Outside eating habit is very common in Pakistan. We see restaurants, cafes, and picnic spots everywhere. Some of the popular restaurants have been on the top of the list for Roaming Pakistan. But have you noticed the increasing hype of Chai spots in Islamabad? There are countless new tea places that have opened recently in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.Every corner has been occupied by small dhabas with small sittings on pavements that are serving all kinds of tea. Every now and then, we hear of a new, innovative style that has been introduced. And people are just loving it! We Pakistanis are addicted to tea and can’t think of functioning without it.
Over a cup of tea, people tend to arrange family get-togethers, official meetings, and hang out with friends so it plays a vital role in our everyday life. The idea of tea-centric spots and cafes emerged almost 5-6 years ago, still growing, and no chance of ending anytime soon. Here, we have rounded up some of the tea spots to treat you with Karak Chai love!
Chaaye Khana
Chaye Khana is considered to be a pioneer in establishing a tea-centric cafe in Islamabad. When there was a significant consumption of tea in the Capital but no one to cater to the need, they took the initiative. The idea behind their existence is to create a space where you can read a book with a cup of tea, where you can chit-chat with your friend in a homely atmosphere. Where you can take a day off from the hectic and monotonous office environment and still meet your deadlines. It’s a whole package under one roof!
Along with many types of teas, their menu is carefully designed to cater to your breakfast, lunch, and snack time. Music to go along with the mood has been given equal importance. Every detail has its own place and all fits together. This is why they have opened up several branches in other cities too. Their franchises have recently expanded to other countries as well.
Due to the third wave of Covid 19, the Government has once again tightened the restrictions upon restaurants and cafes. Since Chaye Khana has mostly indoor sittings, they had to arrange an outdoor setup. Thus, currently, all the indoor seating is closed however, they are serving outdoor.
Photo by Chaaye Khana on Facebook
Contact Details for Chaye Khana
Website: https://www.chaayekhana.com/
Address: Shop # 11, Super market،, F-6 Markaz F 6 Markaz F-6, Islamabad (Look for other locations too)
Contact Number: (051) 8312193
Covid Timings: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Secret Sky
This little outdoor cafe started off as a secret-hidden place in Islamabad. The location is very secluded, away from the busy city life. But it had its own vibe. This secret sky tea cafe is an amazing spot to be at especially on chilly nights in Islamabad.
The unique atmosphere is a perfect blend of a natural and classic feel. The bonfire center has to be the reason for such a young and talented crowd where people were found jamming with some amazing instruments. Oh, what music that is to ears! You must be dying to visit now.
Recently, the secret sky has opened its second branch in F-7 Islamabad. It looks like a mini Times Square. The whole setup will make you drool. A Rainy night with a hot cup of their Gurh Tea on one of their swings under a lit sky is the perfect night one can dream of.
They have a wide variety of food to offer, everything super delicious. You’ll see most of the bloggers, actors, and models visiting this place and sharing their reviews. So if you are looking for an outdoor spot to have a cup of tea with a stunning view, you know where to go.
Contact Details for Secret Sky
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/secretskypk/?ref=page_internal
Address: Street 16, F-7/2, Islamabad, Street 8, Idrees Market, F-10/2 Islamabad
Contact Number: 0342 9726168
Covid Timings:
F-7 Branch
Monday – Friday & Sunday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
F-10 Branch
Monday – Friday & Sunday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Saturday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Chai Mehfil
Chai Mehfil offers a great rooftop experience with a cup of special tea. This place has opened recently but has been quite successful in winning the hearts of Islamabadis. This unique spot will start to amaze you once you enter the stairhall. The walls are beautifully done with mirror work, bright colors, and the Mughal theme that would inspire you even more.
On its entrance, there is a big promotion wall with their famous tagline ‘Zaruri Maamlaat’. People love taking pictures here. You can have a stunning view of Margalla Hills from this rooftop cafe. Vibrant and colorful decor gives a very desi vibe to Chai Mehfil. Everything adds up to the overall look.
Chai Mehfil, along with tea, serves delicious desi cuisine so you can always have a proper dinner as well. They organize very interactive activities and events. Every night is a Qawali Night which continues till late midnight. Recently, they have arranged a creative exhibition where women from all over Pakistan were encouraged to showcase their art and handicrafts. They also conduct live musical performances. In short, there is a lot happening at Chai Mehfil.
Photo by Chai Mehfilon Facebook
Contact Details for Chai Mehfil
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ChaiMehfil/
Address: Plot no. 11, Super Market, School Road, F-6 Markaz Islamabad
Contact Number: 0302 5542424
Covid Timings: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Chai O Clock
Another lit corner in Islamabad, filled with the laughter of youngsters at night is Chai O Clock. This location was a completely dark forest a few years ago but now it gets extremely difficult to find parking. This chai spot will remind you of the old days to enjoy long group discussions with family and friends.
The classic interior will make you nostalgic and colorful chairs and little tables will send you back to the ‘90s. It always feels good to sit down under a starry sky and have a chit-chat with your loved ones. The idea of Chai O Clock is to offer a blend of teas with a very simple menu at affordable prices. They do not want the young generation to think about fancy food rather relax in a serene atmosphere.
You’ll also find local bands jamming to woo the customers with their talent. Tables are always occupied so there might be some waiting time till you get one. However, the staff and their service are pretty efficient. Chai O Clock is one of the most running chai spots in Islamabad.
Contact Details for Chai O Clock
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/chaioclockpk
Address: Opposite to F-7 Flower Market, Islamabad
Contact Number: (051) 8358390
Covid Timings: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Chaye Pani & Co.
Chai Pani & Co. is another extravagant opening in Islamabad. They aim to cater to the ever-evolving Islamabad audience with versatile cuisines on the menu so that everyone can enjoy. It is situated adjacent to Kabul restaurant F-7, having an outdoor sitting as well with the right ambiance.
Along with a tea section, they have a good variety of snacks, sandwiches, pasta, and more. It’s a small cozy space for an outdoor meet-up with friends and colleagues.
They have a solution for the cravings people sitting at home have by delivering through different food delivery services. It is the right place for you if you are on a little office break or need to have a chai time in the evening.
Contact Details for Chaye Pani & Co.
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/chayepanico/
Address: Shop no 4, Block 13-P Empire Centre Jinnah Super Market, F-7, Islamabad,
Contact Number: (051) 2723070
Covid Timings: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
What is special about chai spots in Islamabad?
People of Islamabad are addicted to tea. They function on 2-3 cups of tea every day. Over a cup of tea, there are lots of other important things going on such as family get-togethers, hang out with friends, official meetings, and much more. People not just in Islamabad but in overall Pakistan prefer tea over coffee. This is the reason behind so many chai spots everywhere.
What are the timings of these chai spots in Islamabad?
Most of the chai spots in Islamabad are open at least till midnight. In Islamabad, most of these places are designed for an outdoor open-air experience. And even with Covid 19 third wave smart lockdowns, they can stay open as there is ample ventilation process. Also, cold nights in summer and a hot cup of tea goes really well together.
