Insider's Pick
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Shot by a City Insiders curator.
Cafe Chai
★ 5.0(1 review)Café
cozystylishlocal-favorite
About the Vibe
CHAI isn't just your average high street café—it's a proper local institution that somehow manages to be both a bustling daytime brunch spot and a cozy evening bar. You'll find yourself drawn in by the warm, striking interior and the promise of seriously good vegan food that doesn't compromise on flavor. The courtyard garden is a hidden gem for sunny afternoons, and if you're lucky enough to snag a table for their supper clubs, you're in for something special.
Known For
- •award-winning vegan menu
- •specialty coffee and tea
- •courtyard garden seating
- •supper clubs and events
Best For
brunchcasual meetupsplant-based dining
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 9, 2026
Banstead's Best Kept Secret
CHAI has quietly become one of Banstead's most talked-about spots, and honestly, it's not hard to see why. The place nails that perfect café vibe—warm lighting, mismatched furniture that feels curated not cluttered, and a courtyard garden that's a godsend when the sun decides to show up. Their vegan menu is genuinely impressive; you don't feel like you're missing out on anything, and the brunch dishes are creative without being pretentious. The staff clearly care about what they're doing, which explains the customer service award they won back in 2022.
What really sets CHAI apart is how it transforms throughout the day. By afternoon, it's all about artisan cakes and specialty coffee, perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done. By evening, the candlelit bar atmosphere kicks in for supper clubs and quiz nights—this isn't just a café, it's a community hub. Yes, you might need to book ahead to guarantee a table on weekends (the popularity speaks for itself), but that's a small price to pay for consistently good food and atmosphere. If you're in the mood for somewhere that feels local, stylish, and genuinely welcoming, this is your spot.