HARLEY SOLTES / THE SEATTLE TIMES
Afternoon tea at Queen Mary.
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Top spots for tea
Sacrilegious though it may seem to drink tea in espresso country, Seattle's teahouses and tea shops offer a variety of tastes that most coffeehouses simply can't match. Whether you prefer oolong, chai or good old Earl Grey, these establishments will fix you up with a drink that will rival the best coffee you've ever had.
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Floating Leaves Teahouse
(Ballard/Crown Hill)
Floating Leaves quite rightly bills itself as "Seattle's first authentic Chinese teahouse."
Miro Tea
(Ballard/Crown Hill)
Owner Jeannie Liu, whose family runs two Oasis Bubble Tea shops in Seattle, wants to change the way people perceive tea. In the presence of her 250 varieties, it's easy to see that tea's distinctions are practically infinite.
Panama Hotel Tea & Coffee House
(International District)
Enjoy the Panama's teas, espressos, sandwiches, wireless Internet access and nearly 100 years of history.
The Perennial Tea Room
(Downtown)
Need a break from the bustle of Pike Place Market? This quiet tea shop offers fresh brews and a respite from the crowds.
Queen Mary Tea Room & Restaurant
(Sandpoint/Wedgwood)
This is the real thing: a proper English tea room that serves proper afternoon tea. Finger sandwiches and pastries are served, and tiaras are available upon request.
Remedy Teas
(Capitol Hill)
Remedy Teas on Capitol Hill serves fresh tea sandwiches and salads, baked goods and more than 150 organic teas. Don't skip dessert: cakes, tea cookies, truffles and caramels are excellent.
Teacup
(Queen Anne/Seattle Center)
With more than 100 loose teas in stock and a staff that knows them all, this is one of Seattle's most pleasant shopping and sipping experiences.
Teahouse Kuan Yin
(Wallingford)
Kuan Yin serves choice Indian and Asian teas in an atmosphere that's every bit as relaxing and warm as what is poured into the cups.
Travelers Shop
(Capitol Hill)
Travelers is an Indian dream, with incense, amazing paintings and countless other items from the Subcontinent. While the shop's somewhat recent expansion is well worth browsing, what really makes the place shine is its exceptional food. Also, take note: Its chai is the best in town.
Village Yarn & Tea Shop
(Shoreline)
Half of this store is dedicated to fibers and knitting paraphernalia, the other half a light-filled tea shop.
More places to enjoy tea |
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