No, chai and masala are not the same. Here's the distinction: A chai latte is a beverage made by combining a chai concentrate or brewed chai teas with steamed milk. It is a popular drink in Western coffee shops and cafes, offering a fusion of the spiced flavors of masala chai with the creaminess of a latte. Masala: Masala refers to a blend of spices used in Indian cuisine. Masala chai, or spiced tea, utilizes this spice blend to create a flavorful and aromatic beverage. The spices typically used in masala include cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and black pepper. While chai incorporates the spiced flavors of masala chai, it specifically refers to the combination of chai tea or concentrate with milk, making it a distinct beverage from masala itself.