Raise your hand if you hate coffee but love the coffee house atmosphere. Anyone? Or is it just me?
Greenville is a haven for latte lovers, but what about the six of us who don’t fall into that category? I love the smell, but there’s not enough cream and sugar in the world to make me enjoy a Cup ‘O Joe. Trust me, I’ve tried.
I jumped at the chance to compile a list of hot spots for my tea drinking tribe. Actually, most of these places serve coffee too, so you guys should continue reading.
Let’s jump right in (these are in no particular order):
JOE’S PLACE – I know, I know. Joe’s is a bookstore, definitely not the first place that pops into your mind when you think of tea. That changed a few months ago when I dropped in to meet a friend and was introduced to their selection. Believe it or not, my favorite thing was NOT that they served tea, but rather HOW they served it. Each flavor comes in a glass bottle. Maybe that doesn’t impress you, but it made this tea-lover’s day. Next time you’re in the neighborhood, stop by and check them out. Joe’s Place is located at 2 Williams Street, across from The Well. Just look for the big white house on the corner.
CHASING RABBITS – Located at 131 E. McBee Avenue, “CR” is definitely on our list of favorites here at 360. Not only do they serve every flavor of tea imaginable, but the atmosphere drips with creativity. Keep an eye on their Facebook and Instagram pages for themed events and specials.
INDIGO RIDGE is located in the bustling metropolis of Travelers Rest on Poplar Street (just off Hwy. 25 next to Pizza House.) Drive slow and don’t blink or you’ll miss it. Trust me, you do not want to miss it! Jessica, Head Barista, will be happy to serve up one of their popular Fall flavors. Spiced Apple Chi was my favorite. It’s available year ’round but it just tastes like Fall, ya’ll.
TANDEM – Another Travelers Rest fave, Tandem is located at 2 S. Main Street. The best part of this tea experience is the presentation. The wooden board and glass tea set will turn the head of even the most devout coffee addict.
SPICE & TEA EXCHANGE is located at 124 N. Main in Greenville. Leave your laptops at home, it’s not the place to sit and enjoy a “spot of tea.” This cozy emporium may smell like Christmas, but they’re serving up Fall flavors as we speak… or read. Whatever. The only thing missing from my visit was bedroom slippers and a blanket. Valerie and her friendly staff (hey Andrea!) were easy to communicate with, knowledgeable and more than happy to share samples. All you pet parents will be happy to know they have cookie recipes packaged up complete with bone shaped cutters for your fur babies.
In an effort to keep everyone awake, (this is kind of long, isn’t it?), I’m going to simply list the last few options:
JOEL’S JAVA 120 S. Main Street, next to the Westin Poinsett. You’ll know it when you see it.
O-CHA TEA BAR 300 Riverplace #122 (insert all the praise hands for their homemade Broccoli Cheddar soup.) They’ve also been in Downtown Greenville for 12 years and offer 105 loose teas, 300+ styles & flavors of iced tea, teaware and more!
CHOCOLATE MOOSE BAKERY & CAFE 130 S. Main, just inside M. Judson (chocolate goes with tea, right?) PS, you can also buy O-Cha Tea here!
Feel free to print this guide as you begin your search for the perfect cup of tea! Enjoy!
Did we miss any? If so, let us know! Either tag 360 in a social media post of your tea experience or let us know via info@greenville360.com.
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