Tea is the second-most widely consumed beverage in the world, nestled snuggly between water (No. 1) and beer (No. 3). And like its neighbors in rank, tea can be a particularly refreshing treat in the warm spring and summer months. Even when enjoyed hot, the subtle astringency of the tannins found in tea offers a bright and refreshing lift to the palate.
It’s been around for millennia, sure, but tea is certainly enjoying its moment in Western New York. Here’s a tour de tea for the most devout drinker and novice alike.
Buffalo’s Five Points neighborhood pours plenty of options for any tea enthusiast. Five Points Bakery serves up a beautiful, classic black iced tea lacking the bitterness that can so often accompany the drink. Bonus: They have a lovely garden setting with picnic benches to soak in some sun and enjoy said drink.
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Across the way is Remedy House, where every aspect of the beverage program is taken quite seriously, including its teas. Enjoy a London Fog—earl grey tea, vanilla syrup and steamed milk—or a chai latte on the patio and soak in the neighborhood’s bustling atmosphere.
To get more of an education on the subject, head to Cup of Communitea. Its Williamsville shop offers loose-leaf teas, accessories and a wealth of knowledge to share, while the tasting room on Delaware Avenue in Buffalo also features a hot and cold drink bar, all brewed from its loose teas.
My tea tastings also took me south, and while enjoying a matcha latte at Elm Street Bakery in East Aurora, I wondered what was prettier—the contrast between the lush green tea and bright white foam in my mug, or my surroundings? Then I took a sip, and the slight vegetal flavor and sweet nuttiness of the drink edged out the other contenders (just barely).
Sipping my tea, owner Kimberly DePerno offered up some insights on how the tea business has changed over the years. “Customers are much more savvy, and our wellness tea section has been a hit.” Elm Street stocks many varieties to enjoy hot or iced; either at the bakery or to brew at home.
If a basic brew isn’t your thing, or perhaps you’re in a tad of a tea rut…enter bubble tea. This fun, tea-based drink is accompanied by chewy tapioca balls, and you can enjoy a great one at Taichi Bubble Tea in Tonawanda. Serving up treats like passionfruit and kumquat green tea for over five years, you’d be hard pressed to find a better spot to quench your curiosity.
For something truly special, people love Lana’s The Little House. The secret, storybook English cottage is located about an hour outside of Buffalo and offers afternoon tea, garden tours and even lodging. It’s open year-round, by reservation only.
