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Guide to California

Modern chai spots

A cup of chai in a clean, modern space offers a sharp focus for the afternoon.

Based on 715 Opinions
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01
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Modern coffee shop with spacious indoor and outdoor seating including a large patio and a small intimate room with couches. Atmosphere feels warm, inviting, and relaxed with airy, cozy vibes and curated design. Frequented by people working, studying, or socializing in a calm, friendly environment.

Chai tea comes at a perfect temperature with beautiful presentation. The chai latte pairs well with snacks like waffles and paninis.

Space feels modern and cozy with a relaxed vibe. It blends a cute, homey touch with inviting design.

People are saying

"I had the best chai I've ever tasted, perfectly warm."

"I love their Modern baked goods, especially the grain-free and dairy-free options."

Good to know

1

Abode Coffee is open until 7 PM most evenings.

2

There is plenty of parking available.

3

The team allows placing a call ahead order and texting a QR code for payment.

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Cozy dining room offers a candlelit, warm atmosphere that feels both romantic and inviting. The space balances a peaceful, sanctuary-like vibe with moments of loudness that challenge conversation. Guests enjoy a modern, upscale take on Indian cuisine in a clean, beautifully designed setting.

Freshly made chai features ginger and cardamom with a fennel note that aids digestion. Both the chai tea and chai latte come out rich and aromatic, echoing flavors found in India.

Interesting modern Indian fusion cuisine offers a fresh take on traditional dishes. The menu impresses even those familiar with classic Indian food, highlighting its innovative flavors.

People are saying

"The chai here is rich, aromatic, and perfectly comforting."

"I loved their modern take on Indian cuisine."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets busy quickly.

2

The average cost per person is around $40, including gratuity.

3

Many dishes can be made vegan upon request.

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Small open dining room offers modern yet authentic Indian vibes with simple yet elegant decor and relaxing music. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, creating a friendly and enjoyable dining experience. Cleanliness and attentive staff contribute to a well-put-together environment.

Hot chai comes comforting and aromatic, with a perfectly made masala blend. It pairs well with refreshing mango lassi and complements the meal's warmth.

Stunning aesthetic blends modern and authentic Indian vibes. Decor feels cozy and the ambiance stays clean and fresh.

People are saying

"The Modern food here is bursting with flavor and authentic."

"The chai here is hot, aromatic, and so good."

Good to know

1

Curry night is a popular event, attracting many visitors each month.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially during special events.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of spice levels for dishes to suit different preferences.

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Coffee shop offers a modern, cozy design with Bauhaus-like decor and plenty of seating options including outdoor tables. Atmosphere is bright and bustling, often loud, making it better suited for socializing than focused work. Frequented by people on laptops, it combines a trendy vibe with functional amenities like power outlets and Wi-Fi.

Spicy chai with balanced sweetness stands out here. Options include chai latte with whole milk, iced chai latte with oat milk, and a unique Ube Chai Latte.

Space features a modern vibe with Bauhaus decor and a cozy interior that balances style and comfort.

People are saying

"The modern yuzu matcha tonic is bright and refreshing."

"I had the best chai in Southern California here."

Good to know

1

Parking at Homeboy Coffee can be challenging due to its popularity.

2

Expect longer wait times during rush hours, especially on weekends.

3

The coffee shop has plenty of seating and power outlets for studying.

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Open floor plan blends sleek modern design with traditional Middle Eastern elements creating a vibrant atmosphere. Comfortable furniture and a curated Arabic playlist support a relaxed vibe ideal for socializing. Outdoor seating with heaters expands the welcoming space.

Smooth, fresh chai stands out with a flavor unlike generic versions. Karak chai and signature lattes balance richness and smoothness, crafted with care for a super yummy taste.

Decor blends sleek modern design with traditional Middle Eastern elements, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The vibe stays clean and lively, fitting for families or late-night outings.

People are saying

"It's a modern twist on Arabic flavors, with rich, authentic tastes."

"The chai here is smooth, fresh, and uniquely flavorful."

Good to know

1

Habibi's has ample parking available for visitors.

2

The cafรฉ accepts credit cards and mobile payments.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially on Saturday afternoons.

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Bright, modern space with chic, comfy seating and clean, cream decor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere ideal for studying or chatting. Soft Arabic music and available board games add a relaxed, friendly vibe. Plenty of seating and good lighting support both work and socializing.

Chai here stands out for its authentic Karak chai made from scratch, not a mix. The masala chai and kadak chai come served strong and flavorful, matching traditional tastes closely.

Clean lines and a sleek design create a modern atmosphere that feels comfortable and cozy. The cream background and cool decor make the space great for pictures.

People are saying

"The karak chai here is fragrant with cardamom."

"The Modern Turkish coffee is great."

Good to know

1

They close late, which is a huge bonus for night owls.

2

The cafe offers an extensive menu with many tea and coffee options.

