Chai is more than just a drink in Australia - it’s a part of the café culture that’s been embraced by many. Sometimes when ordering at a café, it might be difficult to adjust the chai flavors to your taste. Your order might be overly too sweet, or sometimes the “chai” taste might be too bitter for you to handle.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the tips on how to order your chai with confidence, so you can enjoy a flavorful, perfectly brewed cup of chai, just like the locals do. Ready to become a chai pro? Let’s dive in!
Know the Basic Lingo
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Chai Latte: The most common way chai is served in Australia, combining spiced chai with steamed milk.
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Dirty Chai Latte: If you need a caffeine kick, a "dirty" chai latte includes a shot of espresso for an extra boost.
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Chai Tea: While it’s technically redundant (as “chai” means tea in Hindi), many Australians still refer to it this way, though "chai latte" is more common.
Read the full guide: Best types of chai tea (that is available across Australia!)
Do You Say Chai Tea or Just Chai?
The term "chai tea" is a bit of a repeat. Since "chai" means "tea" in Hindi, you're essentially saying "tea tea." The correct way to order is simply "chai" when you're asking for tea. To order like a local, just ask for "chai" if you want regular tea.
If you're craving the spiced version, go for "masala chai," which is the correct term for spiced tea. By skipping the extra "tea," you'll sound more authentic and spot-on when ordering your next cup!
What You Should Know Before Ordering Chai?
Before ordering, you have to decide on these first:
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Type of Milk: Many cafes will also have dairy milk as a default, so it’s good to specify if you want an alternative. You can choose from cow milk, oat milk, soy milk, or almond milk, depending on your preference. Oat milk adds a creamy texture, while almond milk gives a lighter taste.
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Size of Drink: Chai drinks are typically available in small, medium, or large sizes. Choose based on how much chai you want - small for a quick pick-me-up, or large if you're in the mood to sip slowly.
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Add-Ons: Customize your chai with extras like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut syrup. You can also opt for sweeteners (like honey or stevia) or extra spices like cinnamon or ginger for a stronger flavor boost.
And if you're a lactose intolerant and cannot handle milk, you may be interested in: Can You Drink Chai Tea Without Milk?
Types of Chai Drinks & How To Order Them
Chai Latte
If you want something warm, you can order a Chai Latte with spices made from steeping black tea with cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves.
Steamed milk is then added, creating a creamy, aromatic drink. It’s sweetened with honey or sugar and often garnished with cinnamon or nutmeg.
To order, simply ask for a Chai Latte and choose your milk - cow, soy, oat, or almond. It’s the perfect choice for those who enjoy a flavorful, smooth, and mildly sweet drink.
Or do you want a twist: About matcha chai latte
Iced Chai
Iced Chai is a refreshing twist on the classic chai, made by brewing a pot of strong chai tea, letting it cool, and pouring it over ice. Milk and sweeteners like honey or sugar are often added to taste.
Some cafes use a pre-made concentrate or syrup to ensure consistency and speed up the process.
To order, simply ask for an Iced Chai and choose your preferred milk - cow, soy, oat, or almond. You can also adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste.
Australian Chai
Australian Chai offers a unique twist on traditional chai tea by blending Australian black tea with native ingredients like pepper berries, aniseed myrtle, and roasted wattleseed.
It combines classic spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom for a distinct flavor and aroma.
Though it’s mostly found in select Australian cafes, its popularity continues to grow - definitely worth trying for a fresh chai experience!
Dirty Chai Latte
A Dirty Chai is a chai latte with an extra shot (or two) of espresso, perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy a spiced kick.
You can enjoy it hot or iced, and the espresso adds an extra boost of caffeine while complementing the chai’s rich spices. It’s the ideal choice for those who want both the warmth of chai and the energy of coffee in one delicious drink.
Dirty Chai Martini
A Dirty Chai Martini is a cocktail made with chai tea, espresso, vodka, and cream or milk. The chai and espresso are steeped together to create a strong base, then vodka is added with ice, and everything is shaken or stirred.
A splash of cream or milk gives it a smooth texture, balancing the bold flavors. The drink is served in a chilled martini glass, often garnished with cinnamon or a cinnamon stick.
Chai Ordering Tips
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For a healthier chai: If you're looking for a lighter version, ask for reduced sweetener and choose low-fat milk. Avoid adding ice cream or cream for a healthier option that still delivers great taste.
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Dairy-free options: If you're lactose intolerant or prefer to skip milk, simply ask for a brew chai. This means you'll receive hot water with a tea bag, allowing you to enjoy the spiced tea without any milk.
How a great cup of chai should taste like?
A great cup of chai is all about finding the right balance of flavors that suit your taste. Here’s a simple guide to understanding how chai should taste like, depending on your cravings.
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If you're into sweets: You’ll want a creamy, sweet chai with a mild spice balance. For the perfect treat, ask your barista to add a shot of vanilla or caramel syrup to your chai latte. If you like it extra creamy, try oat or almond milk for a richer texture.
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If you're into the authentic flavor: A true chai should be bold with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Keep it simple by skipping the syrups and asking for just a dash of honey or brown sugar for a more authentic experience. For extra flavor, ask for a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
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If you want that caffeine kick: Try a Dirty Chai Latte! The espresso adds a boost of energy while blending perfectly with the spiced chai. To elevate it, request extra shots of espresso if you need a stronger kick or ask for it iced if you prefer a cool, energizing option.
Where To Buy The Best Chai Tea In Australia?
When you’re ordering chai at a café, you know that perfect balance of spices and smoothness can sometimes be hard to find. But what if you could recreate that experience at home, with ease?
Monk’s Chai offers a pre-blended organic chai mix that’s designed for simplicity - just infuse with milk, and in 5 minutes, you’ll have a perfectly brewed cup, no barista needed. No more bitter brews - only smooth, fragrant chai every time.
Whether you're a chai newbie or a seasoned enthusiast, Monk’s Chai lets you enjoy the authentic chai experience from the comfort of your home. Order your Monk’s Chai today and discover the difference!