Bir Billing are an adventurous offbeat destination in the valleys of Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. When it comes to food in mountains, you’ll mainly find Thukpa, Momos, Maggie, and Parathas. Well, not anymore! Avva Cafe in Bir Billing of Himachal Pradesh is the only place in the mountains that serves authentic South Indian food.
Inspiration Behind Starting A South Indian Café In Bir Billing
The cafe was started in 2018 by Suraj Dikonda (30 years old) and his father Anil Dikonda (63 years old). Suraj, an advertising professional from Delhi, visited Bir Billing as a tourist. The Snow-capped mountains, verdant plains and extreme sports enthusiasts filled him with inspiration and led him to open a cafe serving South Indian food.
Suraj pointed out that his father has an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit and has tried his hand at many small businesses. He was enjoying his semi-retired life in Pune, but Suraj asked him to move to Bir.
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Avva’s Café Has A Mother’s Loving Touch
Many design elements of the cafe were inspired by a Japanese client that Suraj was managing, and he says the cafe’s USP is minimalism. The café is led by Sunanda (Suraj’s mother). While Sunanda does all the cooking, Anil handles the operations, and Suraj interacts with customers and manages the cafe.
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The Dikonda family has moved from their hometown to Bir Billing to give tourists and locals a taste of authentic South Indian cuisine. Avva’s special dosa, rasam, and filter coffee are among their bestsellers. One can also indulge in authentic puliyogare, idli podi, dahi vadai, etc.
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So the next time you visit Bir Billing in the mountains, do sip some hot filter coffee while soaking in the stunning views of the mountains and verdant trees that lie ahead!
Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/AvvaCafe