Chai: a story of spices and sharing

Chai comes from India. The word itself simply means "tea" in Hindi. But in the context of masala chai, it is much more than a drink: it is a blend of black tea, hot milk, sugar, and spices that varies by region, family, and season. Cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, clove, black pepper, star anise: the spice profile is a personal signature, passed down from generation to generation.

The West has adopted chai in the form of the chai latte: the concentrated spice blend in a syrup or paste, diluted with hot, well-frothed milk. It's an adaptation, but a successful one. It has made an intensely flavored, warm, spicy, comforting drink accessible and has made it one of the most ordered drinks in specialty cafes for a decade.

The spices: the signature of a good chai

The quality of a chai latte depends almost entirely on the quality and balance of the spices used. Cardamom brings a floral and slightly menthol freshness that opens the palate. Ginger adds a spicy kick and warmth. Cinnamon gives body and sweetness. Clove, used sparingly, adds a woody and slightly bitter depth that holds everything together.

A good chai should be warm, sweet, spicy, and slightly sugary. No spice should overpower the others. It's a matter of balance, like a good espresso.

The dirty chai: when espresso enters the equation

The strongest trend right now in the chai world is the dirty chai: a classic chai latte with a shot of espresso added. The result is a drink that is both spicy and robust, where the coffee adds depth and a slight bitterness that contrasts with the natural sweetness of the chai.

For coffee lovers who find chai alone too sweet, it’s the perfect solution. For chai lovers who want a little extra caffeine, it’s a discovery. And for those who never dared to mix the two worlds, it’s often a revelation. The dirty chai is becoming one of the modern classics of specialty coffee shops.

Hot in winter, iced in summer

Iced chai latte is one of the most satisfying summer drinks. On ice, the spice blend cools but remains present, almost more intense than hot because the ice concentrates the aromas. With oat milk and a pinch of cinnamon on top, it’s the perfect drink for a Petit Champlain terrace in July.

Hot in winter, it directly competes with hot chocolate and mulled wine for the title of most comforting drink. In a large mug, with a generous spice ratio and well-textured milk foam, it warms as much with its aromas as with its temperature.

Chai at Carrera Café

Chai latte is one of those drinks that tells a story with every sip. At Carrera Café, we approach it with the same respect we give to espresso: blend selection, precise dosing, carefully crafted milk. Because a spiced drink deserves as much attention as a fine coffee vintage. Come discover it in our Petit Champlain space.

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