Cafe Sol - Rooftop Dining on Shimla's Mall Road

Shimla, Himachal PradeshRESTAURANTFoodie Hotspots

A popular multi-cuisine restaurant on Mall Road, known for its rooftop seating, valley views, and a diverse menu of Continental and Mexican food.

iHighlights

Info

RESTAURANT

Info

Foodie Hotspots

Info

1-2 hours

Accessibility

Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

Parking Available

Photography

Photography Allowed

About the Destination

Overview

Cafe Sol is a well-known restaurant located in Hotel Combermere, right on Shimla's famous Mall Road. It's recognized for its multi-cuisine menu that focuses on Continental, Mexican, and Indian dishes. The restaurant is split into two main sections: an indoor dining area with a modern, pub-like feel, and a popular rooftop terrace that provides clear views of the surrounding hills and the town below. The atmosphere is generally energetic and it draws a mix of tourists and local residents. Visitors often come for the food as well as the setting. The rooftop seating is particularly sought after, especially during sunset, offering a great spot to relax after a day of sightseeing. The menu features a wide range of options, from sizzlers and pasta to nachos and Indian curries, catering to various tastes. Being part of a hotel, the service is professional and the overall environment is well-maintained. It's a reliable choice for a meal if you're looking for a place with good food, a lively setting, and impressive views in the heart of Shimla.

Contact Information

Phone: +91-177-2651246

Email: reservations@combermerehotel.com

Why This Place is Special

• Rooftop terrace with panoramic valley views
• Mexican and Continental cuisine
• Extensive sizzler menu
• Prime location on the main Mall Road
• Lively and energetic atmosphere
• Part of the well-regarded Hotel Combermere

Ideal For

CouplesFamiliesGroupsSolo travelersPhotographers

Facilities & Amenities

• Restrooms
• Seating areas
• Wheelchair access
• Parking
• First aid
• Bar

Visitor Tips

• Visit during late afternoon around 4-5 PM to get a good table on the rooftop for sunset.
• The restaurant gets very busy for dinner, especially on weekends. It's a good idea to make a reservation.
• Carry a light jacket or shawl if you plan to sit on the terrace, as evenings can get quite chilly year-round.
• The rooftop area may be temporarily closed during heavy rain or snowfall, so check ahead in such weather.
• The corner tables on the terrace offer the most unobstructed views and are best for photography.
• While the Continental food is popular, their Indian dishes are also well-prepared.
• Access to Mall Road is restricted for vehicles, so be prepared for a short walk from the tourism lift or taxi drop-off point.
• Ask for a table away from the speakers if you prefer a quieter meal, as the music can be loud.

Rules & Restrictions

• No outside food or beverages allowed
• Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas

Safety Information

• The Mall Road can get extremely crowded; keep your belongings such as wallets and phones secure.
• Weather in Shimla is unpredictable. Always carry a light jacket or an umbrella.
• If sitting on the rooftop terrace, be mindful of the railings, especially with children.
• Altitude sickness is rare in Shimla, but it's wise to stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals upon arrival.
• Confirm your table reservation, especially if you have requested rooftop seating, to avoid any confusion.
• Be cautious of monkeys on Mall Road; avoid carrying food openly.

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Location & Address

Hotel Combermere, Opposite Tourism Lift, The Mall, Shimla, The Mall Road, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India

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Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit is from March to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, making it perfect for enjoying the rooftop seating and the views. Winters, from December to February, are very cold but offer a unique experience if you enjoy the cozy indoor seating, possibly with a view of snow-covered landscapes. Avoid the monsoon months of July and August, as heavy rains can limit access to the rooftop.
Peak Crowd: May-June (summer tourist season), December-January (winter holidays), and weekends all year round, especially during evenings.
Moderate Crowd: March-April, September-October, and weekday evenings.
Low Crowd: July-August (monsoon season) and weekday afternoons.

How to Reach

Air

Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) is the nearest major airport, located 115 km away (a 3-4 hour drive). Shimla's Jubbarhatti Airport (SLV) is closer (22 km) but has very limited flight operations.

Train

The nearest broad-gauge station is at Kalka (90 km). From Kalka, you can take the scenic Kalka-Shimla toy train to Shimla Railway Station. The station is about 2 km from Mall Road.

Road

Shimla is well-connected by National Highway 5. Regular HRTC and private buses, including luxury Volvos, run from cities like Delhi (350 km, 7-8 hours) and Chandigarh (115 km, 3-4 hours).

Local Transport

Once in Shimla, you can hire local taxis to reach Cart Road. From there, take the public lift up to Mall Road. The cafe is a short walk from the lift's exit.