Karak Chai Toast: Hyderabad’s Sweet Connection to Dubai’s Food Culture

From the indulgent FIX Kunafa Chocolate bar to the ever-popular Matilda Cake, Dubai has become synonymous with viral food trends. It’s not only the UAE that revels in these delectable innovations; Indian cities, particularly Hyderabad, are quick to absorb these culinary fads, thanks to their deep-rooted connections with Middle Eastern cuisine and a strong love for fusion foods.

The latest sensation making waves across social media is the intriguing Karak Chai Toast—a dessert that’s captivated the hearts (and taste buds) of foodies worldwide.

What is the Karak Chai Toast?

The origins of the Karak Chai Toast remain somewhat of a mystery, but it has rapidly gained popularity among the many Karak Chai cafes in Dubai. Every venue serving this unique dish has found itself at the crossroads of culinary creativity and social media hype, with influencers and food enthusiasts eagerly documenting their experiences.

The dish consists of a slice of bread that is toasted to golden perfection. It’s then lavishly spread with either cream or cheese before being topped with another slice, effectively transforming it into a sandwich. But the magic happens next: a strong, piping hot cup of Karak chai is poured directly over the toast, allowing the spiced tea to soak into the bread. This results in a warm, soft treat that tantalizes both the palate and the soul.

The reason for its viral success? Nostalgia. Many South Asians, or "Desis," who grew up enjoying similar snacks have taken to Instagram to reminisce about their childhood, breathing new life into this beloved treat and inspiring countless recreations.

Where to Get It in Hyderabad?

Hyderabad, never one to lag behind on food trends, has jumped on the Karak Chai Toast bandwagon with enthusiasm. Food creators in the city have begun crafting their own interpretations, blending local elements into this international dish. For instance, some creatively incorporate Cafe Niloufer’s iconic Irani Chai, while others draw playful comparisons between Hyderabad’s beloved bun maska-chai combo and this new trend.

One of the first restaurants in Hyderabad to introduce the Karak Chai Toast is Kebab Krallik, a Turkish eatery that has made waves for its authentic presentation of this viral dish. Their version comes with a generous pour of masala chai over warm cream toast, capturing the essence of the Dubai original while staying rooted in Hyderabad’s culinary culture. And here’s the best part: it’s priced at just Rs. 100, making this trendy indulgence accessible to everyone.

So, whether you consider yourself a chai aficionado or just an adventurous foodie eager to explore the latest trends, Hyderabad makes it easy to experience the allure of Dubai’s gastronomic innovations without ever having to book a flight. The city continues to showcase its ability to blend cultures and flavors, all while keeping a watchful eye on the evolving food landscape.