History and tea-talk at the iconic Glenary’s in Darjeeling

There’s no dearth of people in Darjeeling’s busy Mall Road. It’s pretty early in the day but one can still see that the people in Darjeeling are out and about. Must be tourists! As soon as I started to look at them with disdain, the nose caught a whiff of freshly baked goodies. The irony of one loitering tourist (yours truly), judging other tourists for being out on the streets so early in the day was not lost on me. The sweet aroma of baked goods reminded me why I was out that day – to get my hands on some of the pastries from the very famous Glenary’s in Darjeeling.

For those of you who don’t know what Glenary’s is, it is one of the iconic landmarks in Darjeeling. Well over a hundred years old, Glenary’s has been around since the time of the British Raj. Though this place was not always called Glenary’s. Back in the day, it was called Vado. But after India’s independence, Glenary’s changed hands, and eventually the name got changed too.


Many things changed in the country, Darjeeling, and even the ownership of the shop, but one thing that remained unchanged was the class and top quality of food items that Glenary’s was famous for. One can imagine English babus singing praises of Glenary’s goods over high-tea.


At present, the Glenary’s is a beautiful combo of bakery and cafe, a bar called The Buzz Bar, and a restaurant.



The Glenary’s old world charm is unmissable. It’s everywhere, from the building’s facade to the classy and warm interior to the delicious food they serve, it’s easy to see why it is such a people’s favourite.


If you have come to Glenary’s Bakery & Cafe, you have heard of their legendary breakfasts. From sandwiches to rolls to pizzas and cakes, everything with the famous Darjeeling tea!



If you must leave Glenary’s for some reason, make sure you come back in the evening for a very interesting and romantic alfresco dining experience. You can look at people from the rooftop open dining area, but here’s a better idea – look at the Darjeeling city view instead.

1. Where is Glenary's located?
   Glenary's is located on Nehru Road, near Clock Tower, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal
2. How old is Darjeeling's Glenary's ?
   Glenary's is over a 100 years old.
3. When does Glenary's open for the day?
   Glenary's is open from 8AM to 9:30PM