A Culinary Delight at the Heart of Shimla – Ashiana Restaurant
Nestled right on the iconic Ridge in Shimla, Ashiana Restaurant is a gem that perfectly blends delectable flavors with unbeatable views. We recently dined there and were left thoroughly impressed by the food, ambiance, and hospitality.
The meal began with a classic dosa that was a masterpiece in itself—perfectly crisp on the outside and paired with fresh coconut chutney and a hearty sambhar that was bursting with flavor. It was the perfect way to kick off our culinary journey.
Next, we tried the chhole bhature, which was a revelation. The bhature were golden, fluffy, and beautifully cooked, while the chhole was rich, spicy, and seasoned to perfection. Every bite felt like comfort food with a gourmet twist.
The highlight of the day, however, was the local chicken delicacy—prepared with a medley of Himachali spices that elevated it to an entirely different level. The dish was a celebration of authentic regional flavors, with tender, succulent chicken that melted in the mouth and left us craving for more.
What sets Ashiana apart is not just its food but also its ambiance. The restaurant’s location on the Ridge offers panoramic views of Shimla, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a meal. Whether you’re seated indoors or outdoors, the serene environment adds a special charm to the dining experience.
The staff deserves a special mention for their warm hospitality and prompt service. They made sure our experience was seamless and memorable.
Ashiana Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone in Shimla. Whether you’re looking to enjoy local Himachali flavors or indulge in North and South Indian classics, this place has something to satisfy every palate.
Highly...
Read moreA lovely mix of heritage, view, and good food!
Goofa Ashiana Restaurant is one of the oldest and most iconic restaurants in Shimla, located right on The Ridge, near Mall Road. It’s managed by Himachal Pradesh Tourism (HPTDC) and has been a favorite among both locals and tourists for many years.
The restaurant is split into two levels – Goofa (underground) and Ashiana (upper level). The building itself is a beautiful British-era structure with arched windows and wooden interiors. The architecture and design give it a historic charm, and the views from the upper level are amazing — especially at sunset, when you can see the hills and rooftops of Shimla glowing in golden light.
The menu offers a mix of Indian, Himachali, Chinese, and Continental food. I tried the Himachali thali, which was delicious and unique. The tomato soup, pakoras, and tandoori trout were also really good. The prices are reasonable considering the location.
The staff were polite, though service was a little slow, which is understandable during peak hours. The restaurant is clean, with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors. It’s a great spot to take a break while walking on Mall Road.
What I liked: • Historic and charming building • Great views from the upper floor • Tasty local food • Calm and peaceful ambiance
What could be better: • Service can be slow during busy times • Limited drink options • Payment is by cash or card only (no UPI)
⸻
Overall, a must-visit place in Shimla — not just for the food, but also for the experience. It’s peaceful, scenic, and full of...
Read moreThe Goofa Ashiana Restaurant, a curcular wood and stone structure with huge windows overlooking the Ridge on one side and the Upper Mall Road on the other, surprises on the upside with its delicious and moderately priced cuisine. Guests have a choice of sitting indoors(good for chilly days), or the more informal outdoor dining area with its parquet floors and ornamental, cast iron garden chairs and tables. The indoor interiors look moderately plush with long curtained windows, and tables with bright blue dining cloths arranged near windows overlooking the Ridge. Its great for people-watching, and while you're under no pressure to leave any time soon, you may feel embarrassed to linger by the constant ingress of casual diners strolling in from the Ridge. For a prime location like this, the food prices are modest. I ordered an absolutely good-value Himachali thali, since it was lunch time. It came in a traditional brass plate with small brass containers with dessert, kadhi, chholey, pumpkin curry, gattey ki sabzi, rice and puri. It was absolutely delicious and very filling indeed. I'd a casual look at the bar menu. The prices are much on the higher side, else this place is the kind for which drinks were invented. After lunch I sat out on the large terrace with its pretty bright blue and adobe tiles, enjoying the crowds roaming on the Mall below. The sun burst through the clouds after a while, warming my skin, my heart having already warmed up with yummy Himachali food. The Goofa Ashiana is a place that welcomes you to visit...
Read more