Chaiiwala — Restaurant in Southampton

A Haven for Night Owls

I recently had the pleasure of stumbling upon the 24/7 Cafe Restaurant ( chaiiwala), and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations. As a night owl myself, finding a place that caters to my nocturnal cravings is like finding a hidden gem, and this cafe truly delivered.

First and foremost, the ambiance of this establishment is perfect for late-night dining. The warm lighting, comfortable seating, and welcoming atmosphere create a cozy haven where you can unwind and enjoy a delicious meal at any hour. The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, making you feel right at home from the moment you step in.

Speaking of meals, the menu is extensive and offers a wide range of options to satisfy any palate. Whether you're craving breakfast at midnight, a hearty dinner, or a late-night snack, this cafe has got you covered. The food is consistently fresh, flavorful, and made with high-quality ingredients. Their diverse selection of dishes, including both traditional and innovative recipes, ensures that there is something for everyone.

One standout aspect of chaiiwala is the exceptional service. Despite the late hours, the staff members are always attentive and ready to assist. They are prompt in taking orders and ensure that your food arrives piping hot. The waiting time is minimal, even during peak hours, which is a testament to their efficiency and dedication to customer satisfaction.

Another aspect that sets chaiiwala apart is its commitment to providing a comfortable and versatile environment. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to work, a cozy corner to catch up with friends, or simply a place to enjoy a cup of coffee and people-watch, this cafe offers it all. The ample seating, and soothing background music create an ideal setting for any occasion.

Furthermore, the prices at chaiiwala are surprisingly reasonable, considering the quality and quantity of food served. It's refreshing to find a 24/7 establishment that doesn't compromise on taste or inflate its prices simply due to its extended operating hours.

Lastly, I must commend the chaiiwala for its impeccable cleanliness. The tables are always spotless, and the washrooms are well-maintained. This attention to detail reflects the cafe's commitment to providing a pleasant dining experience for its patrons.

In conclusion, the 24/7 Cafe Restaurant is a hidden gem for night owls seeking a delectable meal and a cozy atmosphere at any hour. With its diverse menu, exceptional service, reasonable prices, and inviting ambiance, this cafe has earned my highest recommendation. Whether you're a night owl like me or simply looking for a fantastic dining experience, you won't be disappointed by this...

★☆☆☆☆ Absolutely Disgraceful Service – Unacceptable Discrimination or Sheer Incompetence?

I don’t usually leave reviews, but after the experience I had at Chaiiwala Southampton on Sunday, 18th of May at around 1:30 AM, I feel compelled to speak out — not just for myself, but for anyone who expects basic decency, fairness, and honesty from a business.

I walked in craving a chai latte, the signature drink they claim to be famous for. I placed my order politely, only to be told — rather bluntly — “It’s out of stock.” No explanation. No apology. Just a flat, dismissive statement. Disappointed but understanding, I accepted it and stepped aside.

But here’s where things took a seriously infuriating turn.

Not five or ten minutes later, a group of customers walked in — loud, casual, clearly regulars or known to the staff — and guess what? They not only ordered the SAME chai latte, but they were served it THREE times over. Yes, the same drink I was just told was out of stock.

So let me ask the obvious: Was the chai latte magically restocked in 10 minutes? Or was it just not available for me?

I was left standing there, watching this unfold, feeling completely disrespected, ignored, and devalued as a paying customer. It felt like a slap in the face, as though I was deliberately lied to or judged not worthy of the same service. Whether it was preferential treatment, staff bias, or just sheer incompetence, it was unacceptable.

Chaiiwala markets itself as a place of warmth, culture, and hospitality — but what I experienced was the complete opposite: dishonesty, poor customer service, and discrimination (intentional or not, the effect was the same).

To the management: Train your staff better. Hold them accountable. Your brand’s reputation is only as strong as the people who represent it in your stores — and right now, they’re dragging it through the mud.

To fellow customers: Be aware. Don’t tolerate this kind of behavior. You deserve better.

Never going back. And I will be advising friends and family to avoid this location until serious...

WORST customer service I have ever experienced.

The 2 girls working there behind the counter were so rude me and my friends. They acted like high school children judging their customers. I literally asked politely for tap water as my throat was dry with the dry food and the girls were smiling to make me feel stupid/ashamed for asking, even when one turned around she would be smiling and her friend/staff would see- so childish and disgusting. I can literally see what you were doing, such behave can cause issues with customers, I’m glad I stayed calm and literally said to them “it’s not funny” for me to ask for tap water with my meal. They acted so privileged and entitled. I spent around £20 on 2-3 small items. It is overpriced. I should’ve got either 10%-20% student discount but the girls just gave me 40p off- I didn’t complain but they clearly can’t do their maths or give actual discount a customer should get. Or they decided to treat me and my friends lower for being women like themselves.

I asked for tap water. When I asked they acted like it was the hardest thing to do when the tap is right there whereas every other restaurant I’ve been to always would happily provide me with tap water as this is a thing people do ask for. With my friends they acted like they were jealous of seeing other women arrive in a mostly male place (you’d only see male customers sat down at the restaurant) - no wonder why the girls they kept trying to fix their look and would constantly go on their phones. They were so polite and attentive to their male customers. The 2 Women working there were so self obsessed, every moment the girls would look at themselves in the mirror, smile/laugh at female customers and be absolutely disgusting in behaviour and personality. Such a toxic staff combo to have working together. I am disgusted and so are my friends. We will never return and will inform our other friends to not go here. Worst experience I’ve ever had. Physically made me and my friends sick with how gross these young women...