Frequently asked questions

BREWING & PREPARATION

How do I brew Fly Chai on the stove?

Bring 1 cup of water and 1 to 2 tablespoons of Fly Chai to a boil in a small saucepan. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to pull the bold botanical oils from the spices, then add 1 cup of milk and your desired amount of Gud. Bring it back up to a rolling boil, drop to low heat for another minute, and strain directly into your mug. For exact ratios and iced variations, check out our full How to Brew Guide.

Can I brew Fly Chai without a saucepan/stove?

Yes! While simmering on the stove delivers the richest body and traditional depth, you can steep our loose-leaf blends in freshly boiled water using an infuser basket or French press for 5 to 7 minutes. Once steeped, strain, stir in warmed milk, and sweeten with Gud.

What milk works best with Fly Chai blends?

Whole dairy milk delivers the classic, rich, creamy body traditional chai is known for. For plant-based milk, a barista-edition oat milk holds up best to heat and spice without separating. Unsweetened soy and pistachio milk also complement our bolder blends beautifully.

Product & Ingredients

What makes Fly Chai different from coffee-shop chai?

Most commercial coffee shops rely on boxed liquid syrups or powdered concentrates loaded with refined sugars, preservatives, and artificial extracts. Fly Chai is crafted with real Assam black tea leaves, whole spices, and traditional Gud. You get true spice depth, real aroma, and clean ingredients—never artificial shortcuts. Read more on our Chai vs. Coffee-Shop Chai page.

What is Gud, and why do you use it as a sweetener?

Gud (traditional jaggery) is a time-honored South Asian sugar made from sugarcane juice. It carries natural molasses and earthy caramel undertones, creating a rich, velvety sweetness that perfectly balances the warmth of ginger and the brightness of cardamom without the sharp bite of white sugar. Learn more on our What is Gud? page.

Is Fly Chai caffeine-free or gluten-free?

All of our packaged dry blends are naturally gluten-free and crafted without gluten-containing ingredients. Because our blends are built on bold, full-leaf Assam black tea, they contain natural caffeine—delivering sustained, jitter-free energy with roughly half the caffeine of a standard cup of coffee. (Visiting our Beaverton café? Decaf options are available upon request!)

Orders, Shipping & Local Pickup

Do you offer local pickup at the Beaverton café?

Yes! When shopping online for loose-leaf blends and brew kits, select Local Pickup at checkout to grab your order directly from the Fly Chai Café counter at 12520 SW Farmington Rd. (Looking to order fresh drinks and hot food right now? Tap Order Café Pickup in our navigation to place an immediate order through Toast.)

How long does nationwide shipping take?

Online orders are processed and packed within 1 to 2 business days. Standard shipping across the US typically arrives within 3 to 5 business days. You will receive an automated tracking link via email as soon as your package is scanned.

Do you offer catering, wholesale, or bulk orders?

Absolutely. We cater local community gatherings, private parties, and corporate events, and we partner with select cafés and retailers for wholesale tea blends. Head over to our Catering & Events page to submit an inquiry, and our crew will get right back to you.