In the vibrant streets of Visakhapatnam, a quiet yet notable transformation is underway among chai drinkers. As health consciousness continues to grow, many are opting for healthier alternatives to the traditional sweetened chai, prompting local tea stalls to innovate and thrive in this shifting landscape.
With approximately 420 tea stalls scattered across the city, these beloved spots have long been the go-to for college students, office workers, and passersby seeking affordable refreshment. Traditionally, milk chai infused with ginger or cardamom dominated the menu. However, the post-pandemic world has ushered in a new era of health awareness, changing consumer preferences and driving a shift toward healthier drinks.
In response to this rising demand, local tea vendors are expanding their menus to include a range of health-focused options. Among the new additions are jaggery chai, brown sugar chai, ginger tea, lemon tea, green tea, coconut milk tea, and almond milk tea. These alternatives not only cater to health-conscious consumers but also introduce an exciting twist to the classic chai experience.
Despite the variety, prices remain accessible, ensuring that tea remains a staple of Visakhapatnam’s streets. Regular chai is available for as little as ₹5 to ₹15, depending on the size of the cup, while masala chai ranges from ₹15 to ₹30. Healthier options like green and lemon teas are priced between ₹20 and ₹40, with special chai varieties costing anywhere from ₹30 to ₹60.
Tea stall owners are seeing this shift as an opportunity to grow their business. P. Raghu, a shop owner in MVP Colony, shared that he serves around 300 to 400 customers daily, with an increasing number opting for health-oriented teas. While regular chai remains a favorite among students, the demand for healthier alternatives is steadily rising.
Meanwhile, stalls like Chai Sutta are diversifying their offerings even further, adding coffee and snacks to their menu to appeal to a broader range of customers. As health trends continue to influence chai drinkers across the city, Visakhapatnam’s tea culture is embracing this change with open arms, ensuring that both tradition and innovation go hand in hand.
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