Something Different - A Beachside Cafe

Welcome to Something Different - A Beachside Cafe, a destination that truly lives up to its name. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Beach No. 2 in Havelock Island, this cafe breaks away from the ordinary to offer a refined yet relaxed dining experience. From the moment you step in, you sense that this is not just another eat-and-go spot; it’s a place where ambience, flavor, and hospitality come together. Couples, families, and solo travelers all gravitate here, drawn by the promise of fresh seafood, thoughtful continental dishes, and a setting that feels exclusive without ever being pretentious.

Located behind Havelock Power House in Govind Nagar, the cafe is easy to reach yet tucked away just enough to provide a peaceful retreat from the island’s busier thoroughfares. The décor merges coastal charm with sleek, modern touches, creating a space that works equally well for a long, lazy lunch or a romantic dinner under the stars. Regulars often mention the complimentary shuttle service and the small, unexpected gestures—like a free photograph printed on the spot—that make a visit feel personal. Whether you’re spending a full afternoon with a book and a cold brew or sliding in for a quick bite before diving back into the Andaman Sea, you’ll find Something Different designed to meet you exactly where you are.

Services & Facilities

Something Different - A Beachside Cafe is structured to cater to a wide variety of needs without losing its signature easygoing spirit. Dine-in guests are welcomed into a cool, breezy interior where tables are spaced to allow private conversation, while an outdoor area captures the gentle island breeze. For those who prefer to enjoy their meal elsewhere, the cafe offers a convenient takeaway option, and contactless delivery is available for days when you’d rather eat in the comfort of your resort or villa.

The team has paid careful attention to the details that turn a meal into an occasion. Happy hour runs until 6 PM, with a two-for-one beer special that’s popular among divers and sun-seekers finishing their day. The shuttle service removes the hassle of arranging transport, picking up diners and dropping them back after their visit. Combined with consistent service that reviewers describe as professional yet warm, these thoughtful touches make the cafe one of the most talked-about venues on Havelock Island.

What We Offer

The menu at Something Different is a carefully edited collection of dishes that spotlight both local ingredients and global cravings. Seafood takes center stage: the whole lobster thermidor is a conversation piece, arriving dramatically at the table, while the tandoori fish and fish curry appeal to those who love bold Indian spices. Each plate is built around the freshest catch available, often sourced the very same day from local fishermen who dock just minutes away.

For guests looking beyond the ocean, the kitchen delivers equally well on land and in the glass. A range of continental plates, burgers, and pasta ensures that every palate in a mixed group finds something to love. The beverage program justifies a visit on its own—fresh juices, chilled beer, artisanal coffee, and a selection of cocktails designed to pair beautifully with the salty air. Save room for dessert, because the almond pudding with caramel sauce has become the cafe’s unofficial signature, and the bread pudding and brownie both have devoted fan clubs among returning visitors.

Why Customers Choose Us

Scan the hundreds of reviews from visitors around the world, and a clear pattern emerges: people come to Something Different for the food but remember it for the experience. The cafe has earned a reputation as the best all-around venue on the island by combining elements that are often at odds—sophisticated plating in a barefoot-friendly setting, attentive service that never feels stiff, and a menu that ranges from indulgent cheesecakes to light, healthful options. There’s a sense that someone is always thinking about your comfort, whether through the gratis shuttle, the happy hour pricing, or the small printed photograph handed to you as a keepsake.

Cleanliness and organization also stand out in the feedback; the restaurant is praised for meeting the standards of well-traveled guests who appreciate Western-level hygiene in a remote location. Families note the relaxed atmosphere and the ease of finding dishes that satisfy children and grandparents alike. Couples highlight the ambience and the care taken with presentation. In every case, the underlying message is the same: Something Different delivers consistency, quality, and a genuine desire to make every visitor’s day a little bit better.

Serving Bamboo Flat & Andaman and Nicobar Islands

While the cafe is firmly rooted on Havelock Island, its appeal ripples across the whole of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Visitors from Bamboo Flat, Port Blair, Neil Island, and beyond make the trip, often planning their day around a meal here. The cafe’s location behind the power house makes it a natural anchor point for those exploring Beach No. 2 and the surrounding attractions, but the shuttle makes it accessible even to travelers staying further afield who don’t want to navigate the island’s roads on their own.

For residents and long-stay guests in Bamboo Flat and Govind Nagar, the cafe fills a niche that few other venues manage: it’s a place to celebrate a special occasion, meet visiting friends, or simply break the routine of guesthouse kitchens and street stalls. The combination of a globally inspired menu, a fully stocked bar, and a setting that genuinely reflects the beauty of the Andamans means it has become a benchmark for hospitality in the region, not just a pit stop for hungry tourists.

Hours, Location & Directions

Something Different - A Beachside Cafe is located at Beach No. 2, behind Havelock Power House, Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744211. The cafe operates from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, making it a solid choice for both lunch and dinner. Peak hours tend to fall on Sunday afternoons and evenings, but the space rarely feels overcrowded, thanks to the thoughtful layout that balances indoor and outdoor seating.

Getting here is simple. If you’re staying on Havelock Island, you can take advantage of the cafe’s complimentary shuttle service—just call ahead or ask your accommodation to arrange it. For those driving or renting a scooter, the landmark to look for is the Havelock Power House; the cafe is immediately behind it, with visible signage guiding you in. The central location means most resorts and guesthouses on the island are within a 15-minute ride. Once you arrive, you’ll find ample parking and a team ready to welcome you with the unhurried hospitality that defines this special spot in the Andamans.