Mumbai food: 6 best places for cutting chai in the city

A cup of chai in a cozy morning or a lazy evening does wonders to one's mood. A sip of the milk, sugar and tea leaves blended hot liquid brightens up the mood and refresh the hell out of us. It makes a good start to the day too. No matter whichever season it is, tea lovers just hunt for a cup of tea wherever they go. They love to sit over a cup and start their long due conversations with friends and acquaintances. Mumbai has a strong bond with tea. It is the only city where the word ‘cutting' is added before 'chai'. 'Cutting chai' is nothing but half filled glasses of strong milk tea. Yet this ‘nothing' liquid is more than a cup to Mumbaikars. For them the sip brings utmost pleasure and refreshment. If anyone is looking for such an experience in Mumbai, then they must visit these places for a cup of garma garam chai.

Prithvi cafe: This open air café hugged by manicured trees, bamboo and plants is a hot favourite amongst the young crowd of Mumbai. It is located right beside the famous Prithvi Theatre in Juhu, western suburbs of Mumbai. Known for Kadak Cutting Chai, this little oasis is a must visit for those who shares an intimate bond with tea.

Kyani and Co: Bun Maska, Mawa Cakes accompanied by a glass of steaming strong ‘cutting chai' is a major crowd puller of this age Parsi bakery. Those looking for authentic cutting chia in Mumbai, must visit this age old food outlet in Marine Lines for a morning tea or evening refreshment.

Merwan's: Located bang opposite Grant road station, Merwan café serves freshly baked Mawa cakes, bun maska and mawa parantha. This iconic Irani café is also known for ‘cutting chai'. Apart from everything, the traditional ‘cutting chai' is a must try here. It remains crowded during morning because Merwan's strong tasty tea lends a refreshing start to a day.

Chai pe Charcha: The place serves all kinds of tea- Adrak chai, Full chai, Masala Chai in kullad, Paani Kum Chai, Thandak Chai, Dum Chai, Sukoon ki Chai, the popular Cutting chai and lots more. Located in various places like Lower Parel, Prabhadevi, Lokhandwala and Fort, this is a favourite place for tea lovers. If one does not want to experiment with other forms of tea, then the traditional and celebrated ‘cutting chai' is enough to refresh the taste buds.

Lucky Tea Stall: This is basically a chai tapri known for the special cutting chai made from a special mix of ginger and elaichi (cardamom) powder. Its pocket friendly cutting chai and local munchies are must try if anybody is roaming around in Kandivali (W).

Chai Bar Café: The name suggests it all. Located in Andheri (E), Chai Bar Café is known for the glass of Kadak chai made with strong ginger.

All these places serve ‘cutting chai' at reasonable rates. They do not compromise on the taste and quality, and may be therefore all of these are popular crowd pullers since years. Tea lovers, give it a try this weekend! Non-tea lovers can try too! who knows that after trying their ‘cutting chai', non-tea lovers can also fall in love with tea.