We visited Cafe Chai and tried the Samosa Chaat, Aloo Papdi Chaat, Dahi Puri, and Cardamom Chai. The food was decent and satisfying. What truly stood out was the chai — absolutely top notch. Fragrant, perfectly spiced, and comforting. Definitely one of the best I’ve had in Des Moines. The ambience is cozy, clean, and inviting — a relaxing spot to sit and enjoy a conversation. The owners were kind and welcoming, and we had a great chat with them during our visit. Overall, it’s a lovely place that clearly cares about the customer experience. I’d come back again, especially for the chai. A solid 4 stars!
Vegan Restaurant
Cafe Chai
· $$$$ · desMoines · Strict-vegan verified
Fully vegan
Editor synopsis · 0 reviews
Diners overwhelmingly call out the signature dish as the must-order. The vibe reads as vegan restaurant — service is consistently described as warm and unhurried. Common gotcha: queues form at peak times — go early or late.
Excerpts
We visited Cafe Chai and tried the Samosa Chaat, Aloo Papdi Chaat, Dahi Puri, and Cardamom Chai. The food was decent and satisfying. What truly stood out was the chai — absolutely top notch. Fragrant, perfectly spiced, and comforting. Definitely one of the best I’ve had in Des Moines. The ambience is cozy, clean, and inviting — a relaxing spot to sit and enjoy a conversation. The owners were kind and welcoming, and we had a great chat with them during our visit. Overall, it’s a lovely place that clearly cares about the customer experience. I’d come back again, especially for the chai. A solid 4 stars!
Food is incredible. Butter chicken naan pizza was out of this world. Lamb kebab wrap an amazing experience. Great mixture of spice and great combination of flavors. The tumeric ginger chair was beautifully spiced as well. Great Indian fusion. We will 100000% be back
Food is incredible. Butter chicken naan pizza was out of this world. Lamb kebab wrap an amazing experience. Great mixture of spice and great combination of flavors. The tumeric ginger chair was beautifully spiced as well. Great Indian fusion. We will 100000% be back
Stopped by for lunch while out on a ride today. The owner was so friendly and welcoming! The food was amazing! I had the butter chicken naan pizza and a mango lassi to drink. The owner even brought me a sample of strawberry lassi to try! Everything was delicious! I will definitely be back for more and will recommend this place to my friends! Thank you for the excellent food and hospitality!