtyard, which makes for the perfect place for sitting in the sun, enjoying a good book and slurping on a hot cup of chai or fruit smoothie.
When it comes to food you can expect fresh vegan salads and falafel wraps.
They also have a small shop onsite where you can buy things like preloved books and little ornaments.
Again, if you are a digital nomad in Rishikesh this is a great, relaxing place to get some work done.
Wheatgrass Cafe
Wheatgrass is probably one of those cafes in Rishikesh that you’ll walk past and not think twice about.
However, I had the most delicious vegan meal here, and a fresh juice that was very much needed when I came down with a pretty hefty cough and cold.
Located just opposite Bhumi Cafe, Wheatgrass is a great place to come if you are looking for a cheap meal that’s packed with flavour.
I highly recommend trying the scrambled tofu with chapati and the booster Buddha juice!
Om Shanti Shanti
If you want to be overwhelmingly wowed by a view of the Ganges be sure to head to Om Shanti Shanti cafe.
It’s a tranquil oasis perched up on a hill, lovingly decorated with traditional Indian patterns and textiles adorned with statues of the deities.
I also think their delicious ginger lemon and honey tea single-handedly cured the cold and cough I suffered in Rishikesh.
I can’t speak to the food as my illness was suppressing my appetite on that day, but looking around at the other customers, they seemed pretty happy with their orders and there were lots of empty plates
Not only is this one of the best restaurants, but it’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Rishikesh.
Ira’s Kitchen and Tea Room
If you’re looking for healthy, hearty smoothie bowls the size of your head then a trip to Ira’s Kitchen is in order.
The hot drink menu is also the stuff of dreams with spicy ginger teas and warming turmeric milk on offer.
I can confirm my breakfast at Ira’s filled me up right until dinner, so whilst it can be ever so slightly more expensive than other places, it’s worth it.
Tulsi
Tulsi was recommended to me by a yoga teacher who I found out lives a truly yogic lifestyle and puts no nasties such as processed sugar into his body.
If you’re somewhat similar or just want a meal that you know will be full of goodness then Tulsi is one of the cleanest places to eat in Rishikesh.
Looking for more India Inspiration? Check out my other guides here.
Secret Garden Cafe
The Secret Garden Cafe is one that was recommended to me by so many people I met during my time in Rishikesh.
Looking for the best oat latte in town, and delicious sweet treats that will leave you wanting more?
Then the Secret Garden Cafe is for you.
Oh and if you’re a fan of falafels this is also the place to come.
Best restaurants and cafes in Rishikesh – Laxman Jhula
Shivani’s Cafe
Shivani’s Cafe is a calming oasis, with mattresses and pillows carefully placed along the floor and plants crawling up the ceilings and walls.
It’s the perfect place to come for a chilled lunch or dinner.
They serve a mixture of both Indian and Western food and have a very comprehensive tea, juice and smoothie menu for those looking for a herbal health kick.
I highly recommend their Ayurvedic Herbal Kadha if you’re feeling a little under the weather (I seemed to be ill during my whole stay in Rishikesh).
Little Buddha
Little Buddha is the most popular restaurant in Rishikesh on this side of the river.
It’s no surprise with chilled, cosy vibes and its awesome Ganges view.
Little Budhha is best known for the huge salad portions, but as a momo addict I am, I opted for the cheese and spinach momos with soup which didn’t disappoint!
This is another restaurant in town that also doubles up as one of the best places to watch the sunset in Rishikesh.
Ganga View Cafe
After Little Buddha, Ganga View is one of the most popular restaurants in Laxman Jhula.
They offer great vegan and gluten-free options, and they are very popular for their decent choice of sweet treats.
Of course, much like the other best cafes in Laxman Jhula (and as you’ve probably guessed by the name) it also has an awesome view of the river.
Goodtimes Cafe
If you are looking for a quieter alternative to Little Buddha, with a just as impressive Ganges view, then Goodtime Cafe is a good option.
Their menu is very similar to others on this best cafes in Rishikesh list, with a mixture of Indian, Israeli and Western options and lots of powerful immunity-boosting juices.
Street food in Rishikesh
I know everyone and their dog will warn you off getting street food in India, but as long as it’s vegetarian, hot and cooked in front of you I don’t see the problem.
Rishikesh is full of little stalls that serve chai and momos (deep-fried or steamed vegetable/paneer dumplings) which you simply have to try.
You won’t be paying more than 100 rupees for the privilege of eating these delicious (and very filling) balls of goodness.
You’ll find most of the stalls out on the main roads of Tapovan and Laxman Jhula.
Let’s just say I think I left Rishikesh half human half momo.
Prepare for your trip to Rishikesh
?️Accommodation: When you’re hunting for great deals, make sure to check out different sites like Booking.com and Hotels.com! If you’re on a budget then make sure to check out Hostelworld.
?Transport: Need to book a bus, plane or train whilst in India? Check out your options on 12goasia.com and Trip.com.
?Activities: Check out Get Your Guide and Viator for 100’s of activities in India.
?Insurance: Make sure you’re covered against any incidents during your trip. Get affordable and flexible insurance with Safety Wings.
?Download an eSIM: Avoid roaming fees, and have peace of mind that you have internet access when WiFi isn’t available. Download sims from either Airalo or Holafly for your time in India.
Happy Eating
In wrapping up, Rishikesh isn’t just about yoga; it’s also a great place to eat!
With so many yummy options, you won’t leave hungry.
From cosy spots like Cafe Moktan to chill places like Om Shanti Shanti, each place has its own vibe and delicious food.
Whether you’re enjoying Cafe Moktan’s cinnamon buns, trying south Indian dishes at Anna’s Mess, or chilling at Bhumi Cafe, Rishikesh has something for everyone.
Don’t forget about the street food either – those momos are a must-try!
If you only have the option to pick one or two places from this list, then It has to be Cafe Moktan for pastries and Anna’s Mess for delightful dosas (oh, and Om Shanti Shanti for the best view).
So, make sure you dive into the food scene in Rishikesh and enjoy every bite. Let the flavours fill you up and make your time in Rishikesh even more special.
Happy eating, and may your food adventures be as awesome as Rishikesh itself.
