Tea houses have been popular for hundreds of years, and unlike coffee shops, there are fewer of them, usually. Here are three of the most beautiful tea houses that every tea drinker must have a cup at.
Samovar Tea Lounge | San Francisco U.S.
Samovars are traditional metal containers that hail from Russia used to keep water hot. A teapot is often placed on top of the samovar, and in turn that keeps the tea warm for hours. In San Francisco, the Samovar Tea Lounge has adapted the samovar technology and created a tea house geared towards the future. All tea is brewed within glass crucibles for maximum flavor.
To Tsai | Athens, Greece
When you think of Greece, you think of Ouzo and Grappa, not exclusive tea blends. But To Tsai has taken traditional tea brewing to the next level. You will feel like you have stepped into a Japanese tea house when you enter this one. The architects intended for all patrons to feel like they are inside a wooden lantern.
Tokyo Saryo | Tokyo, Japan
No tea house list would be complete without a modern tea house in Japan. This shop only serves green tea blends, which hand-drip into every teacup. The interior looks like a stream-lined bar rather than a traditional Japanese teahouse.