Café Niloufer, founded in 1978 in Lakdikapul by Babu Rao, has become a legendary spot for chai and baked treats in Hyderabad. It’s most famous for its Irani-style strong tea, soft buns, and Osmania biscuits—drawing loyal patrons every day, often in long queues.
They brew thick, kadak chai that many locals swear by. Some visitors find it overly sweet or heavy, while others call it unbeatable—even buying their proprietary tea powder for home use. The Bun Maska is particularly praised: soft, buttery, and considered by many as the best in town . Other signature items include Malai Bun, Khari biscuits, plum cake, Paneer Puffs, and the famous Osmania biscuits.
Café Niloufer has scaled up significantly, especially in the Hitech City branch, which spans three floors and seats over 700 guests—offering a chic, spacious experience that blends Hyderabadi tradition with café-style ambience . The bakery section serves fresh breads, cookies, cakes, and healthier options, while the first-floor dining space offers a full vegetarian menu with items like Veg Fried Rice and Chilli Paneer that balance the café’s reputation beyond chai.
However, the café is often criticized for its high price point. A single cup of chai can cost ₹80 to ₹150 or more depending on the branch, and a tea-and-bun combo for a group may easily cross ₹1,000. Many locals feel it’s overhyped and meant for those looking for a premium experience rather than a budget-friendly snack .
Some reports have raised concerns about hygiene at certain branches, including unlabelled food items and expired ingredients being found during inspections. There are also complaints about seating availability—particularly at popular outlets where premium seating is gated behind higher prices, leading to discomfort, especially for senior customers.
Café Niloufer delivers a nostalgic Hyderabadi chai experience wrapped in a modern café setting. Its tea, bun maska, and Osmania biscuits remain standout offerings, though the pricing and crowd can feel excessive. If you're curious about Hyderabad’s café culture and willing to pay for ambience and brand legacy, it’s worth a visit—just don't...
Read moreReview on Nilofer Café, Lakdikapool – by K. Srinivasa Reddy
I have been a regular customer of Nilofer Café, located near Nilofer Hospital, Lakdikapool, Hyderabad, since 2020, and it continues to be one of my favorite spots for enjoying a cup of authentic Hyderabadi tea. Over the years, I have also been purchasing their premium tea powder regularly, which maintains the same rich aroma and exceptional taste that Nilofer is famous for.
The Nilofer Tea is truly legendary – its flavor is perfectly balanced, strong yet smooth, and every sip brings a deep sense of satisfaction and freshness to the soul. The unique blend of tea leaves gives it that signature taste which is both refreshing and comforting, making it one of the most loved teas in Hyderabad.
The café also serves Osmania biscuits, which pair wonderfully with the tea. These biscuits are fresh, crisp, and have a delightful homemade taste that complements the tea perfectly. The combination of Nilofer Tea and Osmania biscuits has become my all-time favorite, and I never miss the opportunity to enjoy them together.
When it comes to cost, the prices are very reasonable and affordable for the quality they provide. The quality of both tea and biscuits is consistently excellent — you can truly sense their commitment to maintaining high standards in taste and preparation. The hygiene of the café is also commendable; the place is well-maintained, and the staff ensures cleanliness in every aspect of service.
The location is very convenient, right near Nilofer Hospital at Lakdikapool, easily accessible and known to almost everyone in the city. The staff members are polite, humble, and quick in their service, always attending to customers with a smile.
Overall, Nilofer Café stands as a proud symbol of Hyderabad’s tea culture — offering not just a drink, but an experience filled with warmth, nostalgia, and pure satisfaction. I wholeheartedly recommend it to all tea lovers who wish to taste the authentic and timeless flavor of...
Read moreCafe Niloufer is a renowned spot in Hyderabad, India, known for its unique ambiance and delicious offerings, especially its Irani chai and Osmania biscuits. When visiting Cafe Niloufer, you can expect a vibrant and bustling environment, often filled with the chatter of locals and visitors alike.
Highlights of the Experience Irani Chai: The chai is rich, creamy, and aromatic, making it a must-try. Served in small glasses, it's perfect for savoring slowly while soaking in the atmosphere.
Osmania Biscuits: These melt-in-your-mouth biscuits are the perfect accompaniment to the chai. They are buttery, slightly salty, and just sweet enough.
Ambiance: The cafe has a mix of modern and traditional decor, with a laid-back vibe that makes it an ideal place for catching up with friends or enjoying a moment of solitude.
Bakery Items: Besides the chai and biscuits, Cafe Niloufer offers a variety of baked goods, including cakes, puffs, and pastries. The quality and taste of these items are consistently praised.
Service: The staff are friendly and efficient, contributing to a pleasant dining experience even when the cafe is busy.
Location: Located in a convenient spot in Hyderabad, it’s easily accessible and often frequented by both locals and tourists.
Tips for Visiting Timing: It can get crowded, especially during peak hours, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid long waits. Try the Specials: Besides the chai and biscuits, ask about any daily specials or popular items that you might not find on the regular menu. Parking: Parking can be a challenge, so consider using public transportation or being prepared to walk a bit. Overall, a visit to Cafe Niloufer is a delightful experience that offers a taste of local culture and flavors. Whether you’re a chai enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the cafe’s charm and culinary offerings are sure to leave a...
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