Top 10 Restaurants in Shillong: Embark on a Rich Culinary Odyssey

If you are a first timer to visit the Northeastern part of India, visualize a clear picture of yourself being on a healthy diet during your travel. Meghalaya’s capital town Shillong is always thrilled to host visitors from worldwide to jostle in adventure amid the scenic vistas and peaceful aura that the locals boast of. If you are a foodie who would love to experience Meghalaya’s rich culture, and keen to know about their food habits, explore the restaurants in Shillong for an enriching dining experience. Ranging from the fine dining experience to the local and casual dining spots, Shillong has a plethora of restaurants for you to plunge into the culinary venture. If you are seeking peace and tranquility, reserve your table at an ideal spot to soak yourself in the breathtaking sights while devouring your wholesome platter!

Restaurants in Shillong: Let’s Be a Part of Meghalaya’s Food Fiesta

Shillong never leaves to carry its rich cultural legacy in curating culinary art with the exotic locally available organic ingredients to retain its original flavors. If you want to enliven your senses, undertake a culinary journey by visiting the best restaurants in Shillong, interact with the local chefs and learn about the enticing Khasi cuisine. Apart from the local delicacies, you can even begin your quest in exploring the diverse gastronomic landscape ranging from the Indian gravies, heartwarming Thai soups to the classic European delights. If you are looking for a fine dining experience amid the lush green landscapes and tranquil surroundings, the wait is all over since Heritage Club always welcomes the visitors to unwind in the lap of nature and savor their authentic flavors.

Let’s have a glance at the top 10 restaurants in Shillong to delve into Shillong’s rich historic past and its incredible culinary art.

Heritage Club: Delight Your Senses with Good Food & Views
City Hut Family Dhaba: Pamper Yourself with Khasi Hospitality
Spectra at Courtyard by Mariott: Cherish the Fine Dining Experience
Ahavah Shillong: Marvel at the Well-Crafted Platter
Mynt at Vivanta Shillong: Explore the Diverse Range of Flavors
Little Chef Spices of Asia: Treat Yourself to the Khasi Biryani
Lamee Restaurant: Rediscover the Best Indian Flavors
Rynsan Restaurant: Feel the Essence of Northeastern Cuisine
Sao Aiom Restaurant at Ri Kynjai: Relish the Flavorful Khasi Palate
Ginger Restaurant: Adore the Plush Interiors

1. Heritage Club (Mr. Choy’s): Delight Your Senses with Good Food & Views

Located within the Heritage Club Hotel premises, Mr. Choy’s Restaurant is best known for Pan Asian and European cuisine, exquisitely handcrafted by the skilled chef Mr. Choy who has proved his expertise in culinary art for quite a long time. With a classic and elegant interior adorned with Meghalaya’s age-old charm, Heritage Club Mr. Choy’s restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Shillong to unwind in the best possible way. Ranging from the aromatic Thai soups brimmed with fresh veggies to the sizzling fries with sprinkled spices, you can find an array of starters to main course options for an incredible experience. Pamper yourself with the warm Khasi hospitality and indulge yourself in interacting with Mr. Choy who curates magic out of love and passion.

Location: Tripura Castle Rd, Malki, Shillong, Meghalaya 793014

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Cuisine: Pan Asian & European

Must-try Dishes: Penne Pasta in White Sauce, Grilled Fish Saut, Chicken Chimichurri Steak, Spaghetti Aglio Prawn, Shammi Kebab Chicken, Kung Pao Chicken Manchow Chicken Soup

2. City Hut Family Dhaba: Pamper Yourself with Khasi Hospitality

Located in the heart of Shillong, City Hut Family Dhaba is a must-visit restaurant in Police Bazar that has a proper North Indian menu consisting of varied non-vegetarian and vegetarian dishes. Considered one of the best places to visit in Shillong, City Hut Family Dhaba will offer you a warm and relaxed atmosphere to unwind in the best possible way with your family. The restaurant boasts of its young and dynamic team for delivering excellence to the customers over the years for which it attracts thousands of locals and second timers. Never forget to try out some of the signature dishes of the restaurant like Smoked Roast Chicken, Old Fashion Cutlet, Cheese Stuffed Fried Mushroom, Mexican Spice Grilled Chicken and feel the explosion of flavors. The restaurant also has a good selection of dessert items out of which Mango Cheesecake is the best.

Location: Earle Holiday Home, Oakland Rd, Police Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001

Opening Hours: 11 a.m. to 9.30 p.m.

