Amid widespread rumours claiming that Glenary’s, one of Darjeeling’s most iconic heritage establishments, has shut down, the management has firmly dismissed the speculation. Speaking exclusively to News Ei Samay, Glenary’s Manager Ashok Tamang clarified that the bakery and restaurant continue to function as usual and remain bustling with customers. So, if you are visiting Glenary's this New Year festive season, make sure not to skip your favorite destination amid these rumors.
Sometime around the scheduled interview, the Calcutta High Court ordered the temporary reopening of Darjeeling’s iconic Glenary’s Bar & Pub, one of the hill town’s prominent restaurants, for the Christmas and New Year festive season.
“Glenary’s is absolutely not closed. It’s a rumour, a myth,” Tamang said, stressing that daily operations are running smoothly. “The bakery is functioning well, the restaurant is open, and every evening we see a rush. There are queues at night.”
The confusion, he explained, stems from the temporary closure of the bar. “Only the bar section is closed right now due to certain reasons. Beyond that, as a manager, I cannot speak much, and I don’t want to get into politics,” he said (Before the court order came in). He was, however, clear that the bar’s closure has not disrupted Glenary’s core hospitality services.
Rumours vs reality
Addressing concerns over whether the rumours have dented Glenary’s legacy, Tamang was unequivocal. “I don’t think Glenary’s heritage has been affected,” he said. “We have our own history and legacy. This is a heritage institution unlike newly built restaurants.”
Established in 1885, Glenary’s has long been part of Darjeeling’s social and cultural identity. While Tamang acknowledged that business may have slowed down to some extent, he maintained that customer trust remains strong.
“We haven’t failed people when it comes to food or hospitality,” he said. “People from Kolkata, across India, Delhi, Mumbai, even South India continue to visit us. Many may skip their usual choices, but they come here at least for a cup of coffee, a pot of tea, or our classic bakery items.”
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Balancing tradition with adaptability
Asked whether celebrity requests have ever shaped Glenary’s menu, Tamang recalled an instance involving a group from Kolkata with specific dietary needs. “They wanted gluten-free food due to allergies. We prepared everything according to their requirements,” he said, underlining the kitchen’s flexibility.
However, he added that celebrities rarely make unusual demands. “They are comfortable with what we serve. They respect the food we have.”
On whether any celebrities make it a ritual to visit Glenary’s during Christmas, Tamang chose a broader perspective. “Everyone who walks into Glenary’s is a celebrity for me,” he said. “People from Kolkata, from across India, they make us feel young, even though this is a colonial-era business.”
He noted that the team continuously experiments to stay relevant. “We try new things, remove what doesn’t work, and adapt. We are with today’s generation and also with the older generations.”
‘Darjeeling is incomplete without Glenary’s’
Asked what truly sets Glenary’s apart from other establishments in Darjeeling, Tamang pointed to what patrons often say. “Visiting Darjeeling is incomplete without visiting Glenary’s,” he said. “That says everything.”
Over the years, Glenary’s has featured in films and visual narratives set in the hills. Recalling his most memorable customer experiences, Tamang spoke about emotional connections rather than celebrity moments.
“Sometimes people hug me after their meal, thank me, and ask to take pictures,” he said. “That makes me feel proud and satisfied. It’s not just me, Glenary’s is part of that feeling.”
One word that defines Glenary’s
In a single word, Tamang described Glenary’s role in Darjeeling as “Hope.” “No matter what happens, there is always hope: For better days and for future generations.”
And if he had to pick one dish from the menu? His answer was instant: Sizzler.
“We specialise in continental food, and our sizzlers are selling like hot buns,” he said.
At a time when heritage institutions are vulnerable to misinformation, Glenary’s response is firm and grounded. Rooted in history, sustained by loyalty, and driven by nearly 140 years of trust.
