Travelers On East Pine Street, across from a couple of high-profile hipster enclaves, Allen Kornmesser’s Indian import store has been quietly brewing the best chai in town for half a decade. To make matters better, they practically give it away: A small cup costs $1, including milk or the nondairy substitute of your choice. Chai half as good sells at double that price elsewhere on Capitol Hill; moreover, the peppery recipe Travelers uses beats Oregon’s Morning Glory brand—many Seattleites’ chai of choice—at its tongue-tickling game. The store’s home brew is a revivifying drink: unbeatable in winter, yet equally refreshing in warmer seasons, even if you don’t order it on ice, as many summertime regulars do. While you’re there, pick up some imported chutney or dal—or just grab a single-serving pack of spicy Indian snack mix, also just $1, for the road. Kornmesser and herbalist Leon Reed report a steady decrease in business since 9/11, which makes right now the perfect time to explore one of Seattle’s spiciest secrets— and emerge chai-umphant. NEAL SCHINDLER 501 E. Pine St., 206-329-6260. CAPITOL HILL