What’s one thing Shillong is famous for apart from the beautiful landscapes? If you guessed cafés, you’re absolutely right! When people book Meghalaya travel packages , they don’t just chase waterfalls and misty mountains — they chase coffee, too.
Because honestly, coffee tastes better when the views are perfect, and Shillong knows how to serve both. From the iconic Dylan’s Café to the artsy You & I Café, the scenic ML 05 Café, and the charming Café Shillong, each one offers a unique mix of ambience, comfort food, and that signature highland calm. Many even use locally grown coffee beans from Meghalaya’s hills, making every cup a taste of the region itself.
So if you’re planning a trip soon, don’t just visit Shillong — sip through it. Let’s explore some of the best cafes in Shillong that make this hill city a caffeine lover’s paradise.
If you’re exploring the famous cafes in Shillong, Dylan’s Café is a must-visit — a perfect tribute to the legendary Bob Dylan. The moment you step in, you’re surrounded by graffiti-covered ceilings, hanging music discs, and even a portrait of Dylan made entirely from waste materials — pure creativity!
Located on the first floor of Hotel Polo Towers, the café offers both indoor and outdoor seating and even features a unique “love locks” tradition: buy a lock, write your initials, attach it to the balcony, and the key is sent to Paris to be immersed in the Seine — a fun and romantic touch!
With super-friendly staff and artsy vibes, Dylan’s combines art, coffee, and live music sessions, creating an unforgettable experience and earning its spot among the top cafes in Shillong with live music.
- Location: Tripura Castle Rd, Dhankheti, Malki, Shillong, Meghalaya 793003
- Must-Try Items: Honey Ginger Sesame Noodles, Mexican Stuffed Potatoes, and various sides like Garlic Bread and Chicken Sausages
- Timings: 9:30 am–11:30 pm
- Cost for Two: ₹ 500 or up to ₹ 1,000
top-rated meghalaya trip packages
If you’re in Shillong, don’t miss ML05 Café, one of the best cafes in Shillong, a stylish, modern spot that’s quickly won over locals. And yes, it’s a bike-themed café—perfect for motorcycle enthusiasts, especially with a stunning Harley Davidson parked right in the center!
The rooftop terrace is a showstopper, offering breathtaking city views and a perfect spot for memorable photos. From classic café fare to inventive fusion dishes, there’s something for every palate.
Whether you’re after great food, amazing views, or just a cool vibe, ML05 Café is a must-visit aesthetic cafe in Shillong.
- Location: 5th Mile, Upper Shillong, Sohra Road Inside Horti Hub Compound On the way to Elephant falls & Cherrapunjee, Shillong, Meghalaya 793009
- Must-Try Items: Jadoh (a fragrant rice and pork dish), Chicken Steamed Momos, and Naga Chilli Cheese Toast. Other popular options are the Brownie with Ice Cream, various Cantonese-style dishes like Chilli Chicken, and Chilli Garlic Noodles.
- Timings: 10 am–8:30 pm
- Cost for Two: ₹900
Located below NIIT in the LP Building on Main Road, Laitumkhrah, Café Shillong offers a warm and inviting ambiance, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its central location makes it easily accessible, providing a perfect escape from the bustling city life.
With its cozy interiors, friendly staff, and a menu that blends local flavors with continental delights, Café Shillong promises a delightful dining experience. One of the café’s biggest draws is its live music sessions, which add a whole new dimension to the dining experience. The soothing melodies make it an ideal spot to unwind with friends or family.
- Location: LP Building, Laitumkhrah Main Rd, Nongkynrih, Laitumkhrah, Shillong, Meghalaya 793003
- Must-Try Items: Veg Momo with Soup, Red Rice with Vegetables, Hot Chocolate, Lemon Tea, Smoke Pork Noodles, Passion Fruit Fizz, Khawsuey
- Timings: 12–10 pm
Click Café is another gem that locals absolutely swear by! Seriously, if you’re café-hopping through the city, this one deserves a stop. It’s got that perfect mix of cozy corners, modern décor, and, of course, coffee that hits just right. No wonder it’s counted among the best cafes in Shillong.
From creamy pastas to indulgent hot chocolate, everything here feels made for comfort. Plus, it’s a total Instagram dream — cute lights, warm smiles, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee wrapping around you.
- Location: Dhankheti st Peter's building 1st floor, Shillong, Meghalaya 793003
- Must-Try Items: Orange Smoothie, Cold Brew, French Fries with cheese, Pineapple Shake, Non-veg Fettuccine in white sauce, Chocolate French Toast, Potato Wedges
- Timings: 10:30 am–9 pm (Sunday Closed)
- Cost for Two: ₹400– ₹800
And then there’s Cherry Bean Café, one of the best coffee shops in Shillong and hands-down one of the most happening ones in Police Bazaar. The vibe? Chic, calm, and just the right touch of fancy without being over the top. Their cheesy burgers, hot dogs, and perfectly brewed lattes are comfort food goals.
