Colchester: Indian street food café Chaiiwala opens

Chaiiwala has opened its first-ever Colchester branch following its launch last Friday.

The business, which took over the former Royal British Legion building in the High Street, originally submitted a planning application back in March.

A total of 15 jobs have been created through the branch opening, which is the company’s 96th store in the UK.

New business - Chaiiwala (Image: Chaiiwala) Indian street food café Chaiiwala is known for its drinks Karak Chaii, Caramel Chaii, and foods such as the English-Ish Breakfast, Masala Chips, and Karachi Bun Kebab.

Chai tea is an Indian beverage popular in South Asia, usually made of tea mixed with spices including cinnamon and cardamom.

Images show a modern interior with plenty of seating after an extensive renovation job.

A spokesman for Chaiiwala said: “We are delighted to finally open our Colchester store.

“We believe we have a unique food offering and are looking forward to being part of the food scene in the town.

Smart - two seating areas at Chaiiwala Colchester (Image: Chaiiwala) “We are really looking forward to welcoming customers and giving them the Chaiiwala experience.”

Chaiiwala has gained a cult following with its fusion of authentic Indian street food with a western twist.

The menu features breakfast, lunch, dessert and all-day items – think chicken tikka pastries, Bombay bowls, wraps, and more.

Counter - Chaiiwala Colchester (Image: Chaiiwala)

Area - Chaiiwala Colchester (Image: Chaiiwala) On the opening, city centre councillor Richard Kirkby-Taylor said: “I have met the owners, they seem conscientious and reasonable people.

“I am not familiar with this franchise, Chaiiwala, but if it works out the way they describe it, it will offer something different in Colchester.

“It will be really nice and interesting to see this added variety.

“I wish them the best of luck.”

Tasty - the Chaiiwala Karachi Bun Kebab (Image: Chaiiwala) Drink - the Karak Chaii at Chaiiwala (Image: Chaiiwala) Chaiiwala was first founded in 1927 in New Delhi but has now spread worldwide after a re-launch in 2016, with the first store in the UK opening in Leicester.

The Colchester branch is available for eat-in and takeaway and will be available on all major food delivery platforms.

Chaiiwala Colchester is open 8am to 11pm, Monday to Sunday.

To find out more, visit chaiiwala.co.uk.