I recently took part in a Coffee cupping (coffee tasting) with  Kareena Fagwani of Alai Coffee.

Ever since I wrote my first book “Vancouver’s Best Espresso Spots” in 1993 I’ve always been passionate and intrigued about the coffee industry, especially up and coming coffee roasters.

Although the Vancouver coffee scene is widely regarded, Indian coffee has not been prevalent here. This has now changed with Alai Coffee that is locally based by Kareena Fagwani who is the founder and head roaster of the coffee roasting business that started in May 2025.

I was fortunate to be invited to their inaugural coffee cupping session this past weekend where I had a chance to try. a selection of their Indian coffees. They paired up the coffees with some Indian snacks for us to try with the coffees.

My favourite of the 4 coffees that I tried was the Spritz, the others that I tasted during the cupping session were Dew, Brook and Tide.

I also tried their South Indian filter coffee which has hints of chicory and was made with milk, it was quite sweet as it should be. I look forward to trying the Tide at home as a Cold Brew.

Her company is a South Asian, queer women-owned micro-roaster dedicated to bold flavours, intentional sourcing, and transparency from farm to cup. They roast in small batches and partner directly with farms across India, ensuring every bean is traceable, ethical, and fresh. Currently working direct with 8 coffee plantations across India.

Their coffee is currently on the at Restaurant Kavita, Union Market, Sula Cafe and Elaichi Chai menu while others such as United Strangers Coffee and Slo only retail the coffee beans.

This is just the beginning for Kareena and her life partner, both of these passionate women are excited to supply many more cafes in the Vancouver area as well as across the country.

Follow them on Instagram @alai.coffee

By: Richard Wolak