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Home >> Arts & Entertainment >> Coffee & Tea Houses >> A Cup of Tea? - Tea Houses

A Cup of Tea? - Tea Houses

Tea Houses

Tea Houses are establishments that specialize in the serving of tea. Whether a small room or restaurant, the role tea houses play in society varies by culture. Still, tea houses are consistently wonderful places to meet and socialize in a warm and welcoming environment.

Tea House Popularity

In the 18th century, tea was very expensive, and as such was only enjoyed by the wealthy. It was predominantly available in coffee houses. Tea houses rose to popularity during after the temperance movement, during which tea was lauded as being a safe and positive alternative to alcohol consumption. The first tea house was opened in Glasgow, Scotland in 1878. This trend caught on and soon spread throughout England and the United States, and tea houses widespread in Britain by the 1950’s, providing an elegant environment in which women could socialize.

Tea House Fare

Tea houses offer a selection of teas, as well light meals such as sandwiches or crumpets and scones with jam and clotted cream. Traditional high tea service is offered during the day, but you needn’t hold off that craving for refreshment until tea time. Many tea houses are open during regular business hours throughout the day.

Tea Houses in Other Cultures

The tea house in China follows much the same theme as American cafés, with the exception of tea being the main drink of choice opposed to coffee. Patrons come to tea houses to enjoy intellectual stimulation, through conversation and entertainment. Dim sum may be served as well as more traditional foods.

The Japanese tea house is often located within a dwelling. Its purpose is ceremonial; it is the location at which traditional tea ceremonies are held. Commercial Japanese tea houses may often feature entertainment courtesy of a geisha.

Tea houses have largely fallen out of favor, and are not as popular as they once were. They are still found in larger cities, or as part of the historic districts of smaller towns.
If you are lucky enough to have a tea house nearby, consider using it as the next venue for a sophisticated gathering of close friends. It may take a bit of extra effort to seek one out, but the experience of the modern day tea house is a treat not to be missed.


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