A Legacy Steeped in Tradition.

A story of taste, tradition, and friendship.

Our story began in the mid-20th century, when an immigrant arrived in the United States with a dream: to craft the finest iced tea. After years of refinement, a blend was perfected that stood out for its clarity, robust flavor, and crisp finish—refreshing the palate without leaving any lingering aftertaste. By 1958, a company was launched to share this tea with the world.

Not long after, the founder crossed paths with a restaurateur who shared the same philosophy: that quality is the foundation of lasting success. A partnership was born that grew into a deep friendship, uniting tea and hospitality in a way that touched generations of families and customers alike. Their alliance, built on trust and shared values, thrived for over six decades and across three generations.

As time moved forward, the company transitioned, and the recipe passed into new hands. Today, the family of restaurateurs who had partnered with the original tea company for generations now imports the same cherished blend. Working alongside new generations of growers in Sri Lanka, they continue to uphold the exacting standards set at the very beginning. Maitri Tea is family-owned and operated, with headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana—carrying the legacy forward with integrity and care.

Out of respect for that history and the bonds of friendship that shaped it, the tea was reintroduced under a new name: Maitri Tea—a word that means “friendship,” chosen to capture the heart of the story.

Now poured fresh in restaurants and available in retail packs to enjoy at home or online, Maitri Tea carries more than flavor in every glass. It carries a story—a story of trust, quality, and enduring connection.

“Maitri Tea is more than a drink—it’s a promise kept across generations.”