What to Eat With Somali Chai

Somali chai stands on its own. It's strong, sweet and full of flavor. But the truth is, chai was never meant to be sipped alone.

At The Horn, we serve it the way we grew up with it: surrounded by good food and good company. Whether it's a slow morning or a quick visit, here's what pairs best with Somali chai.

1. Sambusas (Of Course)

There's a reason this is the default. A beef sambusa and a cup of hot chai? That's not just a snack, it's a reset. It brings everything into balance, especially in the morning or during a quiet break in the day.

2. Dates

Simple, balanced and naturally sweet. Dates with chai offer a clean, timeless pairing. Whether it's for breaking a fast or just something light in the afternoon, it fits.

3. Cheesy Breakfast Sambusas

One of our originals. The combination of savory filling and crispy shell alongside a sweet, spiced chai makes for a solid morning routine. It's simple, filling and always satisfying.

4. Chai Crumble Muffins

One of our own bakes. A soft, spiced muffin with our chai in the batter, under a thick, buttery crumble top. It's sweet enough to stand up to a strong cup, and six of them come in every Breakfast Spread.

5. Kac Kac and Buskud

Every Somali home keeps something sweet next to the chai pot, and it's usually one of these two. Kac Kac are golden, bite-size and made for dunking. Buskud are traditional tea biscuits, piped into flowers, eight big ones to a bag. Put out a plate of both and watch which one disappears first.

Dunk one. Sip. Reach for another.

Chai Isn't Just a Drink. It's a Moment.

We've built mornings around this. Conversations, kitchen tables, breaks in the day. So whatever you're eating, enjoy it slow, and drink it with chai.