Nukkad Café arrives in Dehradun with its signature blend of nostalgia, vibrant energy, and bold flavors. Winner of the ‘Best Restaurant with Live Gigs’ at the Dehradun Food Awards 2025, the café brings with it more than just the reputation of its Delhi roots. It brings soul and character, topped with nostalgic playfulness and this is what makes this café especially noteworthy.
Spread across a generous 6,500 square feet, the space is designed like a love letter to the golden age of Indian train travel. A mock ticket counter at the entrance welcomes guests into a whimsical setting complete with water bodies, a paan stall, a chai kiosk, and even a miniature railway platform. A bar designed as a train compartment stands at the heart of it all, bridging the gap between theme and theatrics with surprising ease.
But what sets Nukkad apart is how the ambience complements its food. The menu is a confident mix of street-style staples and indulgent fusion dishes, offering an elevated take on comfort cuisine. Bold flavours, unexpected textures, and clever plating come together in ways that are both familiar and refreshing. It is street food, yes, but dialled up in terms of both creativity and quality.
The drinks menu is equally creative. Matka LIIT, Tharra-inspired cocktails, and the Sharabi Banta serve as nostalgic nods to North Indian street culture, reconceptualized with a modern twist. These aren’t just beverages; they’re experiences that reflect the café’s larger vision of blending old-school charm with contemporary sensibilities.
Live gigs every day of the year keep the energy in constant motion. From acoustic evenings to full-blown band nights, the entertainment here feels spontaneous yet ultra-curated. It’s a place that welcomes Dehradun’s college crowd just as easily as it hosts families or visiting city-dwellers looking for a laid-back yet lively night out.
If you’re looking for a place where every visit feels like boarding a train to somewhere familiar yet exciting, Nukkad Café might just be your new station.