5 Amruttulyas Loved by Every Punekar Where Tea Truly Feels Like Home
In Pune, chai is more than just a beverage—it’s an emotion. It marks the city’s mornings, mid-day breaks, and quiet evenings. For Punekars, a good cup of tea is as essential as the cool evening breeze on FC Road or the lively atmosphere near Dagdusheth Ganpati. While tea stalls dot nearly every corner, it is the legendary amruttulyas that offer something extra—a unique taste, a sense of nostalgia, and a slice of local culture.
The term amruttulya comes from two Marathi words—amrut (nectar) and tulya (equal to). True to its name, tea served here is considered “as sweet as nectar.” The specialty lies in its preparation: brewed in brass kettles for a subtle metallic note, boiled with ample milk and sugar until thick and rich, and strained through cloth for a smooth finish. Many say it tastes like home in a cup.
Here are five beloved amruttulyas in Pune that every chai enthusiast must visit:
1. Aadhya Amruttulya, Ganesh Peth
Established in 1924, Aadhya Amruttulya is among Pune’s oldest teahouses, still run by the Natekar family. Their secret lies in a signature spice blend—cinnamon, cardamom, and other locally sourced ingredients—passed down for generations. Owner Rahul Chandrashekhar Natekar proudly shares that the recipe has remained unchanged since day one. A visit here is like stepping back in time to old Pune, with a steaming cup of spiced chai in hand.
2. Yewale Amruttulya
Founded in 1983 by 16-year-old Dashrath Yewale, this tea stall grew into a household name. Yewale Amruttulya revolutionised the chai experience by adding snacks to the menu, transforming a tea break into a complete mini meal. Today, with multiple outlets across Pune, its signature red signage is hard to miss, often surrounded by crowds enjoying their tea.
3. Puneri Amruttulya, Mundhwa
Opening as early as 5 AM, this amruttulya is a favourite among early risers, joggers, and morning commuters. Alongside strong, traditional chai, the menu features cold coffee and a variety of fresh juices, including mango and orange. It’s one of the few amruttulyas that blends traditional tea culture with modern beverage options, catering to diverse tastes.
4. Madhur Amruttulya, Pimpri-Chinchwad
Located in the busy streets of Pimpri-Chinchwad, Madhur Amruttulya is known for perfectly sweetened tea served with local snacks such as spicy misal pav and crispy batata vada. Many customers find their tea incomplete without a savoury bite. Now with outlets in Mumbai and Nashik, Madhur has carried the classic amruttulya experience beyond Pune.
5. Maitri Amruttulya, Sadashiv Peth
True to its name, Maitri—meaning friendship—has become a place where friends reunite, conversations flow, and new connections are made. Situated in a culturally rich neighbourhood, it offers popular snacks like vada pav and sandwiches, making it a go-to spot for college students and evening strollers. More than a teahouse, it’s a community hub.
From the heart of Ganesh Peth to the buzzing streets of Pimpri-Chinchwad, these five amruttulyas stand as proof that in Pune, tea is more than a drink—it’s a tradition.
