Brewing a Trend: How Chai Culture Is Taking Over Vancouver & Canada’s Food Scene

Canada has long been known for its multicultural food scene, and over the past few years, one warm, spiced drink has been making waves — chai. No longer limited to South Asian households or corner grocers, chai has become a mainstream beverage trend across Vancouver, Surrey, and beyond.

From modern chai cafés to 24/7 street food spots, chai is building its own culture — one cup at a time.

Chai in Canada: A Culture on the Rise

Chai (which simply means "tea" in Hindi and Urdu) isn’t new — it’s been a staple in Indian and Pakistani culture for generations. What’s new is how it’s showing up in Canadian cities: stylish cafés, night-time tea lounges, and lively food spots where people gather over karak chai or truck chai, pink Kashmiri tea, and traditional snacks like pakoras, samosas, and parathas.

This new chai movement blends tradition with trend — preserving the flavour and heart of classic chai, while creating social spaces that welcome everyone.

Why Chai Spots Are Booming

So what’s behind this growing chai trend?

• Cultural Connection: For South Asians in Canada, chai is more than a drink — it’s a daily ritual. Now, they have places that feel like home.

• Social Energy: Chai cafés are becoming hangout spots. Friends meet over tea, students study with snacks, and families come for a late-night bite.

• Affordable Comfort: In an expensive dining world, chai + samosa = comfort food on a budget.

• Vancouver Lifestyle: With its cool, damp climate, chai fits perfectly into Vancouver’s cozy, chill vibe.

From morning wake ups to midnight talks, chai is now part of the rhythm of Canadian city life.

Vancouver & Surrey: Canada’s Chai Hotspots

No surprise, Surrey and Vancouver are leading this chai wave. With large South Asian communities and a vibrant street food scene, these cities are now home to dozens of chai bars, street food cafés, and late-night tea lounges.

People from all backgrounds are embracing the experience — not just for the flavour, but for the welcoming atmosphere, bold street snacks, and that signature smell of fresh-brewed cardamom and tea leaves.

Pindi Dhaba: A Typical Desi Chai Dhaba for Everyone

One of the most beloved chai spots in Surrey is Pindi Dhaba — a 24/7 street food café bringing authentic chai culture to the heart of the city.

Located steps from Surrey Central SkyTrain, Pindi Dhaba offers:

• Karak Chai, and Truck Chai brewed bold, sweet, and spiced

• Kashmiri Chai (Pink Tea), rich and creamy

• Stuffed Parathas, from cheese to Nutella

• Samosa Chaat, Pakoras, Bun Kababs, and Momos

• Full meals like Butter Chicken & Rice, Biryani, and Kadhi Chawal

• Open 24/7 for chai cravings any time of day (or night)

Whether it’s a quick chai run, a long chat with friends, or a relaxed family outing, Pindi Dhaba brings people together over the warmth of tea and the joy of street food.

Why Chai Just Hits Different at Pindi Dhaba

Every day, commuters hopping off the SkyTrain stop by to grab a hot cup of Pindi’s chai. It’s not just a drink — it’s part of their daily routine.

That first sip? It’s comfort. It’s culture. It’s connection.

And when it’s shared with pakoras and good conversation, it’s even better.

Final Thoughts: The Future Is Chai

As Canada continues to embrace global flavours, chai culture is only growing stronger. What started as a household tradition has now become a café movement, creating warm, inclusive spaces in cities like Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and of course, Surrey.

And as people continue to seek flavour, authenticity, and connection, spots like Pindi Dhaba are helping chai take center stage.

So next time you need a break — from the cold, the stress, or just the day — grab a cup of chai. Sit back. Sip slow. And taste a trend that’s steeped in tradition, but brewed for today.