In terms of larger tea shop chains, I feel like DavidsTea is the antithesis of a place like Teavana.. everything that Teavana is doing poorly, DavidsTea does really well. The Washington St. location is small, and I do wish there was slightly more walking room. However, the employees are really friendly without being pushy. Allowed me to browse at my own pace, smell what I wanted, sample what I pleased, and take my time. I will definitely return.

If you like flavored teas, you’ll like DAVIDsTEA. If you like grabbing a cup on the go, but want more options than the six Starbucks has, you’ll like DAVIDsTEA. If you like friendly and knowledgeable tea shop staffers, you’ll like DAVIDsTEA (this is what Teavana lacks imo).

The Washington St/Downtown Crossing location here in Boston is rather… cozy. There is some seating in front if you want to go out on a tea date with friends.However, given the neighborhood I’m not shocked at the lack of space. DT has a wide array of straight and flavored teas (carrying some 130+ on their tea wall at a time); the tea guides will allow you to fondle teas from a special sniffer compartment not used for serving, schedule two teas a day for sampling, and also sell “to-go” cups if you want to try a blend before settling on it.

They also have a reasonable assortment of accessories, but are not where you want to go for yixing or cast-iron items. Most cups, mugs, and pots are porcelain or glass.

However, customer service is where they really shine. The tea guides are super friendly and wacky people, and they care a lot about their job (never before have I seen a retail job where employees resist taking breaks!). They work really hard to make sure you’re getting a flavor that will work for you, based on how you handle sample teas, scentings, what you say you like, and what they know you’ve had before.

Can’t overestimate my love for this bunch.

Fabulous. Love the teas, love the shop, love the workers. Great organization and employee courtesy. Prices not so bad either! Wish that it was in a more accessible area like on Newbury or something so more people would go but absolutely great store!

In terms of larger tea shop chains, I feel like DavidsTea is the antithesis of a place like Teavana.. everything that Teavana is doing poorly, DavidsTea does really well. The Washington St. location is small, and I do wish there was slightly more walking room. However, the employees are really friendly without being pushy. Allowed me to browse at my own pace, smell what I wanted, sample what I pleased, and take my time. I will definitely return.