The Cha Cha Chai blog
Chai, desserts and days out from Northwood Hills
Plain answers about the food we make and the area around Joel Street: what a dish is, what to order, what is on, and how to get here. 5 guides so far, covering Halal living, Chai, Seasons & celebrations, Local guides.
Halal livingWhat makes a dessert halal? Gelatine, alcohol, rennet and E numbers explainedPork and lard aside, four things decide if a dessert is halal: gelatine, alcohol, animal rennet and a few E numbers. How to spot each on a UK label.
ChaiKarak chai vs masala chai vs doodh patti: what is actually differentKarak, masala chai and doodh patti side by side: tea, milk, spice and strength, where each comes from, and which one to order for the taste you like.
Seasons & celebrationsDiwali sweets: what to give, what to check on the box, and the 2026 datesDiwali sweets explained: the common names, what to check on a box for egg, gelatine and silver leaf, and when to give one before Diwali on 8 November 2026.
Local guidesHarrow fireworks 2026 at Byron Park: an evening plan from Northwood HillsHarrow fireworks, Byron Park, Sat 7 Nov 2026: times, what the 13 ticket listings charge, and the bus route from Northwood Hills while the Met line is shut.
Local guidesAutumn walks near Northwood Hills: four routes and the council's free led walksFour autumn walks from Northwood Hills: Ruislip Woods, Eastcote, Pinner and the Aquadrome, with transport, distances, sunset times and free led-walk dates.