Today, cafes are more than just places to enjoy food; they’ve become hubs of innovation and unique business concepts. The world is witnessing a surge in theme-based cafes, where the experience goes beyond culinary delights. India, keeping pace with this trend, is venturing into experimental and distinctive cafe concepts. Here is a list of some unique cafes in India that are a must-visit, offering experiences that transcend traditional notions and redefine the cafe culture.
Echoes cafe:
Location: Rajouri Garden, New Delhi
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This cafe stands out as one of the most distinctive establishments. Would you believe that it is managed by a team of individuals who are deaf and mute? Initiated in 2015 by a Delhi native named Satya Niketan and his four friends, the cafe aims to raise social awareness about the challenges faced by physically differently-abled individuals. Overcoming numerous obstacles, they have successfully addressed societal shortcomings. Recently, they have expanded, opening new outlets in Kolkata and Ahmedabad.
The cafe boasts a cozy and intriguing ambiance. Sign language-coded alphabet boards facilitate easy communication between customers and servers. Waiters are summoned uniquely by customers pressing a table switch, activating a light to alert them to the respective table for orders. The distinctive menu adds to the overall uniqueness of the cafe, making it a must-visit.
Igloo cafe:
Location: Gulmarg, Kashmir
I am sure you have heard about the Igloo or snow house in which Eskimos live to escape from the harsh cold. But in India Igloo is rare and in cafe form is impossible. But wait, the impossible has already come into reality by a hotel owner in Gulmarg named Syed Wasim Saha. During building his own house he came upon the idea of a snow house.
Taking advantage of the harsh winter conditions at the high altitude he resides in, where the temperature is ideal for an igloo, Syed Wasim Saha researched online on how to build one. Over approximately 64 days, he successfully constructed a stunning igloo cafe named “Snowglu.” The cafe’s walls are adorned with exquisite snowy art, and both the tables and chairs are crafted from snow.
In the chilly weather, you can savor delicious, warm Kashmiri cuisine at the cafe. Picture yourself inside a cozy snow house while it’s snowing outside—truly amazing, right? Yes, it’s true; Igloos are warm inside as ice is an excellent insulator. If you’re in Gulmarg, don’t miss the chance to visit this unique cafe. Prebooking isn’t an option; walk-in bookings are available on-site.
The Nerdy Indian Cafe:
Location: Saket, New Delhi
This place is a true haven for bibliophiles and foodies alike. The unique concept behind the cafe is that with every order, you receive a free book. Imagine ordering food worth 500 rupees and getting your favorite book for free—it’s truly an amazing thought. Many people enjoy reading books while sipping coffee in a cafe, making this idea a brilliant combination for book lovers and food enthusiasts.
You can place an order for coffee or try the popular “Bunta” from its menu. Other favorites include pizza and Parmesan pasta. It’s undoubtedly a tranquil spot where you can momentarily free yourself from tension. Additionally, there is another cafe that follows the same theme, Pagdandi Cafe in Pune. I highly recommend visiting these cafes.
The Yoga House:
Location: The Yoga House, Sherly Rajan Rd, Bandra (W), Mumbai
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The name “Yoga” embodies health, and the cafe complements it by offering delicious and nutritious food. This cozy establishment is an ideal haven for health-conscious individuals. If you desire restaurant dining with a focus on both taste and health, this is the perfect place. The concept originated from the minds of two young individuals, Manashi Bajaj and Priyank Shingvi, who share a belief in the principles of Yoga and good food. Through their dedication, the cafe has gained popularity over time.
The cafe is housed in a three-story building surrounded by numerous trees. Each floor features a Yoga Shala where you can engage in yoga sessions, concluding with a delightful meal at the cafe located on the sunny side of each floor. The menu offers a variety of options for both Indian and continental breakfast, as well as evening snacks. Choices include different flavored teas, lattes, salads, mojitos, and more.
Puppychino cafe:
location: Shahpur Jat, Delhi
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Are you on the lookout for a dog-friendly cafe? Well, you’re in luck! This cafe is perfect for Delhi residents, but it’s open to everyone. As Delhi’s first dog-friendly spot, it not only offers a menu for humans but also for our canine friends. Other pets are also welcome. Beyond the food, the cafe provides spa services for your pets and a dedicated play area. So, whether it’s a meal or a pampering session your pet needs, you can bring them along for a wonderful time.
You can indulge in a variety of options for yourself, including pasta, pizza, cheesy garlic bread, shakes, and more. Meanwhile, your dog can enjoy treats like pancakes with ice cream, plain chicken breast, cupcakes, and a selection of other delightful items. The cafe even offers the opportunity to celebrate your pet’s birthday. It’s undoubtedly a must-visit place for both you and your furry friend.
Natures Toilet Cafe:
Location: Ahmedabad, Gujrat
Distinguished by its innovative theme promoting “good sanitation and good hygiene,” India’s inaugural toilet-themed cafe, created by Safai Vidyalaya, stands out as a pioneer among the nation’s unique cafes. As you step into the cafe, you’ll find diners enjoying their meals served on tables resembling Indian toilet-themed pots, seated comfortably on replicas of Indian commodes. This unconventional setting offers a memorable and distinctive dining experience, breaking away from traditional cafe norms.
