top of page
  • joshihemanshu

Forest Side Farm Cafe: Where Farm Fresh Meets Breathtaking Views

Updated: Jul 15

Sun lit beautifully hand crafted rustic wooden of Forest Side Farm Cafe
Forest Side Farm Cafe is famous for it's natural breathtaking view

Nestled amidst the verdant embrace of Kotabagh, Uttarakhand near very popular tourist destinations Nainital and Jim Corbett National Park, Forest Side Farm is more than just a homestay; it's an experience woven with nature's bounty. And at the heart of this experience lies the Forest Side Cafe, a haven for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.


Wheat crop in between guava orchard is part of food forest
Cafe with it's own food forest

Step onto the first-floor deck of the cafe, and you're greeted by a spectacle that sets the stage for a culinary adventure. Lush orchards, sprawling farmlands, and verdant hills unfurl before your eyes, painting a picture of serenity and abundance. The cafe itself is a testament to sustainable practices, its decor crafted from seasoned smoked wood salvaged from a former farm hut. The aroma of wood and the rustic charm create an ambiance that seamlessly blends with the surrounding landscape.


But the true magic unfolds on your plate. Forget the pre-packaged, predictable fare of typical homestays. Here, freshness reigns supreme. Every dish is a celebration of local ingredients, sourced directly from the farm or nearby villages. This commitment to seasonality ensures that your palate is treated to a symphony of flavors that dance with the rhythm of the changing seasons.


Pre-booking is highly recommended, as the cafe operates on a "farm to table" philosophy, ensuring the utmost quality and freshness. But the wait is worth it. The Kumaoni Thali, a vibrant tapestry of traditional dishes, is a must-try. Succulent curries, fluffy rice, and savory accompaniments come together to create an explosion of flavors that will transport you to the heart of Kumaoni cuisine.


Mutton being cooked in a traditional earthen pot called Handi
First Choice of Non-Vegetarians: Handi Mutton takes at least 5 hours to cook in slow heat

For those seeking a taste of the exotic, the Handi Mutton is a revelation. Slow-cooked in a clay pot, the meat simmers in a symphony of spices, resulting in a dish that is both tender and bursting with flavor. And for those with a penchant for global delights, the Wood-Fired Oven Pizza is a delicious adventure. Crafted with fresh, seasonal toppings and baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven, it's a testament to the cafe's culinary versatility.




Crunchy fluffy pizza baked in wood fired oven
Pizza baked in wood fired pizza oven is the Best Pizza as accorded by the guests

But it's not just the main courses that steal the show. The Pita Bread with Hummus is a delightful appetizer, the perfect way to whet your appetite before the main event. And if you're lucky enough to visit on a Sunday, don't miss the chance to savor their freshly baked breads, served with mashed potatoes and a glass of farm-fresh passion fruit juice.


The surprise factor is a key element of the Forest Side Cafe experience. Tucked away in a remote location, one wouldn't expect to find such a diverse and delicious menu. But that's precisely what makes it so special. It's a testament to the passion and dedication of the team, who have poured their hearts and souls into crafting a culinary haven that goes beyond mere sustenance.


The cafe is more than just a place to eat; it's a space to connect with nature, with the local community, and with the very essence of food. It's a place where every bite is an adventure, a celebration of the earth's bounty, and a reminder that the simplest ingredients, when prepared with love and care, can create something truly extraordinary.



So, if you find yourself in the embrace of Kotabagh, Nainital or Jim Corbett, don't miss the opportunity to experience the magic of the Forest Side Cafe. Let the breathtaking views tantalize your eyes, and allow the farm-fresh flavors to dance on your tongue. It's a journey that will leave you nourished, rejuvenated, and forever changed by the power of food and the beauty of nature.



Comments


bottom of page