London is a city that boasts a rich tea culture, with countless tea rooms and shops offering a wide variety of blends to suit any taste. Whether you’re a fan of traditional English breakfast tea or prefer something more exotic, there’s sure to be a tea in London that will satisfy your cravings.
Traditional Tea
If you’re looking for a classic cup of tea in London, look no further than Fortnum & Mason. This iconic department store has been serving afternoon tea since 1707 and has an extensive selection of teas to choose from. Their Royal Blend is particularly popular – it’s made with teas from India, Sri Lanka, and China and has a smooth, malty flavor.
Another great option for traditional tea is The Ritz. Their afternoon tea service is famous around the world and includes finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and, of course, a pot of your favorite blend. The Ritz’s own signature blend is a must-try – it’s a blend of Assam, Kenyan, and Ceylon teas that creates a rich, full-bodied cup.
Exotic Tea
If you’re in the mood for something more adventurous than traditional black tea, London has plenty of options for you too. Yumchaa is a great place to start – they offer over 50 different blends ranging from fruity infusions to spicy chai teas. Their Soho Spice blend is particularly popular – it’s made with black tea leaves, ginger root, cardamom pods, cinnamon pieces, and black pepper.
If you’re looking for something truly unique, head to Postcard Teas in Mayfair. This small shop specializes in rare teas from around the world and offers tastings so you can try before you buy. Their Red Jade Black Tea from Taiwan is particularly noteworthy – it has notes of honey and caramel with a smooth, velvety finish.
Iced Tea
On a hot summer day, there’s nothing more refreshing than a glass of iced tea. If you’re looking for the best iced tea in London, head to The Tea House in Covent Garden. They offer a wide variety of iced teas made with their own blends, including a refreshing peach and ginger tea and a tangy lemon and lime green tea.
For something a little different, try the Bubble Tea at Biju Bubble Tea Bar in Soho. This Taiwanese drink is made with milk, tea, and Chewy tapioca balls and comes in a variety of flavors. Their classic black tea with milk and honey is particularly delicious.
In Conclusion
Whether you’re in the mood for traditional English breakfast or something more exotic, London has plenty of teas to choose from. From classic department stores to small independent shops, there’s something for everyone. So next time you’re in London, be sure to try some of the city’s best teas – your taste buds will thank you!