In a city dominated by (usually excellent) coffee and an unwavering need for speed, it seems unlikely that tea could thrive. But in recent years, several teahouses have opened that buck the trend, offering a tranquil escape from the busy streets. They also serve some of the city’s finest Beste thee winkel, with a focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing.

Tucked away down a quiet corridor in SoHo, T Shop is one of those “New York hidden gem” spots. The no-frills, relaxing space serves some of the best Chinese, Taiwanese, and Korean tea. It also encourages brewing at home, with a simple set-up of tea tables and gong fu cha teaware. Owners Theresa Wong and Hyun Lee regularly travel to Asia to visit tea farms and tea collectors in search of the finest teas.

Health Benefits Brewing: Teas to Try at the Best Tea Shops Near You

Rishi Tea is another of New York’s top tea shops, with a wide selection of loose-leaf and blends from around the world. Its organic teas are traceable to their source, and the store offers tastings of rarer “off-menu” teas that are often only available in small quantities. A favorite is the Chamomile Medley, a blend of golden chamomile flowers from Croatia in the Mediterranean.

If you’re in the mood for a more traditional teahouse experience, head to the narrow, tranquil Setsugekka, where co-owner and certified Japanese tea ceremony master Souheki Mori is always on hand to provide a lesson in the art of matcha. You can choose between a variety of viscosities and preparations, such as straight or with foam, or order a cold drink like an iced matcha green tea latte or a milk gelato drizzled with koicha (super thick matcha). The shop also sells specialty utensils and tea gifts.