The Rise of Coffee in a Tea-Loving City

Dhaka, the bustling heart of Bangladesh, has long been synonymous with a cup of steaming cha. From roadside tea stalls to family gatherings, tea has always been more than a beverage—it’s a ritual, a comfort, a bond. But over the past decade, something has changed. A new aroma is filling the city’s streets and air-conditioned cafés. Coffee—once a rare luxury—is rapidly becoming Dhaka’s new obsession.

Cafés as the New Social Hubs

The transformation began subtly, around the early 2010s, with the rise of Western-style coffee houses. Brands like North End, Gloria Jean’s, and later local favorites such as Crimson Cup and Kiva Han started popping up in upscale neighborhoods. The youth, driven by Instagram aesthetics, Wi-Fi, and a taste for global trends, began flocking to these cafés. Coffee wasn’t just a drink anymore—it became a lifestyle statement.

Why Coffee, and Why Now?

Several factors contributed to coffee’s growing popularity in Dhaka. First, the emergence of a middle class with disposable income allowed young professionals and students to explore premium beverages. Second, social media culture glorified latte art, caramel macchiatos, and cozy café corners as markers of sophistication. Third, the expanding job market in tech, media, and startups created a demand for modern workspaces—roles that coffee shops gladly filled.

The Tea Lover’s Dilemma

For traditional tea lovers, this shift feels bittersweet. Many still cling to the simplicity of milky ginger tea from a roadside stall for five takas, now watching as frothy cappuccinos steal the limelight. It’s not just about preference—it’s about identity. Tea represents warmth, nostalgia, and community. Coffee, in contrast, can seem individualistic, rushed, and even pretentious to some.

“I miss the adda over clay cups,” says Imran, a university lecturer. “Nowadays, everyone is on laptops with noise-canceling headphones and an Americano.”

Is Tea Losing the Battle?

Not entirely. While Dhaka’s coffee scene is booming, tea is far from forgotten. New-age tea lounges like Cha Walah and Teatulia are modernizing the experience, offering artisanal blends and fusion menus. These spots blend tradition with trend, giving tea a fresh face while retaining its roots.

Moreover, tea remains a staple in Bangladeshi homes, offices, and local eateries. Coffee may have stolen the spotlight in urban pop culture, but tea still reigns in the everyday lives of most Dhakaites.

The Cultural Blend Ahead

As Dhaka evolves, it’s not a question of tea versus coffee, but tea with coffee. The city's landscape is becoming more inclusive, with both beverages finding their space. For tea lovers, the dilemma may persist, but there’s comfort in knowing that cha will always have its corner—steamy, spicy, and shared.