Chiya Chai does a lot more than chai, though they certainly take that part of the business seriously. The modern eatery gives Nepali and Indian fare a fast casual makeover while still delivering on the flavors authentic to the homeland. As for the chai, the owners come from a lineage of tea merchants and source a wide variety of teas and blends from traditional (like their classic masala chai or black cardamom chai) to rather experimental flavors that change throughout the year (like their summer special raspberry coconut chai or blueberry lavender).

The family-run restaurant and cafe cultivates a gathering atmosphere with the open seating. It somehow bridges the gap between a place where students can have a study session and families can grab a quick meal and young professionals can grab a drink. The food menu covers easy bowls for a solo lunch, study snacks, sharable small plates for happy hour and sit-down family dinners. It’s a place that is all in on the food and the chai, and lucky for us, it’s an always kind of place.