India was always a country of chai before the sweep of modernisation swept it away. Suddenly there was a explosion of coffee all over. But 3 boys from IIT are taking the humble chai back to it’s Numero Uno position.
With customisation akin to that of Starbucks, the Kulhars are replacing the big gaudy cups. Their newest store opens up in the madhouse of Hauz Khas Village.
Built as a chic urban cafe, it’s the sack covering on the seats that stand out. It stands out as a ray of hope to the tipsy revellers to regain their sobriety. Let’s move to the chai now.
The Sabkuchch Chai or the Kulhar Chai has nearly 12,000 permutations and combinations. There are some classic Indian flavours like Hari Mirch, Ginger, Lemon. Add to that some exotic flavours like Kangra and Aam Papad ki chai. Also in the wings are some decadent desi coolers like the Modinagar ki Shikanji and the Cheeku Shake.
An exemplary collection of food with loads of street food ticking your taste buds. There is a vada pav, a poha and a keema pav. But if you are out with friends, the maska pav bhujia would be a good idea to chomp down on. Now out with your lady friend, try the croissant sandwiches and the lemon cake.
But it’s their newly launched Thandi Chai that takes the day. Triumphing over its less tastier Iced Tea, the Thandi Chai explodes on your palate with spicy flavours of green cardamom and saffron. Unlike the Iced Tea which is citrusy and light on flavours, the Thandi Chai has deep yet earthy ones. Something definitely worth coming back for.
A place that is bringing the street chai and street food back to the forefront, International ishtyle.
