Tea shops are my home away from home. While I was visiting a client in NYC last week, I was thrilled that we could spare a few moments to take a peek at Harney & Sons' flagship shop on the very first day that it opened its doors in SoHo.
Even though rain clouds overwhelmed the sky in dark tones, the lavender walls in H&S glowed with a welcoming warmth. Floor to ceiling shelves lined with to-go tins or loose leaf canisters filled the space, creating a true wonderland of tea. The tasting bar, a beautiful wooden counter, sent me to a joyful state of mind as I imagined countless taste bud adventures (I will save that steeped journey for my next visit).
The cafe, nestled in the back, seemed like the perfect hideaway to sit and soak in the world of tea that you just experienced (I didn't get a chance to look at the menu, although I like to save surprises for future visits). What truly sent me swooning, were the vintage, oversized block letters that vertically spelled "TEA" in the center of the shop. It seemed to ground the space in its purpose, reminding you that it celebrated the steep and the sip.
Icing on the cake: I had the opportunity to meet Michael Harney (who was in town for the grand opening). What a treat! As I made my way to the grand wooden doors, a tin of Cherry Blossom green tea in hand, I was already planning my second visit and dreaming of where my tea taste buds may travel to at the tasting bar.
photo courtesy of psfk. be sure to check out their post for more photos of H&S.
Looks like a fantastic trip! How is the Cherry Blossom tea?
Posted by: Jolene | November 23, 2010 at 11:29 AM
We'll have to make a trip in together. The Cherry Blossom tea is a delicate green tea that has a subtle cherry aroma and flavor. It reminds me of early spring.
Posted by: alexis | November 23, 2010 at 11:48 AM