A Guide to Indian Tea Drinks: Chai, Ginger Tea and Spiced Blends ☕

Indian tea is not limited to a single recipe. Across homes, cafés and restaurants, tea can be prepared with different bases, spices, milk and flavoring ingredients. Learning a few common styles makes it easier to understand a menu and choose a drink that matches your preferences.

1. Masala Chai

Masala chai combines tea with spices. Depending on the recipe, ingredients may include cardamom, ginger, cinnamon and cloves. Milk and sweetener are also common.

Its flavor depends on the spice balance, tea strength, brewing time and amount of milk. Ask whether the version offered is creamy, strongly spiced or lighter.

2. Ginger Tea

Ginger tea gets its recognizable aroma from ginger. Some versions use black tea, while others use ginger in hot water without a traditional tea base.

The name alone does not establish caffeine content. Ask whether the drink contains black tea or green tea if you want to know what is included.

3. Green Tea Blends

Green tea is another option for people exploring tea beyond traditional chai. It can be paired with aromatic ingredients such as spices, flowers or other flavor elements.

ROOH's  Palo Alto Royal Paan listing, for example, names green tea alongside cinnamon, cloves, rose petals, fennel seeds, licorice root and coconut flakes. This provides a specific example of how a menu can combine a recognizable tea base with a broader aromatic profile.

Check the Palo Alto menu or ask the team to confirm the local version's ingredients.

4. How to Choose the Right Tea

Start with three questions:

• Do you prefer a milky drink or tea without milk?

• Do you enjoy strong spices or a more delicate aroma?

• Is caffeine content or a particular ingredient important to you?

These questions are more useful than choosing a drink solely by its name.

5. Check the Menu Before Your Visit

Restaurant recipes and availability can change. Use the current menu to identify available drinks, and ask staff about preparation, sweetness, milk and allergens when necessary.

Explore the ROOH Palo Alto drinks menu for location-specific options.

FAQ

What are common Indian tea drinks?

Masala chai, ginger tea and different green tea preparations are common examples. Ingredients and preparation vary.

Is green tea the same as masala chai?

No. Green tea and masala chai generally use different tea bases or preparation styles, although both may include aromatic ingredients.

Which Indian tea contains milk?

Masala chai often includes milk, but not every tea preparation does. Always check the recipe.

Are all Indian tea drinks caffeine-free?

No. Drinks made with black tea or green tea generally contain caffeine. Ask about the specific preparation if this matters to you.