I'm sorry for my absence (nearly a year-long absence, at that). But I've had a reawakening and am happily returning to my 'parsley and paper' posts.
I have a new quest: to find an inviting, quiet coffee or tea house, where I can study my lessons, read and take notes, or just read for pleasure. Yesterday afternoon, my goal was to have tea and read in Charlotte Mason (not a light read by any means) for school. I went by
Village Tea a newish tea shop at Preston and Forest, only to find it was "temporarily closed". A little let-down, I managed to make it down Preston into Preston Center for a cup o'tea at
The Cultured Cup. If you know me at all, you know that I have done my research prior to trying both shops and I knew that The Cultured Cup had quite a following and touted a "Best Fancy Teas" honor from the Observer. I was a little hesitant to step my Rainbow-ed not fancy feet into this fancy tea room but I'm sure glad I did.
The facade is elegant and not as inviting as a "coffeehouse" or casual tea room, but after speaking with one of the proprietors inside, I gathered that they are targeting Junior Leaguers rather than SMU undergrads and HP Scotties. It is also important to note that there is little space allotted for lounging. There is a enclave of a small sofa and arm chairs for ladies to have a cup with company and there is a back bar, best for lone patrons watching the steps of steeping. When you enter, there is a coffee/tea counter for purchasing and specialty chocolate counter , which garners a second visit in my opinion. I perched on the back bar and asked for a recommendation.
The gentleman behind the bar was incredibly helpful and friendly, answering all of my prying questions about tea in general and the shop. I learned about the renowned French importer of the teas, Mariage Freres, organic versus non-organic teas, and overheard discussion of their nightly event featuring Matcha at Sharaku Sake Lounge.
As for my recommendation, I said that I wanted a refreshing afternoon tea. I was recommended the "Thé à l'Opéra" (Opera Tea), a flavored green tea. The shop's description reads, "A distinguished green tea has been enhanced with the subtle fragrance of red berries and precious spices." After careful steeping, a delicate oriental tea cup and saucer were placed in front of me and the bright chartreuse tea was poured for my enjoyment. It was a lovely, mild green tea, fragrant and slightly sweet, with only hints of that characteristic bitter green tea finish. I could sip on this every day, if only it didn't cost $10.50 for 2 oz. However, I was pleasantly surprised that one cup of this fancy tea (includes a refill) totaled at $2.98 (What kind of margin is that?).
I'm already planning my next visit to try their specialty chocolates and roasted coffees.
The Cultured Cup(Between Cafe R&D and Taco Diner)
8312 Preston Center Plaza
Dallas, TX 75225 (972) 960-1521
