Ever wondered what happens when a global traveler and corporate leader decides to fix the food industry? Meet Jayant Kumar Mandal, the founder of Not Just Chaai.
Jayant Kumar Mandal spent nearly two decades as an IT Manager and Head, navigating complex systems and global corporate strategies. But his true North was always found in the vibrant street markets of the 22+ countries he visited as a passionate social dancer and traveler.
He noticed a gap in the Indian market: You could find great coffee shop, you could find quick fast food, or a chai stall, but rarely could you find an inclusive, healthy, and affordable mix of both.
Drawing on his expertise in strategic planning and SOPs, Jayant built this brand from the ground up—literally at his own capacity. From designing the blueprint to ensuring the furniture is upcycled to minimize cost, establishing supply chain with vendors for B2B, and formatting the brand to meet all compliances. His corporate discipline meets his culinary soul.
What is so unique about “Not Just Chaai”:
✨ *The Menu
: From Boba and Flower Teas to Air-Fried Snacks. Diverse menu of 90+ beverages and 100+ quick bites.
🌱 The Health: Stevia-based drinks, Lactose-free options, Whole Wheat Wraps/Burgers, and NO deep-frying options!
🌍 The Ambience: Whether you’re looking for a post-workout fuel-up, a vibrant workspace, or a late-afternoon aesthetic hang, they’ve got the vibe (and the menu) to match.
💸 The Price: High-end quality with burgers starting at just ₹59 and Chai at ₹33.
🗣️ The Feedback: 4.8 Ratings in Google, 4.6 in Swiggy, and 4.2 in Zomato.
Innovation excellence in the eatery industry, Not Just Chaai is India’s first outlet to champion Air-Fried snacks and affordable Dairy-Free/Lactose-Free alternatives.
Within just 4 months of operations, ayant was honored by the Ministry of Food Processing & Industries (Govt. of India) as “Restaurant Entrepreneur Of The Year” at Food Icons Award, New Delhi, Sep’2025. The innovative approach to casual dining, also honoured Not Just Chai with an award of “Best Casual Dinning Café in Amar Colony” in the same event.
And this didn’t stop. In December 2025 Not Just Chaai was once again awarded for the title “Innovative Café Concept Of The Year” at India Business Awards, hosted by Blindwink.
🌍🌱 Operating also on a “People & Planet First” model, Not Just Chaai has partnered with 3RZeroWaste, Byufuel, and English Oven to promote sustainability & for zero-waste mission, leaving a positive footprint. You can easily spot the upcycled furniture’s in the ambience as well.
Located in the heart of South Delhi, this isn’t your average tea stall. It’s a fusion revolution. While most outlets force a choice between expensive coffee chains or oily street food, Jayant has blended the two. Think artisanal ingredients, refreshing beverages, and hearty snacks that actually love you back. From bubble teas and floral infusions to whole-wheat wraps and air-fried bites, the menu is a masterclass where minimalism meets taste and where cravings meet conscious living.
“My goal wasn’t just to sell a burger or a cup of tea; it was to create a space that respects Everyone, your health, your wallet, and our environment.” — Jayant Kumar Mandal
