Nothing quite soothes my soul like a very hot cup of tea. Perhaps it’s the fact that I often make it so hot I have to drink it slowly, or perhaps it’s the fact that there is some sort of ingredient in tea, which does in fact calm nerves. I don’t really care about the reason; I would simply like some tea.
I prefer to use loose tea over any other kind— probably because it makes me feel more authentic. But when it’s real tea authenticity I’m craving, there is absolutely no better place than Tea & Sympathy at 108 Greenwhich Ave in the West Village. It’s smaller than my living room, and the perfect spot to cozy up with some tea.
photo: velojoy.com
English accents hang in the air, as the always cheerful, waitress takes your order. When I’m there, I almost always order anything with the name “Earl Grey” in it, and then the girls will bring it to you in a traditional English pot. That’s right you get your own pot of tea for $4.50. As it steeps in front of me, I often write— in a real notebook, not that I couldn’t use technology, but it doesn’t feel right— this is truly my place for reflection.
photo: arthouseamerica.com
While I drink cup after cup, I often nosh on traditional scones and clotted cream (I know it practically clogs your arteries when you touch it, but it’s soo good and soo very authentic). Sure you have to go to New York City to find this hideout, but I’m practically a tea connoisseur at around 12 cups a day, and there is no other place quite like Tea & Sympathy. Besides, if you’re spending a weekend in The Big Apple, it’s probably a good idea to slow down for a second and remember just how lucky you are.
at 10:27 am
I thought I already commented on this, but apparently I didn’t…. I love that you wrote about this amazing little place! I wish there was something like it closer to home!