Cuisine: North Indian

Must-try Dishes: Smoked Roast Chicken, Mexican Spice Grilled Chicken, Smokey Red Chili Chicken, Old Fashion Cutlet, Cheese Stuffed Fried Mushroom, Chicken Tikka Kebab, Veg Deluxe Thali, Black Currant Cheese Mousse, Mango Cheesecake

3. Spectra at Courtyard by Mariott: Cherish the Fine Dining Experience

Spectra is the new venture opened by Mariott which is an all-day dining destination with an extensive selection of buffet in the heart of Shillong. Best known for the thoughtful blend of innovation and customization, Spectra boasts of its comprehensive menu ranging from local delights to the fanciful international delicacies inspired by the Khasi cuisine and made from the locally sourced ingredients offering gourmet experiences to the guests throughout the year. With the elegant and plush interiors, you can enjoy your meal and relax in a comfortable and warm setting at Spectra, one of the good restaurants in Shillong. What fascinates the visitors from the delectable menu is the unique “Naga Meat Curry with Ghost Chilies”, a Naga delicacy, which is a popular dish in entire Northeast introducing you to the world’s hottest chili pepper according to Guiness Book Record, only available in Northeast India.

Location: Jail Road, Police Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001

Opening Hours: 6.30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Cuisine: Northeast, Traditional Indian, International

Must-try Dishes: Nongkwai Mandarin, Roasted Beets & Minted Artichoke, ‘Nongpoh Wild Mushroom Soup, Naga Meat Curry with Raja Bhut Jolokia Chillies’, ‘Slow Roasted Meat Belly’, Baby Spinach and Ricotta Tortellini in Tomato Fondue and Charcoal Black Fettuccini

4. Ahavah Shillong: Marvel at the Well-Crafted Platter

Avanah Shillong offers a fine dining experience that specializes in offering luxury and a comfort space to the guests along with delectable food. With a highly curated menu featuring exotic Italian, French, and Mediterranean, Ahavah Shillong will promise you a phenomenal culinary experience to cherish for a lifetime. Ranging from artful salads and flavorful soups, savory starters, cheesy European main courses, delectable desserts to refreshing mocktails, the catering team of Avanah can assure you a fulfilling meal to make your day. Never forget to miss out on their signature dishes like Chicken Roulade, Pasta Ravioli, and Lemon Chiffon Cake to treat yourself to something sweet and tangy after relishing the enticing flavors. The culinary voyage at Ahavah will leave your mind in awe with its extravagant plating ideas which should be added to the list of things to do in Shillong.

Location: Upland Rd, Nongkynrih, Laitumkhrah, Shillong, Meghalaya 793003

Opening Hours:

Monday to Friday: 12.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.
Saturday to Sunday: 9.30 a.m. to 10.30 p.m.

Cuisine: Italian, French, Mediterranean

Must-try Dishes: Chicken Roulade, Chicken Florentine, Pasta Ravioli, Cottage Pie, Cheesecake, Lemon Chiffon Cake, Prawn Shooter

5. Mynt at Vivanta Shillong: Explore the Diverse Range of Flavors

Tucked within the premises of Vivanta by the Taj, Mynt is an all-day dining restaurant that will cater to your every meal preference ranging from the healthiest breakfast salad bowls to the scrumptious buffet options. Mynt features an opulent interior adorned by a pyramid shaped glass ceiling that can make you gaze at the twilight sky at night enhancing your lavish and intimate dinner experience. Best known for the exquisite European, Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, and Indian cuisine, you can find a myriad of well-curated dishes including the regional delicacies out of which Meat Curry with Bamboo Shoots is a must-try dish that will delight your senses. You can even plan for a delightful lunch at Mynt, one of the top restaurants in Shillong, after sightseeing where you can relax in the peaceful environment.

Location: Police Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001

Opening Hours: 7 a.m. to 10.30 p.m.

Cuisine: European, Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, Indian

Must-try Dishes: Warm Chicken Salad, Tom Yum Kung, Grilled Pomfret, Duo of Chicken, Steak of Balsamic Marinated Grilled Veggies, Risotto Gambari, Khao Suey, Kumbao Chicken, Meat Curry with Bamboo Shoots, Doh Shain, Blackberry Mrunu, Kesari Rasmalai

6. Little Chef Spices of Asia: Treat Yourself to the Khasi Biryani

Located on the outskirts of Shillong, Little Chef Spices of Asia is an ideal family restaurant that caters to the preferences of every visitor. Best known for the authentic regional and Southeast Asian flavors, the restaurant boasts of its esteemed chef who curates flavorful delicacies with an ideal blend of traditions and innovation. With a decent casual dining setup, visitors can experience the warm hospitality of the locals along with the heartwarming food. Never forget to try out their signature dish “Khasi Biryani” made of organic ingredients, adorned with a fine garnishing. As Shillong is best known for its rich vegetation and agriculture and one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya, you can learn about the traditional methods of cooking and their local ingredients from the chef which make their cuisine stand out among the typical Indian cuisine.

