Photograph by Daniel Neuhaus; prop styling by Sarah Magwood; food styling by Tanya Santos;
Slamming back an espresso may get the caffeine coursing, but tea—the new coffee, judging by the sheer number of dedicated shops opening all over the city—is a drink for all senses. Our mini-guide to Toronto’s most beautiful, fragrant and tasty infusions
GenmaichaGrains of roasted brown rice are mixed with green tea leaves for a complex, earthy taste. $5/400 g. Sanko, 730 Queen St. W., 416-703‑4550.
Three BloomsFor a cuppa and a show, you can’t beat flowering tea. Once steeped, this herbal beauty features lily, jasmine and osmanthus blossoms. $15/seven balls. Tea, Oh!, teaoh.com.
Kenyan White Rhino MatchaA finely powdered white tea with a chalkier texture and more bitter taste than its green counterpart. (No rhinos were harmed in the process.) $16.50/50 g. Tea, Oh!, teaoh.com.
Such a wonderful array of wonderful tea shops — many of which I’ve sampled and can attest to their fine teas. But one oversight is the fabulous Tao’s Tea House on Yonge across from the Canadian Tire. Tao has THE best China teas including a Golden Monkey to swoon for!
October 27, 2010 at 8:53 pm | by M.McLeanOriginally from Britain, I am a serious tea drinker and have sampled many varieties in Toronto. My favourite, not mentioned here, is the Earl Grey Lavender from Agora Cafe in the Junction. They have a complete range of Fair Trade, Organic teas and if you want a recommendation just ask the staff who are very knowledgeable and helpful.
October 28, 2010 at 9:53 am | by J.DowntonI have totally fallen in love With Forever Nuts by Davids Tea. It tastes like apple pie. Each time I go there I try something new. I am looking forward to checking out the places you have mentioned too.
November 1, 2010 at 12:59 pm | by J. RamadanaThanks
So happy that tea, instead of the ever present coffee, is getting its due. Although not a tea shop, my favourite tea is Peace Tea by the Algonquin Tea Company
November 2, 2010 at 5:36 am | by Cait LevyTsaa has not only teas, they also have bubble teas! And I think that the best tea they have is Sweet temptations. Hmmmm tealish.
December 1, 2010 at 11:59 am | by Jade NMy favourite tea shop is Tao Tea Leaf, on Yonge Street, between rosedale and bloor, the owner is very knowledgeable.
January 18, 2011 at 11:07 pm | by onlyLuk Yu tea shop on the 2nd floor in Market Village has the best Bai Lo Chung in the city.
February 5, 2011 at 8:32 am | by ChristineMajesteas, 950 Queen East has May pickings of Silver Needle, Golden Needle, Phoenix Oolong and a Bi Lo Chun that is the best I’ve ever tasted – heaven in a cup. Love you can have a cup in their shop so you know what you’re paying for. Great there are more quality tea shops opening!
September 6, 2011 at 1:06 pm | by Noel