In a quaint space, nestled in a Juhu bylane, Tea & Tea offers a heady mix of options for the intrepid tea lover
The interiors of the place are small and cosy
Tea & Tea
Drinks: Good
Service: Quick
Ambiance: Warm
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For Indians, tea drinking has not just been a way of consuming an aromatic beverage, but more like a way of life. It’s been an accompaniment in conversations, a warm dose on cold mornings and often, a source of bonding.
With the opening of Tea & Tea, a place all things tea, we found a space, which is bound to become a hotspot, especially when the rain gods relent.
The interiors of the place are small and cosy
Be forewarned. Locating Tea & Tea is not easy. Look out for a tiny white signboard, few metres away from the ISKCON temple, and you might be able to spot the place, which is sandwiched between two stores. After missing it once, when we finally entered our destination, we were kicked by the endearingly small outdoor section and the cosy indoor space.
The Pudina Tea didn’t disappoint
The unforgiving humidity levels meant that we had to seek respite within the airconditioned, white walls interiors; the half teapots jutting out of its walls and wood-panelled interiors along with its open kitchen gave us a good feel about the place.
Kashmiri Kahwa is one of the 38 varieties of tea available at Tea & Tea. Pics/Nimesh Dave
We’ll be honest; we were overwhelmed to note 38 varieties of tea. But then promising ourselves a return trip, we zeroed in on three for this visit. While our partner opted for a Mango Iced Tea (Rs 120) to beat the heat, we settled for a Pudina Tea (Rs 50).
The Mango Iced Tea was a refreshing treat
We surveyed the place while our tea was being brewed. Its collection of travel books, magazines and games like Uno caught our attention. In quick time, we were served our order, which was accompanied by two Parle G biscuits (our favourite!). While our partner was elated after a gulp of the iced tea, which was chilled and came laced with a predominant mango flavour, we were glad with our choice. The aroma and the distinct flavour of mint blended well with the tea and gave us a refreshing upper.
Not fully satiated and greedy for more, we opted for a cup of the Kashmiri Kahwa (Rs 100) (we must admit, the Kashmiri in us wanted to check its authenticity).
The drink was served hot in a brewing pot and looked promising but the lack of almonds on top, a must for Kahwa, was disappointing. Since, the owner was available, we took up the query with him to which he responded that the tea he uses has a mixture of almonds merged in it. Getting over the initial displeasure, we gave the Kahwa another shot, but even the flavours weren’t as enchanting as we have tried elsewhere, primarily at home.
If you’re a tea fanatic, drop by Tea & Tea for their exhaustive menu. We will be coming back for sure.
At: Om Vithoba Rukhmani Apartment, shop no 2, Juhu Road.
Call: 9821700041
Tea & Tea didn’t know we were there. the guide reviews anonymously and pays for its meals.