Chaiiwala of London – the UK-born chai café brand – is accelerating its Canadian expansion. Since arriving in Scarborough in 2021, Canadian
franchise co-founders Shiraj Kothiwala and Ajmal Gundhra have been on a mission to share authentic chai culture and create inclusive community spaces.
Today, with 22 cafés open across four provinces and a bold target of 100 by 2030, Chaiiwala has quickly become one of Canada’s fastest-growing café brands. By blending tradition with a modern café vibe, the brand is redefining how Canadians experience chai and Indian street food.
“We wanted to create a space that feels like home – a place where people can gather, connect, and enjoy authentic chai and street food,” said Kothiwala. “It’s more than a café; it’s a cultural experience.”
Gundhra added: “Chaiiwala is about more than serving great tea; it’s about preserving tradition while creating new experiences for a modern audience. Our growth across Canada proves there’s a real appetite for cultural connection through food and drink.”
Chaiiwala’s menu blends East Indian, East African, and British culinary influences. Signature offerings include Karak Chaii, Pink Chaii, Karak Coffee, and street food favourites like Desi Breakfast, Bombay Toastie, and indulgent Gulab Jamun Cheesecake.
Chaiiwala’s growth story began in the UK in 2016, inspired by an ancestor’s tea stall in New Delhi, India dating back to 1927. Today, the brand operates over 100 locations worldwide, with Canada serving as its first international expansion market.
Upcoming Canadian openings include Edmonton (October 2025), King George Hub (January 2026), and additional locations in Kelowna, Saskatoon, and Vancouver in 2026.
“Chaiiwala of London started with a really simple idea. The founders wanted to bring the South Asian tea stall experience into a modern café. The story actually goes back almost a hundred years to tea stalls in India that served strong, spiced karak chai along with small savoury snacks. That heritage stayed with the family, and in the UK, it grew into a café chain that really took off,” say the owners.
“What makes Chaiiwala different is that it’s not just another coffee shop or bubble tea place. Our focus is of course on chai, and it’s bold, rich, and spiced the way people grew up with. But we also have an extensive street food menu that goes along with it. Things like samosas, masala chips, toasties, and parathas. They pair well with the chai and are great for grab-and-go too.
“And then our branding, it’s fresh, vibrant, and really works on social media. So, I’d say what sets us apart is this mix of authentic chai, a tasty street food menu, and a modern, approachable vibe.”
They say Canada is an important market for them.
“We already have stores in Ontario, BC, Alberta and Quebec, and we’re looking to grow in places where people really want it. Because we work on a franchise model, right now our focus is making sure the foundations are solid. That means proper training, quality control, and local marketing so new franchisees can hit the ground running. Long term, we want to be nationwide,” they say.
“Chai has broad appeal here. It’s familiar to the South Asian community, but also people outside that community are curious about the flavours. And our street food menu helps with that too. For now, we’re focusing on steady, sustainable growth and building momentum in the early clusters, but the potential is big.”
The owners say they’re confident about chai in Canada for a few reasons.
“First, chai isn’t just a drink, it’s comfort, it’s culture, it’s social. That connection is powerful. Second, our model works well here. Our stores don’t need huge spaces, the menu is simple and repeatable, and it performs well in-store and for delivery. And then there’s the food side.
“Canadians love trying new street foods, and our menu gives them something authentic but approachable. Items like samosas or butter chicken poutine are familiar enough to feel easy, but still different from what’s out there. Plus, the timing is right. People are looking for authentic, convenient, and shareable food experiences, and Chaiiwala delivers on all of that.”
The key to success these days really comes down to consistency and execution for them.
“Chai is simple in theory but unforgiving if you don’t get it right. The brew, the spice, the balance, it all has to be perfect every single time. The same goes for the food. Street food might look simple, but flavour and quality matter. That’s why training and standard processes are so important. Beyond that, it’s about being smart with location and connecting with your customers,” add the owners.
“You want to be in the right neighbourhoods, plazas, food courts, or transit hubs. And engaging with the community helps too, like cultural festivals, student outreach, or social media. Digital is also a big piece now, people expect to order ahead, get delivery, and have a smooth app experience. When you get all of that right, you give yourself the best chance to succeed.”
The owners say the number one thing customers these days are looking for is authenticity.
“The chai has to taste right, strong, spiced, comforting. But people also want choice. Some want it hot, some iced, some as a frappe or seasonal special. Variety keeps it interesting and brings in both regulars and new customers. The food matters too. People want quick, tasty snacks that go with their chai.
“Our street food menu hits that, it’s grab-and-go, pairs perfectly with chai, and keeps the experience fresh. Convenience and presentation are also key. Drinks and food that look good, packaging that feels premium, and a smooth ordering experience all make a difference. At the end of the day, customers want a brand that delivers authentic chai, craveable food, and a great overall experience, and that’s what we aim to give.”
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