Indian Coffee House Civil Lines

Indian Coffee House in Civil Lines, Prayagraj, in Uttar Pradesh, is a coffee house dating to 1957 and part of the national network of Indian Coffee House cafes that grew out of the coffee workers' cooperative movement. These cafes have long been associated with students, writers, journalists and political discussion, and the Prayagraj branch, in a city with a major university and a strong literary history, has a similar reputation as a traditional meeting place. The menu is a mix of South and North Indian items typical of the chain, centred on filter coffee, priced at around INR 50, and masala dosa, at around INR 110, with cutlets, sandwiches and other light dishes also served. The coffee is brewed strong and served hot with milk, and the cutlets are a long-standing favourite. The dining room is old-fashioned and unhurried: plain tables and chairs, ceiling fans or a simple interior, and waiters traditionally dressed in uniform. The atmosphere is quiet to moderately noisy, with conversations carrying on for long periods and little pressure to leave. There is no wine or cocktail programme, and the beverage offering is coffee, tea and soft drinks. Reservations are not needed, as seating is walk-in, though tables fill during mid-morning and late-afternoon breaks. Prices are low, which is part of the appeal for students and regular visitors. The Civil Lines location is in the colonial-era central district of Prayagraj, close to wide avenues, shops and government buildings, so the cafe fits easily into a day of exploring the city. Visitors who want a slower, less crowded meal than the street-food stalls will find it a comfortable stop. Hours run from morning to evening and should be confirmed locally.