EATING
Hasty Tasty
Centrally located on Nehru Road, Hasty Tasty has been around for about two decades. Crowded during lunch hours, this vegetarian, self-service restaurant serves North Indian, South Indian and Chinese cuisine. Grab a table by the window, and tuck into wholesome, simple food. Try the North Indian and South Indian Thali.
Hotel Shangri-La
At the centre of Chowrasta and Nehru Road, Hotel Shangri-La is a reputed name for its food and service. The restaurant’s old world charm makes it ideal for a leisurely drink and scrumptious meal in the evening. Do try the Malaysian flat noodles called Kway Teow and Dragon Prawns here.
Glenary’s
Glenary’s is a legendary shop for tea and baked goodies. Drop in for the yummiest pastries loved all over the town and beyond.
Himalayan Java Coffee
Himalayan Java Coffee is a new cafe with modern decor and a contemporary but limited menu. They have perfected the art of coffee-making. Try any of the coffees with a waffle, as you watch pedestrians strolling on Nehru Road.
SHOPPING
Nathmulls The World of Tea
Nathmulls is among the oldest retailers of exclusive Darjeeling teas. Educate yourself with the variety of tea produced here before packing some for home. They also have interesting and creative teapots and accessories.
Mall Market
Go onto Mall Market where you will find winter wear and trendy accessories like bags, Rastafarian-coloured headbands or beads and quirkily designed hot water bags. Don’t forget to bargain.
Biswa Bangla and Das Studio
Head to Biswa Bangla and gawk at Bengal’s crafts, saris, artefacts and organic cosmetics and taste some Bengali sweet treats. Only a few steps away is Das Studio which dates back to 1927 and is the place to admire (or buy) archival art, posters and photographs of Darjeeling. The postcards here are especially charming.
Tribes India
There is a small store of Tribes India which is a good place to buy tribal jewellery, traditional wear and other local produce, including Darjeeling and Assam tea. The place mostly doesn’t accept cards so go prepared with cash.
