Best Tea Houses in New England | Top 5
We asked freelance writer and tea blogger Katrina Avila Munichiello to take a break from developing her new tea anthology to share her five favorite New England tea spots. She says that choosing just five was daunting, but her list of the best tea houses in New England includes “something for everyone.” 1. Clipper Merchant […]
By Katrina Munichiello|Feb 19 2010|
Coffee By Design | Portland, Maine
Photo Credit : Katherine Keenan
Photo Credit : Sanger, Sara
1. Clipper Merchant While Jacqueline’s in Freeport and MacNab’s in Boothbay get more attention, this new Maine arrival deserves mention. In a 180-year-old, impeccably decorated Carpenter Gothic home, this cozy setting (open April through mid-December) offers an impressive tea list and homemade food. Reservations recommended. 58 Main St. Limerick, ME 207-793-3500 clippermerchant.com
2. Swan’s Cafe As one of the world’s few tea sommeliers, Cynthia Gold has infused every part of the Boston Park Plaza Hotel’s tea service with her love of the beverage. Excellent tea, tea-infused cuisine, and even tea cocktails; a memorable experience. Reservations recommended. 50 Park Plaza at Arlington St. Boston, MA 617-654-1906 bostonparkplaza.com
3. Savvy Tea Gourmet Hip cafe or tea university? Owners Philip Parda and Judith Guard do more to educate consumers than any other shop I’ve visited. Don’t miss their elaborate tea tastings and information-packed biweekly afternoon tea. Reservations required only for events. 28 Durham Road Madison, CT<br. 203-318-8666 savvyteagourmet.com
4. Kaji Aso Studio For nearly three decades, this “Institute for the Arts” has been offering a Sunday-afternoon Japanese tea ceremony in a fully appointed teahouse installed on the ground floor of this Fenway-area brownstone. Reservations required. 40 Saint Stephen St. Boston, MA 617-247-1719 kajiasostudio.com
5. Tealuxe Comfortable and casual, boasting a menu of 80 teas and herbal tisanes, this is the shop that introduced me to loose-leaf tea. Also in Cambridge and Boston, MA.
231 Thayer St. Providence, RI 401-453-4832 tealuxe.com What are your picks for best tea houses in New England?
Sorry to see that Ferns and Flowers didn’t make the cut. A lovely teahouse and bistro which is also a full service flower shop that hosts many different events. Please check their website:
http://www.fernsandflowers.com/aboutus.html?source=header
TEAS
Afternoon Tea……..A Selection of Brewed Teas, Freshly Baked Scones with Strawberry Jam and Clotted Cream and Miniature Pastries……..$17.50
High Tea……..A Selection of Brewed Teas, Freshly Baked Scones with Strawberry Jam and Clotted Cream, Tiers of Hot hors D’oeuvres, a Selection of Miniature Tea Sandwiches and an Assortment of Miniature Pastries……..$22.50
Royal High Tea……..All The Fine Delights above with the addition of a Fresh Fruit and Cheese presentation, along with a Glass of Champagne, Sherry, or Wine………$35.00 Add tax and tip to selection.
Sunday Morning Champagne Breakfast Tea. A special Selection of plates served with the Sunday New York Times paper to read! A delightful morning…. Reservations available at 9:00, 10:00 and 11:00 for two or more guest. 45.00 per guest.
For the Teas Above we Request at least 24 hours notice
Menus Subject to Change.
Tax and Tip Additional. See Event Listings for Private Parties.
Ferns and Flowers | 1094 Centerville Road | Warwick | RI | 02886
PHONE 401-821-1447
The Clipper Merchant is wonderful! I just wish they were open at the end of March so I could take my Mom there for her 80th birthday. She’s a big fan too.
The most wonderful tea shop in all the land is the Tea Leaf on Moody Street in Waltham, MA. Everything from homemade scones and tea to go TO high tea…delightful in every way! The food, the sundries, and the gift shop are just the place to go to unwind… My 8 year old son can unwind there; a treat for a busy Mom! Here’s a clip from their web page:
The Tea Leaf 487 Moody Street Waltham, MA 02453. Phone: 781-891-1900.
“Located in the heart of historic downtown Waltham, Massachusetts, the Tea Leaf has been a favourite retreat for those seeking casual elegance and a relaxed haven from their busy schedules.
Since The Tea Leaf opened in November 2005, tea lovers throughout New England and around the world have visited our quaint tearoom while in the Boston area. The locals are ?regulars? to The Tea Leaf and have embraced the unique atmosphere that it offers.
Our English-style setting consists of a twenty-seat tea room offering savory lunches, delectable three-course afternoon tea and decadent desserts.”
Haven’t tried any of these interesting places but Special Teas in Northboro, MA is a winner, as well. Three women own and operate it producing delicious home made entrees and desserts and a wonderful array of tasty teas.
I think this article is very interesting. I will check them out plus other ones that I find in my area (live in Newburyport MA).