Kolkata Chai Co - East Village

- 199 E 3rd St, New York, NY 10009

In the vibrant and culturally rich landscape of New York's East Village, Kolkata Chai Co stands out as a destination that offers more than just a beverage—it provides a genuine cultural experience. This charming spot is dedicated to serving authentic, high-quality chai, brewed with fresh ginger and hand-milled spices. Unlike the overly sweet "chai tea lattes" found elsewhere, Kolkata Chai Co prides itself on offering a true taste of Indian street chai, capturing the essence of the "chaiwallahs" (tea vendors) of Kolkata. It’s a place that has quickly become a go-to for locals seeking an authentic and comforting cup of chai and a moment of genuine connection.

While the focus is on tea, Kolkata Chai Co also offers a selection of delicious Indian snacks, which are the perfect accompaniment to their signature drinks. The cafe’s atmosphere is casual, cozy, and trendy, making it an inviting space for everyone. It’s a community-centric business that actively fosters a friendly and inclusive environment, proudly identifying as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space. This dedication to culture, quality, and community makes Kolkata Chai Co a unique and essential part of the East Village neighborhood, offering a perfect escape from the city's frantic pace for a quiet moment of tea and reflection.

Kolkata Chai Co is conveniently located at 199 E 3rd St, New York, NY 10009. This address places it firmly in the heart of the East Village, a neighborhood known for its artistic history, diverse community, and lively atmosphere. The cafe is easily accessible via public transportation, with several subway and bus lines serving the area. Its prime location makes it a perfect stop for those exploring the East Village, students from nearby campuses, or anyone looking for a unique and authentic tea experience.

While the cafe is noted as a "small spot," it offers some key accessibility features. It has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible seating, ensuring that patrons with mobility needs can comfortably enjoy their visit. The inclusion of outdoor seating also provides a great option for those who prefer to sit outside and enjoy the lively street atmosphere of the East Village. This commitment to being a welcoming and accessible space contributes to its popularity and positive reputation in the community.

Kolkata Chai Co provides a variety of services designed to accommodate the needs of its diverse clientele, from quick on-the-go orders to a relaxed dine-in experience.

• Outdoor seating: Enjoy your chai and snacks in the fresh air with their outdoor seating options.
• Delivery: For ultimate convenience, you can have their delicious chai and food delivered directly to your home or office.
• Takeout: If you're in a hurry, you can easily grab your order to go and enjoy it on the move.
• Dine-in: The small and cozy dine-in area is perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy their tea and snacks in a calm and inviting setting.
• Onsite services: Beyond just serving drinks, they also offer onsite services, including their food and snack options.

What makes a visit to Kolkata Chai Co a must for New Yorkers? It’s a blend of its core product and its commitment to a great customer experience.

• Great Tea Selection: The cafe's specialty is its authentic, high-quality masala chai, which is made from scratch with fresh ginger and hand-milled spices. The menu includes both classic and specialty chai variations like Kesar - Saffron Masala Chai and Oatmilk Masala Chai.
• Authentic and Delicious Food: The food menu, though concise, is highly praised. Customers rave about the authentic Indian snacks like Samosas and the Breakfast Paratha.
• Friendly and Genuine Staff: Reviewers consistently highlight the staff's exceptional friendliness and genuine nature, which contributes to the cafe's warm and welcoming atmosphere.
• Inclusive Environment: As an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, Kolkata Chai Co fosters a community-focused environment where everyone feels safe and respected.
• DIY Chai Kits: For those who can't get enough, the cafe sells DIY Chai Kits, allowing you to recreate their signature flavors in the comfort of your own home.
• Great Coffee: In addition to their exceptional tea, the cafe is also noted for having "Great coffee" for those who prefer a different kind of caffeine boost.

When you visit Kolkata Chai Co, the must-try item is, without a doubt, the Masala Chai. Customers rave about its authentic, rich, and unsweetened flavor, with one reviewer noting that it isn't "sweet (like at other shops)" but can be customized with sweeteners or flavored foams like the cardamom foam. The Oatmilk Masala Chai is also highly recommended for those who prefer a dairy-free option. For a unique and luxurious experience, the Kesar (Saffron) Masala Chai is a worthy choice, offering a rare and fragrant twist on the classic drink.

On the food side, the Samosas are a clear favorite, described as tasting "like they came straight from an Indian grandmother's kitchen." The Breakfast Paratha is also a popular and satisfying choice. The Parle G Biscuit, a classic Indian snack meant for dipping in chai, is a simple but perfect addition to your order. For those with a sweet tooth, some locations may offer a chai soft serve, a unique and delicious treat made from oat milk. While the space is small, the high quality of the food and drinks, combined with the incredibly friendly service, makes it a perfect stop for a solo outing or a quick, quality catch-up with a friend.

To learn more or to place an order, you can contact Kolkata Chai Co at:

Address: 199 E 3rd St, New York, NY 10009, USA

Phone: (646) 892-3023

Kolkata Chai Co - East Village

199 E 3rd St, New York, NY 10009, USA