And the fun trivia — this café was actually inaugurated by Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha! Whether you’re stopping by for a caffeine fix or catching up with friends, Cherry Bean makes you want to stay just a little longer.
- Location: GS Rd, opposite Broadway Hotel, Police Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001
- Must-Try Items: Minestrone Soup, Mexican Bowl, Corn Cheese Poppers, Chilling on the Peach, Chicken Hummus Salad, Olio Olio Pasta
- Timings: 11:30 am–10 pm
- Cost for Two: ₹1,000
Located near Shillong College on Bomfyle Road, Laitumkhrah, The Living Roof Café perfectly captures the relaxed charm of the Shillong café culture. This homely yet stylish spot doubles as a café and a boutique hotel-restaurant, offering both indoor and outdoor seating.
The space is filled with artsy décor, soft lighting, and a cozy atmosphere that invites you to linger a little longer. Live performances and board games add to its easygoing vibe, making it ideal for long, unhurried evenings.
The menu is a mix of Indian, Chinese, and European dishes—along with comforting café favourites like pastas, shakes, and freshly brewed coffee.
- Location: 153 Anders, Bomfyle Road, College, Shillong, Meghalaya 793003
- Must-Try Items: Grilled Chicken Pizza, Olio Olio Pasta, Minestrone Soup, Chicken Caesar Salad, Kadhai Chicken, BBQ Chicken Sandwich, Crispy French Fries, Fresh Lime Soda
- Timings: Open 24 Hours
- Cost for Two: ₹800
Suggested Read: Dejavu Restaurant Shillong: Complete Guide for Foodies!
If you love art, peace, and good tea, You & I – Arts Café should be on your list. Located on Mawroh-Mawtawar Road, just outside the main city, this café is all about creativity and local culture. The décor has a rustic, traditional Khasi touch — wooden furniture, local artwork, and musical instruments that give it a warm, homely feel.
It’s a calm and quiet place, perfect for reading, relaxing, or having thoughtful conversations. This aesthetic cafe in Shillong offers over 50 varieties of tea, along with local Khasi snacks and light vegetarian meals, all at a budget-friendly price.
It’s also one of the famous cafes in Shillong with beautiful views and ambiance that feels more like a cozy cultural corner than a commercial coffee shop.
- Location: Mawroh-Mawtawar Rd, Umshing-Mawkynroh, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001
- Must-Try Items: Phan Saw with Fermented Fish Chutney, Boiled Potatoes with Dry Fish Chutney, Combo Lunch, and also options like Smoked Beef, Smoked Pork, and traditional Khasi snacks like Dohthad
- Timings: 11:00 am–7:00 pm (Sunday Closed)
- Cost for Two: ₹400-800
Open Up Café in Mawlai, Shillong, is a fun and friendly place with bright walls and cool comic-style art — perfect for casual hangouts. It’s one of the best cafes in Shillong for both locals and visitors because of its cheerful vibe and tasty food. The menu has a mix of favourites like burgers, pulled-pork tacos, soups, and really good coffee.
Open Up Café truly adds colour and flavour to the Shillong café culture and stands out as one of the must-visit cafés in Shillong for anyone who loves food with a fun twist.
- Location: Mawlai, Mawroh, Pdengshnong, Meghalaya 793008
- Must-Try Items: Beef Korma with Yellow Rice, Open Up Noodles, Juicy Tender Pork, Pork Burger, Pulled Pork Taco, Chicken Steak with Mashed Potatoes, Red Ginger Tea, Peach Iced Tea.
- Timings: 1:30–9:30 pm (Monday Closed)
- Cost for Two: ₹1000-1400
Suggested Read: 6 Museums in Shillong: Complete Guide to History and Culture
If you love a lively vibe and fresh bakes, Grub’s Café & Bakery won’t disappoint. This rooftop café in Shillong is known for its breezy ambience and mouth-watering desserts — cheesecakes, croissants, brownies, you name it.
The food menu’s got all the crowd favorites such as burgers, sandwiches, and pastas, served fresh and flavorful. It’s one of those places that feels welcoming whether you’re out with friends or on a casual date. Between the good coffee, rooftop view, and that homey energy, Grub’s easily earns its spot among the best coffee shops in Shillong.
- Location: Laitumkhrah Main Rd, Nongkynrih, Laitumkhrah, Shillong, Meghalaya 793003
- Must-Try Items: Mexican wrap, Curly fries with bacon bits, Cheesy chicken hot dog, Lumberjack chicken burger.
