Weird or wow: Dubai's Karak Chai is the latest odd but viral food combo

Dubai’s latest viral food obsession has everyone talking, sipping, and dipping literally. Known as ‘karak chai toast, this quirky combo has taken over Instagram reels and foodie feeds, blending nostalgia with innovation in the most unexpected way. For many, it draws instant comparisons to the classic Indian bun maska with chai, but with a twist that’s sparking debate and curiosity across the globe.

What exactly is ‘karak chai toast’?

At its core, karak chai toast is simple, yet bold in execution. A slice (or two) of bread is generously spread with fresh cream or cream cheese, assembled like a sandwich and then here’s the surprising part drenched in piping hot karak chai. The result? A tea-soaked, melt-in-your-mouth toast that’s either a comforting treat or an unappealing soggy mess, depending on who you ask.

The internet reacts: love it or leave it?

As with any unconventional food trend, opinions are sharply divided. Fans of the dish praise it for its cozy, nostalgic feel, reminding them of dipping toast into chai during monsoons or childhood evenings. Critics, however, aren’t thrilled by the idea of soaking fat-laden bread in hot tea, calling it a recipe for a soggy disaster.

Still, its viral appeal is undeniable. The visual drama of tea being poured over creamy toast is tailor-made for social media, and content creators are making the most of it.

Creative twists and regional variations

Food influencers and chai enthusiasts aren’t stopping at the original version. Many have started experimenting with local takes on the dish. In Hyderabad, for example, some are swapping karak chai with Café Niloufer’s iconic Irani chai, a cult favorite known for its rich flavor and loyal fanbase. Others are layering spices, adding sweetened condensed milk or even using flavored cream cheeses to elevate the experience. These creative spins are not only adding regional flair but also bridging cultures, making karak chai toast a uniquely global phenomenon with deeply rooted local flavors.

A viral trend worth trying?

Whether you’re team soggy-toast or a chai-dipping convert, there’s no denying the impact of Karak Chai Toast. It taps into a larger trend of nostalgic foods reimagined for a modern audience dishes that comfort, surprise and go viral.

As cafés across Dubai and now in parts of India, experiment with their own versions, it might just be time to grab a cup of chai, a slice of toast and find out for yourself if this unusual pairing is weird or wonderfully wow.