So I’ve done a lot of tea reviews, and I’m pretty familiar with tea. For those of you just getting into tea, I’m sharing a quick guide on where you can find good tea! There are lots of places to look, and some might be right under your nose (no, I’m not talking about in your tea cup, though that is a good place! sorry I’m so cheesy).
1. Grocer/fruit market
This might be the most obvious one, but people don’t realize how much tea grocery stores and markets have available. From a typical big box grocer to a health focused food store like Whole Foods, grocery stores have a lot of different kinds of tea available, both bagged and loose leaf.
For the teas I drink every morning, i.e. Earl Grey and black chai, I sometimes buy generic depending on where I am money-wise. At first I was hesitant, but Meijer’s organic teas are actually pretty good and a great deal. I’ve also found new brands there, like Jade Monk (pictured above). Target is another good store for tea, and even drug stores sometimes have a good selection. Pretty much any place you go, you should see if they have tea, because you never know what you might find!
2. Farmers Markets and Art Fairs
If there’s a farmers market or some sort of craft show going on, chances are there will be someone there selling tea. And in my experience, homemade teas are some of the best! Plus it’s awesome to support local businesses.
I found Kimberly’s Kupboard at the Pierogi Fest in Whiting, Indiana last year. I’m so glad I bought her tea, because it’s really good! I love seeing what blends independent tea makers come up with, and often they are the most unique.
3. Online
The nice thing about the internet is that you can find out about teas from all over the world, that you would have probably never heard of or had access to. I usually find new brands on Instagram or while watching tea reviews on Youtube, and then from there, I go to the tea brand’s website. While it’s not the same as being able to experience the aroma of the tea in person, there’s something exciting about ordering a tea and waiting to see what it will taste and smell like.
I found DavidsTea for the first time on a trip to San Francisco, and before moving to Chicago, had to order it online since there weren’t any stores near me. Also, I discovered Plum Deluxe via Instagram. There are so many great tea companies out there doing wonderful things.
Comment below and let me know your favorite place to buy tea!
lifesacupoftea.com 