Thailand’s culinary culture is rich, layered, and often full of surprises—and its tea traditions are no exception. Whether you're wandering through a local market, relaxing in a café, or ordering from a street vendor, you'll quickly notice that Thai tea isn’t just a drink—it's a vibrant part of everyday life.
From the iconic Thai Red Tea to lesser-known favorites like Thai Lime Tea and Thai Green Milk Tea, these colorful beverages reflect both traditional ingredients and modern adaptations.
Thai Red Tea (Cha Thai): Bold, Sweet, and Iconic
Known for its deep orange-red hue, Thai Red Tea is probably the most recognized of Thai beverages. Traditionally brewed with strong black tea—often Assam—and sweetened with condensed milk, it's typically served over ice for a creamy, cooling treat.
While many modern versions use artificial coloring to achieve the vibrant color, the original recipes leaned on natural ingredients like roasted tamarind seeds, orange blossoms, or spices to create the same visual appeal. Today, there’s a growing interest in returning to these more traditional methods, both for health and flavor.
Thai Lime Tea (Cha Manao): Zesty and Refreshing
If you’re after something more citrusy, Cha Manao is a local favorite. This drink blends strong black tea with fresh lime juice and sugar, served over ice. It’s refreshing and tangy, perfect for beating the heat in Thailand’s tropical climate.
Unlike the creamy red tea, this version is light, bright, and caffeine-friendly—an excellent alternative for those avoiding dairy or heavy sweetness.
Thai Green Milk Tea (Cha Keow): Smooth and Eye-Catching
Another popular choice is Cha Keow, a vivid green milk tea made using green tea powder (sometimes similar to matcha) mixed with sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk. Its electric green color might catch your eye first, but it’s the creamy texture and subtly grassy flavor that keeps people coming back.
Often served iced, this tea is especially popular with younger locals and tourists alike, and you’ll frequently find it in trendy cafés across Thailand.
