Overhyped and Discriminatory
We had read great things about this café online, so we took special time out to visit it — but the experience was extremely disappointing. We arrived around 1:30 PM for lunch and planned to stay a bit longer to place more orders, but the staff repeatedly hinted that we should leave — even though we kept ordering. It felt like they didn’t treat Indian customers well, while foreign tourists were allowed to lounge around with just one drink.
The food was average. There are much better options nearby like TAT, Beatles Café, and Ira’s Kitchen — better food, better vibe, and much more polite staff. Also, the real place doesn’t quite match the images shown online. Definitely not recommended.
This was my first-ever experience like this at any café. I frequently stay in Goa, Rishikesh, and Dharamkot for retreats, and I’ve never come across such behavior elsewhere.
When I asked one of the staff members why they were behaving like this, he simply said, "I didn’t know you wanted to order more," and kept repeating the same. We eventually left — they didn’t even bother to offer us a seat or apologize. It was a pathetic experience. I will never recommend this place to anyone, because it may ruin your mood and holiday. We had kids with us as well, and we had made an extra effort to reach that place.
If you just want to have dinner and leave quickly, then this place might be okay. But if you’re looking to sit back and relax, you might face the same treatment we did.
I would highly recommend TAT or Beatles Café for lunch, dinner, or even just a cup of tea or coffee. Their views are amazing, the food is delicious, and the staff is genuinely warm and welcoming.
We should be a little more mindful while writing reviews, because no one deserves to be treated this way — whether Indian...
Read moreThis is the only place which probably lives up to its reviews and ratings. I went here once for dinner, and loved it so much, that I had to go for breakfast the next morning. Here's my experience at Shivani's cafe -
Food - This is the most important part of any restaurant experience for me. This cafe has reimagined some well known dishes into vegetarian dishes. I loved their veg shakshuka, scrambled tofu, pasta, paratha, and essentially everything I had there. Some of these dishes has an amazing smoky flavor to them. I found it really fascinating that shakshuka without eggs can taste so much better than any egg shakshuka I have had. They also have some healthy meals and drinks who are into that. Their food seemed freshly cooked, the juices were great and did not have any artificial taste, and the taste was perfect. They also have vegan and gluten free options.
Staff - The staff was extremely polite, helpful, and kept checking if everything was okay. Amazing hospitality.
Ambience - They have floor seating with comfortable mattresses and pillows places around tables. They do have some tables with chairs for those who prefer it. But we liked the floor seating better. The ambience is quite laid back. People were here to relax, sit for few hrs, chit chat, and enjoy the food and drinks.
Rates - The prices are surprising reasonable for food this great. Considering its a tourist place, they have kept the pricing quite affordable and you don't think twice before ordering anything. I think they should continue to follow this...
Read moreShivani's Cafe: A Cozy Oasis in the Heart of Rishikesh
Tucked away in the peaceful corners of Rishikesh, Shivani's Cafe is more than just a dining spot — it's a tranquil retreat for the soul. The moment you walk in, the warm, intimate ambiance wraps around you, making it the perfect escape from the bustle of the town. Soft lighting, inviting decor, and a serene atmosphere create the ideal setting to relax, recharge, or simply enjoy a quiet meal.
But let’s not stop at the atmosphere — the food is nothing short of extraordinary. The menu boasts a beautiful mix of local and global flavors, each dish prepared with precision and heart. Whether you're craving a flavorful curry, a fresh, crisp salad, or one of their comforting homemade specialties, every bite feels like a celebration of flavor and freshness. Each dish tells a story, and it’s clear that only the finest ingredients make their way into the kitchen.
The real charm of Shivani's Cafe, however, lies in the personal touch. The staff welcomes you like family, and their genuine warmth elevates the whole experience. Whether you're visiting for a quick chai break or a leisurely meal, they make sure you feel right at home.
If you're in Rishikesh, Shivani's Cafe is a must-visit for foodies and travelers alike. It's where comfort meets flavor in a truly magical setting, and one visit won’t be enough! This place will keep you coming back for more — not just for the food, but for the whole vibe that makes it a standout gem...
Read more