Location: Golf Links, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001

Opening Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Cuisine: Regional, Southeast Asian

Must-try Dishes: Khasi Biryani, Chef’s Special Thali

7. Lamee Restaurant: Rediscover the Best Indian Flavors

Another culinary highlights in Police Bazar, Shillong is the Lamee restaurant which boasts of its warm hospitality offered to the customers. Specialized in Indian and Chinese cuisine, the Lamee will undertake you on an enriching gastronomic voyage to redefine its flavors and tastes. Lamee has been welcoming guests for quite a long time for its ideal location and accessibility, making it convenient for the visitors to have a delicious dinner after shopping in the bustling streets of Police Bazar. You should try out their chef’s special Fish Lamee and Lamee Garlic Pepper Sizzler for an ultimate sensual delight after a tiring day. Chicken Wanton in Hot Garlic Sauce is another highlight of Lamee, one of the best Chinese restaurants in Shillong, that will blow away your mind with the flavorful tastes of meat and minced veggies.

Location: Lovi's Arcade, GS Rd, Police Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001

Opening Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Cuisine: Chinese & Indian

Must-try Dishes: Chicken Cutlet, Chicken Seekh Kabab, Paneer Khati Roll, Stuffed Mushroom, Baby Corn Golden Fry, Chicken Chili Roasted, Fish Lamee Special, Chicken Wanton in Hot Garlic Sauce, Chinese Style Roast Chicken, Lamee Garlic Pepper Sizzler

8. Rynsan Restaurant: Feel the Essence of Northeastern Cuisine

Embark on an invigorating journey that tells stories from verdant hills and picturesque valleys relating to food, music, and culture at Rynsan Restaurant. Best known for its exquisitely curated menu featuring Northeastern and Southeast Asian cuisine, Rynsan Restaurant bring the farm fresh picks to your table from the rural organic and urban gardens which result in an idyllic blend of traditions and modern innovative ideas, reflected on your artful platter. Apart from the wide range of lunch and dinner options, you can enjoy a private dining experience with your beloved for an alluring affair. Never forget to try out their main highlights from the menu like Chicken & Bamboo Shoot, Jaiur Wings, Rynsan Roast Chicken, Rynsan Fish Cake, the traditional “Jadoh”, etc., for an immersive dining experience in Shillong, one of the best places to visit in India.

Location: 36 Boyce Road, College, near Shillong, Laitumkhrah, Shillong, Meghalaya 793003

Opening Hours: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. (Lunch)

6 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Dinner)

Cuisine: Northeastern & Southeast Asian

Must-try Dishes: Chicken & Bamboo Shoot, Rynsan Garden, Jaiur Wings, Prawn Chorizo, Doh Syiar, Ja Thiang, Kombucha, Shamu Datshi, Rynsan Roast Chicken, Rynsan Fish Cake, Jadoh, Laitkynsew Honey Cake

9. Sao Aiom Restaurant at Ri Kynjai: Relish the Flavorful Khasi Palate

Sao Aiom restaurant, which is a part of Ri Kynjai Serenity by the Lake and is situated in Umbir, is known for its delicious Northeastern and Khasi food, which will entice you with its distinguished and sophisticated flavors. Sao Aiom, which means "Four Seasons" in Khasi, offers you a nutritious platter with simple yet unusual flavors made using lesser-known and locally cultivated products. Since it is best known for its ideal location, you can immerse yourself in the captivating sights of Umiam Lake where nature meets tranquility. Apart from the regional delicacies, the restaurant also features Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine where you can savor the succulent dishes with explosion of flavors. Don’t forget to try out their famous “jadoh”, which is cooked with rice and minced meat, seasoned with veggies, for a sensual delight and should be added to the list of things to do in India.

Location: MV7H+QF, Umbir, Meghalaya 793122

Opening Hours: 7 a.m. to 9.30 p.m.

