Chai-time is a favorite moment for every Mumbaikar; after all, the city’s fast-paced culture invented the cutting-chai, a half-glass of strong, spiced tea. We list the best tea boutiques and tea spots in Mumbai for a range of blends and flavors.
Chaayos, Bandra Reclamation
Bar, Tea Room, Indian, Fast Food, Vegetarian, Coffee, Tea , $$$
When Delhi’s popular tea bar came to Mumbai, it became an instant favorite. The menu offers 12,000 tried and tested flavors; you can pick from Desi Chai, Sulemani Chai and Cutting Chai, and add flavours like Tulsi, Adrak and so on. You can also sip on special flavours: Moroccan Mint, Aam Papad Chai and Rose Cardamom among others. Next to Church, 86, Chapel Rd, Reclamation, Bandra West, Mumbai, India; 022 3258 1234
Chaayos | Courtesy of Chaayos | Courtesy of Chaayos
This cute little cafe in the commercial hub of Lower Parel is anything but boring. The vibrant walls are full of quotes and art, table-tops have four different hand-painted board games, so you can play while you wait for a hot tea. You’ll find Hajmola, Lemongrass and other flavours in the hot and cold tea areas of the menu. Shop no.11 Madhav Bhuvan building, opposite Kamala Mills gate no.2, Mumbai, India;022 6505 8111
Chai Pe Charcha | Courtesy of Chai Pe Charcha | Courtesy of Chai Pe Charcha
Taj Mahal Tea House | Courtesy of Taj Mahal Tea House
The Taj Mahal Tea House, Bandra West
An old Parsi bungalow converted into a tea cafe makes The Taj Mahal Tea House a popular nook in Bandra. The space has ample corners to curl up in and read, while its blue, cream and yellow tones transport you to a different era. Owned by Hindustan Unilever, you are guaranteed tea of the Taj brand and you can sample flavours like Curry Patta Tea, Oolong Tea, Mint Tea, along with breakfast and tea-time snacks.
The posh-looking cafe only recently opened in Bandra, but its Vile Parle outpost has been an ‘it’ place for quite a while. The cafe has an extensive menu, however, the tea remains the mainstay. Sip on flavoured flowering teas, Oolong tea, teas infused with fruity flavours and more. 31, Opposite Globus Cinema, Hill Road, Bandra West, India; 02269978620/+91 9920577195