3

Expect smaller cup sizes than what is typically considered regular.

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Modern, cozy space with a garden motif and natural lighting creates a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere. Comfortable seating and a clean, airy interior invite both family meals and casual gatherings. The vibe stays refreshing and relaxing, enhanced by beautiful, green decor.

Creamy texture defines the chai latte here, with a perfect flavor that stands out. A large glass costs $5, offering a great price for its quality.

Bright, welcoming vibe blends with modern warm cozy garden style. Uplifting, cozy yet modern decoration creates a relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Modern Mediterranean Benedict was a standout with vibrant flavors."

"The chai latte here is so creamy and delicious."

Good to know

1

The menu features Armenian cuisine with ingredients sourced from local businesses.

2

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

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Coffee shop offers modern decor with huge windows that fill the space with natural light. Atmosphere stays warm and cozy with a low key vibe suitable for working or meeting people. Seating includes comfortable leather chairs and a small outdoor area where dogs can relax.

Strong chai lattes stand out with rich flavor and smooth texture. The menu also features matcha lattes and pairs well with flaky croissants.

Great ambience pairs with modern decor and an open layout inside the cafe.

People are saying

"I was obsessed with their chai latte."

"The cafe's interior has a really modern and open ambience."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is in front of the establishment.

2

The location has easy parking, which is not common in Orange County.

3

The menu offers a wide variety of coffee options, including locally sourced beans.

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Modern Indian restaurant offers a spacious, upscale interior with vibrant, lively music from a live DJ blending Indian and pop tracks. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, suited for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. Walls feature gorgeous paintings and intricate designs, enhancing the cool, contemporary vibe.

Freshly made chai offers a flavorful and delicious experience. The masala chai stands out with its rich taste.

Food delivers a taste explosion with authentic flavors and a modern twist. The setting is very modern and exceptionally clean, offering fast, upscale Indian cuisine.

People are saying

"I loved the modern Indian food, it was authentic with a twist."

"I found the chai here to be flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Live DJ performances occur on Fridays and Saturdays, enhancing the dining experience.

2

A new lounge with a Punjabi DJ will open soon, adding to the entertainment options.

3

Parking can be challenging nearby, so plan accordingly before your visit.

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Coffee shop offers indoor and outdoor seating with a modern, elegant decor that evokes Istanbul. Atmosphere feels cozy and upscale with warm lighting and music that varies in style and volume. Space suits both casual hangouts and working on laptops.

Chai here is deeply spiced and smooth, made with intentional care to match the original Indian style. It stands out as an authentic blend that feels true to its roots, not your average chai.

Warm and inviting atmosphere blends modern elegance with cozy charm. The space feels clean and homey, making it great for a chat, snack, or light work.

People are saying

"I thought the Karak chai was arguably one of the best."

"It's a warm, modern, and clean vibe with a youthful feel."

Good to know

1

They do not accept cash payments; only card payments are accepted.

2

This place gets packed at night.

3

After 6:00 pm, it can be hard to find a place to sit at the coffee shop.

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Small coffee shop with a modern, minimalist design and ample indoor and outdoor seating creates a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Space often hosts business meetings, making it lively and sometimes loud. Pastries stand out as a notably delicious feature alongside quality coffee.

Hot masala chai offers a spicy, not sweet flavor profile that may require added sweetener. Chai latte tastes rich and delicious, providing a distinct alternative to typical chai options.

Minimalist and modern design shapes the space with a clean atmosphere. Seating is limited to about 6-7 tables, keeping it simple and upscale.

People are saying

"It's got a clean, modern vibe."

"I found the chai latte here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy with many 15-minute spots available nearby.

2

They charge an automatic service fee of about 5-10%.

3

LAMILL Coffee does not accept cash; only credit cards and mobile payments.

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Huge space with contemporary decor and a full bar anchors the atmosphere. Live belly dancers provide subtle entertainment without distraction. Outdoor patio welcomes pets and stays comfortable with effective heaters.

Masala chai comes with desserts like Chocolate Nemesis and Indian Creme Brulee, which pair well together. It also follows rich dishes such as Jackfruit & Chestnut Korma and Paneer Lababdaar.

A modern twist shapes classic Indian flavors into authentic dishes. The space offers a chic ambience paired with attentive service.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is a wonderful journey, especially with the Chai."

"I loved their modern take on classic Indian flavors."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street and in a nearby lot, but it's limited.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

Happy Hour offers limited menu items on Fridays from 4-6pm.

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Outdoor patio by the beach offers heated seating with views of the sunset and lively surroundings. Atmosphere blends romantic and serene vibes, making it popular for date nights. Interior features traditional Indian decor but feels dark and cramped compared to spacious outdoor area.

Chai here comes with a hint of cinnamon and pairs well with small plates like pani puri. The Ricotta pistachio sponge cake complements the chai as a smooth nightcap.

