Hyderabad’s Chai Trail: 10 Must-Try Cups of Irani Tea
From Charminar to Secunderabad, here are 10 iconic cafés serving silky Irani chai, bun maska, and Osmania biscuits—plus exact spots, why they’re famous, and what to order.
Hyderabad breathes chai. The city’s Irani cafés—brought by Persian immigrants—slow-brew strong decoctions and simmer milk till it’s silky, then unite them in the cup with just-right sweetness. Ready to plan your route? Here’s a curated, city-wide top 10 with where to go, what to order, and why each stop matters.
Hyderabadi Irani Tea
Nimrah Café & Bakery, Charminar
Where: Beside Mecca Masjid, opposite Charminar (Old City). Why it’s famous: Postcard-perfect Charminar views, hot Irani chai, and trays of fresh Osmania biscuits. What to try: Irani chai + Osmania biscuits during a Charminar stroll.
Café Niloufer (Lakdikapul/Red Hills, Banjara Hills, Himayatnagar, Hitec City)
Where: Multiple outlets across the city. Why it’s famous: A Hyderabad institution—kadak chai, malai bun, and signature Osmania biscuits. What to try: Classic Irani chai + malai bun at the Lakdikapul/Red Hills original.
Grand Hotel – Since 1935, Abids
Where: 4-1-395, Abids Road (near GPO). Why it’s famous: One of the city’s oldest Irani cafés; the chai is a local favorite. What to try: Irani chai with bun maska; grab biscuits from the counter.
Alpha Hotel, Secunderabad Railway Station
Where: 7-1-6/3, St. Mary’s Rd, just outside Secunderabad Station. Why it’s famous: The traveler’s pit stop for strong Irani tea and fresh bakes. What to try: Chai with Osmania biscuits or an aloo samosa between trains.
Pista House Zafrani Tea, Charminar (and other kiosks)
Where: 20-4-140/1-8, Shah Ali Banda, Charminar; multiple outlets citywide. Why it’s famous: Saffron-kissed “Zafrani Tea” with a loyal following; kettles for sharing. What to try: Zafrani Tea (kettle) or classic Dum Tea.
Shah Ghouse Café & Restaurant, Tolichowki
Where: Near RTO Office, Salarjung Colony (flagship; other branches too). Why it’s famous: Hearty Hyderabadi food—and Irani tea served by the cup or kettle. What to try: Irani Tea Kettle with Osmania biscuits.
Hotel Shadab, Ghansi Bazaar (Old City)
Where: Plot 21, High Court Road, near Madina Circle. Why it’s famous: An Old City legend; many regulars stop in just for the chai. What to try: Irani chai after nihari/paya or biryani.
Red Rose Restaurant, Panjagutta
Where: Opp. Erramanzil Bus Stop, Panjagutta. Why it’s famous: Central location and classic Irani tea with no-frills café vibes. What to try: Chai with bun maska during the evening rush.
Hotel Nayaab, Nayapul / Afzal Gunj
Where: 22-8-111 & 112, Nayapul Road (near Chatta Bazaar). Why it’s famous: Iconic breakfast spot (paya, bheja) that finishes with a satisfying cup of Irani chai. What to try: Early-morning chai after a nihari/paya breakfast, then walk to Charminar.
Garden Restaurant, Secunderabad (Clock Tower / Paradise Circle area)
Where: Sarojini Devi Road, near Clock Tower (close to Paradise Circle). Why it’s famous: A classic Secunderabad hangout where the Irani chai still draws loyalists. What to try: Irani chai; add a samosa if you’re peckish.
How to plan your chai crawl
- Do it in clusters: Try a Charminar loop (Nimrah → Pista House → Shadab/Nayaab) or a Secunderabad loop (Alpha → Garden).
- Pairings that shine: Osmania biscuits, bun maska, or an onion/aloo samosa.
- Best times: Early mornings for fresh bakes; late evenings for that buzzing Irani café energy.
