The heart of downtown holds this comfy and eclectic tearoom. Three very different rooms offer a variety of retreats. The casual front room is bright and sunny with large windows and is decorated with colorful lanterns. Tables and booths are convenient for tea time snacks. The two back rooms are a little more formal, although restful and reservable for showers and parties. Passing through long velvet drapes, we chose the brocade chairs of the back room and settled in with our laptops (free wireless) for tea. They have a selection of forty plus Rishi Teas on display in small glass jars. We chose Decaf Orange Spice and Golden Yunnan; the latter was particularly good. Along with my pot of tea I ordered their combo lunch special, spinach and artichoke sandwich with a house salad. And for dessert I couldn’t resist a still piping hot lemon-blueberry scone. There are a variety of tea accessories for sale, pieces of retro tea art, and revolving local art on display. It is a relaxing, fun place; I will definitely return.
SALT LAKE CITY
With huge vertical windows, brick walls, and modern lighting, the atmosphere of the Tea Grotto is contemporary, loft-like and inspired by pan-Asian tea growing countries. They have created a special environment including a “Zen Room” with bamboo floor, low tables and pillows for the ultimate in tea meditation. Their selection is vast, from several versions of chai to matcha to estate specific oolongs. The owner, Rebecca, suggested Jade Oolong served gongfu style. It was my first experience with this Chinese service and I enjoyed the methodical preparation and several steepings of my delicious oolong. My husband, who has yet to decide if he even likes tea, had two full pots of Assam. Both delicious. Light meal offerings are served. We chose the pumpkin tart, deliciously savory with onion and garlic and a tomato, olive and feta galette. We lingered, enjoying the relaxing music and environment.
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