Food blends traditional and modern flavors with authentic Indian dishes given a modern twist like sliders. The atmosphere mixes warm, welcoming vibes with both modern and traditional styles.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Indian with a modern twist."

"It's the perfect place to stop for chai and small plates."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great value on drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant features a large number of vegan options on the menu.

3

Most seating is outdoors, providing a pleasant dining experience.

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Modern Indian restaurant with hip decor and Peacock-inspired accents creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Cool music and occasional movies add to the comfortable, cozy vibe. The space feels clean and welcoming, blending traditional flavors with a fresh, contemporary setting.

Hot chai serves with authentic flavor and strong milk presence. Some orders show inconsistency, with chai sometimes being mostly water instead of milk.

A modern twist on Indian food sets this place apart from traditional spots. The vibe feels hip and modern, with food served on modern plates.

People are saying

"It's a modern twist on Indian food, like tikka tacos and masala fries."

"The gol gappa appetizer was so fresh and delightful."

Good to know

1

The total for a meal with drink is around $34.

2

Portion sizes are large and can easily feed two people.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it affordable for most diners.

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Open-air modern design with plenty of outdoor seating and overhead heating creates a pleasant, chill atmosphere. Music volume adjusts to the time of day, supporting a calm vibe. Space separates counter from seating, keeping noise down and offering a dog-friendly patio.

Open-air design and plenty of outdoor seating create a modern atmosphere that feels fresh and inviting. The space blends earthy, healthy food with a pleasant, breezy vibe.

People are saying

"It's a modern coffee spot with a pleasant, open-air atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hard to find, but there's free 90-minute parking in the back.

2

Seating is limited, but there is plenty of outdoor seating available.

3

Prices are on the higher end, with significant increases in the last year.

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Indian fusion restaurant combines modern elevated decor with a laid-back SoCal vibe. Atmosphere feels cozy yet exhilarating, with tasteful lighting and elegant furnishings. Specialty cocktails feature an Indian twist, complementing standout dishes like lamb biryani and paneer pot pie.

Chai comes in several forms here, including a ginger and cardamom chai and a chai martini. The chai tiramisu also stands out as a unique dessert option.

Modern Indian food features perfect execution with spot on flavors. The decor is modern and elevated, and drinks carry a subtle Indian twist.

People are saying

"The modern Indian food here is amazing and unique."

"The chai here is so yummy and uniquely seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times.

2

They have a weekday special lunch at $30 which provides a good mix of dishes.

3

During Dine LA Restaurant Week from April 28 to May 12, there's a $25 lunch special.

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Modern space combines large indoor seating with an expansive patio featuring a fireplace for warmth. Atmosphere stays cozy and inviting, enhanced by Indian music and aromas of fresh dosas. Ordering happens at the counter, creating a casual yet welcoming dining experience.

Masala chai stands out with its superb flavor and pairs well with wings. The spot offers a chill vibe to enjoy this classic tea.

Clean, modern vibe inside with a setup where you order at the counter before seating. The place blends authentic Indian cuisine with a modern twist.

People are saying

"The naan bread here is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor."

"I found the masala chai here to be superb."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers discounted bites and beer from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a wait time of 15-20 minutes during busy dinner hours.

3

Lunch specials are available for under $10, making it an affordable option.

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Small space with modern, cozy design and a moody color scheme creates a stylish atmosphere. Loud music and crowding make it energetic but noisy, attracting people who work or study with plenty of outlets available. Seating suits small groups and casual chats rather than quiet relaxation.

Great spiced chai comes with cinnamon stick and whole clove for decoration. Service includes the cashier personally bringing the chai latte to your table outside.

Decor features a mix of modern and cozy elements, giving a fresh vibe. Some areas feel outdated, recalling a '90s coffee shop style.

People are saying

"I found the spiced chai latte to be amazing."

"I loved the modern decor and cozy atmosphere inside."

Good to know

1

Ape Coffee does not accept cash and only takes cards.

2

Parking is limited in the small shopping strip where the coffee shop is located.

3

Expect a long line during peak hours.

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Space combines modern design with a calm, chic atmosphere that balances busy energy and quiet corners for work. Crowds gather around a specialty coffee bar offering flavorful, gourmet options, while seating remains comfortable and inviting for relaxation or productivity.

The Mahsa chai latte stands out for its rich flavor and smooth texture. Other chai options vary, with some drinks receiving mixed feedback on taste.

Bright and thoughtfully designed, the space feels fresh and stylish without going overboard. It offers a modern vibe that is inviting yet compact.

People are saying

"The crafted coffee here is bold and smooth."

"I got the Mahsa chai latte and it was soooo good."

Good to know

1

The cafรฉ does not accept cash payments; only credit cards and mobile payments.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy periods.

3

Prices for drinks are on the higher side, reflecting the quality of ingredients.

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