India’s largest tea café to open in Hyderabad tomorrow

Hyderabad’s beloved Cafe Niloufer is set to open its ninth outlet in Hitech City on Wednesday, March 19, marking what is expected to be India’s largest tea café. The grand launch will feature a special highlight—Niloufer’s Kettle of Love, a massive 2-ton kettle, symbolizing the brand’s journey through the years.

As the iconic café expands into the heart of Hyderabad’s IT hub, tea lovers are eager to see if Niloufer will maintain its affordability or shift towards a more premium experience. The cafe is known for its signature Irani chai and Osmania biscuits, but its dual pricing system has sparked curiosity among customers.

Will Prices Vary at the New Outlet?

Cafe Niloufer currently follows a tiered pricing model, offering tea at Rs 70 on the ground floor and Rs 150 in its premium lounges. Addressing this in a recent podcast, Babu Rao, the man behind Cafe Niloufer’s expansion, explained the reasoning behind the price difference.

“The premium section was created to offer privacy. When actors, politicians, or celebrities visit, they often attract crowds. To provide them with a comfortable experience, we introduced a separate lounge.”

Despite the debate over pricing, Cafe Niloufer continues to cater to all segments of customers. At its original Lakdikapul branch, a cup of chai is still available for Rs 15 or Rs 20, making it accessible to tea lovers from all walks of life.

The Story Behind Cafe Niloufer’s Success

The journey of Babu Rao, the owner of Cafe Niloufer, is nothing short of inspiring. Arriving in Hyderabad in 1975 with no money or place to stay, he started as a cleaner at the cafe. Through hard work, he became a waiter, then learned the art of tea-making. In 1993, after years of dedication, he took ownership of the café, transforming it into a household name in Hyderabad.

With its latest expansion into Hitech City, Cafe Niloufer is set to reach an even wider audience, blending tradition with modernity while staying true to its roots.