Indulge in a unique dining experience at this cafe, where you can order finger foods and beverages like tea and coffee. The desserts are creatively served in miniature commode-shaped glasses, while beverages come in cup-shaped commodes. Adding to its quirky charm, the cafe introduces a novel washroom concept: “Use and get paid” instead of the usual “Pay and use.” This means every time you utilize the restroom, you’ll receive a payment of 2 Rupees. Adding to the intrigue, the real toilets in the cafe are connected to a biogas system, contributing to the generation of electricity and cooking gas. For a different cafe experience, one should visit the cafe.
The Bar Stock Exchange Cafe:
Location: Juhu, Mumbai
When I first came across the cafe’s name, I imagined a place where one could enjoy a meal while keeping tabs on their favorite stock prices on a digital screen and managing investments. However, my expectations were completely overturned upon learning the cafe’s actual concept, leaving me genuinely surprised.
Indeed, the cafe aligns with stock trading concepts, but with a unique twist—it offers alcohol trading. The prices of drinks fluctuate in real-time through an app, allowing customers to order beverages based on these dynamic prices. This technologically advanced cafe offers a distinctive experience and is a must-visit destination. In addition to the innovative drink offerings, you can also order a variety of food options, including Indian, Chinese, kebabs, and other dishes of your choice.
Black Pearl Cafe:
Location: Bengaluru, and Chennai
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If you’re in search of a cafe with a unique ambiance and delicious food, look no further. This cafe promises an extraordinary setting inspired by a pirate ship theme, complete with various pirate props that transport you into the captivating world of pirates. With locations in major cities like Chennai and Bengaluru, the main cafe is situated in Marathahalli, Bengaluru. Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind experience where the atmosphere and cuisine combine to create a memorable visit.
If you’re visiting with a group of your dear ones, you have the option to choose a buffet menu. The buffet offers a variety of options, including soups, salads, unlimited barbecues, a diverse main course with multiple cuisines, and a selection of international desserts. Even if you’re visiting with a smaller group, you can still enjoy a delightful meal.
Taste Of Darkness Cafe and Restaurant:
Location: Madhapur, Hyderabad
Also known as “Dialogue in the Dark,” this is India’s only dark cafe, providing a unique dining experience in a completely dark room. In this setting, you enjoy the food through aroma rather than appearance. The restaurant is dedicated to supporting blind individuals, offering patrons a brief but impactful opportunity to experience life from their perspective.
Another distinctive concept of this cafe is simple yet intriguing: you pay, choose your cuisine, enter the darkroom, and await your order. Your meal is predecided based on the amount you’ve paid and is served to your table. In the darkness, you can’t see your meal, relying solely on your sense of smell to guess its components. Isn’t that fascinating? Moreover, if you visit multiple times, each meal will be different from the previous one, adding an element of surprise to each dining experience.
The cafe offers Desi Combo, Italian Combo, Oriental Combo, or Paratha Meal. The surprise element is a key feature, with both the cuisine and the menu changing regularly.
NASA Cafe:
Location: Bengaluru
Immerse yourself in the cosmos at this spaceship-themed cafe, where the ambiance transports you to space right here on Earth. Offering a diverse menu spanning multiple cuisines like any regular cafe, this unique spot holds special appeal for children with its astronaut-themed interior and waitstaff dressed in astronaut attire.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, my exploration of “15 Unique Cafes in India – Exploring the Innovative Cafes Across the Nation” unveils a vibrant tapestry of creativity and culinary ingenuity. From cafes inspired by space exploration to those redefining dining in the dark, each establishment narrates a unique story of innovation. These cafes not only tantalize taste buds but also offer immersive experiences, inviting patrons to step into realms where imagination and gastronomy intertwine. As we celebrate the diversity of these cafes, we recognize the evolving landscape of India’s culinary scene and the imaginative minds shaping it. These unique establishments stand as a testament to the boundless possibilities that creativity and innovation bring to the world of cafes across the nation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What sets these cafes apart from others?
- Each cafe stands out with its exclusive theme, spanning from dark dining encounters and stock market-inspired offerings to spaceship-themed atmospheres and beyond.
- Is the cuisine limited to specific types in these cafes?
- Not at all. These cafes typically feature diverse menus, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.
- Are these cafes suitable for families?
- Many of these cafes are family-friendly, with some offering special attractions for children, such as distinctive interiors or themed service staff.
- Can I secure reservations at these cafes?
- Reservation policies can differ, so it’s advisable to check with the individual cafe regarding their reservation options.
- Do these cafes accommodate dietary restrictions?
- Most cafes make an effort to cater to dietary preferences and restrictions. It’s recommended to inform the staff about any specific dietary needs when placing an order.
- Are the prices reasonable?
- Pricing may fluctuate, but many cafes provide a range of options to suit various budgets.
- Do these cafes have branches in different cities across India?
- Yes, several of these cafes boast branches in major cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and others.
- Can I organize events or celebrations at these cafes?
- Some cafes may offer event-hosting services. It’s best to directly contact the cafe to discuss your specific event requirements.
- Do these cafes regularly change their themes or menus?
- Certainly, many of these cafes pride themselves on maintaining freshness and excitement by frequently changing their themes and menus, providing new experiences for patrons.
- Is there a specific dress code for these cafes?
- The dress code, if applicable, may vary based on the cafe’s theme or concept. It’s recommended to check with the cafe in advance for any specific requirements.
A girl who loves to travel and always craving food. Let’s explore some good places and eateries together.