Iftar dining gains popularity in Kashmir as restaurants embrace new cultural shift

Srinagar, Mar 18: Kashmir has traditionally been a place where eating out was reserved for rare occasions. For generations, Iftar in Kashmir remained a private affair. However, in recent years, a noticeable shift has emerged—more people are choosing to break their fast outside, in restaurants and cafes, embracing a new cultural trend.

Families previously preferred home-cooked meals, and restaurants were not a frequent choice for social gatherings. But due to changing lifestyles, an increase in the number of working professionals—especially women—and a new generation eager to explore different culinary experiences with a good ambience, eating out during Iftar has now become more frequent.

For many young working professionals, eating out also provides relief from household chores.

Ishfan Khan, a young professional in Srinagar, who finishes his office shift close to Iftar time, finds it more practical to break his fast at a restaurant with his colleagues than to do it while commuting.

"The fact that restaurants are providing a good experience of eating out at Iftar gives you the peace and relaxation one needs at the end of the day,” he said.

Similarly, for some families eating out offers a stress-free experience, and occasional dining out is becoming a norm.

With this new trend, restaurants across Srinagar are embracing the shift by curating special Iftar platters that cater to diverse tastes. The menus range from Turkish-inspired feasts to traditional South Asian delicacies.

A taste of Middle Eastern cuisines in Srinagar

Restaurants-cum-cafes like 14th Avenue Srinagar and Noor Lounge Srinagar have introduced special Turkish platters for Ramadhan, offering a unique culinary experience. Their Iftar menus feature dishes such as Hummus (plain), Muhammara, Tabbouleh, Chicken Kebab, Pita Bread, and Baklava for dessert. Fresh fruits and dates are also served as complimentary additions.

For people who prefer traditional flavours, Shamyana Restaurant, known for its long-standing reputation in Indian and Asian cuisine, has curated special Iftar platters featuring Biryani, Mutton Tikka, Mutton Kebab, and Chicken Tikka, served with complimentary dates and fresh fruits. Another prominent eatery, Vintage, located along the scenic Boulevard with a rooftop view of Dal Lake, provides a good culinary experience. Their Ramadhan special includes Kebabs, Biryanis and other dishes offering a mix of local and international tastes.

Many other restaurants in Kashmir are offering special Iftar platters during Ramadhan as well. Several restaurants in Shahr-e-Khaas are also offering a variety of Iftar platters. Residents of Srinagar said that restaurants are doing good business during Ramadhan, with people now more open to the idea of eating outside with families and friends.

Broader cultural shift

Locals see the rise of Iftar dining in Kashmir reflects a broader change driven by the increase in the number of working professionals, especially women, and an urban approach to lifestyle for the new generation. Additionally, they see, the influence of global food trends has shaped the new culinary experience and the shift mirrors the culture of Middle Eastern countries like Qatar, UAE and Saudi Arabia where restaurants, cafes, and markets remain open late into the night and even at Sehri.