Welcome to Free Bird Chai
Free Bird Chai is a charming café located in South Lake Tahoe, where exceptional flavors and a warm ambiance come together. Formerly an ice cream parlor, this cozy spot has evolved under the stewardship of owner Aaron, offering a delightful menu that includes meticulously crafted chai, expertly brewed espressos, and a selection of freshly baked pastries. Patrons rave about the signature "Roots" chai, celebrated for its perfect blend of spices and richness, while options like the pistachio and maple cinnamon lattes create a memorable experience. With friendly service and a delightful atmosphere, Free Bird Chai is a must-visit gem for local and visiting coffee lovers alike.
Free Bird Chai: Reviews & Ratings
Visiting Tahoe and staying right by here. I LOVED it. Came back every day that I was in town, sometimes twice a day. I'm super bummed as when I returned home, I have no where near me that matches this type of place, even remotely. I still crave the drink I ordered majority of time, the "Roots" with Oat Milk. Delish! There are only one or two folks working but be patient, the drinks are lovely! And the gent that makes the drinks isn't outgoing-style/boisterous like, but that doesn't mean he isn't kind or enjoys his role, likely just focused on the task at hand! :) I found him and the whole place really pleasant and miss it already.
We come in daily (or close to it) since stumbling across this little coffee locale. It used to be an ice cream parlor but now the owner, Aaron, pulls amazing espressos behind the bar. We get a cacao deluxe with oat milk and a muffin. The croissants are also amazing and brought in fresh each morning. Great music is always playing and the atmosphere is just right in a generally busy location. The pistachio latte and maple cinnamon latte are also killer. The crown jewel though is the chai. House made and mixed each morning. I think you can take some concentrate to go but the original chai is spicy in the best way. Good ice ratio for summer iced drinks and never burnt espresso shots. I haven’t had a “miss” yet.
We went there during "ski week" which meant the place was busy with quite a few people waiting for their coffee. Aaron was calm and greeted everyone who walked in. He went about his task efficiently and created everyones order with minimum "fuss". Great coffee and a selection of pastries. Suggest you buy your coffee here and take it with you if you're planning on eating breakfast next door at Red Hut.
Fantastic spot in South Lake Tahoe! Had a chai latte, London fog, and honey cornbread muffin - all were 10/10!
I feel so lucky to have found this gem in South Lake Tahoe! I stumbled across Free Bird Chai while on a camping trip a week ago and stopped by here again today to bring my friend! I got the 'Roots' chai, which is the perfect amount of spice and blend of coconut, turmeric, chai, and yumminess. My friend got the 'Ruby' which is a roobios tea, caffeine free and delicious. I'll be looking forward to my next visit so I can try something else on the menu!! Also, it was so lovely to be greeted by a friendly face, Aaron, who stewards this wonderful place :) Thank you for being so welcoming and making fantastic beverages!
Yummmm! This chai coffee shop was recommended by a friend and it lived up to the hype. I got the Dirty and it was spectacular. I also like how you can bring your own cup in and they’ll put your drink in it. Loved the plants strewn across the shop.
Had their Lavender Honey Latte and it was AMAZING! Staff was super friendly! Great atmosphere!
Great pistachio latte and blueberry muffins. Friendly staff...cashier greeted us with a really great smile. Place came highly recommended. Would patronize again.
Location
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3660 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, United States Hotline: +1 530-217-3344
Welcome to Free Bird Chai, a delightful corner in South Lake Tahoe that has quickly become a beloved retreat for locals and visitors alike. Nestled at 3660 Lake Tahoe Blvd, this quaint establishment transforms the traditional coffee shop experience with its focus on exceptional chai and artisanal beverages.
Reviews from satisfied customers highlight the magic woven into each cup. Tamara Heller raves about the "Roots" chai, which she describes as a perfect blend of spices and creaminess, especially when paired with oat milk. Her daily visits during her Tahoe stay reflect the cozy allure that Free Bird Chai holds—it's more than a café; it's a cherished stop for a comforting drink.
Under the careful guidance of owner Aaron, the ambiance is relaxed yet vibrant. The baristas work diligently, crafting perfect espressos and innovative drinks like the pistachio latte and maple cinnamon latte. Customer Kelsi Buts appreciates the meticulous attention to detail, stating that their house-made chai is also a notable highlight, praised for its robust flavors and balance. The daily fresh pastries, such as croissants and muffins, elevate the experience even more, drawing patrons back for daily indulgences.
Whether you visit during the bustle of ski week or on a serene summer morning, Free Bird Chai offers an inviting atmosphere filled with great music and aromas that soothe the spirit. Customer konatradewind emphasizes the efficiency and calmness of the staff—even during peak hours, they maintain an air of tranquility, ensuring each order is made to perfection. For a delightful breakfast takeaway, it’s the ideal pit stop before heading to nearby eateries.
In essence, Free Bird Chai captures the heart of South Lake Tahoe with its unique offerings and welcoming environment. Every sip and bite resonates with warmth and community, which will leave you pondering your next visit before you’ve even left. Don't miss out on the delightful array of drinks and pastries that await you at this charming destination!