Dining Behind Bars? THIS 140-Year-Old Jail Turned Cafe In Meghalaya Is Now Serving Multi-Cuisine Menu

Dining in a centuries-old police station where colonial-era prisoners once stood behind bars is definitely every dreamer's dream, which instantly came back to reality. It truly sounds like a scene from a Bollywood movie, and Meghalaya’s Sohra 1885, a one-of-a-kind café located in the capped hills of Sohra (Cherrapunji), Meghalaya, is letting you dine inside an actual jail.

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Housed in a 140-year-old former police station that dates back to the British Raj. Sohra 1885 is a heritage building turned hospitality giant. Once a detention centre is now becoming a cosy and conversation-starting café that blends history and homestyle comforting food together.

Headed by Vivek Syiem, the current Superintendent of Police for East Khasi Hills and the idea was born when Syiem was a Deputy Superintendent of Police and wanted to preserve the historic structure while giving it a new spark.

The initiative stands as a collaborative effort, which is supported wholeheartedly by the Meghalaya Police and executed by Local entrepreneur Nafi Nongrum. Her restoration of the space carefully preserved some important colonial-era elements, including original fireplaces, stone walls, and wooden flooring, all while converting the jail cells into delightful dining rooms.

The idea of dining in a jail might seem weird or awkward at first, but Sohra 1885 is far from a delightful experience. It’s a thoughtful tribute to history and a clear reinvention of space. From the cell bars that still remain in place to arched windows and aged bricks, the café invites you to enjoy the atmosphere with wholesome food dishes.

The far is something that you could never expect to experience behind the café. All profits from Sohra 1885 are believed to go directly toward police welfare programs. Situated in Cherrapunji, the destination has managed to become a favourite among locals and tourists alike. This go-to destination for those looking to explore Meghalaya’s rich cultural and colonial past uniquely.