At the turn of the 20th century, Bombay (now Mumbai) was the heart of British India: the most modern, affluent, and cosmopolitan city. Among its vibrant streets and colonial architecture, Irani cafes emerged as a timeless staple. These iconic cafes were run by enterprising members of the Parsi and Iranian communities, who fled Iran around the 10th century to escape persecution. Their legacy has endured through these establishments, which became known as a hub for community, culture, and, most importantly, Irani chai.

The Charm of Irani Cafes

Walking into an Irani café is like stepping back in time. Picture large, sun-drenched rooms with vintage marble-topped tables and bentwood chairs, where light reflects off strategically placed mirrors. The heady aroma of freshly brewed Irani chai fills the air, blending with the comforting scent of baked bread and the hum of lively conversations. At these cafes, everyone is welcome—from elderly couples reminiscing about their youth to college students sharing stories over cups of tea.

One of the most famous Irani cafes in Mumbai, Kyaani, is a testament to this enduring culture. The first-floor cabins, often cloaked in the privacy of makeshift curtains, have seen decades of whispered confessions, joyful reunions, and bittersweet goodbyes. It is said that many proposals were made in those dimly lit rooms, and broken hearts found solace in the simplicity of a hot cup of chai and a plate of bun maska.

The Legendary Irani Chai

What makes Irani chai so unique? This traditional tea is known for its deep, treacle color and robust flavor, achieved by simmering milk, tea leaves, and sugar together for an extended period. While a legend claims that adding eggshells to the boiling mixture gives it its distinctive color, it’s the attention to detail and slow brewing that truly brings out the magic. The result is a chai that’s rich, velvety, and soul-warming.

Ahista Tea’s Zafrani Chai: A Modern Tribute

For those who want to experience this old-world charm from the comfort of their home, our Zafrani Chai is a perfect choice. Infused with the luxurious taste of saffron and a robust blend of spices, our Zafrani Chai is reminiscent of the Irani chai's layered flavors and comforting warmth. Each sip takes you back to an era where chai was more than a drink; it was a way to connect with friends, family, and the community.

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Stories Unfolding Over Cups of Chai

As a newcomer to Bombay in the '90s, I, too, found solace in these storied establishments. My first experience at an Irani café was at Yazdani Bakery & Cafe. The bakery’s scent was an intoxicating mix of freshly baked bread, chicken puffs, and sweet mava cakes, perfectly paired with the smooth richness of their bun maska chai. Sitting at a corner table, I would sip my chai slowly, letting the busy world outside fade into a comforting blur.

In the afternoons, the café would be full of characters: from the sharp-dressed businessman finalizing deals to college students pooling their coins to share a plate of kheema pao, a dish so delicious that even strict vegetarians have been known to break their dietary rules just for a taste.

We offer another nod to these flavors with our Vintage Chai, classic blend perfect for recreating your own café experience. Whether paired with freshly baked bread or enjoyed solo, this chai transports you to a time when life moved at a slower pace.

More Than Just Chai: The Food and Experience

An Irani café visit isn’t complete without indulging in their famous breakfast options. Parsi Akoori, a delightful twist on scrambled eggs, is served on crisp buttered toast and pairs beautifully with a hot cup of Irani chai. For those looking for a modern take, our Mint Majesty Chai blend offers a fresh herbal twist to accompany any brunch spread.

These cafes have a rare camaraderie where strangers become familiar faces, and regulars find a second home. Each visit is accompanied by attentive waiters who, despite their busy schedules, would check in with a warm smile and a quick chat. It was the kind of place where the owner might stop by your table, knowing your usual order and sharing a laugh or two.

Preserving a Cultural Legacy

Today, Irani cafes face the harsh reality of modernization, with many closing their doors as the younger generation pursues different ventures. Yet, their essence remains alive in stories, memories, and a few remaining cafes like B Merwan on Grant Road, which survived the threat of closure thanks to the outpouring of love from its patrons.

In the spirit of preserving this cultural legacy, Ahista Tea celebrates these stories through our premium chai blends. Our Blossom Chai, a floral twist with notes of cardamom and rose, captures the essence of shared conversations and laughter over cups of tea, making it a perfect addition to any tea lover’s collection.

Experience the Legacy at Home

While visiting an Irani café in Bombay is an unmatched experience, you can bring a piece of this heritage to your own home. Brew a pot of our Zafrani Chai, serve it in white tea cups reminiscent of those in classic Irani cafes, and pair it with a buttered bun or freshly baked pastries. 

As you sip and savor, know that you are not just drinking tea—you are part of a story that spans centuries, one that whispers tales of community, resilience, and the simple joys of life.