Think of Chiya Chai’s name as a statement of purpose: Both words mean “tea” in Nepali and Hindi, respectively. At this airy Logan Square storefront, tea is decidedly the focus, in particular a range of thoughtfully flavored lattes ($3.75 for a small).
The full-bodied masala chai blend mingles pleasantly with ginger and fennel or, alternatively, cardamom and pistachio. The combinations are never forced, never cloying.
But don’t overlook the compact food menu, which contains its own delights from both India and Nepal. Delicate lamb momo dumplings (six for $8) pop with dill. The pork vindaloo curry ($9) smolders. And the flaky-crusted, fragrant chicken balti pie ($8.50) goes perfectly with the start of sweater season. Thankfully, they all go great with tea.
2770 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-360-7541