Hyderabad with its history of more than 700 years occupies a unique place in the heritage legacy of India where different cultural, religious and linguistic influences have shaped the ethos, cuisine, festivals and other aspects of the city. Here’s one distinct flavor, that is considered the quintessence of the region’s unique traditions and it is none other than the Irani Chai!

Irani chai has not only defined but also redefined the café culture in Hyderabad, especially its old city. It was first introduced by settlers who had migrated from Persia, and over time, the beverage and the places serving this chai have evolved into an institution. It is believed that Persian immigrants arrived at Mumbai in last century for a better life and for the purpose of trade. From Mumbai they migrated to other parts of India, including Hyderabad. They brought this traditional concept of Irani chai.

Irani chai and rest of the tea styles made in India differs in its process of making. In the first step, tea leaves along with water are boiled in a separate container water while milk is boiled in a different container. Before serving the customers, the milk is poured first followed by the liquid decoction made from tea leaves. This process still continues in many cafes across Hyderabad, offering the authentic Iranian touch. It tastes the same, with a pleasing and rejuvenating aroma, at any time of the day.

The cost of Irani chai ranges from Rs 10-25 depending on where the tea is served. Usually it is offered in a white ceramic cup and saucer. The milky Irani chai is also known for its unique taste. In Hyderabad, it is traditionally served with other staple snacks like Osmania biscuits, fine biscuit, tie biscuit, and even sweet cream.

It is not only about the heritage of Irani chai, but in the deccan region, it is also about the unique taste that people enjoy. Be it a long day at work or the need to refresh your senses after a nap, a cup of Irani chai releases the entire stress. The signature wooden chairs, décor and tables of Hyderabad’s old city and its café shops, is a distinct mark of Hyderabad city, that defines its culture. Hyderabad is quite famous for its biryani but Irani chai is definitely not far behind when it comes to fame. You can enjoy a piping hot cup of this tea at numerous cafés dotting the city. The brewers of Hyderabad are not only serving you a beverage called Irani chai, but in fact they are treasuring and keeping alive an important part of the city’s history.