- Timings: 12:00 pm–8:30 pm (Sunday Closed)
- Cost for Two: ₹800
Suggested Read: 15 Best Restaurants in Shillong: Complete Food Guide
10. Smoky Falls Tribe Coffee
If you're on the hunt for the best coffee shops in Shillong, look no further than Smoky Falls Tribe Coffee in Police Bazar, Shillong. Established in 2015 by Dasumarlin Majaw and her father, this cozy café is a tribute to the region's rich coffee heritage.
They offer locally grown, handpicked, and freshly roasted coffee beans from the Cherrapunjee region, ensuring every cup is a true reflection of Meghalaya's finest. The café's ambiance is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot to relax and savor your brew.
Beyond just coffee, Smoky Falls Tribe Coffee also offers a selection of delectable snacks and light meals that pair wonderfully with their beverages. Their commitment to quality and community is evident in every sip, making it a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts and travelers alike.
- Location: OB Shopping Mall, Police Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001
- Must-Try Items: Locally sourced coffee (especially the Arabica and Robusta blends), Irish coffee, Cappuccino, Flat White, Lamingtons, Chocolate eclair.
- Timings: 11 am–9 pm
- Cost for Two: ₹400 to ₹600
If you’re into relaxed spaces with great coffee and good food, The Press Café should be one of your first stops in Shillong. It’s got that perfect café charm — warm lights, comfy corners, and a vibe that feels both calm and friendly.
You’ll find all your café favorites here, from tacos and chicken wings to creamy pastas and perfectly brewed coffee. It’s a great spot to unwind, chat, or even work quietly for a while. Among Shillong coffee shops, The Press Café stands out for keeping things simple but high quality — definitely a must-visit café in Shillong if you want the right balance of flavor and comfort.
- Location: Jylli Shop, Nongthymmai, Shillong, Meghalaya 793014
- Must-Try Items: BBQ Chicken Tacos, Fish Tacos, Beef Chilli Tacos, El Hango Taco, Chicken Sandwich, Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Burger, Braised Pork, Peri Peri Fries, Mocha, Hazelnut Latte.
- Timings: Open Monday to Saturday from 10:30 am to 8:30 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 8:30 pm.
- Cost for Two: ₹400 to ₹800
12. The Loft - Café & Restaurant
The Loft is a beautiful mix of style, space, and comfort, and easily one of the best cafés in Shillong for couples. With its cozy indoor seating and charming terrace setup, it offers both comfort and a hint of sophistication.
The food is delicious and diverse, with everything from light bites to hearty meals, making it great for both lunch dates and long dinners. As a rooftop café in Shillong, The Loft also gives you that lovely elevated view, perfect for catching sunsets or enjoying cool evening air.
It’s a spot where good food meets good mood, and the whole experience just feels special.
- Location: Belma Mansion, Lower, Lachumiere, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001
- Must-Try Items: Smoked Pork, Chicken and Shrimp Dumplings, Chicken Satay, Smoked Pork Ribs.
- Timings: 12:00 pm–9:00 pm (Sunday Closed)
Suggested Read: City Hut Family Dhaba Shillong: A Complete Dining Guide
Café Sola sits peacefully on a hilltop, away from the city rush, giving you one of the prettiest backdrops in Shillong. The place has a clean, modern look but still feels warm and cozy — ideal for slow afternoons or quiet evening hangouts. The food ranges from Asian to continental, and the coffee always hits the right note.
What makes it special is how calm it feels; you can sip your drink while taking in the city view below. It’s a peaceful corner that captures the real essence of Shillong café culture, and easily earns its place among the must-visit cafés in Shillong.
- Location: Langkyrding-Mawpat Rd, Lumsyiap, Shillong, Meghalaya 793019
- Must-Try Items: Flavorful chicken momos, Spicy chicken burgers, Miso ramen, Pork Hakka noodles, Filet Mignon, Plant-based burger, Chilly potatoes, Coffee, Tea, Dessert.
- Timings: Monday 2–9 PM, Tuesday 12–9 PM, Wednesday 1–9 PM, Thursday 1–9 PM, Friday 1–9 PM, Saturday 1–9 PM, and Sunday 3–9 PM.
- Cost for Two: ₹700 to ₹1,200
Shillong is truly a city that celebrates the joy of coffee, cozy corners, and vibrant flavours, and its cafes in Shillong reflect that spirit beautifully. From rooftop havens with stunning views to quiet, artsy nooks perfect for relaxing, every café offers its own unique experience. Whether you are a local looking for a familiar favourite or a traveller discovering the city for the first time, Shillong’s café scene promises something for everyone — delicious food, comforting coffee, and an atmosphere that makes you want to stay a little longer. So, grab your friends, your partner, or even just your thoughts, and let WanderOn guide you through these charming spots. Every sip, every bite, and every view is a small celebration of Shillong’s laid-back yet lively café culture.
