The Best Coffee Shops in New York for Specialty Teas
New York City is known for its hustle and bustle, its vibrant streets, and its incredible food and drink. While coffee often takes center stage in the city, there are many coffee shops that also shine when it comes to specialty teas. Whether you’re a fan of matcha, chai, herbal blends, or exotic loose-leaf teas, NYC has plenty of places to satisfy your tea cravings. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best coffee shops in New York for specialty teas.
1. Cha-An Tea House
Located in the East Village, Cha-An Tea House is a cozy spot devoted entirely to the art of tea. With its Japanese-inspired decor and relaxing atmosphere, this place feels like a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets. They offer a wide selection of high-quality teas like matcha, sencha, hojicha, and many herbal blends. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try their matcha latte or pair your tea with one of their delicious desserts, like mochi or a green tea cake.
2. Blue Bottle Coffee
Although known for its coffee, Blue Bottle Coffee is surprisingly fantastic for tea lovers as well. With several locations throughout the city, Blue Bottle offers specially crafted teas sourced from some of the best tea producers in the world. Their matcha latte is a crowd favorite, featuring organic Japanese matcha whisked to perfection. If you’re exploring their menu, don’t miss their seasonal tea options and lighter herbal infusions.
3. Tea & Milk
Tea & Milk is a charming shop in Astoria, Queens, that blends tea with creativity. Their mission is simple: to offer high-quality teas with unique flavors. Tea & Milk offers freshly brewed teas, milk teas, and iced teas, with fun twists like their signature Thai Tea or Lavender Cream Earl Grey. If you’re into adventurous drinks, their custom tea blends are absolutely worth trying. The cozy atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax or chat with friends.
4. Harney & Sons SoHo
If you’re looking for a shop that takes tea very seriously, Harney & Sons in SoHo is the place to go. The store combines a boutique tea shop with a laid-back cafe vibe, offering a wide array of loose-leaf teas from around the world. Whether you’re looking for rare blends or familiar favorites, Harney & Sons has something for every tea lover. Their tea experts are also happy to help you find the perfect brew for your taste. The spacious cafe is ideal for sipping tea and watching the world go by.
5. Brooklyn Tea
Brooklyn Tea in Bed-Stuy specializes in premium loose-leaf teas that are both delicious and good for the soul. With a focus on wellness, their teas are designed to provide health benefits while tasting great. Whether you’re in the mood for green tea, black tea, herbal infusions, or something iced, there’s plenty to choose from. Their tea bar welcomes tea lovers of all levels, and the staff is always willing to chat about their tea-making process. Don’t forget to try their turmeric ginger tea—it’s packed with flavor and perfect for boosting your energy!
6. Matchaful
Matchaful is heaven for matcha lovers. This shop is entirely dedicated to matcha, sourcing its organic tea directly from Japan. While the star of the menu is their matcha latte, they also offer matcha shots, smoothies, and even matcha-based pastries. If you’re new to matcha, the staff is more than happy to walk you through the flavors and benefits of this antioxidant-rich green tea. With locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, Matchaful is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves this vibrant tea.
7. Kettl Tea
For those who appreciate authentic Japanese tea, Kettl Tea is a gem. Located in Brooklyn, this shop offers a true Japanese tea experience, focusing on beautifully curated teas like sencha, gyokuro, and genmaicha. The minimalist design and carefully sourced teas make it a dream for anyone looking to sip their way through the finest Japanese blends. Kettl also sells their premium teas and teaware, so you can recreate the experience at home.
8. Mavi’s Tea & Coffee
Mavi’s Tea & Coffee, found in downtown Manhattan, is a small shop with big flavors. The tea menu is diverse and includes everything from floral hibiscus tea to spiced chai lattes. Their blends are aromatic and unique, making it a great spot to try something new. Don’t overlook their iced teas when you’re visiting during warmer months—they’re perfectly refreshing and full of flavor.
9. Alice’s Tea Cup
Alice’s Tea Cup is a whimsical tea shop that feels like stepping into a fairytale. With several locations in Manhattan, this shop specializes in loose-leaf teas and delightful pastries. The menu offers both traditional teas and creative blends, like their “Alice’s Tea” made with rooibos, green tea, and floral notes. Whether you want to linger over high tea or grab a quick cup, this charming spot is perfect for tea lovers of all ages.
Why NYC Is a Tea Lover’s Paradise
New York City may be known for coffee, but its specialty tea scene is just as exciting. These cafes and tea houses prove that great tea is all about variety, craftsmanship, and a cozy environment where you can relax and unwind. Whether you want to sip on matcha, enjoy a chai latte, or explore rare tea blends, NYC has endless options for tea lovers.
Next time you’re in the city, step into one of these shops and experience the joy of specialty teas—they’re bound to make your day a little brighter! Cheers!
