The ritual of afternoon tea is one of the anchors of civilization. In Ottawa, that civilization is going strong. You'll find a wealth of destinations where you can sit comfortably with a warm cup of tea. From the old-fashioned class of Zoe's Lounge to the modern rhythms of Fleur Tea House, it's a tea-lover's paradise.
If your idea of a tea house is two British grandmothers sipping Earl Grey while making polite conversation, think again. At Fleur Tea House, you get some tango with your tea: Every second Thursday night is tea and tango. There's also a night for bachata and for blues performances. With over 100 different teas on the menu, you'll be sure to find your entertainment and tea combination here.
Come for a sip of mystery in the ByWard Market, where The Tea Party features such blends as the Sherlock and the Moriarty. Housed in a historic red brick house, the setting is cozy and intimate, and there are dozens upon dozens of teas available, including Indian, Chinese, African, rooibos, chai and more. Snack on a cucumber and cream cheese sandwich as the perfect accompaniment for your beverage.
Take a seat outside under the red awning, or come in and enjoy the cramped-but-cozy vibe of The Tea Store. You won't come up short: The selection is seemingly endless – black, green, herbal, white, oolong and kusmi. The welcoming staff will help you navigate the multitude of flavours and find something perfect for your particular palate. Make sure to try one of their scones with whipped cream, jam and butter, or the famous cheese s'more.
Take a seat outside under the red awning, or come in and enjoy the cramped-but-cozy vibe of The Tea Store. You won't come up short: The selection is seemingly endless – black, green, herbal, white, oolong and kusmi. The welcoming staff will help you navigate the multitude of flavours and find something perfect for your particular palate. Make sure to try one of their scones with whipped cream, jam and butter, or the famous cheese s'more.
Space is limited at Nectar Fine Teas, so it's best to reserve a place beforehand. You'll be glad you did, if only to pair your tea with one of their delicious ice cream sandwiches. How about Madagascar Vanilla Bean on Cardamom Spice Shortbread? For hot days, try one of their delicious iced teas. The Jasmine Lime Cooler is cool, refreshing and delicious.
The teas at Shanti Tea are certified organic and completely delicious. The Warm Apple Cider or Smoked Maple Oolong are perfect for those windswept Ottawa winter days. If you're feeling under the weather, come for their wellness teas: the Detox tea and the Rest & Digest tea will sort you out in no time. The loose arrangement of the tables makes you feel like you're right there in the kitchen, steeping the tea yourself. When you leave, your mind will be expanded and your taste buds stimulated.
Don't be fooled by the name: The Ministry of Coffee has an abundance of loose leaf tea on site. Black Vanilla, Darjeeling, Spicy Chai, Lemon Ginger – these and more can be yours. Find a seat in the warm but minimal space and reward yourself with a pastry. You'll find the strawberry lemon doughnut cake goes well with almost any flavour of tea.