Natasha Kundi 
Following the successful launch of flagship stores in Marylebone, London, and Chorlton, Manchester, FiLLi is expanding across the UK. A store has recently opened in the famous Curry Mile in Manchester, taking the FiLLi group to over 100 fast-casual stores across ten countries.
Its new outlet on Lever Street, Islington, that will cater for eat-in, grab-and-go, delivery and collection and will feature its signature Zafran Chai and an all-day menu encompassing everything from bun kebabs, burgers, toasties, wraps and masala fries, in addition to a breakfast range including a variety of omelettes, paratha wraps, as well as full English and vegetarian breakfast options. FiLLi also sells a range of herbal and iced teas, artisan coffees, smoothies and milkshakes.
The award-winning aromatic Zafran Chai has won the Best Tea award in the UAE for three consecutive years. It comes from a unique recipe developed by the company’s founder, Rafi Filli. The Filli trademark is registered in 48 countries, including the USA, Canada, North Africa, and across Asia, in addition to the GCC countries. Additional stores have been identified across the country, and ambitious plans have been made to open new UK stores over the next five years.
Saad Awan, Business Development Director says “Our stores are comfortable, relaxed and easy-going, and people simply adore our chai. Our successful flagship stores in London and Manchester have proved that the UK market is ready for the best chai going. Our customers travel from all over the country to experience our signature Saffron tea and our food with its authentic spices, herbs, and exciting flavour twists.”
“In the UAE, FiLLi is known for its slogan Tea n Talk, which it intends to continue as it expands the network. It’s a universal concept – take a break, sit down, relax with a cup of chai, press the pause button on the world and have a good get-together and chat – it’s great for people’s relaxation and mental health – these kinds of human connections make the world go round”.