Cuisine: Northeastern, Indian, Chinese, Continental

Must-try Dishes: Jadoh, Do O Pura

10. Ginger Restaurant: Adore the Plush Interiors

One of the oldest and best restaurants in Shillong, Ginger Restaurant is the ideal spot for you to unwind in the lap of luxury. The restaurant features the chef’s specially curated menu out of which the guest’s all-time favorites are signature sizzler, Shyam Savera Kofta, Jhinga Nesha, Tibetan Thukpa including the regional delights like Jadoh, Dohkhleh, Doh Neiiong. The restaurant takes pride in its dedicated team to deliver top-notch hospitality to the guests over the years resulting in recurrent visits. Begin your culinary quest in the heart of Shillong by visiting the Ginger Restaurant which has a chic interior adorned by modern sophistication. Never forget to admire the culinary artist for handcrafting exotic flavors and exquisite plating ideas, making the dishes look artful and lustrous at Ginger, the best seafood restaurant in Shillong.

Location: Hotel Polo Towers, Polo Grounds, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001

Opening Hours: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Cuisine: Chinese, Continental, Indian

Must-try Dishes: Tibetan Thukpa, Tom Yum Soup, Pollo Alle Mandorle, Polo Towers Signature Sizzler, Steamed Fish in Black Bean Sauce, Jhinga Nesha, Shyam Savera Kofta, Jadoh, Dohkhleh, Doh Neiiong

While planning your trip to Shillong, Meghalaya, prepare a list of restaurants in Shillong to embark on an immersive culinary odyssey to delve into its rich culture. It’s always a pleasure to learn about a region’s culture by engaging yourself in gastronomic tours, community talks, heritage walks to broaden your horizon and enhance your insights. Shillong will never fail to mesmerize you with its incredible culture, splendid natural beauty, delectable and nutritious food, and warm hospitality of the locals. Book your Meghalaya tour packages with us right way for amazing deals to rejoice in the lap of pristine nature.

Restaurants in Shillong FAQ’s

Q1. What is the famous food in Shillong?

Even though Shillong has a plethora of local delicacies made from locally sourced ingredients, the famous food in Shillong is Jadoh. It is usually made from cooked rice and minced meat which is seasoned with local herbs and veggies to make it flavorful.

Q2. What is the best food in Khasi?

Khasi cuisine is best known for its exotic local ingredients and the simplest cooking methods making it flavorful and unique. The best food items in Khasi cuisine are:

Jadoh
Dohkileh
Pumaloi
Pukhlein
Bamboo Shoot

Q3. What are the top 5 restaurants in Shillong?

Shillong has innumerable dining options serving local delicacies, Indian classics to the fanciful international flavors. The top 5 restaurants in Shillong are:

Heritage Club
Spectra
Ahavah Shillong
Mynt
Rynsan Restaurant

Q4. What is the dessert of Meghalaya?

Even though Meghalaya has a plethora of traditional dessert options, Pusaw is considered the most famous dessert of Meghalaya. Often consumed as a snack with tea, Pusaw is made from red rice which is a special variety of rice grown in the fields of Khasi hills.

Q5. What is the convenient way to reach Shillong?

Since Guwahati Airport is the only international airport in the entire Northeastern region, the best and most convenient way to reach Shillong is to book a cab from Guwahati airport and it is a 4 hours' drive.

Q6. What is the ideal time to visit Meghalaya?

The ideal time to visit Meghalaya is during the summer months starting from April to June since the weather remains pleasant, making your travel easy and convenient. You can rejuvenate your soul by visiting Meghalaya during these months since it becomes lively with the new blooms.

Q7. How many days are required for Meghalaya?

It is always suggested to spend a week in Meghalaya to cover all the highlighted destinations like Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong, Jowai. Since all these destinations are scattered in every nook and corner of the state, enriched with natural splendors, it is ideal to plan a 7-day trip.

Q8. What are the top cafes in Shillong?

Shillong has many quirky cafes in its narrow and beautiful alleys which welcome tourists to embark on a diverse culinary journey. The top 5 cafes in Shillong are:

Dylan’s Cafe
Shillong Cafe
The Living Roof
You & I
Cherry Bean Cafe

Q9. Where is Spectra Restaurant located?

Spectra Restaurant is in the heart of Shillong, Police Bazar. Moreover, it is tucked within the premises of the Mariott Hotel, which offers a fine dine experience with an extensive selection of buffet options.

Q10. What’s the specialty of Meghalaya?

Meghalaya, also known as “Abode of Clouds,” is best known for its misty hills and mountains adorned with lush greenery, splashing waterfalls, vast meadows, picturesque valleys, and rich culture to leave your mind in awe. Khasi food is the major highlight of Meghalaya’s culture.