10 Restaurants in Shillong That Will Blow Your Mind – #7 Will Change How You Eat Forever!

If you’ve been daydreaming about your next Meghalaya trip, there’s one thing you absolutely cannot overlook – the food scene in Shillong. Tucked amidst rolling hills, misty pine forests, and lively streets, Shillong is more than just a hill station. It’s a culinary playground waiting to take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure. From cozy cafés hidden in colonial corners to bustling eateries serving soul-warming Khasi cuisine, the restaurants in Shillong are as diverse and vibrant as the city itself.

1. City Hut Family Dhaba – Where Flavor Meets Homeliness

Let’s start with a name that locals swear by – City Hut Family Dhaba Shillong. This isn’t your average roadside eatery. Think warm wooden interiors, a menu packed with multi-cuisine goodness, and a vibe that makes you feel like you're part of a big, happy Khasi family dinner. Whether you’re craving butter chicken, pork with bamboo shoots, or just a good ol’ plate of momos, this place has you covered.

2. Café Shillong Heritage – Colonial Charm, Contemporary Taste

Housed in a quaint colonial building, this café blends old-world charm with modern café culture. The pork ribs here are legendary, and their live music nights often steal the show. If you’re a sucker for aesthetic interiors and hearty meals, this one’s a must-visit.

3. Dylan’s Café – For the Music & the Muffins

Named after Bob Dylan, this café is a hotspot for young travelers and music lovers. Their breakfast spread is something of a legend—think fluffy pancakes, aromatic coffee, and a playlist that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

4. Trattoria – Where Khasi Cuisine Rules

Want to eat like a local? Head straight to Trattoria. Famous for its authentic Khasi delicacies like Jadoh (rice and meat) and Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame), this restaurant doesn’t bother with fancy décor—it lets the food do the talking.

5. Deja Vu – Perfect for the Night Owls

A mix of Chinese and Thai delicacies served with a modern twist, Deja Vu is where Shillong’s night crowd flocks for comfort food after sundown. The crispy lamb and garlic prawns are fan favorites.

6. ML 05 Café – For the Road Trip Enthusiasts

Motorbikes, rustic décor, and a menu that screams “road trip pit stop!” ML 05 Café is all about celebrating the spirit of travel. The burgers here are drool-worthy, and the cold coffee is the perfect companion to a rainy Shillong afternoon.

7. Lamee Restaurant – An Old Favorite

Here’s the one that will surprise you—Lamee has been around for decades, and locals swear by its Chinese and Indian fusion dishes. It's not fancy, but it’s a taste of Shillong's culinary past that refuses to fade.

8. Café Shillong – A Classic You Can’t Miss

If there’s one name that comes up every time you ask about restaurants in Shillong, it’s Café Shillong. Known for its pork chop sizzlers and soul-soothing soups, this spot offers the perfect mix of comfort and flavor.

9. Bamboo Hut – Authenticity at Its Best

If you’re someone who believes food should tell a story, Bamboo Hut’s traditional set meals will speak volumes. The interiors are simple, but the food carries the rich, earthy essence of Meghalaya.

10. The Grub Café – Where Locals Hang Out

Want to feel like a true Shillongite? This casual café serves great coffee, hearty meals, and even better conversations. It's perfect for lazy evenings when you just want to soak in the city’s vibe.

What Makes Shillong’s Food Scene So Irresistible?

You see, Shillong isn’t just about beautiful waterfalls and winding mountain roads. It’s about that steaming plate of momos on a rainy evening, the sizzling hotpot you share with strangers who turn into friends, and that unforgettable dinner at City Hut Family Dhaba Shillong after a long day of exploring.

The variety is insane—local Khasi, Tibetan, Chinese, North Indian, Continental—you name it, Shillong has it. And it’s not just the food; it’s the people, the warmth, and the conversations that make dining here an experience rather than just a meal.

When’s the Best Time to Explore These Restaurants?

Honestly, Shillong is a year-round foodie’s paradise. Monsoons bring in the cozy, misty vibes perfect for soups and momos. Winters call for hearty stews and warm bread, while summers are all about light bites with mountain views.

If you’re planning your Meghalaya trip, try aligning it with the spring music festivals or winter holidays—the city buzzes with life, and every restaurant has something special on the menu.

Final Thoughts – Eat Your Way Through the Clouds

So, there you have it—a handpicked list of restaurants in Shillong that will make you rethink everything you know about food in the hills. Whether you’re a fan of lavish spreads or humble local dishes, this city serves it all on a silver platter.

On your next Meghalaya trip, skip the generic buffets and explore the real flavors tucked into this charming hill station. Start with City Hut Family Dhaba Shillong, then wander into the cafés, try a roadside jadoh, and wrap it up with a sizzler at Café Shillong.

Because when you’re in Shillong, eating isn’t just a necessity—it’s a journey of its own.