Mohammed Alsalman
Google
Last Monday was soft and inviting—a perfect spring day in Brooklyn with breezy warmth that carried the scent of blossoms through the air. My friend and I ventured to Ruhani Café on Atlantic Avenue, lured by the promise of a quiet chai break and a tucked-away backyard oasis.
What greeted us was pure serenity: stepping behind the café, we found a lush veranda of greenery—ivy-clad walls, hanging vines, and cozy bistro tables under delicate string lights. The space felt designed for slow afternoons: a gentle mix of shade and sunlight filtering through, low conversations drifting around, and the comforting hum of city life just beyond the walls. It truly felt like a secret garden in the middle of Brooklyn.
We chose to stay and soak it all in. While the menu specializes in chai, we decided to try their signature blends:
• Kesar Chai – beautifully aromatic, with saffron notes that felt regal and comforting
• Doodh Patti – smooth, milky, and gently spiced in the traditional style
• Pistachio Baklava – a crisp, honeyed square with vibrant green crunch and just the right level of sweetness
• Tres Leches – tender, soaked sponge with a creamy, milky depth that somehow felt both light and indulgent
The chai was crafted with care and elegance—each cup poured as though it were a ritual, highlighting the nuances of saffron, cardamom, and slow-steeped spices. The tres leches, in particular, was a revelation: moist, rich without heaviness, and utterly memorable.
What made the experience even more special were the two baristas, Mahrukh and Yeliz—gracious, warm, and genuinely proud of their craft. Their kindness extended beyond service; they surprised us with a taste of their in-house saffron-pistachio-cardamom ice cream—an unexpected treat that encapsulated the delicate yet bold spirit of the café.
Between the sunlit backyard, the thoughtfully prepared chai, and the generosity of Mahrukh and Yeliz, Ruhani Café became more than a stop—it was a moment of calm elegance. Perfect for an afternoon unwind or a slow chat with a friend.