The Hideout Chai Bar — Restaurant in New York

Tldr; I'm so glad I found this place!

As the name suggests, this place focuses on chai (or more specifically, milk teas). The drinks are amazing. they're made of oat milk but don't let that dissuade you. They've found the perfect blend of spices that ensures that sing in harmony with the oat flavors and accentuate the the choice of tea (black or rooibos) in the drink.

I had the flight (all cold) + a hot chai. The cold drinks have a thicker mouth feel and is sweeter on the palate than the hot chai, where the spices are more pronounced. They're all balanced, so if you're not great with sugar, the chai here will still work for you. Their drinkware is also thoughtfully curated and really adds to the drinking experience.

The service is excellent, the staff are warm, personable and considerate. I usually struggle to make decisions about what to drink, but I was guided through the menu elegantly and efficiently.

Ambience wise, it's a relaxing spot with minimalist decor and a wonderful choice of mellow r&b background music.

Do note that the Earl grey and houjicha are not spiced, but just straight up milk teas. Still...

I went for a cup of Chai and wow it exceeded my expectations, the tea was absolutely delicious, you can tell they use high quality ingredients, they sell more than a simple cup of tea... it's a culinary experience... I loved the little cupcake, it's tricky because I wasn’t able to differentiate flavors which was something that I enjoyed… the guy who served me, Joshep (I think is his name) was very kind and helpful to me, I needed to use the bathroom and he didn't refuse which I really appreciated, making the customer service apart from all the good things this place has to offer, one more reason to return… its music is soft and welcoming which makes the experience more pleasant so I’ll definitely return although I hope other establishments open so I don't...

Food 5/5: Chai here is GREAT. Ordered something off the beaten path called Rooibos Chai, a South African chai with floral and fruity notes. Not as spicy as a Masala chai. Also tried the Masala Chai which is just as good but definitely more spiced. All chais are made with Oat milk and very well spiced.

Service 4/5: came out within a few minutes. Served on a plate in a handle-less clay cup. At first I was upset at the lack of handle but then remembered that’s how they do it back home. Subtracted a star here as they did not come out with napkins.

Other 4/5: Subtracting a star as there is no food here (samosas, etc?), just chai. Also no choices other than Oat milk. But whatever, I...