Pune’s timeless love for Bun Maska and Chai

Pune's love for Bun Maska and Chai remains timeless. This city's bakers and tea stalls have mastered the art of creating perfect buttery buns and rich chai over generations. Here are five must-visit spots for Bun Maska and Chai enthusiasts:

1. Maskawala & Co. in Kothrud: This Irani-inspired cafe is cozy, bright, and Instagrammable. With classic posters and warm lighting, reviewers love their BIG bun maska - soft, fresh, loaded with maska, and served with warm, friendly service. They also offer caramel custard and cheese omelettes that are worth trying. One regular exclaimed, "One of the best places for breakfast in Kothrud."

2. City Bakery, Camp: Established 100 years ago on MG Road, this heritage bakery is famous for its buns. Despite having no seating area, customers prefer taking away their order. Salamat, the owner, personally supervises everything from baking to serving, ensuring a nostalgic experience for visitors worldwide.

3. Appa Filter Coffee, Nal Stop: Located near the SNDT metro station, this South Indian twist cafe offers rich, creamy coffee-flavored chai and muska. Its budget-friendly prices, quick service, and pure veg snack options make it a favorite among students. Ishwari, an S Y MA SNDT student, appreciates the cleanliness and affordability of the place.

4. Cafe Yazdan, Camp: Since 1964, this icon boasts rustic old-world charm, vintage marble-top tables, tiled floors, and Irani chairs. While buns and broons are sourced from Persian Bakery and Imperial Bakery, everything else is made in-house. Known for its Irani Kadak Chai, brun maska, bun muska, and Parsi akaru, the cafe is still the cheapest, most authentic Irani breakfast spot in Camp.

5. Prasad Malai Chai, near Khed-Shivapur Toll Plaza: This roadside tea stall has grown into Pune's most beloved highway tea spot over the years. Famous for its exceptionally rich, thick, and creamy malai tea, the shop attracts travelers, families, late-night riders, and food vloggers. Open 24 hours, seven days a week, it becomes a popular destination during late-night drives and early morning weekend trips.