Shimla: They say the food of a place tells a lot about the people. And there will be hardly any Shimla paglu who is on social media and have not heard about the Trishool Bakery. Few years back what made it more talked about among hill lovers is a video clip of Preity Zinta on “Coffee with Karan“ saying that she has travelled across the world but Trishool has the best pastries than any other place.
That warm, heartfelt shoutout from the Shimla girl who made it big in Bollywood turned the bakery into a must-visit spot for sweet-toothed travellers. But for those who know Shimla well, Trishool’s story runs much deeper than celebrity love. It has been quietly winning hearts for generations.
Legacy behind Trishool Bakers
Trishool Bakers first opened its doors in 1959. It all started with Bhajan Dass Tayal, who began with a small workshop in Shimla making breads and selling them door-to-door. Over the years, he established one of the city’s most loved bakeries in a prime location on Mall Road. Today, it is run by the third generation of the Tayal family, with Suraj Tayal as the current proprietor.
This makes Trishool one of Shimla’s oldest bakeries that has been serving fresh bakes while the Queen of Hills changed around it.
And the celebrity connection doesn’t stop with Preity Zinta. Laapata Ladies star Pratibha Ranta, another proud daughter of Shimla, also included Trishool in her top three favourite food spots. In her words and stories of homecoming, she reminds us beautifully why Shimla is not just a destination, but a feeling — one that lives in its streets, its people, and yes, in its pastries too.
It also got featured in the July 2024 edition of Forbes India, a proud moment that celebrates its place among India’s noteworthy heritage eateries.
What you should not miss while visiting
If you’re wandering down the lively Mall Road, maybe after clicking pictures at Scandal Point or Christ Church — make sure you step into Trishool. Here’s what locals and visitors keep coming back for:
- The Legendary Pastries: Flaky, creamy, and perfectly balanced. Chocolate pastries, almond pastries, eclairs, and the Japanese-style ones often get mentioned as the best in the hills. Many say they live up to Preity Zinta’s high praise.
- The Famous Spoonie: A rich, chocolate-filled delight that’s soft, gooey, and deeply satisfying. Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself on a cold Shimla day).
- Savouries Done Right: Chicken or veg patties, momos, and biscuits that hit the spot when you need something warm and filling.
- Cakes and Sweets: Chocolate truffle, Black Forest, fudgy brownies, and fresh cookies — all baked daily with care.
- A Cup of Hot Coffee or Tea: Nothing beats pairing these treats with a steaming beverage while watching the world go by on Mall Road.
The bakery keeps things simple and honest. Generous portions, reasonable prices, and that old-world charm mixed with Parisian-inspired touches adapted to local tastes. It’s family-friendly, welcoming to everyone from solo travellers to big groups, and feels wonderfully unpretentious.
Tips for first timers
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings when the freshest batch comes out, or late afternoon for a relaxed tea break. Peak tourist season means things can fly off the shelves fast.
- Location Perk: Right in the heart of Mall Road, near the Gaiety Theatre area. Easy to combine with your sightseeing.
- What to Expect: A lively, nostalgic vibe with the aroma of fresh bakes filling the air. Cash is often handy, though experiences vary.
- For Everyone: Plenty of veg and non-veg options. Kids love the pastries, and it’s a great spot to rest your tired feet.
Trishool Bakers is proof that some places don’t need loud marketing, their consistent goodness does all the talking. Whether you’re a first-timer discovering the magic or a regular Shimla paglu revisiting old favourites, every visit adds another sweet memory to your hill station story.
Next time you’re in Shimla, don’t just walk past. Step in, grab a pastry or two, and experience a little piece of what makes our hills so special.
What’s your favourite thing at Trishool? Share in the comments below — we love hearing your stories!
(Note for you: Menus can change with seasons, so enjoy what’s fresh on the day.)
