What is Masala Chai

Masala chai isn’t just tea. It’s a ritual. A moment to slow down. A quiet rebellion — to see, think, and taste differently. - yourchaiboy

The word “chai” simply means “tea” in many parts of the world. But when you say masala chai, you’re speaking of something richer: a blend of aromatic and warm spices, black tea, milk, and sweetener — brewed slowly, traditionally, and with intention.

Each family in India has its own version. Some add fennel, others turmeric. Some keep it fiery with ginger, while others keep it soft with cardamom and cinnamon. There’s no single recipe — only a rhythm. One that invites you to pause, to breathe, and to take in the warmth of the present.

At Jacob’s Well Chai, this is the rhythm we live by. #slowdown #drinkchai

How we started:

It began with Dad’s drink.

Back in 2016, we were running a small third-wave inspired café. In a corner of the menu — or sometimes not even listed at all — we’d serve our take on masala chai. It was bold, fragrant, and comforting. Our regulars started calling it “Dad’s drink” because it was always something we’d quietly brew for our dad, never quite expecting it to catch on.

But it did.

What started as a quiet offering became a growing request. Friends, strangers, curious souls — they began asking for it by name. Bottles were filled, carefully packed - lovingly delivered. We started showing up at pop-ups and weekend markets, learning the ropes of craft beverage making as we went. We burned a few pots. Spilled a lot of milk. But we kept brewing.

Not because of a grand business plan — but because something about this drink spoke to people. And most importantly - to us.

Here's one of our pop-ups with yourchaiboy's ex-girlfriend (now wife) Athena. Escolta Bloc Party Circa 2017 and other early events.