The Tea Store

Between the detox (I'm at day 9...if you're counting?!) and the very crisp weather, I have been imbibing green/herbal teas. Litres of them. My home collection was looking a bit dreary Monday morning, so I laced up my sneakers and headed downtown to my favorite one-stop tea shop: The Tea Store.

Located at the corner of Princess and Sydenham St. downtown, it is the most lovely little alterna-cafe in the city. Established in 1996, The Tea Store carries over 200 teas (most of which come from estates monitored by the Ethical Tea Partnership) and home made baked goods, baked daily on-site. The atmosphere is charming and the staff is friendly and helpful.


Their famous scones alone are worth a visit. I've tried the blackberry lemon, strawberry rhubarb and chocolate walnut. They are all equally amazing, served alone or with whipped cream, jam & butter.....like a traditional English tea!

{Note: both yesterday, and Sunday, when I was there I had to forgo the scones, letting Winnie gobble hers up without even a taste! Oy! Suffering!}

I particularly love their selection of Rooibos teas, made from South African Red Bush or Aspalatus Linearis. They naturally contain no caffeine and are high in anti-oxidants, calcium, iron and copper.

{Aside: Has anyone read The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series by Alexander McCall Smith? I can't drink a cup of Rooibos without thinking of Mma Precious Ramotswe!}

In celebration of the up coming summer, The Tea Store has announced that "Iced Teas are Back Baby!"...so cute!

That being said, until May decides to show up, I'll be sipping the hot stuff. Fingers crossed this sunny day brings us some warmth!