This is not a tea shop for serious connoisseurs, although they have a handful of teas that are worth a trip to try. If TeaGschwendner is a great friend of yours, then look at this place as his irritating 16 year old sister. The staff is beyond friendly… either they are hopped up on caffeine and lorazepam or “David” just hires the most extraverted hyper people I have met. They really cater more to people who like flavored teas, blends and herbal teas than anything else and hide behind menu description words like “complex”, “lively” and “bold” to make it a very corporate, scripted, impersonal experience. The staff knows very little, but will gladly read what the back of the tin says to you. On the bright side, they will steep a cup of any tea they have for $3, although the water temperatures are inconsistent and can tend to over-extract more delicate teas. Whether you like it or not, you will be greeted enthusiastically and get a sample of something the second you walk in, which I guess is nice but its just kind of a turn off… like that younger kid who really wants to be your friend. On your way out, carrying 1-2 ounces of what little serious tea they have, make sure to say goodbye to them… I was afraid that if I didn’t one of the staff may go postal!! I will return, but only if I am in the neighborhood… there are much better places to make a trip to stock up your tea cabinet.
